NKY Business Journal | July/August 2023

horan handpicked

HUB International Limited (HUB) has acquired the employee benefits assets of HORAN Health, creating a new regional hub called HUB Heartland. We are thrilled to gain national expertise and product expansion, while maintaining local autonomy!

“This acquisition provides growth opportunities for our employees and a new level of support for our clients.”

-Valerie Bogdan-Powers, President of

Cincinnati, Ohio

HORAN Health

Around the

Perfetti Van Melle

THE ONLY CONSTANT IN LIFE IS CHANGE, THE IDEA THAT ONE CAN STAND pat and not embrace change is foolhardy at best and destructive to progress at worst. Throughout my global travels, I have been fortunate to interact with a diverse group of people who all had their own ways of doing things in business, personally and culturally, but there are certain commonalities that ring true in each experience. Those include treating people with respect, being welcoming and open to collaboration, not being afraid to learn new skills and accepting the wisdom of others while also standing up for what one truly believes.

Fortunately for the sake of both our economy and community, the Northern Kentucky Metro region is filled with innovative individuals that continue to push our region forward – and this issue is a showcase of their efforts.

Our cover feature on Perfetti Van Melle takes an in-depth look at how the company’s Erlanger plant is not only committed to innovation but the ways in which that manifests itself throughout its business. While many may only know the company for its sweets (which I love, by the way, especially Mentos), our feature reveals just how much thought and creativity goes into making them available and how innovation drives every industry. This month’s Small Business Spotlight on Tickety-Boo Treats in Newport sticks with the “sweet innovation” theme as it details how its owner created a way for others with dietary restrictions to enjoy cheesecakes. Their stories prove innovation can occur in any field, for any business of any size and that our region can be as innovative (if not more so) as any other.

Additionally, this issue explores how some of our local institutions of higher learning are working to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and how several companies are thinking of new ways to attract and retain talent. As both are important to the current and future economic health of our region, the work they are doing is noteworthy, vital and a good read to say the least. Likewise, our “Spotlight on Innovation” feature details how some of our recent Business Impact Awards finalists are delivering new thinking in the marketplace.

New ideas, methods, devices and/or the simple introduction of something that has yet to exist that improves life as we know it: This is the definition of innovation and the spirit that defines Northern Kentucky. This issue reflects that truth, which I hope inspires you to be creative and strive to achieve in ways that may have once seemed not possible. In doing so, our narrative continues to grow – and show just how innovative the place we call home truly is. Whenever there is significant growth, some will push against it as if it is a bad thing. However, in my experience, growth is a sign of progress and if you are not growing you are dying. Of the 120 counties in the state of Kentucky, 63 are losing population density and Northern Kentucky (Boone County in particular) is growing at 15% per year. This is something we should celebrate. It is reflective of a vibrant community that is becoming more inclusive. We should embrace this growth as we prepare the Northern Kentucky Metro region to be a regional growth leader for industry, innovation and education and a model for bringing the community together for other regions to follow. NKY

INVESTOR'S CIRCLE

JOHN HAWKINS

Chair, NKY Chamber President & CEO, MPI Consulting

Generation Next

NKU, Thomas More seek to foster innovation, inspire next generation of entrepreneurs

“GO TO COLLEGE.”

For generations of students, this mantra served as gospel for those wanting to find and maintain a good career. However, Zac Strobl says Generation Z’s take is a bit more nuanced.

“Most surveys of Gen Z students have 45 to 55% wanting to start their own business. That's why we're seeing more interest in entrepreneurship classes and programs,” says Strobl, Director of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE), housed under the Haile College of Business at Northern Kentucky University (NKU). “If they want to pursue a corporation, we want them to use the skills they're learning – entrepreneurship is big on problem-solving, critical thinking or being ‘intrapreneurs,’ which is being entrepreneurial within an organization … We can teach ‘Here's how you take these skills and build a business around them, plus how to look for different opportunities within your own field.’”

Northern Kentucky’s institutions of higher learning have taken notice – and their work is well underway to ensure those opportunities can be found at home.

DIVING INTO THE TALENT POOL

To meet the growing demand for and need to foster interest in entrepreneurship among today’s college students, NKU and Thomas More University have both established programs/centers dedicated to the subject.

Created to be “the hub for students across campus who desire more out of their college education,” the CIE has helped launch 30+ startups since its inception in 2014 with 100% job placement through its INKUBIZ program. INKUBIZ, which hires, trains and manages students as they work on projects and strategies for local and regional companies, is one of five programs offered at the CIE to help aspiring entrepreneurs. This

By Tabari McCoy, Scooter Media

is in addition to work the CIE does with the Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs, which brings teens statewide to NKU’s campus for three weeks each summer to learn how to develop a business model, prototype and pitch a startup.

Another CIE program, the INKUBATOR, was recognized as a top three finalist for the United States Association for Small Business & Entrepreneurship’s (USASBE) Model University Accelerator/Incubator Award. The INKUBATOR program is a 12-week business accelerator intended to help “bridge the gap between concept and a business.” Nearly 120 students have completed the program since its launch in 2012, resulting in the launch of 37 businesses with $7.2 million+ in outside funds raised.

Strobl attended NKU on a baseball scholarship and, after injuries ended his athletic career dreams, he pursued entrepreneurial ventures. He says the CIE is providing guidance students – including himself – have sought for years.

“As a student, I would have loved to have had other entrepreneurial experiences, especially internships and had access to these kinds of opportunities. Now, we have a great network in the entrepreneurship community outside of NKU, and we’re constantly exposing students to those opportunities,” he says. “I also wanted to know, ‘What can an entrepreneurship student do besides start a business?’ and that wasn't very clear back then … That is something we are combating right now. Our students are in demand, so we need to bridge the gap between them and employers.”

CENTERED ON INNOVATION

Part of the new 34,000-square-foot academic center under construction at Thomas More University (TMU), the Dr. Anthony and Geraldine Zembrodt Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ZCEI) helps students build skills across disciplines

to “empower them in any field they pursue.” This includes pitch competitions, one-on-one mentorship to cultivate ideas and solutions to real-world problems and networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs, business leaders and startups regionally, nationally and globally.

Jeni Al Bahrani, a TMU graduate who also earned her master’s in entrepreneurship at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland before returning stateside, is excited about the ZCEI’s future. Now a professor at TMU, she was named the ZCEI’s director this past November, she calls the job a “perfect match” given her entrepreneurial background launching real estate/real estate investment, small business and entrepreneurship consulting and health and fitness businesses.

She believes the ZCEI can drive both economic growth and a well-rounded education.

“By providing students with the resources they need to think creatively, take risks and innovate, the Zembrodt Center is helping to build a new generation of entrepreneurs who will drive economic growth, create new jobs and positively impact their communities,” says Al Bahrani, creator of the Entrepreneurial Mindset course and minor at TMU. “Students have appreciated the one-to-one mentorship and connections to help them as aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. They also appreciate learning about resources for how to build a business and use their passion, creativity and interest to build their future and using the entrepreneurial skillset in an existing organization.”

The benefits of entrepreneur skills, she says, will benefit students even if they don’t plan to go into business for themselves.

“Through my conversations with employers, they are seeking problem solvers, leaders, innovators and critical thinkers that can identify opportunities and have this entrepreneurial mindset for

providing solutions,” Al Bahrani says. “I'm a huge advocate for creating your own lane of opportunity (and) I passionately feel that entrepreneurship can be the driver for that.”

RISING UP

Al Bahrani says the Northern Kentucky Metro/Greater Cincinnati region boasts a “supportive business ecosystem” to assist entrepreneurs via accelerators, incubators, venture capital firms and “angel” investors (those who provide capital often without expectations of repayment or ownership). Strobl agrees, noting how many NKU graduates remain in the region after graduation, a reality he says is helping combat post-pandemic isolation via networking and mentoring relationships.

“There's a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to set up shop here. If you’re here, you’ll get the attention you deserve,” he says. “I've been in the ecosystem for the past 12 years and this is the most energy I've seen behind entrepreneurship with a clear vision being executed.”

Al Bahrani knows entrepreneurship and innovation are critical for making the region great but that it also takes a network.

“In the next 5-10 years, the Zembrodt Center is poised to become a leading destination for innovation and entrepreneurship in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region,” she says. “By encouraging collaboration and giving back to the community, the center aims to foster a culture of service and inspire the next generation of business leaders to be socially responsible and make a positive impact in their communities. For this program to be successful we will need our community and stakeholders to invest in this program. So, if you’re interested and want to learn more, please reach out.” NKY

PICTURED: ( Page 6) Rendering of the Geraldine Zembrodt Center for Entrepreneurship currently under construction at Thomas More University, photo provided. (This page) 1: 2022 KY Pitch winner, NKU professors and students. Left to right, Jeff Varrone (NKU CIE Assistant Director), Caden Adams and Kayla Braden (Peachy and Vintage), Brittany Syles (Style House by Brittany), Megan Burris (On Dogs), and Zac Strobl (NKU CIE Director). 2: NKU alumni entrepreneurs Isaiah Kelly (Smoove Creations), Elizabeth Shrout (Avasha), and Zac Strobl. 3: Caden Adams and Kayla Braden at the Peachy and Vintage storefront in Covington. 4: Vintage sweater at Peachy and Vintage. 5: Custom shoe by Smoove Creations. 6: Isaiah Kelly wins the 2019 Entrepreneurs' Organization's regional pitch competition.

Ask The Experts Employment Ingenuity

How three local organizations are innovating ways to overcome workforce challenges

By Tabari McCoy Scooter Media

Meet The Experts Yost

Jeremy Yost

Asst. National Employment Director Disabled American Veterans jobs.dav.org

Assisting more than one million former members of America’s Armed Forces annually, DAV helps veterans by hosting job fairs, securing health benefits, providing emergency grants and more.

We define “innovation” as providing something new to a group of individuals to help veterans and spouses attain meaningful employment and educate growing businesses of the numerous benefits that come with hiring veterans. A perfect example of this is “The Veteran Advantage: DAV Guide to Hiring & Retaining Veterans with Disabilities.” This hiring guide, the first of its kind within the Veteran Service Organization (VSO) realm, assists companies with navigating the often-unclear terrain of recruiting, hiring and retaining veterans with disabilities.

Alecia WebbEdgington President & CEO Life Learning Center lifelearningcenter.us

Located in Covington, Life Learning Center helps individuals “secure and sustain a better way of living through gainful employment” by addressing five domains of life: Emotional, financial, physical, spiritual and relational.

Chris Cook

Partner TKOR Holdings, LLC crucuttersllc.com arlinghauselectric.com beaumontbuildinggroup.com landwxllc.com kramerpools.com

The parent organization under which several Northern Kentucky-based companies exist – Arlinghaus Electric, Beaumont Building Group, BBG Concrete, Cru Cutters Landscape Services, Landworx Excavation and Kramer Pools – TKOR Holdings employs approximately 175 across a variety of industries.

Our National Employment Department also conducts a multitude of webinars, in-person discussions and panel interviews with companies large and small from all over the country to educate and help them become thought leaders in the veteran employment space.

We are innovative by working with marginalized groups of individuals; we supporting them through dual continuums of education and care. Our care continuum offers everything from mental health resources to eyeglasses, steel-toe boots, dental care, and anything in between through our relationships with over 130 other nonprofits.

The word “innovation” is really the ability and willingness to try new things and look for creative solutions to push the envelope on what the norm of the market provides. We're constantly willing to test market and try new ideas. We really challenge our employees to help us provide feedback that gives us the ability to stand out compared to our competitors.

You constantly must be looking at what kind of package you provide to give you an advantage against your competition. In our industry, that probably means offering one of the most inclusive benefits packages … We are family-owned and we carry that through our culture from an employee’s first day through what we see as a long career with us.

How do you define “innovation” and how is your organization innovating ways to attract and retain employees and/or with others with whom you work?

Webb-Edgington

Cook

To be successful in employing marginalized individuals, companies need to remember their barriers and work with them, not against them. Many individuals that suffer from substance use disorder or criminal convictions, need some additional support to traverse their career opportunities.

One of my board members, Nehemiah Manufacturing Founder, President and CEO Dan Meyer, would tell you this as well: If companies would just continue to provide those morsels of support, it will cut down on their churn and burn, because the team members understand that they are part of the family of the company. Once individuals have that sense of belonging, we cut down ostracism. These individuals are so incredibly loyal because they appreciate having an opportunity, in what I like to call “transformational employment” versus “second chance employment” because who amongst us has not needed more than two chances?

What is the employee really looking for? What excites them?

If you can get employees to where they love their job and are happy with where they're working, they're a lot less likely to leave.

If you’re paying within what the market is driving and you still lack high retention, there could be a cultural issue. The only way you're going to find that out is by speaking to your current employees about what's going on, what motivates them and building relationships around them unique to each situation.

On a regular basis when conducting webinars with organizations looking to expand their veteran hiring initiative, DAV’s National Employment Department will ask key questions to top level leaders to help pinpoint where/why they are falling short. This includes asking questions like “Do you have a veteran-led employee resource group?” “Do you have upward mobility opportunities for your veteran employees?” and “What is your level of community involvement?” among others.

It’s almost natural and it makes sense that there are certain job positions that eventually have a cap as far as pay goes. We try to take down those barriers by cross-training and opening other opportunities. Somebody may start in a grass mowing position for Cru Cutters but may aspire to be a heavy equipment operator at our excavation company and we can help create that path. That gives them the ability to not just be successful at a job but successful and with a long-term career.

We’re also growing our partnership with the Enzweiler Institute (Builders Industry Association Trade School) in Boone County Schools for our intern program. About 80% of the interns have been offered a job after graduation, so that has been good for us and young professionals trying to get into the industry.

A final good piece of advice is to implement a formal onboarding process that involves a senior veteran leader within your Human Resources Department. This veteran hiring liaison will assist in capturing and translating key military schools and jobs held by the respective employee that can be easily transferable to your organization.

One of the most important things we consistently recommend to companies looking to attract and/or retain a veteran-led workforce is to partner with an organization who knows the ins and outs of the veteran employment space … When veterans see that their company cares so much for them that they are seeking out assistance from a prolific veteran service organization like DAV, it will speak volumes.

Here at DAV, the amount of paid time off available is based on our length of service and may be used for vacation, illness or other purposes … However, there is more than just PTO that makes DAV attractive to work for, including a generous parental leave policy for employees welcoming a new child, a tuition reimbursement program and a robust 401(k) plan among others.

It's important that companies do a risk assessment with their employees … ‘Let's talk about housing,’ for example, or ‘Let's talk about transportation, food, clothing, safety, security and your own personal health.’

We had an initiative inside the Kentucky State Police called “Look beyond the ticket.” If there was a traffic stop for speeding, for example, we were encouraged to investigate other potential factors causing that behavior … Was it substance use? Were they speeding to make it to work on time so they weren’t fired? By “looking beyond” and assessing risk factors that may inhibit someone from being the best employee that they could be, employers can interrupt the negative cycle before it begins. When an employee starts coming in late, talk to them and ask why. If you're dealing with somebody that’s couch surfing or doesn’t have stabilized housing, that's a risk factor that may negatively impact their ability to get to work on time. If they don't have support in transportation, that’s another barrier. Maybe they don't feel safe and secure in their own surroundings because they're a victim of domestic violence … You just need to ask the right questions and meet them where they are. NKY

What creative ways have been effective and/or what do you recommend for companies facing challenges in attracting and retaining employees?

If employers are struggling to attract and/or retain employees, what questions should they be asking internally to resolve the problem?

Yost

Yost

Webb-Edgington

Cook NORTHERN KENTUCKY BUSINESS JOURNAL PAGE 10

Cook

Building the Supply Chain Workforce

By Jesse Simmons Supply Chain OKI

Today’s greatest challenges for employers are finding, training, and retaining workers. SCOKI helps employers with these challenges in several creative ways:

GROW NKY’S MISSION IS TO leverage the community’s full complement of assets to grow, attract, and retain a globally competitive workforce. Through its 70+ regional partnerships, GROW NKY seeks innovative solutions to Northern Kentucky’s workforce challenges. GROW NKY Pillar 2 is focused on “career readiness” and has strengthened and promoted “industry collaborative” coordination to provide meaningful opportunities for exposure, exploration, and experience in high-demand workforce sectors, including supply chain & logistics.

Supply Chain OKI (SCOKI) is a 501c3 collaboration of employers, educators, and community organizations focused on finding workforce solutions for SCOKI business partners. In addition, SCOKI helps low-income youth and adults get good-paying jobs with careers in the supply chain, construction, and manufacturing sectors. Our financial sponsors are Barking Squirrel Media, Brighton Center, Cintas, DHL, Duke Energy, FedEx, Jurgensen, Kroger, Legion, Perfetti, P&G, Purina, PROXIMO, Talbert House, TQL, Workforce Council of Southwest Ohio, Workforce Investment Board NKY and Uber Freight.

• SCOKI Youth Programs provide a menu of programs that educate the teachers, parents, and students about career opportunities with businesses in our region, specifically in the supply chain, construction, and manufacturing fields. Information includes facts about both entry-level jobs and career advancement opportunities available with partner companies.

• Flagship community organizations including Brighton Center, EastersealsRedwood, Talbert House and Greater Cincinnati Urban League provide job readiness skill classes for youth and adults seeking employment.

• Business partners provide part-time co-op jobs for high school seniors in our region and tuition reimbursement for full-time employees pursuing college coursework.

• SCOKI, under a new initiative, will provide 90 days of transportation support to new hires, in collaboration with targeted business partners, to ensure job acceptance and retention.

• SCOKI Academy provides upskill training options for employed youth and adults to facilitate promotion and career advancement.

GROW NKY Pillar 2 sub-committee lead and NKY College & Career Connector with Navigo/Learning Grove Lorraine O’Moore says this about SCOKI, “SCOKI is a phenomenal partner to the school districts of Northern Kentucky, providing a wide range of work-based learning opportunities including lunch and learns, company tours, paid co-ops, and guest speakers. They are progressive in their thinking, always looking at “what’s next” and are there at the table to listen, collaborate, and address the needs of all the communities they serve - businesses, schools, families, and community partners. SCOKI is leading the way in addressing the most common barrier facing NKY residents – access to reliable transportation to and from work! They are also leading the way in partnering with schools to provide experiential learning opportunities for students. And they are leading the way when it comes to true collaboration – they are present, they participate, and they follow through! It is a pleasure to partner with SCOKI to better serve our students, to foster strong partnerships between our schools and businesses, and to develop robust talent pipelines within our schools.”

To learn more, go to www.supplychainOKI.com or email grow@nkadd.org. NKY

2023 AWARDS

By Gina Genco Scooter Media

TAKING PLACE THURSDAY, MAY 18 AT TURFWAY

Park Racing & Gaming, the 39th Annual Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards, sponsored by St. Elizabeth Healthcare honored the women who “exemplify notable achievement, outstanding service in their professions/the Northern Kentucky community” and “the qualities of personal integrity, perseverance and leadership.”

Katie Meyer, Chair of the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Awards, opened the program.

“As Chair, I was able to see the breadth of amazing women who were nominated for these awards,” said Meyer. “There is no shortage of outstanding women who are leading by example in this region. Each year, it’s an honor to recognize them for their accomplishments and learn from them. Finally, I want to say congratulations to each of the women being honored today. It’s been a pleasure to get to know you; each of you is so deserving of this recognition.”

The awards, which were established in 1984 by the late Nancy Janes Boothe, honor women who exemplify notable achievement, outstanding service in their professions or to the Northern Kentucky community and the qualities of personal integrity, perseverance and leadership. Over nearly four decades, more than 200 women have been honored.

The OWNK awards began with the presentation of the 2023 Nancy Janes Boothe Scholarship recipients. Named after Boothe, a visionary leader with a strong commitment to education, these scholarships are presented each year to three deserving female students in the Northern Kentucky Metro region for their outstanding leadership and achievements.

Stacey Strotman & Kathrine Nero

2023 OWNK Steering Committee

2023 OWNK Honorees

2023 OWNK Luncheon at Turfway Park Racing & Gaming

“The women honored today show that the women of Northern Kentucky accept no limits as to what they can achieve,” said Kathrine Nero, who emceed the program. “These women inspire us but especially inspire the next generation of girls that will grow to become our region’s future leaders.”

This year’s recipients were Terrie Frasure-Brierly of Gateway Community & Technical College, Jenna Dunham of Northern Kentucky University and E. Holly Jenkins of Thomas More University.

Up next, Farduwsa Hassan, Nurse Practitioner Specialist and Owner at Leila Urgent Care, was the 2023 Emerging Leader Honoree. This award recognizes a woman who has made an impact on the Northern Kentucky community and is under the age of 40.

“Thank you! This is so exciting. I want to say thank you to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Initiative for giving me this opportunity,” said Hassan. “I’d also like to thank my amazing family, including my little sister who believed I was worthy of this award. Thank you so much for your continued support.”

Then it was time to present the 2023 Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky awards. The honorees included: Christy Burch, CEO of the Ion Center for Violence Prevention; Sarah Giolando-Matlin, Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer at St. Elizabeth Healthcare; Vickie Henderson, Executive Director of the Northern Kentucky Children’s Advocacy Center; and Ash Norton, General Manager of Major Projects at Duke Energy Corporation. The award celebrates women who live, work or volunteer in Northern Kentucky and represent the great diversity and extraordinary accomplishments of today’s women. Nominees are ideal role models for the young women who will follow in their footsteps.

“I’m full of gratitude and so deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Burch. “I am surrounded by outstanding people in my life and every one of those folks has shaped who I am today. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart. This award is truly fuel for me.”

“This is a huge honor for me, and I want to recognize the other outstanding women in this room, both past and present,” said Giolando-Matlin. “Many of you have been my mentors, served with me on boards, inspired me, and I know you will continue to do so in the future.”

“What an honor it is to be recognized for work that I love to do,” said Henderson. “I work with women who are strong, compassionate, and hardworking and I assure this community that they will never stop listening to children. There’s no way I could be outstanding without my team and that’s the thing that I’m most grateful for.”

“I dedicate this honor to the countless teachers, coaches, mentors, family members, friends, leaders, coworkers and even strangers who have helped me along the way,” said Norton. “Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

Farduwsa Hassan

Sarah Giolando-Matlin

Christy Burch

Carolyn Thomas Thompson Ash Norton

Vickie Henderson

Carolyn Thomas Thompson, Insurance Agent at State Farm Insurance and St. Elizabeth Volunteer, received the 2023 Henrietta Cleveland Award. Recipients of this award are visionaries, philanthropists and social activists who possess compassion and strong values.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Thompson. “I was speechless when it was announced that I would receive this honor. Those of you who know me, know that never happens. I feel very fortunate to have a career that affords me the opportunity to give back to an organization like St. Elizabeth. I hope I can continue to honor the memory of Henrietta Cleveland and all those who paved the way for this healthcare system in our community.”

Finally, Lisa Desmarais, Kenton County Fiscal Court retiree, was named the 2023 Judith Clabes Lifetime Achievement Honoree. This award recognizes a woman who has had a major impact on the NKY community over her lifetime.

HISTORY & MORE

At the first award celebration, five women were honored. Since then, more than 200 women have been recognized for blazing trails, opening doors, or demonstrating leadership in their homes, their professions, their communities, or their state.

“When I read the words ‘the first woman’ I immediately think ‘trailblazer’ because, to me, the first woman to do anything has to blaze a trail,” said Desmarais. “Sometimes you must define and design the trail and then dig it and pave it yourself. My grandmother inspired me to blaze trails and did not let obstacles stop her while she blazed her own trails.”

Finally, NKY Chamber President and CEO, Brent Cooper took the stage to say a few words before Nero concluded the event.

“I want to thank the Outstanding Women of Northern Kentucky Committee, all the judges and the volunteers with the Women’s Initiative,” Cooper said. “There’s a Chamber of Commerce in every country of the world. In fact, there are 7,000 in the United States. Our Chamber of Commerce has 1,700 members and 1,100 unique volunteers. It is all of you - our engaged members and volunteers who make us special. Northern Kentucky certainly is a special and unique place to be and I thank each of you for that.” NKY

To learn more about the history of the Outstanding Women of NKY awards program or to nominate an outstanding woman for the 2024 awards, please visit NKYChamber.com/OWNK.

Read all about the 2023 Honorees in the digital program at NKYChamber.com/OWNK2023

E. Holly Jenkins

Jenna Dunham

Lisa Desmarais

Judith Clabes

Terrie Frasure-Brierly

Influencing Career Technical Education from Outside the Classroom

Innovating education and workforce development through business

By Jerry Schmits, Trane Technolgies

THE IRONY WAS LOST ON NO ONE AT A RECENT conference of the Association of Community College Trustees. In New York City, the nation’s commerce capital, the underlying message of the keynote address couldn’t have been any clearer: If you don’t partner with industry in a meaningful way, business will replace you and we’ll all suffer. Among the conference participants, there was little surprise.

Advanced Manufacturing is widely accepted as the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its rapid development presents industry leaders and educators with a new set of challenges. Emerging technological breakthroughs are occurring at rapid speed in areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence and nanotechnology. The Internet of Things (IOT) provides the pathway for these technological breakthroughs to be synchronized across industries and educational disciplines at a rate of speed unimaginable just a few years ago.

Technological progress, however, is not guaranteed. It requires a workforce with skills beyond those gained from traditional educational instruction. Business leaders understand this challenge and are eager to support educators in filling that gap.

Marni Durham is the Assistant Superintendent at Butler Tech, a career technical education institution serving students and adult learners in Southwest Ohio. “The speed of business moves much faster than the speed at which educational changes can be made,” she says.

Durham, interested in recently announced major regional investments in chip manufacturing and electric vehicle battery plants, is working to address a question: “Who’s going to work there and what skills will those workers need?” She’s counting

on industry partners to help answer those questions. Butler Tech is developing new facilities in Hamilton and Middletown that will provide career education to support workforce skills development for Advanced Manufacturing and Aviation.

“Our students will be working alongside those in the electric vehicle aircraft industry to influence our curriculum for the upcoming needs of the aviation industry,” she says. “Skills learned will better prepare our students for their career path, whether the next step is post-secondary education or direct entry into the workforce.”

Sitting at the intersection of industry and education is The National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3), a nonprofit organization working to create industry-recognized certification and curriculum intended to bridge the educational gap.

“NC3 originated when we were approached by Snap-On Tools – they saw a void in the workforce,” says Matt Janisin, Vice President of Gateway Technical College in Kenosha, Wisc. and one of NC3’s founders. “Job candidates had plenty of educational accolades but had no understanding of the most fundamental elements of our business.”

That initial engagement resulted in a college-level certification program on the principles of torque. More importantly, it signaled a paradigm shift in the relationship between industry and education.

Marni Durham, however, sees this shift in a different light.

“We used to ask kids what they wanted to be when they grow up,” she says. “Now we’re asking them when you grow up, what problems would you like to solve?” NKY

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

(NOT QUITE) A CAKE WALK

Originating out of Rettig’s home kitchen and now operating out of a production facility with pickup options at 1024 Saratoga Street in Newport, Tickety-Boo Treats specializes in making a dessert – cheesecake – minus its namesake ingredient: cheese.

With a love for baking fostered in her childhood, Rettig’s life was thrown into culinary chaos in 2014 when she was diagnosed with celiac disease. A chronic digestive and immune disorder, foods containing gluten trigger long-lasting digestive problems and can prevent the body from receiving all its necessary nutrients.

Newport business produces memorable

meals throughout the region

By Tabari McCoy , Scooter Media

HER BUSINESS’ NAME STEMS FROM A BRITISH expression that, translated to modern American dialogue, equates to “it’s all good” or “everything is fine.” But as Abbi Rettig, owner of Tickety-Boo Treats in Newport, can tell you from first-hand experience, keeping an attitude that is “tickety-boo” is just as important as putting in the work to achieve that state of mind.

That’s never truer, she says, than when it comes to overcoming challenges and the voices that say you should give up.

“I am making a product that is very nontraditional in a very traditional, non-progressive food market; if I took every bit of criticism and every ‘No’ to heart, I would have been done in the first month,” says Rettig. “You must have an authentic mission statement and constantly reevaluate and reinvest in that mission statement. There are so many unknown obstacles that I faced that I could have never planned for, which is why when I doubt myself, I always go back to my main mission: To provide a healthy alternative for people with dietary restrictions.”

Now that her company is expanding into new markets via retail partners, the only restrictions Rettig has are the ones that continue to inspire her allergen-friendly products.

“When you're diagnosed with celiac disease, it's like someone draws a line in the sand and you can't ever go back. Suddenly, you can't get your favorite items at restaurants anymore, including your favorite dessert,” says Rettig. “All your traditions and social settings get turned upside down. It’s a bit of an internal crisis.”

As if that weren’t bad enough, Rettig – who picked up on the term “tickety-boo” while living in Newcastle, England, with her husband Jerry – would face a new crisis upon returning to America and enduring the pandemic. During this time, the couple’s middle child was diagnosed with two autoimmune diseases, and Rettig eventually determined dietary changes would be necessary for her daughter as well.

Homeschooling their children during the shutdown, the former marketing pro and personal trainer turned stay-at-home mother of three decided it was time to follow her passion. That resulted in the launch of her cheesecake business, Tickety-Boo Treats, in October 2020.

Curious as to how one makes cheesecakes without cheese? The answer, Rettig found on Google, was nuts … Or more specifically, a fruit oft mistaken for nuts.

“If you've ever had cashews, you know that they are a chameleon. People use them a lot in vegan/dairyfree cooking, and they are the main ingredient in our cheesecakes,” Rettig explains. “As crazy as it sounds, once you mix them with wholesome ingredients – we get our maple syrup from Ohio that we use to sweeten everything – and you mix it with ingredients like coconut oil and almonds, they turn into a beautiful cheesecake.”

WHAT’S NEXT ON THE MENU?

Rettig’s business has grown significantly since its launch, progress aided by grants in 2022 from Main Street Ventures and Aviatra Accelerators that helped with marketing and expanding into large wholesale accounts. Tickety-Boo Treats can be found at Dewey’s Pizza’s Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati locations, Jungle Jim’s International Food Markets, Newport’s Fresh Thyme, Tri-State Whole Foods’ locations and several local stores including Fort Thomas Coffee. Rettig’s cheesecakes, available in individual sizes as well as six- and nine-inch varieties, are also available on www.gtfoitsvegan.com, the largest online retailer, wholesaler and distributor of curated vegan food. In addition to its cheesecakes, Tickety-Boo Treats now also sells grain-free chocolate cookies and graham cracker-style crusts for those looking to make their own celiac-friendly desserts.

Working with just three full-time employees and contract workers, Rettig has learned something with which many entrepreneurs struggle: It’s okay to ask for help.

“Do what you're good at and outsource your weaknesses. That has been a big lesson in entrepreneurship: I need to trust myself, and my strengths and then also look at those challenges, and weaknesses and improve on both; that's my responsibility,” she says. “As a woman, we're kind of taught that if you need help, it's a weakness; I've learned however, it’s a strength to say that you need help as working with your community and other innovators can help you grow.”

A SLICE OF HAPPINESS

In much the same way she hopes her business will continue to grow, Rettig hopes her story can inspire others to be innovative in many inspirational ways.

“You must have a positive outlook about how the product or innovation you're bringing into the market will change people. You must see that it is going to fill a need in the market or help someone solve a problem,” she says. “Everyone asks me as an entrepreneur, ‘What is the one thing you would tell me?’ and my answer is ‘Don't give up’ … I've met so many people like my daughter and me, that will trickle in just at the right time, just when I've gotten bad news or something hasn't gone right. If you stay true to your mission and really believe in what you're doing, it'll keep reinvigorating you.” NKY

Tickety-Boo Treats AT A GLANCE

Address: 1024 Saratoga Street, Newport, KY

Web site: www.ticketybootreats.com

Founded: October 2020

Services offered: Tickety-Boo Treats specializes in desserts – cheesecakes specifically – that are both gluten- and dairyfree as well as vegan and paleo diet-friendly. The company’s products are available at several restaurants and shops throughout the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati area with some menu items available for local pick up at its Newport headquarters.

Notable clients: Dewey’s Pizza, Jungle Jim’s International Market, Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme, TQL Stadium/FC Cincinnati and the Hyatt Regency Hotel of Downtown Cincinnati

Abbi Rettig

With over 1,300 miles of pipes, the Northern Kentucky Water District (NKWD) is using technology to more effectively, and cost efficiently, find and eliminate water leaks Last year, NKWD began using ASTERRA, a company that uses satellite imagery, to help find leaks. This technology takes aerial scans of the Earth’s surface and analyzes the images for the unique signature of treated water in soils around a leak.

ASTERRA provides “points of interest” for crews to further investigate If the leak hasn’t surfaced, which is true for most leaks found using satellite scans, crews locate it using special equipment that can hear the sound of water leaking from pipes. Once found, NKWD crews repair the leaking pipe.

“Our entire water system has been scanned using satellite imagery which has saved time for our team,” said Lindsey Rechtin, President/CEO of NKWD. “Instead of our crews having to listen for leaks on all 1,300 miles of pipes, the points of interest provided by the scan allow us to focus on the 100 miles most likely to have leaks.”

NKWD will continue to look for suspected leaks using its own equipment This project has eliminated water loss from pipes, service line connections, valves, and fire hydrants.

“We are always considering new, innovative technologies,” said Rechtin. “Especially those that keep our rates low for our ratepayers ”

Because leaks can happen any time, NKWD asks anyone who sees water that may be leaking from a pipe to promptly call (859) 578-9898

You can learn more about NKWD by visiting their website: nkywater.org

NKWD crew member uses special equipment to check for a water leak

S W E E T I N N O V A T I O N

Perfetti Van Melle continues legacy of confections, industry ingenuity in Erlanger

By Tabari McCoy , Scooter Media

MENTOS MINTS … FRUIT-TELLA CHEWY CANDIES… CHUPA Chups lollipops … And of course, Airheads. They are all creations of the same company: Perfetti Van Melle, the international confections creator for whom Erlanger is home to its largest North American facility. The company has grown exponentially since Izaak Van Melle founded a small confection business in his grandfather’s bakery in the Netherlands in 1900, its merger with Italian company Perfetti in 2001 solidifying its industry status.

How does the world’s second-largest manufacturer of candy, gum and mints create all those sweet treats? The company has the process down to a science – a process which Sylvia Buxton, Perfetti’s North American President and CEO, says explains the magic of innovation at the company.

“At Perfetti, we use a tool called HBDI (Hermann Brain Dominance Instrument) which measures people’s thinking styles and preferences. This helps us to assemble diverse work teams that have a ‘whole brain’ approach to solving problems, and we use a technique called ‘walking around the brain’ to think about any problem or idea from many perspectives,” says Buxton. “Once we have a range of ideas, the next step is to narrow those down with the help of consumer research, starting first with initial drawings of the ideas and simple concept statements. The ideas that rise to the top then go into our labs so our fantastic food scientists can begin to create benchtop (prototype) versions of the new products.”

If you’re wondering what life is like at one of the world’s leading confections companies, innovation can be very sweet indeed.

CANDY REIGN

“Innovative Treats. Better Future.” Those four words compose Perfetti’s purpose statement, a statement that Buxton says anchors and guides the company in all aspects, including innovation. Airheads, the chewy, sweet, texture-heavy candy available as bars, belts and in bitesize pieces, are a perfect case study.

Created by Erlanger’s Research and Development (R&D) lab in 1985, Perfetti now cranks out four million Airheads daily with new flavors and pack formats having been added to the lineup over the years. Airheads have helped Perfetti triple its USA sales over the last seven years, which Buxton says has enabled the company to replace “highly repetitive” jobs with higher-paying skilled operator and maintenance positions in a continually growing workforce.

While Buxton acknowledges Perfetti’s products are “the most visible part” of its work, its behind-the-scenes efforts are where innovation is most important to the company’s success. This includes things such as e-commerce, digital marketing and progressive manufacturing solutions like keeping up with ways to reach consumers through social media, gaming and ongoing partnerships like its tie-in with Paramount Pictures’ "Transformers" franchise.

“Airheads and Xtremes packages featuring characters from 'Transformers: Rise of the Beasts' are now in stores, and we are doing digital and social video ads featuring the movie and our products,” says Buxton. “Innovative partnerships like this help us keep our brands relevant and top-of-mind with our core consumers.”

I WANT CANDY

Perfetti Van Melle USA at a glance

Perfetti Van Melle USA

3645 Turfway Road

Erlanger, KY 41018

perfettivanmelleus.com

PVM IN ERLANGER: A SWEET HISTORY

Perfetti Van Melle’s history books, by its own admission, are “a bit murky” on the specific date the company opened its Erlanger facility. The marker stone outside the company’s front entrance says, “The Silver Grove, 1972-1997 Perfetti Van Melle USA.”

As far as company officials know, the Van Melle family operated in the area in the early 1970s. The Erlanger office and factory are located in its facility on Turfway Road, which has been expanded several times. Another expansion is set for later this year to add a 50% capacity increase on its Airhead Bars line. (The company promises a new selfie-worthy sign will be installed in front of its Erlanger office and factory later this year.)

In 2019, Perfetti opened its central distribution center, “Showcase” warehouse named in honor of the old Erlanger Showcase Cinemas site it calls home. The Showcase Warehouse houses all its inventory to service the entire USA. The company continues to push innovation in its commitment to the environment, evident in its 10% and 18% reduced electric and water consumption, respectively, since 2019 and 800 tons of cardboard recycled in 2021.

DID YOU KNOW?

• If you placed the Airheads bars produced annually at Perfetti Van Melle’s Erlanger facility end-to-end, they would wrap around the world 2.3 times.

• If you lined up the Airheads Xtremes Belts produced in Erlanger annually, you could make a dozen rainbow trails from Erlanger, Kentucky, to Shanghai, China.

• You could fill almost 259 football stadiums with the amount of Mentos Pure Fresh Gum the company packages in Erlanger each year.

A VARIETY OF (CULTURAL) FLAVOR

For its confections to pay dividends at the counter, Perfetti knows it must invest in the people responsible for producing its monetized morsels. Buxton says this is why Perfetti strives to be pioneering in how it not only works to attract and retain talent but also train and continually engage them.

“One of the ways we continually improve our culture and ways of working comes from a global employee survey that we complete every two years. This helps us understand employee engagement compared to ‘best in class’ peer companies,” she says. “From this survey, we select one or two focus areas and create action plans to either build on an area of strength or improve an area of opportunity.”

Buxton says the survey has revealed the company’s Erlanger employees continue to give the company high marks for diversity, a company focus area for several years. Establishing a “whole brain” team, Perfetti launched a volunteer diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) resource group which now organizes events for Black History, Women’s History, Pride months and more. Helping bridge language gaps, Perfetti offers Spanish learning to its English-speaking employees and ESL for native Spanish speakers. The team also established Veterans Day as an official company holiday, adding a veteran wall of honor highlighting its retired military service members.

With 600-plus employees now part of a U.S. workforce that has tripled in the last seven years, being inventive has been a key aspect of the company’s growth.

“For recruiting, like most companies, we have had to be very creative over the last few years, particularly to fill our manufacturing jobs … Our DEI team came up with a great idea to advertise our job postings in zip codes with the highest levels of diversity,” says Buxton. “Our HR team recently updated our employee orientation program, now called Oscar Camp named after the big red balloon on the front of our Airheads packaging. This is a three-day program with engaging videos, fun activities, a factory tour and more that helps employees to understand our company, our products and most importantly supports our positive and fun company culture.”

Championing unity and opportunity for all are important aspects of Perfetti’s culture too, as reflected in its “Level Up for Sweet Success” program. Using both digital and on-the-job learning, the program encourages employees to learn new skills, making them eligible for promotions while allowing the company to develop trainers for its next generation. This is in addition to a variety of employee benefits including bonuses, wellness reimbursements, paid time off for volunteer opportunities and more.

PICTURED: (Above) NKY Chamber board member and Perfetti Van Melle's Head of North America Supply Chain Operations, Paco Tello, on the factory floor. The rest are some of the many faces you'll find behind the scenes at Perfetti Van Melle, making life sweeter for the rest of us.

Perfetti North America Vice President of People & Culture, Sandy Schneider, says all the efforts are intended to achieve a simple goal: Create an engaged, interactive and productive environment where people know they are valued.

“Perfetti Van Melle is a privately held global company with operations in more than 30 countries and over 18,000 employees worldwide. This makes us a truly globally diverse organization with employees from a variety of races, beliefs, languages and cultures,” Schneider says. “One of our most important company values is ‘Care for our People.’ This value clearly states that ‘we value different styles, skills, experiences and backgrounds and acknowledge that these differences result in greater creativity and better insights.’”

HOME SWEET HOME

With consumers in 150+ countries now enjoying its products, Perfetti is investing more into its future – and that includes its Erlanger facility with $10 million to support

its growing Airheads Xtremes Belts line plus investments in its centralized robotic palletization system and robotic packing line. All the investments prove one thing: Perfetti’s old Kentucky home will remain a critical part of its future for many years to come.

“The Greater Cincinnati region is a great place to live with a high quality of living. Our factory and warehouse are conveniently located on the I-75 corridor, which is a key central highway system to reach the entire USA,” Buxton says. “With the recent announcement of the Brent Spence companion bridge and corridor project funding, this transportation network will become an even more important part of the overall USA supply network … We continue to focus on innovation in all we do (in our) approaches to people, processes and products.” Being surrounded by candy all day doesn’t hurt, either.

“(I love) the candy-infused smell of our office!” says Schneider. “We have some of the best jobs in the world – everyone on our team works in an amazing, fun business where we get to make people smile and bring moments of joy to their

BUSINESS IMPACT AWARD WINNERS

SMALL BUSINESS GUTE MEDICAL LLC

Sponsored by:

presented by

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS – FOR-PROFIT CLOSE THE LOOP

Sponsored by:

MEDIUM BUSINESS DIVERSIFIED CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Sponsored by:

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS – NONPROFIT SAMARITAN CAR CARE CLINIC

Sponsored by:

LARGE BUSINESS T i ER1 PERFORMANCE

Sponsored by:

COOL PLACE TO WORK ST. ELIZABETH

Sponsored by:

HERITAGE DREES HOMES

Sponsored by:

The Business Impact Awards, presented by Huntington Bank, are a celebration of the success and the strength of our Northern Kentucky business community. On May 3 at Drees Pavilion, the NKY Chamber recognized companies whose work impacts our region through innovation, creativity, strong business practices and leadership.

Congratulations to this year’s winners and all of the nominees; your work continues to make Northern Kentucky the best place to live, work, play, learn and give back!

Sponsored by:

START-UP GREENWAY INNOVATIONS

Sponsored by:

INNOVATION PRYSMIAN GROUP

PICTURED: FOX19 NOW Sports Director Joe Danneman, host of thie 2023 BIAs.

PICTURED: Brent Cooper addresses the crowd at the 2023 BIAs, hosted at Drees Pavilion in Covington's Devou Park.

AROUND THE CHAMBER

GROW NKY - SPANISH SPEAKING WORKFORCE PERFETTI VAN MELLE, ERLANGER

DEI SUMMIT SERIES - OVERCOMING THE FROZEN MIDDLE ST. ELIZABETH BOARDROOM, NKY CHAMBER, FORT MITCHELL

LEGISLATIVE APPRECIATION BREAKFAST HOLIDAY INN CINCINNATI AIRPORT, ERLANGER

EGGS 'N ISSUES - CHILDCARE IN THE WORKFORCE RECEPTIONS, ERLANGER

FIRST FRIDAYS | DEAD LOW BREWING, CINCINNATI

WOMEN'S INITIATIVE CONNECT HOUR | WOMEN'S FUND OF THE GREATER CINCINATI FOUNDATION, CINCINNATI, OH

AROUND THE CHAMBER

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS | SECOND STORY, COVINGTON

NKYP COCKTAILS & CONVERSATION | BIRCUS BREWING, LUDLOW

EGGS 'N ISSUES - TOURISM | RECEPTIONS, ERLANGER

GROW NKY ANNUAL MEETING GATEWAY, FLORENCE

NKYP LUNCHTIME LEADER CHAT ST. ELIZABETH BOARDROOM, NKY CHAMBER, FORT MITCHELL

NKY LEADERSHIP TRIP | CHARLESTON, SC

WE BUILD SOMETHING BETTER WITH YOU.

At Central Bank, we live, work and play in the same communities you do. You’re our neighbor, friend, business partner down the street. We know and understand you because we build relationships with you – every day. That helps us serve you better, and that’s what makes “highly personal banking” more effective banking. We start with you.

Member

Florence • Fort Mitchell Crestview Hills • Union centralbank.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Ribbon Cuttings

Sponsored by:

RIBBON CUTTINGS

THE BEAUTY LOUNGE 8119 Connector Drive | Florence, KY 41042 | 859-486-7563 | beautyloungenky.com

BAWAC 7970 Kentucky Drive | Florence, KY 41042 | 859-371-4410 | bawac.org

GOVERNOR'S HOUSE WINE BAR & ITALIAN KITCHEN 314 Greenup Street | Covington, KY 41011 | 859-291-9463 governorshouse.wine

ST. ELIZABETH FLORENCE HOSPITAL 4900 Houston Road | Florence, KY 41042 | 859-212-5200 stelizabeth.com/location/details/st-elizabeth-florence

FORT THOMAS PARLOR

1013 S. Ft Thomas Avenue | Ft Thomas, KY 41075 | 859-360-1202 | facebook.com/fortthomasparlor

BOOT BARN 7856 Connector Drive | Florence, KY 41042 | 859-795-9191 | bootbarn.com

REPUBLIC BANK - BELLEVUE 119 Fairfield Avenue | Bellevue, KY 41073 | 859-547-4490 republicbank.com

We want to help you promote and celebrate your ribbon cutting ceremony for your new facility, expansion, anniversary celebration or open house! We’ll bring our trademark giant blue scissors, a group of Chamber ambassadors, and a camera to capture the excitement of your special day. Call Lynn Abeln at (859) 578-6390 to schedule your FREE ribbon cutting today!

MEMBER MILESTONES

Anneken Huey & Moser PLLC celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. The Northern Kentucky firm of Certified Public Accounts was founded by David L. Anneken on April 1, 1973. The current partners are Kevin J. Moser CPA and Lisa A. Huey CPA. They are assisted by a team of 18, which includes CPAs, Enrolled Agents, accountants, and administrative professionals. The firm focuses on serving the tax planning and tax preparation needs of one to three owner businesses across a variety of industries. The firm also provides tax planning and preparation services to high net income/net worth individuals, especially retirees. Other services offered include full payroll services through its affiliate, Five Star Payroll.

The firm follows David Anneken’s philosophy that public accounting and taxes are a people-focused versus number focused business. The Firm offers customer focused personalized service while utilizing technology to assist in maintaining high touch customer contact.

SHARE YOUR GOOD NEWS!

The firm believes the key to providing excellent customer service is to maintain a highly experienced customer-oriented service team. Many of the team have been with the firm for over 10 years. This provides a high level of customer knowledge and continuity by team members. Additionally, team members are encouraged to contact clients directly when questions arise and to take ownership of issues when they arise.

“Roger has not only dutifully served Northern Kentucky but thousands of people around the globe with his work at Master Provisions, helping to truly serve and make our world a better place for so many worthy individuals,” said Brent Cooper, NKY Chamber President. “A sheer look at the numbers reveals the extent of not only the reach Master Provisions has but showcases the power of Northern Kentucky’s impact upon the world. We are extremely grateful to Roger for providing so many opportunities for people through his Florence-based operation and extending that sense of classic southern hospitality worldwide for so many years.”

COMMUNITY AWARD - ROGER BABIK

Paul Hemmer Company, a construction leader in the Greater Cincinnati region since 1921, is pleased to announce the following promotions and new addition to its key executive staff.

Senior Vice President of Business Development John Curtin has been promoted to President of Hemmer Construction Company. Roebling Development’s Vice President of Real Estate & Development Adam Hemmer has been promoted to President of Roebling Development Company. Also, Ryan Kennedy joined the company as CFO last year with Barry Kienzle remaining in a part time role as a Senior Vice President. Current President and CEO, Paul Hemmer Jr., will retain the role of CEO of Paul Hemmer Company.

Mr. Curtin will continue his duties as head of Business Development and will add responsibilities of Construction Operations for the firm’s construction arm. In his new role, Curtin will oversee the company’s activities in new sales, pre-construction estimating and project management. With over 40 years’ experience in the commercial construction and real estate industry at Hemmer, Curtin, has helped grow the Fort Mitchell, KY based company into a construction leader in the Greater Cincinnati region.

Mr. Adam Hemmer has spent the past 13 years of his career in varying roles with the Paul Hemmer Company, the last 4 of which as Vice President of Real Estate & Development of Roebling Development Company, the firm’s real estate development arm. In his new role, Hemmer will continue to oversee Roebling’s real estate strategy and development operations in addition to pursuing new development opportunities in selected markets.

Mr. Kennedy recently joined Paul Hemmer Company after dedicating the first part of his career in public accounting and management/executive level positions for real estate management and development companies in the region. Kennedy will oversee the organization’s tax, accounting, administrative, and finance operations including corporate budgeting, financial reporting, capital formation and deployment.

Northwest Title & Northwest Law are excited to welcome Tommy Simendinger as Regional Counsel for Northwest Title’s Tristate Region and as an Attorney with Northwest Law. As an Ohio-licensed title agent and experienced Kentucky title agent, Tommy brings a new level of expertise and client support to Northwest Title’s Tristate Region. In addition to his experience in title, Tommy has extensive experience representing borrowers, lenders, and developers in real estate transactions. He is involved with the Kentucky Land Title Association and is currently the Secretary/Treasurer of the Northern Kentucky Bar Association Real Property Law Section.

With Northwest Law, Tommy will seek to expand on his legal practice representing financial institutions, developers and real estate investors. Tommy is also excited to continue to work with individuals and families for their estate planning needs to ensure their futures are protected. Tommy has deep roots in the Northern Kentucky community and is involved with many local organizations, including the Behringer-Crawford Museum and Easter Seals Redwood.

Northwest’s President Jonathan Holfinger, Esq., OLTP, NTP, says, “Tommy’s contagious enthusiasm for supporting clients and all things real estate law will be apparent to our Tristate clients from day one.“

Tommy’s addition to the team will help Northwest continue to provide the highest caliber of service in our local communities as we continue to grow throughout Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana.

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As the needs of your employees grow, so do we Innovative dental and vision plans to help keep their health on track

EVENT CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER

REGISTER FOR THESE EVENTS AND MORE AT NKYCHAMBER.COM/EVENTS

Northern Kentucky Business Journal is published bi-monthly by:

Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. 300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330 P.O. Box 17416 Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017 859-578-8800 NKYChamber.com

The Business Journal is a benefit of membership and included in membership fees. Annual subscription rate for nonmembers is $30.

Periodicals Postage Paid USPS-548630 at Covington, KY.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, 300 Buttermilk Pike, Suite 330, P.O. Box 17416 , Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017-0416.

Subscribers: Please send address changes by e-mail to info@nkychamber.com.

© 2023, The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and by the individual authors. All rights reserved.

CEO/Publisher

Brent Cooper | bcooper@nkychamber.com

Marketing & Communications

Shannan Boyer | shannan@scootermediaco.com

Design & Photography

Ben Gastright | bgastright@nkychamber.com

Vice President, Membership–Sponsorship Sales

Lynn Abeln | labeln@nkychamber.com

Director, Sponsor Investments

Diana McGlade | dmcglade@nkychamber.com

Staff Writer

Tabari McCoy | tabari@scootermediaco.com

Printing Black Tie Productions