Dale Thorstad is a renowned executive and thought leader in the hearing healthcare industry, whose career spans over five decades. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing hearing science, promoting industry standards, and improving patient outcomes. As the current President of Audnet Hearing Group, Inc., Thorstad continues to drive innovation and leadership in a field dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments.

Thorstad’s journey in the hearing healthcare industry began with his 33-year tenure at a major hearing aid manufacturer, where he held pivotal roles, including Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Vice President of Operations. These roles allowed him to hone his strategic acumen and develop a profound understanding of the technical and operational intricacies of hearing aid technology.

In 2002, Thorstad became President of Marcon Hearing Instruments, Inc., a role he held until 2017. Under his leadership, Marcon merged with Audnet to form Audnet Hearing Group, Inc., where he continues to serve as President. His leadership philosophy emphasizes ethical marketing, technology integration, and tailored solutions for individuals with auditory aging.

Thorstad has made significant contributions to the hearing industry through his service on various boards and councils. He served on the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) board for 10 years and as its President for two. At the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences (NBC-HIS), he held numerous leadership roles, including Chairman of the Executive Council, Item Writing Chair, and Chair of the Exam Committee. His dedication was recognized with the prestigious Maryleen Freshley Award upon the conclusion of his NBC-HIS service.

In his home state of Minnesota, Thorstad has been a key member of the Hearing Instrument Dispenser Advisory Council since 2008 and has served on the Competency Review Committee since 2012. These roles underscore his commitment to maintaining high professional standards and fostering continued education within the industry.

Thorstad’s influence extends beyond governance and leadership. A sought-after speaker, he has lectured nationally and internationally on topics ranging from fitting and troubleshooting digital hearing instruments to the ethical marketing of advanced technologies. His presentations, including those at Marcon Annual Meetings and international conferences, have empowered audiologists and hearing instrument specialists with cutting-edge knowledge and practical insights.

Certified as a Hearing Instrument Dispenser by the State of Minnesota and a Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist (BC-HIS), Thorstad combines technical expertise with a passion for lifelong learning. His educational foundation in IT, supplemented by an array of workshops and seminars in hearing science, reflects his commitment to professional development and innovation.

Dale Thorstad’s career exemplifies dedication, expertise, and visionary leadership. Through his extensive service, educational initiatives, and executive roles, he has played an instrumental part in shaping the modern hearing healthcare landscape, ensuring that patients and practitioners alike benefit from the industry’s continued evolution.

Character
Dale Thorstad embodies integrity, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the hearing healthcare industry, earning the respect and trust of his peers and colleagues.

Knowledge
With a deep understanding of hearing science, technology, and practice management, Thorstad has consistently demonstrated expertise through decades of leadership, certifications, and educational contributions.

Strategic
Thorstad’s visionary leadership, including spearheading the merger of Marcon and Audnet, reflects his ability to identify opportunities, implement innovative solutions, and drive organizational growth.

Communication
A skilled and engaging speaker, Thorstad has effectively shared his knowledge and insights at national and international forums, fostering collaboration and professional development in the hearing healthcare community.