South Dakota Highway Patrol Hosts 14^th Annual Awards Ceremony

Sioux Falls, S.D.- The South Dakota Highway Patrol is proud to announce Trooper Paige Zempel has been named the 2025 Trooper of the Year, and Inspector Aaron Kemnitz has been named the 2025 Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year. These honors are among the agency’s highest distinctions, recognizing exceptional service and commitment to keeping South Dakota a safe place to live, work, and travel. The awards were presented by Colonel Casey Collins, Superintendent, SD Highway Patrol.

Trooper Zempel has served with the Highway Patrol for nearly 6 years and is stationed in the Glacial Lakes Squad. Trooper Zempel is widely respected for her strong work ethic, professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to the community. In addition to serving as a District Crash Coordinator, she remains a top contributor to highway safety through proactive enforcement and public engagement.

Inspector Aaron Kemnitz has served with the Motor Carrier Services division since 2023. Known for integrity, attention to detail, and a strong team-first mindset, Inspector Kemnitz completed more than 624 commercial motor vehicle inspections last year. He is also a leader in training and mentorship, continually working to strengthen both individual and team performance.

"Trooper Zempel and Inspector Kemnitz are committed public servants who play a key role in keeping South Dakota strong, safe, and free," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "I am proud of their tenacity, leadership, and dedication to protecting our communities and ensuring our state remains the very best place to live." 

“The men and women of the Highway Patrol set a high bar every day, and Trooper Zempel and Inspector Kemnitz exemplify what it means to serve with integrity and purpose,” Col. Collins said. “Their commitment goes well beyond enforcement because they actively build trust, support local communities, and represent the very best of this agency.”

The awards were presented today during the 14th Annual Highway Patrol Awards Ceremony in Sioux Falls, which featured Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken as the keynote speaker.

The South Dakota Trucking Association, South Dakota Auto Dealers Association, and AAA of South Dakota sponsored the event.

The Highway Patrol is an agency of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

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Caption: Inspector Aaron Kemnitz (center) accepts the SDHP Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year Award from DPS Secretary Bob Perry and Col. Casey Collins.



Caption: DPS Secretary Bob Perry and Col. Casey Collins present Trooper Paige Zempel (center) with the Trooper of the Year award.