Support Staff

Susan Espindola
Training & Development Coordinator
Susan began working for Alternative’s Inc. in 2021 in the Human Resources Department. In 2022, she acquired the role of HR Training Specialist. Prior to Joining Alternatives, she was a District Manager with 25 years experience in business management, driving results and hiring and developing a high-level team of individuals passionate about the organization they work for. While the field of corrections is new to her, she is eager to learn a completely new field utilizing her skills to train and develop a dedicated team. When Susan is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and three dogs. Her other hobbies include reading, crafting, traveling, and experiencing new places.
Contact Info: [email protected] or 406-294-9609 ext. 340

Kristi Padilla
Contract Assurance Coordinator
Kristi joined Alternatives, Inc. as the Operations Supervisor for the Passages Program in December 2006, and earned a promotion to Assistant Director. She now supervises the quality assurance department as the Contract Assurance Coordinator. Kristi holds a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from the University of Wyoming. She previously has worked at the Yellowstone County Detention Facility and the Montana Department of Corrections as a Probation and Parole Officer. Kristi has been post certified as a Detention Officer, Police Reserve and as a Probation and Parole Officer by the Montana Law Enforcement Academy during her career in corrections.
Contact Info: [email protected] or 406-256-3501 ext. 250

Blackie Rodriguez
Housekeeping Supervisor
Blackie joined Alternatives, Inc. in 2006, having been the Housekeeping Manager for the Howard Johnson Inn prior to Alternatives purchasing the building. Blackie and her staff take pride in their work and hold our three facilities to a high standard. Family is very important to Blackie and she recently welcomed a new grandson. She has three granddaughters and two grandsons.
Contact Info: [email protected] or 406-294-9609 ext. 299

Art Aue
Maintenance Manager
Art has been with the agency since 2015. He enjoys the challenges this position brings and that no two days are alike. Art believes the mission of Alternatives is important to our community. He spends much of his time outdoors, enjoying the beauty of the mountains. When not at work, you might find him in Yellowstone Park practicing his photography skills, fishing, or enjoying a good movie.
Contact Info: [email protected] or 406-259-9596 ext. 132