Brian Hilgardner is a man of resilience, dedication, and purpose. His life took a tragic turn when he lost his son, Tristen, who took his life while on a lethal dose of fentanyl. This heartbreaking event served as a catalyst for Brian, transforming him from a successful engineer into a passionate advocate against the fentanyl crisis.
Born and raised in Minnesota, Brian has always been deeply connected to his community. He is a Principal Engineer at Bolton & Menk, where he has been instrumental in developing municipal reconstruction projects and fostering strong relationships with clients and employees. His expertise in client service and business development, and his passion for mentoring young engineers, have made him a respected figure in his field.
However, it was the loss of his son that truly defined Brian’s mission. Tristen was a vibrant young man with a love for sports and a knack for lighting up any room. However, over a quick 8 months, Tristen began hanging around a bad group of influencers. Tragically, Tristen took his own life while on a lethal dose of fentanyl. This devastating event shook Brian to his core, but it also ignited a fire within him. He decided to channel his grief into action, dedicating himself to raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and advocating for policy changes to combat the opioid epidemic.
Brian and his wife, Cari, have since become vocal advocates in their community, sharing their personal story to educate others about the harsh realities of the fentanyl crisis. Brian’s ability to connect with others through his personal experience has made him a powerful voice in the fight against fentanyl. His story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of the fentanyl crisis and inspires others to join the cause.
In his role as a Board Member for Fentanyl Free Communities Foundation, Brian brings his personal experience, passion, and dedication to the table. He understands the devastating impact of fentanyl on families and communities, and he is committed to making a difference. His personal connection to the cause, combined with his leadership skills and community ties, makes him an invaluable asset to the organization.
Brian Hilgardner’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of personal experience. His story is a stark reminder of the human cost of the fentanyl crisis, and his dedication to the cause is an inspiration to all. As a father, an advocate, and a leader, Brian Hilgardner is a powerful force in the fight against fentanyl, turning his personal tragedy into a mission to save others from the same fate.
