Fox Cities Chamber
Winter 2019 I Volume 20 I Issue 2
Cover Story Staying on Top of TECHNOLOGY
Meet the 2019
Employee Friendly
Pinnacle Awards
Workplace
Recipients
Certification Launch
GET BACK TO LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE, SOONER. At ThedaCare, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the exceptional care you need, right where you need it — close to home. With an extensive network of primary and specialty care facilities dedicated to individualized care, our care providers here in the Fox Cities take time to learn about your unique medical background, lifestyle, personal values and goals to help you continue enjoying life — as you’ve planned it. Learn more at thedacare.org.
InThis
ISSUE 2 The President’s Perspective
28 Workforce
3 Meet the Chamber Staff
4 2019 - 2020 Board of Directors
30 Member Editorial - Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group
The year of change
6 Cover Story Staying on Top of Technology
Developing the Next Generation of IT Pros
10 Pinnacle Awards Recap
18 Member Editorial - Goodwill NCW
34 Membership & Ambassadors
35 Upcoming Chamber Events
32 Octoberfest
Addressing the digital skills gap
Celebrating 38 years of giving in 2019
20 Employee Friendly Workplace
36 Welcome Leadership Fox Cities
22 Public Policy
Tackling the workforce housing shortage
38 Member Milestone Anniversaries
25 Member Editorial - Cellcom
39 Welcome New Members
Doing more with your Google Assistant
42 Member Spotlights
26 Community Spotlight
Class of 2019 - 2020
46 Member Editorial - Element
Valley Packaging Industries, Inc.
Breaking down sales and marketing silos
On The Cover Staying on Top of Technology Fox Cities Chamber BUSiNESS is published semi-annually by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911 PH 920-734-7101 www.foxcitieschamber.com Standard postage paid at Appleton, WI. Annual subscription fee to members for Fox Cities Chamber BUSiNESS is $9 and is included in dues. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber BUSiNESS, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911.
Advancing a future for everyone. As technology moves forward, people and communities cannot be left behind. We believe in a future where every person has the skills, knowledge, and opportunity to achieve more. Learn more at Microsoft.com/philanthropies
Publisher Becky Bartoszek Editor Emily Feagles Design/Production Weidert Creative Photography BConnected, LLC Debbie Daanen Photography Image Studios Printing JP Graphics
Students in Wisconsin learn coding at a Microsoft sponsored Boys & Girls Club Fox Valley Girls event.
The President’s Perspective “Serving the community for 138 years, the Chamber is uniquely positioned as an advocate for employers and the region.”
Dear Chamber Members, Investors, Sponsors, and Partners, As we refine our vision for 2020, we are aware that collaboration is the backbone of continued success for the Fox Cities. As a community, we all share similar challenges and our strength lies in our ability to work together. The Chamber’s mission is to promote employers, economic development, and to serve as a catalyst to further improve the overall quality of life in the Fox Cities region. Serving the community for 138 years, the Chamber is uniquely positioned as an advocate for employers and the region. We act as a communication hub. We are able to provide our members with news on critical business issues and their impending impact. Our wide range of educational opportunities allow our members to continue to sharpen their professional skills. By leveraging the collective strength of our members and investors, we are able to influence public policy related to business and economic development as well as quality of life issues impacting our region such as workforce development, affordable housing and education. Without question, we are an organization committed to building a strong, prosperous and thriving community. We understand that quality of life issues are vital to attracting employers and employees alike to our region and maintaining a thriving local economy. In 2019, we launched a new talent attraction initiative called Fox Cities Days. This was a series of events where our employers traveled together to take over two campuses in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our collective goal was to connect with college students about the tremendous opportunities in our region when making the Fox Cities their choice to live, work and play. We look forward to many more of our employers joining us in 2020 as we continue to collectively travel to recruit talent to the Fox Cities region. With almost 1,000 members, we have developed an extensive employer network to ensure the community’s continued success. We invite you to join us in our quest to build a stronger and more prosperous community. Invest in yourself, your business and your community by becoming even more involved in the Fox Cities Chamber and Regional Partnership. All the best to you, your family and your organization! Becky Bartoszek President/CEO
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I The President’s Perspective
GET TO KNOW YOUR
Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce Staff
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The Chamber is a dynamic group of dedicated professionals who provide resources and solutions to businesses of all sizes within the Fox Cities region. The Chamber acts as an access point for solving business challenges, establishing and growing professional and social networks and providing assistance for business leaders to achieve their goals.
1. Becky Bartoszek President/CEO bbartoszek@foxcitieschamber.com 2. Amy Andersen Director, Talent & K-16 Relations amy@foxcitiesregion.com 3. Connie Barlow Administrative Assistant receptionist@foxcitieschamber.com 4. Tonya Boelter Senior Director, Community Engagement tboelter@foxcitieschamber.com 5. Jennifer Brown Director, Existing Industry & Innovation jennifer@foxcitiesregion.com 6. Emily Feagles Director, Marketing & Communications efeagles@foxcitieschamber.com 7. Katie Gaffney Event Coordinator kgaffney@foxcitieschamber.com 8. Jaclyn June Marketing & Design Specialist jjune@foxcitieschamber.com 9. Kurt Kempen Manager, Events & Sponsorship kkempen@foxcitieschamber.com 10. Tom Lehr Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer tlehr@foxcitieschamber.com 11. Linda Myers Senior Administrative Assistant lmyers@foxcitieschamber.com 12. Amy Schanke Director, Leadership Fox Cities aschanke@foxcitieschamber.com 13. Pam Schweitzer Administrative Assistant receptionist@foxcitieschamber.com 14. Jayme Sellen Vice President, Economic Development & Government Affairs jsellen@foxcitieschamber.com 15. Suzanne Wittman Director, Investor Relations suzanne@foxcitiesregion.com
Photos by Image Studios
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Fox Cities Chamber Staff
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2019 - 2020 Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair of the Board Chris Matheny
Chair-Elect Chris Hess
Past Chair Kathi Seifert
Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak
Fox Valley Technical College
Goodwill NCW
Katapult, LLC
Johnson Financial Group
Board of Directors
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Hillary Anderson
Kimberly Barrett
Jen Bauer
Lisa Cruz
Werner Electric Supply
Lawrence University
Miron Construction Co., Inc.
Red Shoes, Inc.
John Dennis
Curt Detjen
Travis Froze
DeDe Heid
Gardan Inc.
Community Foundation
First Business Bank
Heid Music
Jim Johnson
Dean Kaufert
Rick Parks
Kristin Plamann
Pierce Manufacturing
City of Neenah
Modern Woodmen of America
The Boldt Company
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Board of Directors
Todd Romenesko
Mark Scheffler
Heather Schimmers
Denise Starcher
Calumet County
The Appleton Group, LLC
Ascension Wisconsin
Menasha Corporation
Ann Thielman
Mark Thompson
John Trottier
Gary Vaughan
Keller Williams Realty
ThedaCare
AZCO, Inc.
Guident Business Solutions
Abe Weber
Brad Werner
Garth Wicinsky
Bob Zemple
Appleton International Airport
McMAHON
Secura Insurance
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP
We’d like to thank our Board of Directors for their service and commitment to the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to their guidance and inspiration in the year ahead. Ex-Officio Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group, Inc.
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Board of Directors
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COVER STORY
Staying on Top of Technology Technology is rapidly changing all industries, reshaping the future of work. Foremost, companies must seek to understand how these changes will affect their industry, which requires constant reflection and learning. Companies will have to assess whether they are using the right technology tools, adopt transformative technologies, and change the way they hire and support employees to ensure qualified candidates get matched with the right opportunities and have clear pathways for career advancement. We asked Matt Adamczyk, Technologist in Residence for Microsoft at TitletownTech, how a business can know for sure that it is at the top of its game when it comes to technology and innovation.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Cover Story
“These are big questions and Microsoft TechSpark is working with the local community to try to answer them,” he told us. For example, last year, TechSpark funded a survey of 104 local companies to study current and future technology needs, skills and talent for manufacturers in Northeast Wisconsin. One of the big takeaways was that in the next two-to-three years, manufacturers plan to focus the greatest investment in automation and robotics, cybersecurity and cloud computing. The survey also revealed that most of the companies surveyed don’t have an implementation plan in place to help them succeed in an economy increasingly driven by artificial intelligence, automation, and big data. Companies that can close that gap will set themselves up for success.
Leaders and innovators in any sector must make investments in software and technology to move businesses forward. Those investments won’t just be in traditional productivity software, but also in engineering and applying new technologies to disrupt entire industries.
Matt provided some insights on how Northeast Wisconsin businesses can most improve via a stronger commitment to technology and innovation. “Based on that same survey of 104 local manufacturing businesses, we know that many local businesses want to invest in tech and innovation, but don’t yet have a plan in place. This is a moment of uncertainty, but it presents a big opportunity for growth for these businesses. In my role as Technologist in Residence for Microsoft at TitletownTech, I look forward to meeting with local businesses to learn more about how we can help businesses bridge that gap,” he said. Cloud computing and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) have been transformational for both startups and established businesses. IaaS is essentially renting server capacity in someone else’s datacenter rather than building and managing a datacenter. The ability to start a company or experiment with new technologies without the expensive capital expenditures of local hardware enables more rapid innovation. The next phase, which we’re in the middle of, removes even more of the overhead through Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Azure Functions, allowing the engineer to achieve more and focus more energy on the actual problem, all while the platform handles server management and scaling. PaaS abstracts away the complexity of managing servers and instead allows the engineer to manage the solution. Looking further to the future, different forms of artificial intelligence will contribute to the implementation
of more complex technologies at relatively lower engineering costs.
Here’s how Fox Cities businesses can benefit from TitletownTech. As a part of Microsoft TechSpark, TitletownTech seeks to grow the entire technology ecosystem, including developing new talent, building new ventures, and sparking innovation in established businesses. They envision different models of engagement for established businesses, ranging from partnerships with other startups, to bringing small teams from large companies into their studio to work in their startup atmosphere. They also have a multi-pronged approach to venture building which includes a Venture Studio, $25M Venture Fund, and an Innovation Lab. The Studio invests in startups and brings them in-house, where they can work on building their business and technology. With the Fund, they look to make strategic capital investments in early stage startups that will benefit most from a larger capital investment, potentially from a large group of investors. Continued on next page
TitletownTech is located in the Titletown District of Green Bay.
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Cover Story
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COVER STORY
At TitletownTech’s Innovation Lab, they bring together industry leaders, tech experts and others to explore market challenges. “Anyone with an early stage business in one of our five verticals – Sports, Media, & Entertainment; Digital Health; Agriculture, Water, & Environment; Advanced Manufacturing; and Supply Chain Technology – is invited to reach out and pitch their business,” Matt told us. “Our combined strengths at TitletownTech amplify startup success by providing expertise, customers, mentors, talent, and capital to our portfolio companies,” Matt added. TitletownTech’s doors officially opened this past Fall, but they’re already excited to be working with entrepreneurs like those at Oculogica, a digital health company which has developed the first FDA authorized non-invasive, baseline-free technology to aid in diagnosis of concussion.
Michelle Schuler, Microsoft TechSpark Wisconsin Manager, helped put the local tech skills gap into perspective. “There are many reports that show how the skills gap may impact the economy. One recent study shows that the skills gap could leave an estimated 2.4 million positions unfilled between now and 2028. This is a serious problem nationally as well as here in Wisconsin,” she confirmed. In Wisconsin there are more than 6,400 open computing jobs but only 1,190 computer science graduates to fill them, and only 42% of the state’s high schools teach any Computer Science courses. Yet, more than 50% of jobs today require technology skills, and that will increase to 77% in less than a decade. Limited access to digital skills threatens to widen the income gap between those who have the skills to succeed in the 21st century and those who do not. To reduce the gap, all young people need the opportunity to learn computer science, especially those least likely to have access. Michelle went on to say, “At Microsoft, we’re working to ensure every person can build the skills and access the resources needed to succeed in a digital economy.” As the skills required for high-demand jobs change, so must our education systems. And yet, despite growing demand, schools have faced barriers to integrating computer science curricula. 73% of all new STEM jobs are in computing, yet only 53% of 12th graders in the U.S. have access to any computer science classes. The gap is even greater in rural areas where just 30% have access.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Cover Story
Here in Wisconsin, Microsoft TechSpark is partnering with nonprofits, schools, volunteers, government and more to boost access to digital skills and computer science education. For example, Wisconsin doesn’t have enough computer science teachers to teach high school classes, so Microsoft brought in its TEALS program to 21 high schools in Northeast Wisconsin, focusing on training teachers by partnering with industry professionals to deliver computer science curriculum in the classroom. This school year, they have over 1,200 TEALS computer science students, a 37% increase from last year. They’re also working to produce a new type of technology talent in the region and are partnering with local companies to provide young professionals work-based learning opportunities starting as early as their junior year of high school.
“Our goal is to ensure all young people have what we call future-ready skills—those most in demand by employers—and keep them here in Wisconsin,” Michelle added.
Matt Adamczyk Technologist in Residence for Microsoft at TitletownTech
Michelle Schuler Microsoft TechSpark Wisconsin Manager
“Microsoft TechSpark is connecting companies with Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development’s Youth Apprenticeship program. It has been successful in the trades of welding, engineering, and nursing but lacks that same success in computer science and STEM, which is where we think we can help,” said Michelle. “We welcome the Fox Cities Chamber’s assistance in helping Microsoft to shift company culture to hire this new technology talent pool that is in the region.”
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Cover Story
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2019 PINNACLE AWARDS
2019 Pinnacle Awards Recap
The Pinnacle Awards program recognizes individuals who embrace principled leadership, strategic thinking, balanced workplace values and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. The selected award recipients have a unique blend of vision, energy, perseverance and skill and have demonstrated outstanding achievements in operating businesses as well as leadership in the community. The Fox Cities Chamber is proud to recognize these individuals for their many contributions to the community. They have dedicated themselves as professionals and volunteers to the well-being of the Fox Cities. Congratulations to the 2019 award recipients!
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Pinnacle Awards
Champion of the Chamber Award
Champion of the Chamber Award
Beth Davis
Sharon Hulce
Community First Credit Union
Employment Resource Group, Inc.
Beth Davis has been in the financial services industry for the past 40 years, both in Illinois and here in Wisconsin. She is the VP of Business Development for Community First Credit Union, a role she’s had for over 10 years.
Sharon Hulce is the President and CEO of Employment Resource Group, Inc. With twenty-four years of expertise in executive search, Sharon specializes in placing outstanding leaders here in the Fox Cities and beyond.
From August 2017 through March 2019, Beth was a loaned executive to the Fox Cities Chamber while remaining an employee of the credit union. This role provided temporary assistance to the Chamber organization by utilizing Davis’ valuable skill set and expertise to support programs, sponsorship opportunities, event planning and member engagement.
She also provides insight and leadership to many community organizations by serving on their board of directors. As the Fox Cities Chamber Board of Director’s Ex-Officio, Sharon has donated $200,000 in placement fees to the organization. In addition, she is also the Board of Trustees Vice President for Fox Valley Technical College, sits on the Fox Valley Technical College Foundation Board of Directors, and acts as a Senior Advisory Board Member for Junior Achievement. In the past she has also sat on the board of directors for the MRI Regional Representative Board, Theda Clark Medical Center Foundation, the YMCA of the Fox Cities, the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, and United Way Fox Cities.
Beth is a graduate of UW Madison with a degree in Sociology. As she grew in her career she began to notice how sociology and the workings of different groups of people, businesses, and even non-profit organizations all needed to come together to work toward a more sustainable community for everyone. Seeing this made Community First a perfect fit for her as an employer; as well as being able to give back to the community through her Chamber work as an ambassador, her many years on the Women’s Fund Board including past president, and her previous work with UW Fox Foundation as board president. Beth has been recognized previously by the Fox Cities Chamber by receiving the Joyce Bytof Exceptional Mentor Award and the Athena Leadership Award. She is also a UW Fox Outstanding Alumni, and she volunteers for a variety of other opportunities that are part of the credit union culture.
Sharon’s career has been studded with achievements as well including: ERG being awarded Forbes Top Executive Search firms in the country 2019, being named Midwest Billing Manager of the Year from 2002-present, being named one of the International Top 5 Billing Managers from 2002-present, achieving $20 million in personal career placements, spearheading a Talent Attraction Docufilm in 2015, and serving as a Top Recruiter Reality Series Judge in 2015. In addition to this year’s award, and being the Chamber’s Athena Leadership Award recipient in 2005, Sharon’s hard work has earned her the following personal achievements: Selected as a Forbes author in May of 2019, “A Well-Done Professional Midlife Crisis” will be available in January 2020 • 2019 Walter L. Rugland Community Service Award • Inducted into the Pinnacle Society 2015 • Women in Management “Manager of the Year” 2006 • Small Business of the Year Rising Star Award Winner – Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce 2004 • Finalist, Fox Cites Chamber of Commerce “Entrepreneur of the Year” 2012 and 2013 • Finalist, Ernst & Young “Entrepreneur of the Year” 2006 • Certified Senior Manager (CSM) designation, 2000 (industry designation based on tenure, production, ethical business practices and knowledge of state/federal laws)
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Pinnacle Awards
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2019 PINNACLE AWARDS
Joyce Bytof Exceptional Mentor Award
Sherry Coley
Lindsay Fenlon
Davis & Kuelthau, s.c.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin
Sherry Coley is a member of Davis & Kuelthau’s Litigation Team practicing in the Green Bay office. Her practice primarily focuses on complex business litigation, with an emphasis on contract disputes, business torts, financial services litigation, real estate foreclosures and work-outs, and tax assessment appeals.
Lindsay Fenlon currently serves her community as the Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fox Valley Region and is the incoming Chief Executive Officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin, the new youth mentoring organization that will go into effect in January 2020 as a merger between BBBS and Best Friends of Neenah Menasha.
Sherry is also a member of the Intellectual Property Team representing clients in district courts across the country, as well as in the Ninth and Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. She has litigated patent, trademark, copyright, unfair competition and trade secret cases in a wide variety of industries including consumer products, food products and software development. Notable among this experience is a successful patent jury trial verdict with a finding of inducement and willful infringement by the principal defendant, and the defeat of a preliminary injunction motion filed by an on the shelf competitor. Sherry has also represented financial institutions in state and federal court on a variety of commercial lending disputes, including defense of counterclaims raised in response to foreclosure or deficiency actions, and disputes arising from insolvent borrowers, including proceedings in bankruptcy court. In addition, she has defended manufacturers in product liability actions involving personal injury, wrongful death and property damage. Sherry has significant trial experience, including extensive jury trial experience, in both state and federal courts. She has represented clients in appeals pending in the state appellate courts of Wisconsin and the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, the Ninth Circuit and the Federal Circuit.
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Young Professional of the Year Award
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Pinnacle Awards
With her Masters’ degree in Clinical Psychology and 15 years experience working in non-profit, social enterprise, and educational systems, she is passionate about serving disadvantaged youth and individuals within the community. An initial transplant to the region, Lindsay has fallen in love with our communities and is committed to helping connect to and with others so that every person has an opportunity to feel valued and to bring value. Lindsay is a 2014-2015 Leadership Fox Cities alumnae, a 2019 graduate of Leadership Oshkosh, Past-President for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) board, and Vice-President for the Wisconsin State Association of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Lindsay lives in Appleton with her husband, James, and two children, 6 year-old Ethan and 4 year-old Catelyn, and loves being active in the Little Chute community and throughout the Fox Valley.
Gus A. Zuehlke Distinguished Service Award
ATHENA® Leadership Award
Dr. Susan Mayusan May
Heather Schimmers, MBA, RN
Fox Valley Technical College
Ascension Wisconsin
Dr. Susan May is a lifelong resident of Wisconsin and has been a resident of the Fox Cities for over 40 years. She serves as the president and CEO of Fox Valley Technical College, an appointment that began in 2008.
Heather Schimmers, MBA, FABC, BSN, RN, is the Chief Nursing Officer at Ascension Wisconsin. Heather leads more than 6,000 nursing professionals at 24 hospital campuses and more than 100 clinics across the state.
After working as a high school teacher for several years, she began her employment with FVTC in 1983 and has held a number of managerial and executive leadership roles at the College. For over 40 years Dr. May has focused her career on making a difference in the lives of students, families, employers, and communities all across the region through educational opportunities and services. She has led the development of several major facilities and programs that now serve as substantial economic assets for the training and development of the Valley’s workforce, as well as in more rural communities. She has also led the development of key partnerships for the College with industries, specific companies, associations, non-profits, other educational providers, youth organizations and governmental entities, in many cases bringing valuable economic resources to the region.
Heather provides a nursing viewpoint to advance delivery care models across Wisconsin, and develops strategies that impact associate engagement, quality metrics, positive outcomes and fiscal responsibility. She collaborates with Ascension Wisconsin leadership to further system wide development of the delivery of quality, affordable, person-centered care.
Dr. May has served on and/or chaired numerous non-profit boards or professional associations locally, statewide and nationally over the years and has encouraged and supported active community involvement by her staff and students. Having co-chaired the United Way Fox Cities campaigns in 2011 and 2012, she helped to raise over $14.4M for services to local communities.
Heather currently serves as the Chair of the Ascension Wisconsin Nursing Executive Committee. Most recently, she was the Vice President of Patient Care Services at Ascension NE Wisconsin – St. Elizabeth Campus in Appleton. Prior to that, she was the Director of Nursing at Ascension NE Wisconsin – Mercy Campus in Oshkosh. In addition, she has led many of the clinical units throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Heather earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a master’s degree in business administration from Kaplan University. Along with a lengthy list of honors and achievements, she also earned the title of Fellow with the Advisory Board for successful completion of an executive leadership fellowship program in Washington, D.C.
Her organization’s work in the delivery of customized training for employers, as well as federal grant programming delivered nationwide in the area of Criminal Justice, eclipses that of other colleges or universities in the country.
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Pinnacle Awards
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2019 PINNACLE AWARDS
Business Leader Hall of Fame Inductee
Business Leader Hall of Fame Inductee
Denny Lamers
Rollie Stephenson
McMahon Associates, Inc.
Faith Technologies
Denny Lamers grew up in Appleton, leaving briefly for service in the military and to obtain his engineering degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.
Roland “Rollie” Stephenson founded what is now known as Faith Technologies in 1972. He has built a legacy of quality, efficiency and safety while garnering recognition for his entrepreneurial success, business acumen and exceptional industry knowledge.
He spent several years working in construction and as a civil and structural design engineer after getting his degree. In 1985, Denny was named President of the Neenah-based engineering firm, McMahon Associates, Inc. Through Denny’s leadership and vision the company steadily expanded in size and capabilities. This included the establishment of regional offices in Indiana in 1989 and Illinois in 1993, as well as the formation of several affiliate companies that have diversified and strengthened the company’s professional offering. After 33 years leading the company, he stepped down from his role of President in 2018 to make way for a new executive leadership team but remains Chairman of the Board at McMAHON. Throughout his career, Denny placed great value in giving back to the community. For example, in 2017, he and his wife Jan were co-chairs of the $4 million capital campaign for the expansion and renovation of Harbor House Domestic Abuse facility in Appleton. Denny’s lifelong love of racing led him to form his own race team – Lamers Motor Racing. He has combined this passion for racing and his desire to give back through the Lamers Driving Experience, which he co-sponsors with Rollie Stephenson and Bob Weyers. The charitable event has raised over $325,000 for various children’s charities in the past several years.
After dedicating his career to establishing one of the top 10 largest electrical and technology systems contractors in the U.S., Rollie transitioned from CEO to Chairman of the Board in October 2013. As Chairman of the Board, he manages and provides leadership to the Board of Directors and provides independent advice and counsel to the CEO. Rollie has served on the boards of a number of worthy organizations throughout the Fox Cities and beyond, including the Boys & Girls Club, Bubolz Nature Preserve, Catalpa Health, CHAT Community, Coating Excellence, Country World, Community Foundation of the Fox Valley Region, Fox Valley Technical College Foundation, Goodwill, Junior Achievement, Salvation Army, University of Wisconsin Family Practice Residency, Well Cities Fox Cities, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Wisconsin Presidents Organization, and World Presidents Organization. Rollie’s hard work and entrepreneurial leadership has also earned him the following personal achievements: University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, 2014 Distinguished Honorary Alumnus of the Year • Ernst and Young, Entrepreneur of the Year Award, 2009 and 2011 Finalist • Associated Builders & Contractors “High Standards” Builder’s Edge Award • Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, “Business Person of the Year” • University of Wisconsin Construction Club, “Lifetime Achievement Award” With his entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for helping others, Rollie continues to mentor young business people, offering sage advice and support to help them succeed.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Pinnacle Awards
THANK YOU to the 2019 Pinnacle Awards sponsors! Executive Sponsors
ATHENA® Leadership Award Sponsor
Multi-Media Partners
Contributing Sponsor Radio Partner
Supporting Sponsors AT&T • AZCO INC. • Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fox Valley Region • Community First Credit Union Davis & Kuelthau, s. c. • Faith Technologies • Fox Valley Technical College • Secura Insurance The Boldt Company • ThedaCare
Fox FoxCities CitiesBUSiNESS BUSiNESSI IWinter Winter2019 2019I IPinnacle PinnacleAwards Awards
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FOX CITIES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK LUNCH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2020 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM PRESENTING SPONSOR:
A New Event by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce:
Excellence in
EDUCATION SHINING STAR AWARDS
Thursday March 5, 2020 5:00-8:30 PM | Red Lion Hotel | 333 W. College Avenue, Appleton The Excellence in Education Awards program is the new culminating K-16 event to recognize the unparalleled contributions of educators in the Fox Cities region. EVENT EMCEE: Stacy Engebretson Anchor/Assistant News Director NBC26 TICKETS: $50 - General Admission $40 - Educators & Fox Cities Chamber Members
50/50 RAFFLE: Win up to $25,000 cash with the Fox Cities Chamber Foundation 50/50 Raffle. Tickets are $50 each, and only 1,000 will be sold! 1st prize – 50/50 Raffle, up to $25,000 cash 2nd prize – $1,000 cash 3rd prize– $500 cash Tickets can be purchased at the Fox Cities Chamber or by calling 920.734.7101. The drawing will be held at the Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards Program. You must be 18 years or older to purchase a raffle ticket. Need not be present to win. License # R0030063A-33074
Register at: www.foxcitieschamber.com
Sarah likes knowing her employees have choices. That’s why she chooses a health plan with one of the largest networks in Wisconsin. So her employees can choose the doctors they trust. If you’re like Sarah, you’ll like UnitedHealthcare. Visit uhc.com/WI Plan benefits and programs may vary. Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Health Plan coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare of Wisconsin, Inc. 8372025.0 3/19 ©2019 United HealthCare Services, Inc. 18-10762-A
MEMBER EDITORIAL
Goodwill NCW Training Program Addressing the digital skills gap
We live in a world where technology is ever-changing and becoming more and more an integral part of everyday life. Because of the fast evolution of technology, individuals with digital skills — those with the ability to use computers and other electronic devices — are in demand for today’s jobs. Not only are digital skills important for day-to-day job responsibilities, but job seekers also must be able to navigate online sources to search for and apply for open jobs. Despite the advancements in technology, there’s a digital skills gap in the United States. With the increase of artificial intelligence and machine learning, the digital skills gap only will continue to grow. Seeing the growing need and opportunity, Google.org is funding a grant to help regional Goodwills, including Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW), across the country provide digital skills training to more than one million people, including people with disabilities, veterans, youth and older workers. According to a September 2017 report by Burning Glass Technologies, 82% of middle-skill jobs — those jobs that require some postsecondary training but not a four-year degree — require some digital skills. Because of the digital skills gap, many job seekers will miss out on these well-paying jobs. That is where Goodwill NCW and digital skills training come in.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Editorial
“At Goodwill NCW, our mission is Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment,” says David Foertsch, vocational coordinator. “One of the ways we advance our mission is by focusing on helping individuals overcome barriers through digital and social skills training through our Employment and Training Program. It is imperative that job seekers have a strong foundation of both digital and social skills to set them up to be successful for the jobs of today and tomorrow.” Skills training can include everything from such basic computer skills as setting up a professional email address, using the Internet to apply for a job and knowing how to complete a timesheet to preparing for an interview and learning how to successfully interact with others on the job.
Services for Business & Industry
Customized. Innovative. Solutions.
Many of us take these digital skills for granted, but there is a significant gap that exists in both digital and social skills. However, resources are available to help set individuals up to be successful in today’s workplace. For more information on Goodwill NCW’s digital and social skills training, contact David Foertsch at dfoertsch@goodwillncw.org or 920213-0547.
To stay competitive, you need to find, select and train new and existing employees. Let Fox Valley Technical College help you: • Find new employees • Evaluate with employee assessments • Enhance employee skills with seminars and customized training
Contributed by: Sheila Nasgovitz Sr. Brand Manager, Mission Services Sheila has been with Goodwill NCW since Dec. 2017. Her focus is to help educate and elevate awareness of the programs and services offered through Goodwill NCW that supports its mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment.
Contact our industry experts today!
fvtc.edu/EmployerResources • 920-735-2525
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Editorial
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2019 EMPLOYEE-FRIENDLY WORKPLACE EMPLOYEE FRIENDLY WORKPLACE
EMPLOYEE FRIENDLY PRACTICES Employee Friendly Workplace Initiative will enhance work-life integration to successfully attract and retain the best employees in the Fox Cities The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce has launched its newest talent initiative and certification program, Fox Cities Employee Friendly Workplace.
commitment to creating a positive work environment for their current and potential employees.
A collaborative effort developed with businesses and community partners, this new program is focused on encouraging the adoption of more employee friendly workplace practices and policies in the Fox Cities. These practices will help employers enhance work/life integration and successfully attract and retain the best employees in the region.
Employers who become certified can see increased
CERTIFICATION BENEFITS & INVESTMENT
CERTIFICATION CATEGORIES & LEVELS
The Employee Friendly Workplace certification is open to all employers with operations located in the Fox Cites (Calumet, Outagamie and the northern portion of Winnebago Counties). The comprehensive benefit criteria incorporated into the online application is intended to be attainable, as well as aspirational, for employers of any size across all industry sectors. Certification levels are determined by the organization’s ratings in four categories including: paid leave and flexible work schedules, health and wellness support, financial support, and perks. Fox Cities employers who earn an Employee Friendly Workplace certification have demonstrated a significant commitment to promoting work/life integration as well as creating a positive work environment and experience for all employees. Certification levels are platinum, gold, silver and bronze. Employers who achieve certification will hold their certification status annually. Those certified will have access to a variety of benefits including education, resources and research. Businesses will receive a media kit in order to promote their significant
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Fox FoxCities CitiesBUSiNESS BUSiNESSI IWinter Winter2019 2019I IEmployee EmployeeFriendly FriendlyWorkplace Workplace
PLATINUM Platinum certified employers set the bar for an Employee Friendly Workplace in the Fox Cities. They offer highly sought-after benefits, flexible policies and an environment that supports work/ life integration and fosters an exceptional employee experience. GOLD Gold certified employers go above and beyond, offering benefits and policies that promote work/ life integration and strive to meet diverse needs of employees. SILVER Silver certified employers demonstrate a significant commitment to offering and expanding benefits and policies that support the work/life needs of employees. BRONZE Bronze certified employers are recognized for their successful pursuit and commitment to offering Employee Friendly Workplace benefits and policies.
MORE THAN 60% OF EMPLOYEES
REPLACING AN EMPLOYEE
would take a job with a lower salary for better benefits
can cost between 33% to 50% of their salary.
(Zenefits)
productivity and loyalty, improved employee engagement and a reduction in absenteeism as well as healthcare costs within their organization. A non-refundable application fee of $250 is due upon submission of the application. A certification fee of $5 per employee per year is required after review and qualification of the submitted application. An annual renewal is required to retain the certification. The certification fee applies only to employees located in the counties of Outagamie, Calumet and the northern portion of Winnebago.
Director of Existing Industry and Innovation at the Fox Cities Chamber and Regional Partnership. Survey participants received a digital copy of the full results available via e-mail. Non-participating employers may purchase the digital survey results. A fee of $150 for Fox Cities Chamber members and $200 for non-members is required to access the survey results.
FOUNDING SPONSORS:
BENEFIT SURVEY & ACCESS TO RESULTS
The Fox Cities Employee Friendly Workplace program is derived from the annual Fox Cities Benefit Survey. The annual survey, administered and distributed by the Fox Cities Chamber, was conducted from August to midSeptember of 2019. The geographic scope of distribution extended beyond the Fox Cities to include all of northeast Wisconsin. Although the survey is not statistically valid, it is intended to provide human resource professionals and those making benefit decisions in their business with databacked insights about the current benefit landscape in the region. These insights are intended to help discover trends and provide guidance as the workplace evolves. “The benefit survey provides awareness into the current benefit landscape while exploring opportunities to enhance employee friendly benefit options such as financial support for child care,” shared Jennifer Brown,
DEVELOPED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
LEARN MORE & GET CERTIFIED:
foxcitieschamber.com/employee-friendly-workplace
FoxCities CitiesBUSiNESS BUSiNESSI IWinter Winter2019 2019IIEmployee EmployeeFriendly FriendlyWorkplace Workplace Fox
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PUBLIC POLICY
Tackling the Workforce Housing Shortage Jennifer Sunstrom RANW Government Affairs Director Realtors Association of Northeast Wisconsin
Despite continued record-low unemployment rates, Wisconsin’s economic future still hinges on the ability to retain and attract a skilled workforce to fill existing and future job vacancies. As part of this struggle, Wisconsin employers are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit workers to areas lacking attractive and affordable housing options. With statewide housing inventory levels at historic lows, median home prices continuing to rise, and apartment rent increases outpacing wage growth, Wisconsin’s workforce housing shortage is a growing problem for Wisconsin’s economic success. For that reason, the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA) commissioned a study, that demonstrates 1) A severe workforce housing shortage does exist in Wisconsin, 2) the primary causes of the shortage, 3) the consequences of the workforce shortage, and 4) how we can take steps to address the problem. The report titled “Falling Behind,” is authored by University of Wisconsin Madison Professor of Urban and Regional Planning, Dr. Kurt Paulsen, Ph.D., AICP.
Three Main Causes of the Workforce Housing Shortage 1. Not building enough homes to keep up with population - Wisconsin is creating about 75 percent fewer lots and 55 percent fewer new housing units than pre-recession levels. In the past two years, fewer than 10,000 buildable housing lots were approved in WI, even though WI usually adds 10,000-20,000 net new households each year. In Outagamie County, from 2006-2017 there were 5,727 new households and 6,245 new housing units. Although Outagamie has not yet joined its neighbor Brown County in actually underproducing housing, it is drawing close with a narrow margin of just 518 units.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Public Policy
2. Construction costs outpacing inflation and incomes - In the past seven years, construction costs have risen substantially faster than inflation, and construction companies are facing severe labor shortages in Wisconsin. In the Fox Valley area, from 2010-2017 area builders say that construction costs for single-family homes have risen 15%17%. Unlike home construction costs, development costs (land, engineering, permits, carrying costs, etc.,) can vary from community to community. For this same time period, local developers have seen costs rise approximately 10%-15% depending on the community. 3. Outdated land use regulations limiting supply and significantly driving up the cost of housing - Local regulations that have no public safety purpose, such as large minimum lot sizes, prohibitions on non single-family housing, excessive parking requirements and high-end building materials, and long approval processes are adding substantial costs onto housing.
The National Association of Homebuilders estimates that regulations can drive up the cost of single-family homes by at least 24 percent and multifamily housing by 30 percent based on regular surveys of developers. As a result of limited supply and rising housing costs, the housing study reviews several negative results that impact not only our local economies but the quality of life in Wisconsin including Northeast Wisconsin.
Three Consequences of the Workforce Housing Shortage 1. A continued decline in overall housing affordability – According to U.S. Census data, one in five individuals in Outagamie County holding a mortgage paid 30% or more of their monthly income for housing. Although Outagamie and Winnebago County have not yet met the threshold to be considered officially unaffordable, from 2010-2017 their scores dropped 8.5 and 11.27 points respectively. Affordability for rental units is even more challenging, with surrounding counties including Brown, Winnebago, Calumet, Fond du Lac and Door County all considered barely affordable based on the 2017 index. This means that median income families can barely afford the medianpriced rent in the majority of Northeast Wisconsin communities. For those individuals earning below median income levels, housing affordability is even more dire. Wisconsin currently leads the Midwest with the highest percentage of lower-income renters with extreme cost burdens, meaning families pay more than 50 percent of their income on housing. 2. Declining homeownership in Wisconsin, especially among younger households and African American and Hispanic families - The report finds that from 2007-2017 homeownership rates in Wisconsin declined across all age groups (except Seniors) with the largest drop for young families. Homeownership rates also declined during this same time period across all ethnic groups, with the largest drop in African-American families. 3. Wisconsin homeowners are borrowing more - Even with historically low interest rates, Wisconsin homeowners are borrowing a larger percentage of their home’s value. Most recent data show the loan-to-price ratio for mortgages in Wisconsin exceeds 83 percent.
• Expedite permitting and development approval processes at state and local level • Establish maximum and minimum lot sizes for sewer areas • Require communities to allow multifamily housing in at least one zoning district • Provide incentives for the creation and approval of workforce housing • Create TID for workforce housing • Create first-time homebuyers savings account program • Create state tax credit for rehabilitation of older housing • Coordinate housing programs across state agencies • Provide technical and financial assistance to local governments • Providing financing incentives for innovative models and for nonprofit and affordable housing providers • Employer down-payment assistance and homebuyer counseling programs
Housing Construction and Subdivision Activity in Wisconsin have not Recovered from Great Recession, Remain at Historically Low Levels 30,000
Number of lots or building permits authorized in Wisconsin
ROADMAP TO REFORM
Through strategies that address some of the identified causes of the workforce housing shortage as well as ideas and best practices gathered from around the country, the report offers several strategies to tackling this problem.
25,000
20,000
15,000
Five Strategies to Eliminate Workforce Housing Shortage
10,000
1. Building more housing 2. Increasing housing choices
5,000
0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Lots Created by Subdivision Plats
Single Family Building Permits
Source: Subdivision Lots from Wis. Dept. Admin.; Building Permits Database, U.S. Census Bureau.
Multifamily (5+ units) Building Permits
3. Rebuilding and strengthening homeownership 4. Reinvesting in older housing and older neighborhoods 5. Making housing a priority Continued on next page.
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The health of the housing market plays a critical role in the overall economy and the desirability of one community over another. This is especially true when it comes to issues surrounding housing affordability and the supply of workforce housing. Without an adequate supply of housing options and price points to meet the housing needs of workers across the spectrum, Wisconsin will be at a competitive disadvantage in trying to attract and retain businesses and workers.
2401 E. Enterprise Avenue Appleton • 920-882-4070 www.mccartylaw.com
Growing to serve your needs
McCarty Law LLP Welcomes the following Attorneys…
Now is the time for all stakeholders including local governments, the business community and real estate related professionals to work together to find innovative solutions to address this growing housing problem.
Attorney Katherine M. Canadeo Katherine, a resident of Appleton, received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and earned her law degree from Hamline University School of Law. Katherine’s practice consists of advising clients going through divorce, legal separation, child custody disputes, and all related family court matters. Katherine also assists clients with adoptions and is frequently appointed by the court as a Guardian ad Litem for minor children.
Attorney Yadira J. Rein Yadira, a resident of Appleton, received her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Yadira’s practice consists of advising clients going through divorce, legal separation, child custody and placement disputes, and all related family court matters. She is frequently appointed by the court as a Guardian ad Litem for minor children. Yadira also spends time educating the Hispanic community about their legal rights and assisting them with various social and legal issues.
Attorney Sarah J. Knutson Sarah, a resident of Appleton, received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and earned her law degree from Marquette University. Sarah concentrates her practice in corporate and business transactions, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and general corporate services. She provides clients, including health care entities, with advice at all stages of the sale or purchase of a business, including drafting and negotiating letters of intent, purchase or sale agreements and financing documents.
Gregg Curry • John J. Russo • Steven J. Cerasoli • Scott C. Barr • Reg P. Wydeven • Rebecca L. Kent Kristy A. Christensen • Michael W. Curry • Melissa R. DeVantier • Jon L. Fischer • Lora L. Zimmer Katherine M. Canadeo • Yadira J. Rein • Sarah J. Knutson • Benjamin M. Adams • William A. Woodrow Of Counsel: Randall A. Haak • Angela M. Rust
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Public Policy
MEMBER EDITORIAL
DOING MORE with your Google Assistant
Having a conversation with voice assistants is an added convenience for smartphones and the very foundation of smart speakers. From setting an alarm or reminder, to getting the weather or searching the web, many actions can be spurred from a simple “Hey” followed by the name of your assistant. While voice commands have come far since their debut, there’s still some unnatural language that’s needed to help the assistants perform their best. Google has a feature called continued conversations that lets Google Assistant listen longer after it answers your initial question while retaining the knowledge of what you were talking about in the first place. This prevents you from having to say “Ok Google” for a second command and lets you speak in a more natural way. For example, if you were trying to get the weather forecast for the next few days you may say something like: “Hey Google, what’s the forecast for tomorrow?” Once Google answers, without continued conversations you would need to follow up with a full secondary command, like “Hey Google, what’s the forecast for Thursday?” With continued conversations turned on the secondary command becomes a more natural follow-up and can be something like “What about Thursday?” To enable continued conversations, open up the Google Assistant app, go to Settings > Assistant tab > Continued Conversation and hit the toggle. This feature does allow your Assistant to listen for around eight additional seconds to hear your secondary questions. If you know you’re done with the conversation, you can use an ending conversation command – Thank you, Thanks Google, or I’m done – to turn off the microphone.
commute and tell you about your calendar for the day while allowing you to multi-task. Find templates or create your own routines by opening the Google Assistant app and visiting Settings>Assistant>Routines. Location-based reminders are another great tool with Google Assistant. If you’re the type of person who remembers things at exactly the wrong time, set a reminder with a simple command. Ask Google to remind you to place an order, make a call or send an email when you get to the office. The reminder will pop-up based on your phone’s location, allowing you to take action when you’re in the right place. You can also set reminders for specific times, like “Hey Google, remind me to call my client at 9:30 a.m.” Follow Cellcom on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for more tips and tricks for your smart devices.
You can also expedite conversations by using routines. The routines settings allow you to complete multiple actions through one simple command. Commands can help you get your morning started, end your day or be used at the office. For example “OK Google, good morning,” could tell you the weather, news, give you traffic updates for your
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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Promoting Dignity and Worth of Individuals with Disabilities and/or Disadvantages Valley Packaging Industries, Inc. is a positive difference maker in the Fox Cities communities VPI is a community rehabilitation center that provides a variety of education, human services, and vocational skills training to Fox Valley residents. With the belief that those with special needs and/or disadvantaged circumstances can lead more independent lives, VPI was created over 60 years ago with parents of people with disabilities, local manufacturers, educators, and human service providers. They operate two production facilities that provide custom packaging and manufacturing services to local manufacturers in order to provide funding and a training platform for many of its vocational skills training client programs and disadvantaged employees. By consistently meeting clients’ needs, VPI has grown into the successful service organization it is today with a uniquely blended workforce that educates and integrates hundreds of individuals with disabilities with technically trained production workers and provides stand alone programs for those in extreme need.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Community Spotlight
What does VPI offer businesses? Known for affordable pricing, consistent quality and on-time delivery of their contract packaging and assembly projects, Valley Packaging has earned a strong reputation with its manufacturing-related customers.
How does the community benefit? When you partner with Valley Packaging, you provide extensive rehabilitation and vocational services for those with disabilities or disadvantages in the greater Fox Valley community.
How does VPI do it?
To help individuals develop “Skills for Work, Success for Life,� Valley Packaging offers a variety of rehabilitation and vocational skills training services and employment opportunities to those with disabilities and/or disadvantages.
More than 2,700 individuals with Disabilities or Disadvantages are Served Annually VOCATIONAL SKILLS TRAINING IN VPI FACILITIES OR IN THE COMMUNITY
VPI EMPLOYMENT
244 Individuals obtained vocational skills
disadvantages employed full-time
209 of 550+ individuals with
training, coaching, and support to overcome employment barriers in VPI facilities and/or in the community
EMPLOYMENT PLACEMENT PROGRAM
178 Individuals
developed job-seeking skills and obtained temporary work experiences leading to permanent employment with a community employer
EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS TRAINING & EDUCATION PROGRAMS
67 Individuals
obtained employability skills classroom instruction and internships on college or employer campuses
COMMUNITY OUTREACH CENTER
145 Individuals
obtained FREE mental health services from WI certified peer support specialists at VPI’s Community Outreach Center
EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM
646 Children birth to age 3 and their families received comprehensive early intervention services for developmental delays
COMMUNITY DAY CENTER
98 Individuals
received clinical services and social support for profound impairments or multiple disabilities
WHY SUPPORT VPI? VPI is a positive difference maker in the Fox Cities communities! VPI consistently delivers its mission day-in and day-out, which translates into meaningful life and vocational improvements in the clients they serve. All VPI clients with special needs and/or employment barriers receive:
• Individualized services in a supportive environment • Quality of life improvement, resulting in optimal levels of independence • Service with personal integrity and professionalism • Education that capitalizes on abilities while minimizing disabilities
The VPI team believes so strongly in its mission and the difference they make to thousands of lives and families each year that 100% of its Board members and staff employees have contributed their time, talent, and/or treasure to the organization.
EMERGENCY RELIEF SERVICES COMMUNITY 2000 PROGRAM
1,140 Individuals and Families
received emergency relief supplies, food, apparel and service referrals
VA L L E Y PAC K AG I N G I N D U S T R I E S , I N C . Rehabilitation Services • Custom Packaging • Integrated Work Force
“Skills for Work, Success for Life!”
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WORKFORCE
Talent and K-16 Relations 2019
THE YEAR OF CHANGE The Fox Cities Chamber is committed to supporting and facilitating education and business partnerships that promote student success, workforce development and a high quality of life for all residents learning, growing, working, and playing in the Fox Cities region. We recognize that a skilled workforce of tomorrow relies on high quality education today, and investing in synergistic partnerships is the model for success.
Changes in 2019 In 2019, we changed the focus from K-12 to K-16, re-invented existing programs and added new programming to enhance education/business interactions and partnerships. The Your Future Fox Cities web platform had a sunset date of June and the Your Future Live Career Expo was re-imagined and renamed Future Fox Cities for March 2020. New programming added in 2019 included Fox Cities Days, regional college recruiting events at Michigan Technological University and Bay College, internal management of Smart Girls Rock STEM programming, and creating the first annual Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards program. The Talent Collaborative funding model was dissolved and changed to feebased programming (per student) for schools and investor/sponsor and member/non-member fee-based programming for employers.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Workforce
Your Future Live Career Expo 2019 (Now Future Fox Cities 2020) The last Your Future Live was held in March 2019 and served over 3,000 regional students in 8th through 12th grades. The two-day career expo attracted approximately 70 employers from all six career clusters to allow students to explore careers and college opportunities offered in the Fox Cities region. Students visited interactive employer booths and learned about higher education options in the region. This event aligns with the goals of school districts to provide academic and career planning for students, and employer goals for developing and attracting future talent.
The newly named event for March 2020, Future Fox Cities, will incorporate new career-based learning information, resources and opportunities, as well as a new Career Counseling Toolkit for students/teachers/counselors to use prior to the event. New employer profiles and a resource webpage were developed for employers, parents, educators and students. Visit the Fox Cities Chamber website for more information at http://foxcitieschamber.com/talent/future-fox-cities-foxcities-chamber/
Fox Cities Days 2019 Regional College Recruiting Events Destination Fox Cities! The Fox Cities Chamber took the show on the road in September and October to make a regional impression on students at Michigan Tech and Bay College. Employers joined forces to attract new talent to the region and to showcase the Fox Cities as a great place to live, work and play. We broke the record for the number of students “tapping” into the CareerFEST tent at Michigan Tech (almost 600!) and found great candidates ready to graduate and enter the workforce in 2019 and 2020. This event was such a big hit with Michigan Tech students that we were invited back in 2020 and asked to bring more employers. Employers who participate in Fox Cities Days 2020 will also receive a discount on registration for Michigan Tech’s large Career Fair. Save the date for Fox Cities Days, Michigan Tech, on September 9, 2020! Registration will open in April 2020.
Smart Girls Rock 2019 The Fox Cities Chamber was excited to be asked to take ownership of the Smart Girls Rock (SGR) event and helped celebrate the event’s five-year anniversary. The original event was founded by Tiffany Carter in 2015. Menasha Corporation hosted the event this year, which featured 28 female mentors working in STEM careers from nine different Fox Cities employers, and approximately 80 freshmen and sophomore girls from 15 school districts. Mentor stations featured software applications, emergency room diagnostics, interventional radiology, augmented reality welding, forensic science, 3D modeling in construction, graphic and structural design, printing, financial planning, aircraft maintenance, and micro-encapsulation. Are you an employer interested in hosting a future SGR event, or a female mentor in a STEM field interested in inspiring the next generation into STEM? Contact Amy Andersen, Director of Talent and K-16 Relations at amy@foxcitiesregion.com.
Save the Date! Smart Girls Rock 2020 - November 4, 2020 Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards The Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards program is the new culminating K-16 event to recognize the outstanding achievements of educators in the Fox Cities region. This event will acknowledge and celebrate the unparalleled contributions of educators working and shining in Fox Cities schools, colleges, universities and other educational settings. The eight award categories are: Excellence in Early Childhood Education, K-12 Education, Higher Education, Student Services, Special Education, Career and Technical Education, Inclusive Excellence in Education, and Educator of the Year. Learn more at http://foxcitieschamber.com/talent/ excellence-in-education-awards-fox-cities-chamber/
You’re Invited! Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards March 5, 2020 - Register at foxcitieschamber.com
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MEMBER EDITORIAL
Developing the Next Generation of IT Pros How to Attract Top Talent Nationally, we’re facing a labor shortage—the skills gap is widening, and the national unemployment rate is 3.7 percent. While some industries have larger gaps than others, demand for IT positions is far outpacing developing or existing talent. The unemployment rate for IT positions specifically is 1.3 percent, which is the lowest it’s been in almost 20 years. In May alone, U.S. employers added 75,000 new technology jobs to the market. LinkedIn predicts that IT will be one of the industries that will face the highest shortages by 2030. Northeast Wisconsin is no exception to this nationwide issue. Fortunately, there are several ways you can bring IT professionals to your business (and retain them).
Create Awareness While it may seem obvious to advertise an open IT position at your business or organization, in Wisconsin, we face an additional challenge in attracting IT talent. IT professionals may assume there aren’t opportunities in IT since Wisconsin is traditionally well-known for farming and manufacturing. However, our area is home to several corporate headquarters that require IT talent, and manufacturing and farming sectors also need IT support. In fact, industries such as manufacturing and farming frequently have a high demand for IT talent. That means you’ll want to make sure you effectively publicize IT opportunities even if IT isn’t the work for which your business is well-known.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Editorial
Offer Opportunities for Growth Today’s IT professionals are drawn to jobs in which they can be creative and consistently develop their skills. However, many IT positions require maintaining existing platforms and technology over creating and growing technology, which means employers need to find ways to generate excitement about the position, both during the application process and after hire to ensure employee retention. Providing opportunities for growth could mean investing in new technology or building a new function of your business. Investing in app development, for example, gives your customers ease of use and creates efficiencies while also tapping into your employees’ creative capabilities. It’s also important to facilitate professional development opportunities such as continuing education or skill-based training to generate excitement for an IT role.
Leverage Location
It’s All About Setting Your Business Apart
We’re fortunate to be in a part of the United States that has immense opportunity for growth. Our area has excellent public education, affordable housing, low crime rates and is in close proximity to metropolitan areas. Emphasizing these benefits throughout the hiring process is a good way to further incentivize IT professionals (as well as other prospects) to join your team.
Attracting top IT talent really comes down to what you should be doing to attract any top talent: distinguishing your business from the rest. Whether setting yourself apart means creating new opportunities for advancement or changing the physical environment of the workplace, you can get ahead of the talent gap—IT or otherwise—by showing more of what’s in it for them.
Be Flexible Offering flex opportunities, the ability to work offsite, or changing the working environment helps you cast a wider net and appeal to applicants who might not be able to immediately relocate or have other barriers to coming into the office. Gen Y prefers flexibility, so reevaluating your work environment can attract the newest generation of IT professionals.
Get Creative Newer generations have changing preferences when it comes to reviews, internal processes, and career development. Gen Y, for example, prefers consistent, frequent feedback over an annual review, and is interested in paid time off for volunteering and opportunities for career advancement. You should also reevaluate your internal processes to make sure you’ll retain your employees after hire—will they really want to read through a training manual? Most likely, they won’t. Look for ways you can communicate the information in a unique way that appeals to a new generation. Add opportunities for collaboration. Evaluate the physicality of your building—are there ways to change the environment physically to make it more efficient, collaborative and appealing? Your current employees, regardless of generation, will benefit and notice change, increasing chances for employee longevity and job satisfaction.
Contributed by Angela Creel Chief Human Resources Officer at Jewelers Mutual Group. Angela pursued a career in HR to help others discover and become their best selves. Prior to joining Jewelers Mutual, Creel was the VP of Enterprise Human Resources at Thrivent, and held other HR leadership roles at Bemis Company, Pepsi Beverages Company, and Target. Throughout her journey she has focused on inspiring and enabling others; fostering courageous action while providing the safety to grow; and modeling continuous learning. Creel currently serves on the New North Board of Directors and previously co-chaired a committee instrumental in creating a regional leadership program, The Center for Excellence in Leadership, at St. Norbert College. She holds her B.S. from Florida State University.
WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? Do you have knowledge, ideas or advice to share with other Fox Cities Chamber members? Contact Emily Feagles, Editor, at: efeagles@foxcitieschamber.com about submitting an article.
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Editorial
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CELEBRATING 38 YEARS OF GIVING IN 2019 A Mile Of Fun Since 1981
Octoberfest was the result of a brainstorming session of the Appleton Downtown Retail Association, (the predecessor of Appleton Downtown Inc.) and the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce in 1981. They were searching for a way to promote their businesses, to improve the community image and to showcase Downtown Appleton and the businesses located there. Octoberfest is a volunteer-driven event with about fifteen people serving on the Executive Committee. Almost 800 volunteers tend bar, work in headquarters, sell beer tickets or work as block captains. 2,000-plus people work in the food booths. Each volunteer feels a personal ownership of Octoberfest. Octoberfest is “community driven�. Each non-profit booth that sells food at Octoberfest uses their profits to support their community project. Some of the organizations view Octoberfest as their major fundraiser for the year. It is estimated that more than 2.5 million dollars has been reinvested in our community as a result of Octoberfest over the years.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Octoberfest Update
Nearly 66% of the nonprofit food vendors made $1,000 or more this year. Octoberfest has become a steady source of revenue for them as 75% have been vendors in the past. Additionally, proceeds from Octoberfest are used for the competitive Octoberfest grant program that provides funding to nonprofits year round. To date, Octoberfest has awarded over $2.5 million in grants back to the community. Grants are awarded via an application process in three cycles: December 15, March 15 and June 15. The application and instructions are available at octoberfestonline.org.
THANK YOU!
2019 Grant Recipients
2019 Octoberfest Sponsors
Appleton Boychoir Appleton Downtown Inc
Title Sponsor: Bud Light (Wisconsin Distributors)
Appleton Police Department Christ the Rock
Presenting Sponsor: Tundraland Home Improvements
Girls on the Run Family Caregivers Rock
In-Kind: EPS
Fox Cities Greenways
Family Fun Area Sponsor: Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc.
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
In Partnership With: Valley Transit, Element, Advance Disposal, Lawrence University, BConnected, LLC, Appleton Downtown Inc.
Riverview Gardens
Media Partners: 103.9 WVBO, 105.7 WAPL, KZ 104.3, Razor 94.7/104.7, 95.9 Kiss FM, WHBY, NBC26
Souled Out Ministries
License to Cruise Sponsors
2019 Octoberfest Executive Committee
Presenting Sponsor: AkzoNobel Corporate Sponsors: Tundraland Home Improvements and Roundy’s Supermarkets, Inc. In Partnership With: Valley Transit, Element, Advance Disposal, Lamers Bus Lines Media Partners: 103.9 WVBO, WNAM
Save the Date Sept. 25, 2020 -- License to Cruise Sept. 26, 2020 -- Octoberfest
Friends of the Appleton Fire Department St. Joseph Food Program Sculpture Valley The Building for Kids Children’s Museum Volunteer Fox Cities
Eric Stadler
Wichmann-Fargo Funeral Homes
Brian Kuklinski
The Green Bay Booyah
Darrell DeRidder
AT&T
Katie Gaffney
Fox Cities Chamber
Joy Sams
Thrivent Financial
Char Van Vreede
GLK Foods, LLC
Mark Lewis Salzwedel Thundera Multimedia Paul Shrode
FVTC/Waupaca Regional Center
Dan Hoeck
Sola Salon Studios
Tara Brzozowski
Element
Nikki Voelzke
The Quotient Group
Jeff McMullen
The McMullen Group
Willie Harrison
Harrison Printing & Promotion
Fox CitiesFox BUSiNESS Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2018 I Winter I PULSE 2019Young I Octoberfest Professionals Update
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MEMBERSHIP & AMBASSADORS
Fox Cities Chamber Ambassadors Engaging the Community
Fox Cities Chamber Ambassadors
The Fox Cities Chamber promotes employers and economic development while serving as a catalyst to further improve the quality of life in the Fox Cities. The Chamber is your resource for making your business goals possible. Fox Cities Chamber members have numerous channels to promote their business to local residents and businesses and to build relationships through educational and networking events. By taking advantage of the resources and tools the Chamber has to offer, you enhance the value of your membership and help build a thriving community.
Quantity of new members in 2019: 78 Quantity of total members in 2019 (as of 12/1/19): 987 Chamber Ambassadors are individuals seen as leaders and emerging leaders within our community who have experience with and exposure to the many facets of the Fox Cities Chamber. Ambassadors are an extension of our brand. Like our staff and Board of Directors, Ambassadors are out in the community engaging with organizations and other business professionals on a regular basis. They are a passionate, engaged group of individuals who can advocate for the Chamber AND represent our members.
The Ambassadors exist to grow and sustain the prosperity of current and future Chamber members. Thank you for your continued dedication to the Fox Cities Chamber!
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Membership & Ambassadors
Jane Calkins - Midwest Communications Beth Davis - Community First Credit Union Tina Grenlie - Edward Jones Sara Hebert - Nicolet National Bank Nicole Hurd - Coalesce Marketing and Design Scott Jensen - Hosking Insurance Agency Dennis Jochman - The Bechard Group, Inc. June Johnson - J.A. Johnson Health Insurance Paul Kornfeind - North Shore Golf Club Dennis Korth - Korth Financial Services Maggie Lamal - Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Wisconsin Chapter Laura Manley Mispagel - Old National Bank Patrick Minskey - Experienced Wealth Management Richard Parks - Modern Woodmen of America Kelly Radandt - Woodward Radio Group Conner Stilp - Century 21 Ace Realty Kari Stockinger - Prospera Credit Union Ann Thielman - Keller Williams Realty Megan Trochinski - BSI – Building Service, Inc. Les Van Ornum - Merchants’ Choice Card Services LLC Laura Weis Trish Welzein - Keller Williams Realty Sharon Wolfert - SEEK Careers/Staffing Ron Zahn - Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. Brooke Ziglinski - Nutritional Healing, LLC
Upcoming CHAMBER Events FEBRUARY 2020
APRIL 2020
Business Connection Wednesday, February 5, 2020 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM DoubleTree by Hilton Neenah 123 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Neenah Economic Outlook Lunch Thursday, February 13, 2020 | 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley 333 W. College Avenue, Appleton
Business Breakfast Bytes Topic: “Leveraging Video to Promote your Business” Tuesday, April 21, 2020 | 7:30 – 9:00 AM Location TBD
Business Breakfast Bytes Topic: “Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace” Tuesday, February 18, 2020 | 7:30 – 9:00 AM Kimberly-Clark 2300 County Road II (Winchester Road), Neenah
MARCH 2020 Future Fox Cities Career Expo Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | 8:15 AM – 3:15 PM Thursday, March 5, 2020 | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM Fox Cities Exhibition Center 355 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton Excellence in Education Shining Star Awards Thursday, March 5, 2020 | 5:00 – 8:30 PM Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley 333 W. College Avenue, Appleton Business Connection Wednesday, March 11, 2020 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM Ballroom at The Reserve 116 S. Commercial Street, Suite 300, Neenah Business Breakfast Bytes Topic: “Employee Friendly Workplace Initiatives” Tuesday, March 17, 2020 | 7:30 – 9:00 AM Location TBD
CEO Breakfast Monday, April 27, 2020 Riverview Gardens 1101 S. Oneida Street, Appleton
MAY 2020 Business Awards Luncheon Tuesday, May 5, 2020 | 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley 333 W. College Avenue, Appleton Business Breakfast Bytes Topic: “Social Media Advertising” Tuesday, May 19, 2020 | 7:30 – 9:00 AM McMAHON 1445 McMahon Drive, Neenah Business Connection Thursday, May 28, 2020 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM Oak Park Place 2205 Midway Road, Menasha
JUNE 2020 Bazaar After Dark Saturday, June 6, 2020 Downtown New London For a complete listing of upcoming Fox Cities Chamber events, please visit foxcitieschamber.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact us to learn more, enhance your brand awareness and get involved.
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WELCOME 2019-2020 Leadership Fox Cities Class Since 1991, Leadership Fox Cities has been focused on providing participants with opportunities to grow as leaders and get engaged in the community they call home. This year’s class of professionals met at the inaugural overnight retreat in September and gather for monthly sessions from October through May. During each session, these community-minded leaders learn about the Fox Cities’ accolades and challenges.
LEADERSHIP FOX CITIES A PROGRAM OF
Photo by Debbie Daanen Photography
Kaelyn Ahola Kelly Behling James Bellmore Jennifer Brown Brandi Cavegn Kim Chonos Janet Coons Kayla Countney Cassie Anne Curry Randy DeCoster Carolyn Desrosiers Adam Figurin Nicole Goodacre Nick Hammer Jillian Hammer Phillip Hanke Paul Hermes Kristine Jacobsen Zachary Kemp Natalie Klika 36
Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes Nurses PRN Bridgewood Resort Hotel & Conference Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce Ascension NE Wisconsin – St. Elizabeth Wisconsin Timber Rattlers SECURA Insurance Goodwill Industries NCW Lawrence University Miller Electric Manufacturing Company Community Foundation of the Fox Valley NAI Pfefferle Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Wipfli LLP U.S. Venture JWM Coenen Mechanical Appleton Area School District City of Menasha Appvion, Inc. Johnson Financial
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Leadership Fox Cities
Chris Langenfeld Abby Liebergen Trevor Lord Bryson Machonga Katie Mangin Sarah Marcoe Adriana McCleer Jordan Miller Dan Puyleart Jacquelyn Rosen Brandon Schmitz Melissa Schulteis Christina Stelter Eric Strebe Koua Thao Kyle Thelen Rebecca Van Heuklon Beni Westgor Aishling Willenkamp
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve Baker Tilly Virchow Krause LLP 41 North First Business Bank – Northeast Keller, Inc. ThedaCare Physicians Appleton Public Library Pierce Manufacturing Encapsys LLC Network Health Plexus Corporation Miron Construction Co., Inc. Menasha Corporation ESOP Partners Fox Valley Technical College Herrling Clark Law Firm Ltd. MotionWorks Physical Therapy United Way Fox Cities Community First Credit Union
GOOD DEEDS ACCUMULATE.
OUR HOMETOWNS ARE FILLED WITH HEROES. They’re in every neighborhood, on every block and down every street. This winter (November 5, 2019 - April 30, 2020), help Ariens recognize your #AriensHero by sharing the great stories of how they use their Sno-Thro ® to help others. We’ll randomly select 5 stories each month to be featured on our social media channels.
NOMINATE YOUR HOMETOWN HERO #AriensHero
Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Spring/Summer 2019 I Leadership Fox Cities
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MEMBER MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES
July 2019 - December 2019
45 YEARS Pace Corporation
40 YEARS
Keller, Inc. WBAY-TV YMCA of the Fox Cities
35 YEARS
Borsche Roofing Professionals, Inc. Century 21 Affiliated Fox River Mall Prospera Credit Union Rollie Winter & Associates, Ltd. Valmet, Inc.
30 YEARS
The H.S. Group HR, Inc. Wisconsin Timber Rattlers
25 YEARS
Cadre Randall’s Auto Haus Inc. SOAR Fox Cities, Inc
20 YEARS
Business Lending Group, LLC Good Housekeeping Shop, Inc. Hi-Tech Plastics, Inc. Old National Bank Pella Windows & Doors of Wisconsin Rollmeister Inc. Shapes Unlimited, Inc. TECC Security Systems, Inc. Verve, A Credit Union
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Milestone Anniversaries
15 YEARS
Cold Stone Creamery Fastsigns Flush Drain & Sewer Cleaning, Inc. PortSide Builders Inc.
10 YEARS
Appleton International Airport Breadsmith-Appleton Carmella’s, an Italian Bistro Katapult, LLC Rasmussen College
5 YEARS
C3 Corporation Canteen CR Structures Group, Inc. Exit Elite Realty Firestone Complete Auto Care GDC IT Solutions Heartland Business Systems Jacobs Meat Market, Inc. Keller Williams Realty Midwest Restoration - Fire & Water Damage Specialists Office Depot & Office Max #6751 Premier Locations - U.S. Cellular Pro Staff Sandler Training, PSTA Windward Wealth Strategies, Inc. Wingate by Wyndham Watters Plumbing, Inc. Thank you for your continuous years of membership and support as a Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce member! These loyal businesses are what make the Fox Cities a vibrant place to live, work and play.
WELCOME New Chamber Members May 2019 - December 2019 Accurate Appraisal LLC
Cornerstone Business Services, Inc.
Fuze Nutrition LLC
1428 Midway Road Menasha, WI 54952-1224 (920) 749-8098 http://accurateassessor.com Business Services
200 S Washington Street Ste 401 Green Bay, WI 54301-4297 (920) 436-9890 http://cornerstone-business.com Investment Management
3365 W College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-3921 (920) 843-0493 http://www.fuzenutritionclub.com Nutrition
ActionCOACH
Davis|Kuelthau, s.c.
Hosking Insurance Agency, Inc.
140 Main Street Menasha, WI 54952-3151 (920) 212-2250 https://www.actioncoachfoxcities.com Business Organization/Development
111 E Kilbourn Avenue Ste 1400 Milwaukee, WI 53202-6677 (414) 276-0200 http://www.dkattorneys.com Attorneys
2221 Freedom Road Ste D Little Chute, WI 54140-1295 (920) 788-5000 http://redtruckagent.com Insurance Agency & Company
Ahava Salon and Spa
Dixon Ticonderoga Company
400 N Richmond Street Ste I Appleton, WI 54911-4602 (920) 221-3226 http://ahavasalonandspa.com Hair Salon
2525 N Casaloma Drive Appleton, WI 54913-8865 (920) 830-5050 http://www.pacon.com Paper Converter
Independent Retirement Group/ InPower Investments
Appleton Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott
DLJ Wealth & Tax Services
130 S Nicolet Road Appleton, WI 54914-3947 (920) 939-8181 http://www.marriott.com/atwfa Hotel / Motel
500 W Franklin Street Ste E Appleton, WI 54911-4683 (920) 939-2011 Financial Services
Avaii Wealth Management
5365 Clairemont Drive Appleton, WI 54913-8837 (920) 257-3789 http://www.donaldsonscleaners.com Dry Cleaners
158 E. Northland Avenue Appleton, WI 54911-2125 (920) 214-1212 http://avaii.com Wealth Management Services
Baldwin Supply Company W6390 Quality Drive Greenville, WI 54942-8015 (920) 570-7526 http://www.baldwinsupply.com Manufacturing & Services
Ballroom at The Reserve 116 S Commercial Street Ste 300 Neenah, WI 54956-3020 (920) 383-1909 https://www.ballroomatthereserve.com/ Music & Theater
BayCare Clinic, LLP 1035 Kepler Drive Green Bay, WI 54311-8320 (920) 490-9046 http://www.baycare.net Health Care Provider
Blue Print Service Company 2350 W Pershing Street Ste A Appleton, WI 54914-6067 (920) 733-4539 http://www.blueprintservice.com Commercial Printers
Catalpa Health 444 N Westhill Blvd Appleton, WI 54914-5715 (920) 750-7000 https://catalpahealth.org/ Health & Wellness
Community Care, Inc. 4435 W Lawrence Street Appleton, WI 54914-4065 (866) 992-6600 http://www.communitycareinc.org/ Human Service Organization
Donaldson Cleaners
Dunkin’ 1490 Oneida Street Appleton, WI 54915-7100 (920) 740-0221 http://www.dunkindonuts.com Restaurant
E-Power Marketing 600 Ohio Street Oshkosh, WI 54902-5976 (920) 303-1244 http://www.epower.com Marketing
Escape Room Wisconsin 2701 N Oneida Street Appleton, WI 54911-2011 (920) 731-2583 http://www.escaperoomwisconsin.com Sports & Games
First Centennial Mortgage 2100 Omro Road Ste L Oshkosh, WI 54904-7746 (920) 385-1220 http://thelindabusseteam.com Financial Services
Fly Circus and Aerial Arts 101 W Edison Avenue Ste 110 Appleton, WI 54915-1307 (920) 639-7475 https://www.flycircusandaerialarts.com/ Fitness Club
Foundations Health & Wholeness - Fox Cities 446 N Westhill Blvd Ste A Appleton, WI 54914-6532 (920) 606-9192 http://www.foundationsgb.org Non-Profit Agency
ServiceMaster Recovery by Restoration Holdings N282 Stoneybrook Road Appleton, WI 54915-4184 (920) 336-7411 http://www.servicemaster-rrh.com Fire & Water Restoration
St. Norbert College 100 Grant Street De Pere, WI 54115-2002 (920) 337-3181 http://www.snc.edu Colleges & Universities
Sunset Hill Stoneware
1760 American Drive Neenah, WI 54956-1407 (920) 882-1819 http://independentretirementgroup.com Insurance Agency & Company
1416 S Commercial Street Neenah, WI 54956-4664 (800) 509-4662 http://www.shstoneware.com Manufacturing & Services
Integrity Insurance
The Bridges of Appleton
2121 E Capitol Drive Appleton, WI 54911-8726 (920) 734-4511 http://www.integrityinsurance.com Insurance Agency & Company
2915 N Meade Street Appleton, WI 54911-1509 (920) 993-6800 http://www.thebridgesofappleton.com Nursing Home
Mau Realty, Inc
TopVu Media
311 E Ann Street Ste 1 Kaukauna, WI 54130-3970 (920) 766-3700 http://www.maurealty.com Real Estate Company
101 W Edison Avenue Ste #260 Appleton, WI 54915-1499 (844) 909-3456 http://www.topvumedia.com Marketing
Mid Valley Industries, LLC
Urban Air Appleton
1151 Delanglade Street Kaukauna, WI 54130-4122 (920) 759-0314 http://www.mvii.com Manufacturing & Services
4741 W Lawrence Street Grand Chute, WI 54914-9116 (920) 471-0844 http://www.urbanairappleton.com Sports & Games
Natural Healthy Concepts
VT Industries
310 N Westhill Blvd Appleton, WI 54914-2801 (920) 968-2360 http://www.nhc.com Health & Wellness
164 N Lake Street Neenah, WI 54956-2204 (920) 722-6444 vtindustries.com Doors & Windows
Northright Financial
Wausau Homes of Appleton
100 W Lawrence Street Ste 415 Appleton, WI 54911-5754 (920) 739-9599 http://northrightfinancial.com Financial Services
1880 Casaloma Drive Appleton, WI 54913-7957 (920) 720-0808 wausauhomes.com General Contractor
Prevea Health
Wissota Chophouse
2700 E Enterprise Avenue Ste B Appleton, WI 54913-7656 (920) 496-4700 http://prevea.com Health Care System
1465 Bryce Drive Neenah, WI 54956-2900 (920) 751-8900 http://wissotachophouse.com Restaurant
Pure Barre Appleton 3825 E Calumet Street Ste 1000 Appleton, WI 54915-4164 (920) 460-9552 http://purebarre.com/wi-appleton Fitness Club
The Fox Cities Chamber relies on members to continue its work in promoting business in the Fox Cities region. Without these committed members, the Chamber would not be able to provide the high quality services it is known for.
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FOX CITIES CHAMBER
SUPPORTERS CHAMPIONS OF THE COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY INFLUENCERS
COMMUNITY BUILDERS
COMMUNITY NEIGHBORS
COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS
01.01.2020
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Fox Cities Chamber Supporters
FULL SERVICE IN-HOUSE
Solutions that help SHAPE OUR COMMUNITIES FOX CITIES CHAMBER
2020 Business Awards
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM RED LION HOTEL PAPER VALLEY
Each year, the Chamber recognizes businesses and organizations in the Fox Cities that help make it a vibrant, innovative and dynamic community. The awards given are based on leadership, dedication and achievement.
TICKETS: Chamber Member: $50 Member Table of 10: $450 General Admission: $60 Non-Member Table: $550
Register online:
www.foxcitieschamber.com
920 751 4200
MCMGRP.COM Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Spring/Summer 2019 I Chamber Supporters
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MEMBER Spotlights
Member Spotlights are included in your membership package at the Grow ($700) level or above. Please contact Tonya Boelter for more information at: tboelter@foxcitieschamber.com or (920) 734-7101. The Fox Cities Chamber is grateful for all of our members. We offer resources and benefits to help your business grow and prosper. Not sure of the benefits at your level of membership? Please contact us!
Apotheke Wellness LLC has a mission to provide a safe, positive, and open-minded environment for our clients to gain information about and purchase natural products as alternatives or supplements to existing personal care programs. We serve people with various conditions (autoimmune, sleep disorders, mood disorders, etc.) looking for natural alternatives to manage symptoms. Education is our first priority. We regularly offer seminars or 1 on 1 consultations with our in-house registered nurse. For more information, visit apothekewellness.net.
Create Opportunities
Working with a team lightens the load. Together we perform better.
WEALTH ADVISORY | OUTSOURCING AUDIT, TAX, AND CONSULTING
920-731-8111 CLAconnect.com Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor Š2019 CliftonLarsonAllen LLP
CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities through industryfocused wealth advisory, outsourcing, audit, tax, and consulting services. With more than 6,100 people, 120 U.S. locations, and a global affiliation, we promise to know you and help you. For more information visit CLAconnect.com.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Spotlights
DoubleTree by Hilton-Neenah provides hotel rooms, conference space and catering for weekend groups, associations, business travel and weddings. Their hotel is located in the heart of Neenah across the beautiful views of Lake Winnebago. One example of their signature service is every guest is greeted with a warm chocolate chip cookie. For more information visit: dtneenah.doubletreebyhilton.com.
Element uses a unique blend of in-house services that combines traditional marketing tactics, sales process management, public relations, content marketing, and digital strategy to boost its clients’ bottom lines.
Starting January 1, 2020 Epiphany Law will be coowned by attorneys Kevin Eismann, Katie Blom, Heather Macklin and Rob Macklin. All attorneys will be equal partners and share ownership responsibilities. Over the last 15 years, Epiphany has proven to be an innovative leader in serving the business community and individuals in Northeast Wisconsin. The addition of Rob and Heather as partners will ensure Epiphany Law continues to help our clients achieve business and personal success.
For more information visit: goelement.com.
For more information, visit epiphanylaw.com.
Element is a full-service marketing agency with offices in De Pere and Neenah. It provides an integrated approach to marketing for clients in a variety of industries.
First Quality Forklift Training LLC in Appleton proudly provides OSHA-compliant forklift training classes, Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) training, and Forklift Train-the-Trainer classes throughout the state. They also offer a large selection of material handling and safety products (although they do not sell/service lifts). First Quality Forklift Training - Your One Stop Resource For All Your Forklift Training Needs™ For more information or a no-obligation free quote, call (920) 378-8554 or email training@ firstqualityforklifttraining.com
Independent Solar is a full service PV Solar Company. We do everything from Paperwork, Grant Writing, Installation, and Final Connection through the Utility Company! Anyone who wants relief from the rising cost of energy bills can benefit from a Solar Investment! For more information, visit independent-solar.com.
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ITU AbsorbTech helps manufacturers and printers eliminate solid waste, recover solvent, and achieve safety goals with reuse programs for printer towels, shop towels, oil absorbents, uniforms, and floor mats. These managed service programs offer a sustainable alternative to single-use products that would otherwise end up in a landfill. ITU AbsorbTech’s reuse programs are used in manufacturing facilities and graphics and printing companies that use high volumes of industrial process fluids or inks and solvents.
Lakeland University has offered innovative ways for students to earn their academic degrees and make their career goals a reality for more than 150 years. Lakeland provides a number of pathways and programs for students of all ages and is especially popular with technical college graduates who wish to earn their bachelor’s degree. Lakeland offers maximum transfer credits and is a popular choice for working adults looking to return to school. For more information visit lakeland.edu.
For more information, visit ITUAbsorbTech.com.
The Appleton Area School District has developed Career Launch Studios to support our Classroom to Career strategy. The Studios will strengthen opportunities for our students to connect with local businesses to raise student awareness and prepare them for their future employment. It is their intention to develop opportunities for students to get direct involvement with businesses and community both in and out of the classroom. For more information visit: www.aasd.k12.wi.us/c2c
McMAHON provides professional full-service engineering and architectural design services. Our staff of over 150 includes engineers, architects, surveyors, technicians, field personnel, and administrative specialists. McMAHON serves local governments, businesses, industries, healthcare institutions, K-12 schools and more from our Neenah headquarters and additional offices in Indiana and Illinois. In 2019, we celebrated 110 years in business, and look forward to our future serving communities and businesses in Northeast Wisconsin. For more information, please visit mcmgrp.com.
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Spotlights
As a sounding board and strategy partner for companies and nonprofits, O’Connor Connective coaches and advises leaders how to communicate their vision to get results. The O’Connor Connective team helps organizations engage, retain and recruit customers and employees, doing so by integrating strategy, marketing, creative, and public relations to achieve goals. Last year, O’Connor Connective opened its social enterprise, The Connective: A Place for Women in Business, to advance Wisconsin’s talent through leadership development, coaching, coworking and connections. For more information, visit oconnorconnective.com and theconnectivewi.com.
VF-142 LLC works with executives, business owners, organizational leaders and their teams to provide strategies, processes and training that improve profitability, efficiency and culture. Recommending a change to the status quo is the easy part...implementing change is the challenge. We thrive on developing a plan of action, and sticking around to help make it happen. Our great clients range from privately held, entrepreneurial companies to publicly held international organizations. For more information, contact tbutler@vf-142.com.
PortSide Builders’ customers range from those looking to build their starter home, to those ready to build their upscale, second home or vacation home. Their remodeling team handles everything from replacing windows and doors, to total home renovations. They are also the area leader in custom built lake and country homes. PortSide has offices in the Fox Cities and in Door County, each with a 3,500 square-foot Design Center. For more information visit: portsidebuilders.com.
The average purchase and donation supports nearly 5 hours of job training and opportunities. Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Spotlights
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MEMBER EDITORIAL
How to Break Down Sales and Marketing Silos with a CONTENT STRATEGY
Sales and marketing teams share the purpose of growing your business by convincing prospects to become customers, but they have different ways of achieving that goal. Sometimes, there’s a lack of appreciation for the other team’s work, and each department feels its efforts are more important. Of course, sales and marketing teams are most effective when they work in tandem. It’s in your best interest to break down silos between these groups, and a content strategy is a productive way to do that. Content marketing is the practice of creating and distributing valuable pieces of media (articles, e-books, videos, graphics, webinars, etc.) that cover topics and answer questions your target audience is searching for and cares about. An integrated marketing strategy with content at its core can involve both your sales and marketing teams. The content that marketers create should be designed to move prospects along a buyer’s journey, or down the sales funnel, if you prefer. That often means generating interest and encouraging people to contact sales. However, sales reps can also use content as touchpoints, sending valuable information to contacts while helping your company earn trust and respect. Sales reps make excellent subject matter experts and are often ideal spokespeople for media relations,
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Fox Cities BUSiNESS I Winter 2019 I Member Editorial
at public events, or as the stars of your company’s video and audio content. They can also help amplify marketing efforts by sharing content on social media. A content marketing plan makes life easier for sales as well. Educated prospects who’ve done their research are closer to making a purchase decision. If your company’s content helps potential customers solve problems, they are more likely to turn to you when they need your products or services. Essentially, a content marketing strategy shortens the sales cycle. As you put together a marketing plan for 2020, consider getting the sales team more involved. Marketing and sales can learn a lot about the people you’re trying to reach from working with each other. Combine their capabilities, fuel it with strategic content, and expect results. Contributed by Tara Brzozowski Director of public relations at Element Tara has more than 15 years of PR and marketing experience. She enjoys working with clients to develop marketing communications strategies that help them more effectively communicate with their target audiences.
General Contracting Asphalt Production Industrial Construction Asphalt Paving Engineering Site Concrete Bridges & Structures Excavation & Grading Facilities Management Aggregate Materials Foundations & Earth Retention Construction Management
Cons t r uc t ion Re s our c e s M a na ge me nt Inc .
HELPING PEOPLE REACH THEIR DESTINATIONS Learn more at:
walbecgroup.com
Concrete Materials & Supplies Milling & Pulverizing Site Design & Development
Proud Partner of the Green Bay Packers
Ascension Online Care Anywhere, anytime From anywhere, at any time, talk with a doctor using your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Get the care you need and start feeling better. No insurance required.
Get started at ascension.org/onlinecare or download the mobile app.
If you are experiencing a major emergency, go to the ER as soon as possible or call 911.
© Ascension 2019. All rights reserved. The “Android” name, the Android logo, the “Google Play” brand, and other Google trademarks, are property of Google LLC. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
Insist
on the best
As a business owner, you want the best for your company. The best opportunities. The best employees. The best facilities. Hoffman can help you create the ideal workspace for your company to grow and thrive. Your business deserves first-rate facilities. You deserve a partner ready to make that happen. Visit us at hoffman.net.
Building Stronger Communities At Chase, we are committed to our communities and work with a diverse group of partners to provide creative and innovative solutions. These partnerships are essential to making a meaningful impact on communities, their residents and businesses. We are proud to support the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations to all of the 2019 Pinnacle Awards honorees on their welldeserved recognition.
jpmorganchase.com/commercial Š 2019 JPMorgan Chase & Co.
DREAMS TO REALITY We’ve learned that it’s not enough to simply construct buildings—we believe in reaching beyond by investing time and energy to build strong communities and make a difference. The success of our business relies on our passionate employees going the extra mile every day to bring dreams to life. Together, we’re Building Excellence.
[VISION]
AT MIRON CONSTRUCTION, OUR COMMITMENT REACHES BEYOND CONSTRUCTION; OUR PASSION BRINGS DREAMS TO LIFE.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CULTURE AT MIRON-CONSTRUCTION.COM An equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.
Fox Cities Chamber
PRESORT STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID APPLETON, WI PERMIT # 23
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber BUSiNESS C/o Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. 125 N. Superior Street Appleton, WI 54911
Grant E. Birtch
Frank W. Kowalkowski
Stephen A. Seifert
Jonathan R. Eiden
Benjamin D. LaFrombois
William E. Fischer
James R. Macy
Lawrence C. Silton
James W. Goonan
Robert A. Mathers
Adam N. Skarie
Sarah E. Hanneman
Anne C. McDonald
Steven R. Sorenson
Jeffrey L. Hesson
Jonathan A. Meulemans
Rodman W. Streicher
Courtney A. Hollander
Thomas W. Moniz
Jared R. Stroik
Gerald H. Rammer
William S. Woodward
Big Law. Local Expertise. Our Fox Valley and northeast Wisconsin attorneys have a vested interest in the communities where they live and practice. Our community presence, creative approach, and industry-leading knowledge position us to be your preferred legal partner. To learn how our more than 180 attorneys can help you throughout northeast Wisconsin, visit vonbriesen.com.
Oshkosh • Green Bay • Appleton Neenah • Manitowoc