Advantage Magazine | July 2023

CHAMBER PRESIDENT

Ryan Parsons | 507-288-1122

SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

Kali Aldrich | 507-424-5665

WORKFORCE INITIATIVES & RYT NETWORK DIRECTOR

Kaytlyn Anzivino | 507-424-5662

Chamber Staff

PUBLIC AFFAIRS & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Jonathon Krull | 507-424-5677

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Tim Shea | 507-424-5663

EVENTS & PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Ally Sheehan | 507-424-5687

Chamber Board Officers

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Cherie Thurlow | 507-288-1122

COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN DIRECTOR

Sophia van Oss | 507-424-5661

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

John Eckerman | RSP Architects

VICE CHAIR

Scott Eggert | Broadway Plaza

AT LARGE

Steve Dunn | Taco JED

TREASURER

Jessica Eidem | IBM Corporation

Chamber Board Members

SECRETARY

Dr. Christine Beech | Copiavia

SANTHI ARUNACHALAM

Xylo Technologies Inc.

CHAD BEHNKEN

Hamilton Real Estate

DR. JEFFREY BOYD

Rochester Community and Technical College

DR. LORI CARRELL

University of Minnesota Rochester

HEATHER DONOVAN

Sterling State Bank

ABEL GARCIA

Remodeling D.L, LLC

DOUG HOLTAN

Mayo Clinic

JARETT JONES

Merchants Bank

MARGE KELLEY

Gillette Pepsi of Rochester

OMAR NUR

Somali American Social Services Association

SYLWIA BUJAK OLIVER

125 LIVE

DAVID PEDERSON

Dunlap & Seeger

NIKKI MENSING

Olmsted Medical Center

GWEN STEVENS

People’s Energy Cooperative

Together, GEOTEK and its employees develop through new, innovative program

In a rapidly changing business environment where information can quickly become obsolete, staying on top of training can be a mountainous task. Changes in the global economy, advances in technology, shifting workforce demographics, and corporate restructuring have all contributed to a profound shift in the way America trains its workforce.

a position dedicated solely to ensuring our growing workforce was trained, which is why we hired a full-time training program facilitator, Jaci Zimmerman, last fall.”

GEOTEK wanted to invest in its employees by establishing further a robust training program from the first day, emphasizing the importance of safety and quality.

“Jaci has been responsible for helping to restructure and create a new training plan, but as GEOTEK had grown, we realized this new training program was going to need a dedicated space,” Young says.

This space started off as a test lab, complete with concrete floors, massive metal structures simulating those found to hold powerlines in the field, and everything you’d need to test the strength and resilience of GEOTEK’s products. “After our expansion a few years ago, the space became a secondary warehouse,” Young says. “I knew we couldn’t wait to build a space, so Jaci and I worked together on a proposal to turn the former test lab into a state-of-the-art learning center.”

It took help from almost every department at GEOTEK to make the room come together quickly. People were stopping in after their shifts or between meetings and assembling furniture, designing custom safety posters, getting hands-on learning stations designed and assembled.

GEOTEK, a designer, manufacturer, and distributor of reinforced fiberglass pultrusion products in Stewartville, MN has recently introduced its GEOTEK Learning Center, an innovative space designed for employee training and development.

“We identified gaps in our training program, and we wanted to make sure we were still investing in our employees,” says Julie Young, director of quality at GEOTEK. “We realized that it was necessary to have

“To say it was a team effort would be an understatement. By April 27, we were finally ready to open the doors and have a ribbon cutting to celebrate the GEOTEK Learning Center,” Young says. “We had a space designed and dedicated to our employees, their learning goals, and their career goals.” As a multifunctional space, GEOTEK has a section that serves as a computer lab, customizable classroom section with seating and big screen for presentations, and multiple hands-on learning stations that replicate the equipment found on the company’s different production departments.

Currently, GEOTEK holds an orientation session for new employees, which takes place in the Learning Center both Thursday and Friday every other week. The Learning Center also has provided a landing space for new hires during orientation with dedicated lockers for learners, a room where all new hires can enjoy a company-provided lunch with their new supervisors, and everything they need to complete their first day of training.

“Now, from day one, our employees get hands-on training in a safe environment without the distractions of the factory floor,” Young says. “Again, we prioritize safety and quality; this space has really allowed for us to expand our safety training and further educate our new employees about our products and quality standards.”

It’s not just internal training that they’re holding at GEOTEK. They have partnered with some external training resources too, providing additional space to hold classes and seminars.

“Just being in the Learning Center –people engage more than when we held previous trainings in a conference room. We have an emergency response team, and we’ve been able to host those learning sessions in the training

room as well,” Young says. “The space was built to be multifunctional, and the goal is for the list of functions to keep growing.”

The space is large enough that GEOTEK has been able to move conversations or trainings previously limited to a conference room to accommodate almost 50 people. Recently, all the supervisors were able to sit in a class held by the company’s HR department over leadership growth.

Mason Sauder, manufacturing engineer at GEOTEK participates in bi-weekly training for new hires. “I’m very excited about a dedicated training space where people can be trained better before being exposed to production,” Sauder says. “I appreciate being able to tailor a learning environment

Now, from day one, our employees get hands-on training in a safe environment without the distractions...

Julie Young, director of quality and Jacqueline Zimmerman, training program facilitator along with the GEOTEAK team worked together to build a space dedicated to employees learning goals and career goals

specific to the training needs of the employee, something we’ve previously been unable to do when working on the production floor.”

Sean Shapiro, pultrusion crew lead at GEOTEK came in with zero knowledge about GEOTEK or its processes but was familiar with manufacturing as an industry. “Now I can run any machine or any role within my department, having learned it entirely from the ground up. I think the learning center is a great opportunity and I have experienced the transition from learning in a conference room, to learning in a hands-on classroom. I already take part in training on the floor, and it excites me to get to train others in a structured classroom environment. You can have an engineer teach, but it’s better to have someone with hands-on experience working day in and day out teach another team member on a process,” he says.

As a leader and manager, Bailey Kazeck, pultrusion department manager at GEOTEK, says the changes made to the training program and addition of the learning center

• Computer lab

• Customizable classroom section with seating

• Large presentation screen

• Multiple hands-on learning stations that replicate production departments

THIS MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACE IS EQUIPPED WITH A:

are different from those in other roles. “New employees are being given an environment to try things hands on, encouraged to ask questions in a safe space, and be more prepared when they show up for their first shift on my production floor,” Kazeck says. “It feels like there is less division between departments because the training center is a shared space. The space has also provides more opportunities to train our existing employees, even leadership groups. Just this past week we hosted a meeting with the entire team of supervisors, which was very well received.”

LOOKING AHEAD

GEOTEK now has the space to accommodate training, outside of using a conference room or existing production space, so they’ve opened the door to new opportunities.

“It’s no secret that having a robust training program in manufacturing plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, quality and productivity of the workforce,” Young says. “Manufacturing processes are constantly evolving with advancements in technology, automation, and new methodologies so that skill development is necessary. Training programs help employees understand and adapt to these new technologies instead of being afraid of change.”

Investing in training programs also demonstrates GEOTEK’s commitment to employee development and growth, these initiatives contribute to higher employee satisfaction, motivation, and engagement.

“When employees feel valued and supported through training opportunities, they are more likely to stay with the organization,” Young says. “We want to invest in the employees we have now, by helping them understand what it can look like in the future, so another opportunity we’re hoping to continue pursing is career exploration.”

The GEOTEK team hopes that by investing in training they can continue to stay competitive, meet industry demands, and achieve long-term success.

“We believe that a well-designed training program in manufacturing is essential for developing the skills, knowledge, and safety awareness of the workforce,” Young says. “And we want our employees to feel engaged and satisfied with their work. It provides them with a sense of purpose, as they can see a clear path for growth and advancement within GEOTEK. We’re growing company, and we want our employees to grow with us.”

This April, Mike Schoenoff and the GEOTEK team celebrated the learning center opening with a ribbon cutting.

New employees are being given an environment to try things hands on, encouraged to ask questions in a safe space, and be more prepared when they show up for their first shift on my production floor,

BAILEY KAZECK, PULTRUSION DEPARTMENT MANAGER SAYS

Currently, GEOTEK holds an orientation session for new employees every other week.

Meet the Member: Maria Serbus LLC

Each month, we hear from a Chamber member about their offerings, history, a unique fact, and their business outlook

Telling ourselves to not stress is easier said than done. By using body based strategies to help calm the body and clear the mind, Maria Serbus helps high performing humans be their best selves and enjoy the life they live now. We spoke with Maria Serbus, owner, founder and resiliency coach to learn more.

Q: Tell us about Maria Serbus LLC . What does your company offer to the Rochester region?

A: I’m a stress management consultant. I partner with businesses to support and enhance employee wellness and resilience. I specialize in leadership-management stress reduction workshops, self empowerment workshops, 1 on 1 biofeedback consultations, and all staff workshops in a holistic approach to help improve resilience & decrease burnout/overwhelm.

Q: How did it start for Maria Serbus LLC ?

A : My background is working as an occupational therapist for 8 years across wide variety of settings in Rochester. It was while working at Mayo that I saw a huge need for more community support in areas of life balance, stress management, and resilience. In 2021 I decided to leave the traditional health care industry to start my own business supporting busy humans in stress management. Business has evolved from focusing on 1 on 1 coaching to supporting businesses and leadership teams along with providing on demand webinars & Mindfulness membership program so I can support people wherever they are on their journey!

Q: Maria Serbus LLC has been a member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce for two years. What do you find valuable in your membership to the organization?

A: I am grateful for the support from the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce. As a solopreneur and team of 1, it’s not easy to find that team camaraderie. Since joining the Chamber, I love being active at events to build community and networking for my business. The Chamber also provides excellent educational opportunities so I have learned so much as a business owner and a Rochester community dweller on what’s happening on our area by attending these events.

Q: What is a unique fact people should know about Maria Serbus LLC ?

A: That alongside my business workshops, I also love supporting busy people right in there homes! So I love to share about my podcast, blog, and virtual webinars and text membership program - these are great ways stressed out business professionals can kick start their wellness & resilience journey from the comfort of their homes and busy routines!

Q: What is the outlook for your business and industry?

A: I really see a need to continue to take aspects of my business online, virtual, and make it on demand and convenient. I see that while everyone has stress, people are at different stages of readiness to make change and of course time/schedules can impact people booking a workshop with me or 1 on 1 coaching. I want my business to meet people where they are at so I anticipate in addition to continuing to support people locally, I will keep expanding my reach online and have on demand opportunities that people can consume stress management & resilience tips from anywhere and on their time, in their schedule!

To learn more about Maria Serbus LLC, visit www.mariaserbus.com

Maria wants her business to meet people where they are at.

HOSTED BY

HOSTED BY

AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.

This month, join us at Schmidt Goodman! Schmidt Goodman provides innovative products and solutions for leading companies and organizations throughout Southeaster Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and Western Wisconsin, They integrate space, furniture, design, and installation solutions to create functional work spaces unique to their individual clients needs.

Date: Friday, July 14, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Schmidt Goodman, 1920 N Broadway Avenue, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3NzGs4V

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.

Come and connect, expand your network, and build community at AAA Minnesota/Iowa! AAA branch in Rochester offers full-service experiences. Their experienced staff provide members wit ha peace of mind, total satisfaction and exceptional value with all their products - from travel and vacation planning to personal lines of insurance and financial services. They look forward to serving you.

Date: Thursday, July 20, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: AAA Rochester Branch, 1535 Greenview Dr SW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3p2Q0v5

Kickoff the Weekend With Lunch

Join us for lunch and connect with fellow Chamber members

Start your weekend with the Chamber team! We welcome members to join us for lunch and an opportunity to connect with fellow members on a Friday every summer month for our Chamber Weekend Kickoff.

The Chamber will be grilling brats and serving lunch from 11:30am-1:00pm at the Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus. Quantities are limited and registration is requested and greatly appreciated. Be sure to bring members of your team to start your weekend with a brat and networking!

Dates: Friday, July 28, 2023

Friday, August 11, 2023

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s University - Rochester Campus, 2900 19th Street NW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration required

Register for the Chamber Weekend Kickoffs here: https://bit.ly/40UL8Xi

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

LUNCH SPONSOR DRINK SPONSOR

HOSTED BY

AM Espresso is a monthly Networking PLUS event brought to you by the Chamber. Come join fellow Chamber and community members to expand your network, promote your business, and enjoy delicious breakfast refreshments. We believe there is value for all in building a supportive business community. As the local economy shifts towards recovery, it is more important than ever to interact with each other to share ideas and best practices.

This month, join us at PossAbilities! PossAbilities is an exceptional agency of caring leaders and experts providing innovative, person-centered supports and services for people with disabilities. Their mission is to create opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to contribute and connect with the community.

Date: Friday, August 4, 2023

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: PossAbilities, ArtAbilities Building, 1808 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3VMT8rd

HOSTED BY

Join us for Business after Hours (BAH), a monthly networking function which brings professionals together to network and build valuable business relationships. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while connecting with a variety of businesses and organizations operating in the greater Rochester area. This event is a great opportunity to increase your organization’s visibility and generate productive business leads.

Premier Bank is a family owned bank with global reach. They hire, serve, and give back to individuals and organizations in their communities. They are grateful for Premier Partnerships; together we make a difference with vision, values, a can-do attitude, and unyielding faith.

Come and connect, expand your network, and build community at the Premier Bank Block Party!

Date: Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown 421 1st Ave. SW, Rochester

Admission: Free, registration requested

Register here: https://bit.ly/3CuUcHq

Get Ready for a Kickin’ Good Time

We are excited for the 2nd annual Chamber Kickball Tournament

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

This kickin’ good time event is a great way to get Chamber members and their staff out of the office and enjoy a fun day of networking, building relationships, and bond as a team, all while playing a friendly game of kickball! We welcome all skill levels for this single elimination bracket.

Awards will be presented to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and best dressed team.

Don’t have a team but want to come enjoy the day with us? Come cheer on the teams and network with others in attendance.

Date: Tuesday, September 12, 2023

Time: 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Location: McQuillan Fields, 1655 Marion Rd. SE, Rochester

Admission: SOLD OUT! Registration required

Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3BEACbu

DUGOUT SPONSORS

BASE SPONSORS

MUSIC SPONSOR

The Higher Education Outlook

Connecting business and education leaders for collaboration and engagement

AGENDA

Student Perspective Panel

Higher Education Leadership Panel:

• Dr. Jeffery Boyd, President, Rochester Community and Technical College

• Dr. Lori Carrell, Chancellor, University of Minnesota Rochester

• Dr. Max Bonilla, Provost and Dean of Faculties, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

• To Be Announced, Winona State University

*Agenda subject to change

The greater Rochester area possesses a strong and engaged collection of higher education institutions. These organizations play an important role in training the future workforce and next generation of leaders. In addition, these educational institutions employ a significant number of people in the region. Due to this, the necessity of the business community maintaining a close relationship with higher ed is crucial for future workforce development.

The Higher Education Outlook is an opportunity for the region’s higher education institutions to share an outlook on their campus, ranging from updates on projects and initiatives, to identifying emerging workforce trends. This annual event connects business and education leaders to discuss collaboration and engagement opportunities between the private and educational sectors.

Join us on Wednesday, October 4th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. as students and leadership from local higher education institutions share the outlook on higher education in the Rochester region.

Date: Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Time: 8:30AM -10:030AM

Location: Rochester Community and Technical College, Heintz Center Commons, 1926 Collegeview Rd E, Rochester

Admission: $30 for members, $45 for general admission, registration required

Register here: https://bit.ly/3rroEzR

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSOR

Wells Fargo

2023 STEAM Summit

Encourage students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers

Event Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR

The STEAM Summit encourages more than 1,000 middle and high school students to pursue science, technology, engineering, art and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions which offer STEAM courses in a highly interactive, hands-on format.

The future success of the Southeast Minnesota economy depends on a well-prepared pipeline of students with the education and skills needed to keep the region’s business and industry competitive. This summit brings together over 50+ business, higher education, local government and our community to motivate and prepare students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Date: Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Time: 7:00AM - 3:00PM

Location: RCTC Regional Sports Center 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester

Admission: Exhibitor registration is free thanks to the generosity of sponsors, registration required

Register here to participate as an interactive exhibitor: https://bit.ly/456MW1F

HOST SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

Calendar of Events

View and register all Chamber events at www.rochestermnchamber.com/events

JULY

14 AM EspressoSchmidt Goodman

Date: Friday, July 14

Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: Schmidt Goodman FREE - Registration requested

20 Business After HoursAAA Minnesota/Iowa

Date: Thursday, July 20 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: AAA Minnesota/Iowa FREE - Registration requested

21 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, July 21

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

28 Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, July 28

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration requested

AUGUST

4 AM EspressoPossAbilities

Date: Friday, August 4

Time: 7:30am-9:00am Location: PossAbilities

FREE - Registration requested

10 RYT Network Information Session

Date: Thursday, August 10

Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration requested

11 Chamber Weekend Kickoff

Date: Friday, August 11

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm

Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration requested

15 Business After HoursPremier Bank Block Party

Date: Tuesday, August 15 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm Location: Premier Bank Rochester Downtown

FREE - Registration requested

17 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, August 17

Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Saint Mary’s UniversityRochester Campus

FREE - Registration required

18 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, August 18

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

22 Eggs & Issues

Date: Tuesday, August 22

Time: 8:30am-10:00am

Location: TBD

Registration required

24 Hospitality 1st

Roundtable

Date: Thursday, August 24

Time: 9:30am-11:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

SEPTEMBER

8 AM EspressoGillette Pepsi

Date: Friday, September 8

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Gillette Pepsi

FREE - Registration requested

12 Kickball Tournament

Date: Tuesday, September 12

Time: 11:00am-5:00pm

Location: McQuillan Fields

$35 for individual, $350 for teamRegistration required

15 Women’s Roundtable

Date: Friday, September 15

Time: 7:30am-9:00am

Location: Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

FREE - Registration required

21 Business After HoursReagan Outdoor Advertising

Date: Thursday, September 21 Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm

Location: Reagan Outdoor Advertising

FREE - Registration requested

21 WE Forum

Date: Thursday, September 21

Time: 4:30pm-6:00pm

Location: Forager Brewery & Cafe

FREE - Registration required

OCTOBER

4 Higher Education Outlook

Date: Wednesday, October 4

Time: 8:30am-10:30am

Location: RCTC, Heintz Commons

$30 for members, $45 for general admission - Registration required

Registration is Opening Soon for the Young Talent Network

The RYT Network for the Rochester area will be a connecting point for young professionals as they advance in their careers

The Chamber’s RYT (Rochester Area Young Talent) Network will serve as a connecting point for young professionals from the region to create connections, develop professionally and personally, and build relationships with industry, community, and the talent of tomorrow. The RYT Network will officially launch in September 2023.

RYT Network Membership is open to any individual between the ages of 21 and 39 whose company/organization is a current Chamber Member. We encourage young professionals from all different professions to join the RYT Network.

Registration will open soon and applications can be filled out as an individual or a team. The RYT Network membership fee

is a flat rate of $65/year per individual. Your organization must be a current Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Member to take part in the RYT Network.

By joining the RYT Network, you have access to

• Social events

• Community engagement opportunities

• Professional development opportunities

If you have questions or would like to learn more, please contact Kaytlyn Anzivino at kaytlyna@rochestermnchamber.com

BUILDING COMMUNITY BY DESIGN

A vibrant community brings people together, which is the core philosophy behind TSP’s people-focused design. Our multidisciplinary team has expertise in a wide variety of areas, allowing us to guide your project with deep experience, thoughtful insight, and a passion for creating commercial, municipal, cultural, and lifestyle spaces that are both functional and fantastic. To discover more, visit:

Chamber Welcomes New Staff

Welcome Kaytlyn Anzivino to the Chamber team

Kaytlyn Anzivio joins the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce as the Workforce Initiatives Director and RYT (Rochester Young Talent) Network Director.

Kaytlyn is originally from Iowa and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Marketing Management. Post graduation she took a job opportunity in the nonprofit sector to address food insecurity. Recently she moved to the Rochester Area to continue her professional development.

In her free time, Kaytlyn loves to try new restaurants, read, and spend time with friends and family.

At the Chamber, one of her initiatives is the RYT Network (read more about this program on page 19).

Chamber Announces Staff Promotion

Congratulations to Kali Aldrich on her promotion to Senior Director

Kali Aldrich has been promoted to Senior Director, Membership & Development for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.

In this role, Kali will continue her efforts with membership and expand more into additional publication duties. As the Chamber team grows, Kali will serve as a mentor to the membership team.

Kali says that she is grateful for the opportunity to further develop her strengths and skills to help serve her members and continue building more business connections.

Congratulations Kali!

Kaytlyn Anzivino Workforce Initiatives & RYT Network Director

Kali Aldrich Senior Director, Membership & Development

2023 Top Workplaces Announced

Star Tribune published a list of the top 200 workplaces in Minnesota

Chamber Members Awarded Top Workplaces of 2023

SMALL EMPLOYER

• American Waterworks

• Carlson Capital Management

• Computer Integration Technologies, Inc.

• Counselor Realty, Inc.

• Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation

• Fluid Interiors

• Pace International

• Smith Schafer

• Travel Leaders

MID-SIZE EMPLOYER

• Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SEH)

• Van Meter

Each year, the Star Tribune celebrates great employers throughout Minnesota with their Top Workplaces award. Employees fill out a quick survey about their workplace and then winners are included in a print and digital publication of the Star Tribune.

Congratulations to all the employers who were awarded as a Top Workplace! We are excited to see over 25 Chamber members included on the list (above).

LARGE EMPLOYER

• Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

• American Solutions for Business

• Arvig

• Bolton & Menk, Inc.

• Compeer Financial

• Edina Realty Home Services

• Edward Jones

• Kwik Trip Inc.

• Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota

• Mortenson

• New Horizon Academy

• Park Dental

• RE/MAX Results

• RSM US LLP

• Wings Financial Credit Union

Nominate your workplace for the 2024 Star Tribune

Top Workplaces until February 2, 2024 at: https://topworkplaces.com/nominate/startribune

Downtown Rochester Task Force Progress Update

In response to the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on downtown Rochester, a task force was assembled to build a community-based action plan to address immediate and short-term recommendations to be taken by organizations and businesses that support downtown Rochester.

Listed below is an update highlighting ongoing and completed actions by the Task Force members.

PROMOTION, ACTIVATION, AND PROGRAMMING ACCESS TO DOWNTOWN

ONGOING:

• Experience Rochester and the RDA are actively discussing event cross promotion opportunities.

• Experience Rochester has begun regional marketing focusing on weekend getaways in Rochester.

• RDA began a promotional campaign “Explore Rochester’s Downtown”. Included is an online promotional resource and a new free downtown trolley service.

• City staff, DMC, RDA, and Experience Rochester are partnering for public art downtown through DMC and NEA grant funding.

ONGOING:

• City Council supported exploring new downtown parking solutions. City staff are actively working on options and details will be available soon.

• Rochester Police Department (RPD) is discussing an opportunity with Mayo Clinic to possibly activate first floor space downtown for a “sub station” RPD presence.

COMPLETED:

• Increased Downtown RPD Patrols and Downtown Parking Ramp Security were shared to address public safety concerns.

The Downtown Rochester Task Force includes members from the City of Rochester, Destination Medical Center (DMC), Experience Rochester, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Rochester Area Economic Development Agency, Inc. (RAEDI), and Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA).

BARRIERS TO DOING BUSINESS DOWNTOWN

ONGOING:

• City staff have started discussions with businesses for an opportunity to review their barriers and obstacles with the permitting and approval process

DOWNTOWN GROWTH

ONGOING:

• DMC and the taskforce team are collaborating with Mayo Clinic to repurpose street level space in the US Bank building and the 201 Building, both considered high profile retail locations

COMPLETED:

• 57 existing and new downtown businesses have been supported, with resources from the Main Street Economic Revitalization Grant program.

$5 Million to Support 22 Small Businesses Across the State

Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced that the state will award nearly $5 million in loans for 22 small businesses across Minnesota. These businesses are the first recipients of funding through the state’s new $100 million State Small Business Credit Initiative , intended to help small businesses grow and succeed.

“Small businesses are at the heart of our communities, our workforce, and our state’s economy. By investing in small businesses, we’re investing in one of our state’s greatest assets,” said Governor Walz. “This funding will bolster small businesses and help Minnesota’s economy continue to grow and thrive.”

SSBCI is a significant small business initiative funded by the federal government to expand businesses’ access to capital. Announced last fall, the four SSBCI programs DEED oversees will help the agency carry out its commitment to make Minnesota the best possible place to start and grow a small business. DEED’s SSBCI programs will create or retain more than 5,500 private sector jobs over the next ten years.

“Small businesses are critical to Minnesota’s economy – they employ three-fourths of our workers, create innovative products and services and enliven our corporate community,” said DEED Temporary Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. “DEED’s goal is to help small businesses launch, expand, and thrive in Minnesota, and our SSBCI loan programs help more companies enjoy success.”

The loans announced come from two of the SSBCI programs DEED is implementing: one to help companies purchase automation equipment to increase productivity in light of Minnesota’s historically tight labor market, and another to help innovative seed- and early-stage technology businesses take off and grow.

AUTOMATION LOAN PARTICIPATION PROGRAM

As part of the Automation Loan Participation Program , DEED makes companion loans to cover financing gaps and expand opportunities for businesses purchasing machinery, equipment or software to increase productivity and automation. Eligible borrowers include manufacturing, distribution, technology and warehousing businesses located in Minnesota. The program targets businesses with fewer than 500 employees.

GROWTH LOAN FUND PROGRAM

The Growth Loan Fund Program supports start-up development in Minnesota by investing in technologically innovative seed- and early-stage businesses. Eligible companies must be researching or developing proprietary products or technologies in high-tech fields like aerospace, agriculture, renewable energy, biotech, conservation, environmental engineering, and food technology.

One of the businesses enrolled to receive loans from the Growth Loan Fund include a local Rochester business and Chamber member, Nanodropper!

LENDERS AVAILABLE FOR LOAN GUARANTEE PROGRAM

In addition to the Automation and Growth Loan programs, DEED has begun partnering with banks, credit unions and nonprofit community lenders to provide small businesses with funding through two other SSBCI programs.

DEED continues to enroll lenders for the Minnesota Loan Guarantee Program , whereby DEED provides guarantees to enrolled lenders for up to 80% of principal on loans to eligible businesses. The program helps lenders mitigate risk so they can increase capital to small businesses located across Minnesota. Borrowers include Minnesotaheadquartered small businesses using the loan proceeds for eligible business purposes. Lenders can be found here . Applications for lender enrollment are also available.

Finally, as part of the Small Business Loan Participation Program , DEED will purchase 25% to 30% participations in loans made by approved Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and nonprofit lenders. Borrowers include Minnesota businesses with fewer than 500 employees seeking loans for eligible business purposes. DEED is contracting with CDFI and nonprofit lenders now, and eligible companies will soon be able to find an appropriate lender here .

Continued Investment in Rochester

Mayo Clinic announced projects for Bold. Forward. Unboard. initiative

Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester is a multiyear strategic initiative to help achieve the Mayo Clinic’s strategy to Cure, Connect and Transform health care. The project reinforces Mayo Clinic’s commitment to the City of Rochester and State of Minnesota. The initiative focuses on reimagining Mayo Clinic’s downtown Rochester campus, which includes adding state-of-theart, flexible physical spaces to allow full integration of digital technology to better support the evolving needs of patients, staff and communities.

“Mayo Clinic has been a leader in healthcare transformation for 150 years, and patients across the world rely on Mayo Clinic to cure their serious and complex diseases,” says Craig Daniels, M.D., physician leader of Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester. “We must continue transforming healthcare to fulfill our obligation to our patients, support our staff and ensure we continue to make the Mayo Clinic we inherited better for the next generation.”

To allow this transformation in Rochester to move forward, the Mayo Clinic Board of Trustees recently approved a series of enabling projects that will allow the Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester team to proceed with further planning and progress on the strategic initiative.

“I’ve heard them called ‘liftoff projects,’ which I like,” says Dr. Daniels, “because that’s what they’ll do — allow us to remain on the path to achieve liftoff late this year when we request approval for the full Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester vision.”

FOSTERING CONNECTION, TRANSFORMATION IN DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER

“Mayo Clinic has a long history of investing in Rochester,” says Dr. Daniels. “Those investments, in both technology and buildings, have always served our patients’ needs by empowering our teams with what they need to care for and cure those who need us.”

Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester is an investment in Mayo Clinic’s staff and patients, but also downtown Rochester, including redesigning the downtown footprint and partnering with local officials and businesses to help bolster economic growth and vitality for generations to come. The project will result

in exciting changes to downtown, and Mayo Clinic is committed to sequencing the work to minimize disruption over the coming years.

The Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester design team is working closely with the City of Rochester to find creative solutions that are proportionate to Mayo Clinic’s downtown presence, including new parking infrastructure like the Discovery Square ramp, a partnership with the planned Link Rapid Transit line in Rochester and more.

REIMAGINING THE FORMER LOURDES HIGH SCHOOL SITE

In 2013, Mayo Clinic purchased the former Lourdes High School site with the intention of redeveloping the two-block site to accommodate future growth.

As part of Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester, Mayo Clinic plans to reimagine the former Lourdes High School site. The current structure is largely unusable due to asbestos and flooding damage. The site could be redeveloped to serve as a new logistics building that would help optimize clinical space for patient care while ensuring supplies are accessible and efficiently restocked. Mayo Clinic will begin the process with the City of Rochester Heritage Preservation Commission, understanding approvals are necessary to redevelop this site.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Bold. Forward. Unbound. in Rochester is taking an iterative approach to redesigning Mayo Clinic’s downtown campus, and project teams are committed to sequencing the work to minimize disruption over the coming years.

The project and plan will change as teams adapt and respond to new learnings. Many decisions are yet to be made, but proceeding with these enabling projects will allow Mayo Clinic to work with the City of Rochester, the community and its staff as the organization continues moving forward with planning.

Rochester Declared a Gigabit City

MetroNet has installed nearly 600 miles of fiber optic internet throughout Rochester

Metronet has officially declared the City of Rochester a Certified Gigabit City Powered by Metronet after the company’s ultra-highspeed, multi-gigabit fiber optic network became accessible to a majority of households and businesses throughout the city. To date, Metronet has installed nearly 600 miles of fiber optic internet throughout Rochester, bringing future-proof multigigabit speeds to residents and businesses as the company continues to expand from its initial build plan.

“The City of Rochester is honored to be recognized as a Certified Gigabit City Powered by Metronet. We have seen firsthand how access to Metronet’s fiber optic network has benefited residents and businesses throughout Rochester,” said Mayor Kim Norton. “The opportunity to utilize reliable, ultrahigh-speed internet has never been more essential for quality of life while at work and home. As we continue to focus on growth and innovation, we greatly appreciate Metronet’s investment in Rochester and dedicated energy towards our community with the development of their network.”

“Rochester is a hub for great innovation and economic development. As we strive to retain and attract more businesses, having this designation will set us apart from the competition,” said Ryan Parsons, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce President. “We are thankful that Metronet is now delivering multi-gigabit speeds to drive digital transformation within our local community, boosting the efficiency of our businesses and the productivity of our people.”

“Metronet is excited to officially declare Rochester a Certified Gigabit City Powered by Metronet as we continue to provide our ultra-high-speed 100% fiber optic internet service to residents and businesses throughout the city,” said Craig Zimmerman, Metronet Government Affairs Manager.

“We extend our sincere appreciation for the steadfast support of city leadership as we diligently strive to ensure widespread network access and enhanced connectivity for the community.”

Certification as a Certified Gigabit City Powered by Metronet is earned once a majority of households and business locations have access to Metronet’s symmetrical fiber optic internet speeds of at least 1 Gigabit (1,000 megabits per second). The number of households is based on the total Households (20172021) and the number of business locations is based on total All firms (2017) from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Mayor Kim Norton and Metronet celebrated Rochester being declared a Certified Gigabit City.

Newsreels

Updates from the Chamber member community

NEW HAMILTON ASSOCIATE

Hamilton Real Estate Group is excited to announce Chris Terry as a new member of our real estate and development team in our Rochester MN office. Chris will be active in real estate sales with a focus on real estate development. Chris brings an extensive background to Hamilton with over 30 years of experience in relationship management, banking, construction, and real estate development.

NEW CARPET ONE DIRECTOR

John Eischen recently joined the Carpet One team as Director of Business Development. John has spent this entire professional career within the construction industry beginning with Fullerton Lumber in Rochester in the early 90’s. For the past 12 years, John served as the Executive Director of Rochester Area Builders, Inc.

ONB BANK PROMOTION

Aunna Jonsgaard has been promoted to VP, Chief Deposit Officer at ONB Bank. She is primarily responsible for driving deposit initiatives, implementing new products, and building and strengthening new and existing customer relationships. Aunna has 17 years of experience in the financial services industry.

NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Think Bank was pleased to elect a new slate of officers for its Board of Directors and to welcome two new Directors in April. John Wade, President of Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc. (RAEDI), was elected by Think’s members as the bank’s new Chair of the Board. Two new Directors were also elected for three-year terms on the Board including Dennis Dahlen , Chief Financial Officer at Mayo Clinic and Jenny Hosfeld , President and CEO of Think Bank.

7TH YEAR AWARDED

Custom Alarm was recently recognized by Workforce Development Inc. with the title of “Best Places to Work in Southeast MN”, for the seventh straight year. “I am super proud of our company, culture, employees and what we do to foster a positive work environment that has been recognized for the 7th year in a row as one of the Best Places to Work in SE MN,” said Custom Alarm CEO Melissa Brinkman.

BEST PLACES TO WORK AWARD

Zumbro Valley Health Center recently received an award for the 2023 Best Places to Work in Southeast MN for the third year in a row. They have a staff of over 220 employees who are experienced and committed to providing access to people in our community that need support for mental health, substance use disorder, and community-based services.

125 LIVE PROMOTION

125 LIVE is proud to announce the promotion of Alex Forrest to Membership Services Director. He will be responsible for leading his front desk team to manage daily sales and operations; and provide quality customer service to ensure a positive experience for all 125 LIVE members and rental guests. Alex is the expert in group memberships, short stay medical wellness, insurance reimbursement coverage and employee retention programs.

NEW OPERATIONS MANAGER

Minnesota 97.5 (KNXR) welcomes Brent Ackerman as their new Operations Manager and midday onair host. Ackerman has over 30 years of media experience in the Rochester area and returns to local radio after a 7-year absence. He was most recently Membership Development Director for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.

Newsreel Submissions

Have an announcement for the Chamber member community such as a new hire, promoted employee, recipient of an award or a company rebranding?

Send your newsreel submissions for future issues of the Advantage Magazine to Sophia van Oss at svanoss@rochestermnchamber.com Newsreel submissions are a benefit of Chamber membership and complimentary for members.

Ribbon Cuttings

GREAT HARVEST BREAD CO. celebrated their new ownership with a ribbon cutting on May 15th. Owner, Rich Hedstrom cut the ribbon.

706 North Broadway, Rochester

www.greatharvestrochester.com

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT ROCHESTER MAYO

CLINIC AREA SOUTH celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting on May 16th. General Manager, Amanda Bennett cut the ribbon.

441 W. Center St., Rochester

www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/rstri-residence-innrochester-mayo-clinic-area

HANNAH ROSHOLT PHOTOGRAPHY celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 19th. Owner, Hannah Rosholt cut the ribbon.

www.hannahrosholt.com

SANDY ANDERSON CONSULTING & COACHING celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on April 19th. Owner & Founder, Sandy Anderson cut the ribbon.

www.sandyandersonconsulting.com

YE OLDE BUTCHER SHOPPE OF ROCHESTER, INC. celebrated their new leadership with a ribbon cutting on May 23rd. President/CEO, Dylan Passe cut the ribbon.

902 7th St NW, Rochester

www.yeoldebutchershoppe.com

TRI-STATE BUSINESS MACHINES, INC. celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on April 26th. Branch Manager, Mike Rand cut the ribbon.

4300 Hwy 52 N Frontage Road, Rochester

www.tsbm.com

REAGAN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING celebrated their new land purchase with a ribbon cutting on May 25th. Owner, Bill Reagan cut the ribbon.

3185 41st ST NW, Suite 20, Rochester www.reaganoutdoor.com

A.A. MURRELL & ASSOCIATES, LLC celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on May 26th. Owner, Andrew Murrell cut the ribbon.

1816 2nd St SW, Suite A, Rochester www.amfam.com/agents/minnesota/rochester/andrewmurrell

ROASTED BLISS, LLC celebrated their new location with a ribbon cutting on May 31st. Owners Ali and Stephanie cut the ribbon.

2550 S Broadway, #300, Rochester www.roastedbliss.com

MED CENTRAL OUTLET & TRANSPORT celebrated their new location and Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on June 1st. Operations Manager, Blake Heroffcut the ribbon.

3551 Commercial Dr SW, Rochester www.medcentraloutlet.com

MERCEDES-BENZ OF ROCHESTER celebrated their new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on June 2nd.

4447 Canal Place SE, Rochester www.mbofrochester.com

EXP REALTY – ROCHELLE MARKOV celebrated her new Chamber membership with a ribbon cutting on June 2nd. Realtor, Rochelle Markov cut the ribbon.

www.rochellemarkov.exprealty.com

Welcome to the Chamber

Prime Source Funding

Brandon Baker

(507) 328-0500

2876 Superior Drive NW, Suite 102, Rochester

www.primesourcefunding.com

Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors - MMC

Dave Anderson

(507) 272-4970

6301 Bandel Rd NW, Rochester www.metromech.com

Thatcher Pools and Spas

Taylor Miles

(507) 288-2639

25 Woodlake Dr SE, Rochester www.thatcherpools.com

Bob’s Construction

Julie Zemke

(507) 288-8379

6440 34th Ave NW, Rochester www.bobs-construction.com

Uni Uni Rochester

Luona Shi

(507) 206-3488

1227 2nd St SW, Rochester www.uniunirochestermn.com

Skare Spine and Performance

Nate Skare

(507) 421-0096

1727 Broadway Ave. S, Rochester www.skarespineperform.com

CapturingMagic

Alex Afanasyev

(763) 607-3962

www.capturingmagic.co

Celebrations Bridal and Formalwear

Kennard Fellbaum

(507) 289-2444

1171 6th Street NW, Rochester

www.celebrationsbridalandformalwear.com

2 Brothers Contracting LLC

Shameika Dove

(608) 769-9512

3777 40th Ave. NW, Rochester

www.2broscontractingllc.com

Kylie Hope Photography

Kylie Stai

(507) 250-4088

www.kyliehopephotography.com

White’s Fire Smoke and Water Damage Restoration

Jon Matejcek (507) 281-0212

3800 West River Parkway NW, Rochester

www.rochesterwaterdamage.com

NAMI Southeast Minnesota

Colleen Lamon

(507) 287-1692

2746 Superior Drive NW, Suite 110, Rochester www.namisemn.org

Elias Construction LLC

Adam Galligher (507) 208-4490

1203 Frontage Rd NW, Byron www.eliasconstructionllc.com

The Preserve at West Circle

Nikki Longie (507) 328-0050

4275 Heritage Place NW, Rochester www.thepreserveatwestcircle.com

Babcock Auto Care

Brad Mitchell

(507) 316-6938

5335 Hwy 52 N, Rochester www.babcockautocare.com

American Solutions for Business

Nicole Roering (320) 334-3785

31 E Minnesota Ave., Glenwood home.americanbus.com

507-288-1122

www.RochesterMNChamber.com