July 2023 ACCELERATE WAUKESHA COUNTY WAUKESHA COUNTY HAS A HOUSING PROBLEM
NEW BACHELOR’S PROGRAMS AVAILABLE uwm.edu/waukesha
JULY 2023 MAGAZINE SUZANNE KELLEY President & CEO Waukesha County Business Alliance, Inc. It's officially summer! School is out, downtowns are bustling, our parks and lakes are busy, and we're all enjoying a breath of warm summer air. This time of year always reminds us how lucky we are to experience four seasons and truly take in all that Waukesha County has to offer. At the Alliance, we're kicking off a new fiscal year and are in full planning mode for the remainder of 2023 and first half of 2024. We're meeting with businesses, celebrating expansions, prioritizing advocacy and workforce, and keeping our eye on key strategic initiatives. And as we look ahead to events like the Republican National Convention next year, we couldn't be more excited about the endless opportunities in our region. We're also continuing to look at challenges facing the business community. Given that workforce remains the single biggest issue facing employers, we continue to look at additional areas impacting the worker shortage, such as the lack of affordable housing. These issues are ones we cannot tackle without your support. If you're not already doing so, we encourage you to join a policy committee, attend our roundtable discussions, or simply reach out. While we're excited to enjoy the rest of summer in Wisconsin, we're always here to be a voice for the business community. SUMMER IN WISCONSIN LEARN MORE AT MIRON-CONSTRUCTION.COM An equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In today’s work environment, career paths are not always linear. Within the construction industry, it takes the diverse skills and experiences of a talented workforce to bring a project to life. The entire team at Miron Construction has a shared purpose, drawing on each individual’s unique interests and abilities to collectively make an impact and help our clients achieve their vision. It’s their passion that drives our success. Together, we’re Building Excellence. “I am grateful for the chance to encourage others as they walk a winding path towards finding purpose, being fulfilled, and making an impact!” JILL DIDIER Vice President, Business Development, Milwaukee Office linkedin.com/in/jilldidier 3
ADVERTISERS 4 BGS Glass Service 21 Carroll University 5 Delzer Lithograph 4 Felss Rotaform LLC 8 First Business Bank 27 HPS/Paymedix 3 Miron Construction Co., Inc. 24 R&R Insurance Services 17 The Ingleside Hotel 12 Town Bank 23 TRG Marketing 2 University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Waukesha 10 Waukesha County Technical College 29 WICPA Felss Rotaform LLC 5160 S Emmer Dr. New Berlin FelssCareers@us.felss.com 262-821-6293 Develop a Career in Manufacturing with Felss Rotaform Felss Rotaform LLC 5160 S Emmer Dr. New Berlin FelssCareers@us.felss.com 262-821-6293 Develop a Career in Manufacturing with Felss Rotaform Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | 7:30 - 9:30 a.m. Waukesha County Technical College www.waukesha.org
6 Carroll University: A Pioneer in Aviation and Drone Science Technologies 8 Alliance Welcomes New Board Members 9 Aiding and Responding to Homelessness Since 1986 11 Congratulations to the Spring 2023 Leadership Waukesha County Graduates 16 Emerging Leaders of Waukesha County 18 Waukesha County Award Winners 19 Don Richards Leadership Award & Advocate of the Year 20 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT: Beyond Vision 22 Hundreds of Students Attend Health Care Expo 25 EXECUTIVE PROFILE: John Thomas, Chief Commercial Officer, CentroMotion 26 SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADES: MetalTek 28 Around the County 29 Welcome New Members 510 S. WEST AVE | WAUKESHA, WI 53186 | 262.522.2600 | DELZER.COM DESIGN FULFILL PRINT CONTENTS 13 COVER STORY WAUKESHA COUNTY HAS A HOUSING PROBLEM
WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG Carroll University, Wisconsin's first institution of higher education, has been a pioneer in meeting the educational needs of the region for more than 175 years. Most recently, this dedication to innovation can be seen in its commitment to the development of studies in aviation science and drone technologies. This spring, the university officially unveiled its new Aviation Science and Drone Technologies major, which will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to become industry leaders in a variety of drone-related fields, including drone pilots, drone engineers and programmers, as well as positions in the construction, law enforcement and energy industries, among others. Carroll is now one of the few universities nationally to offer a bachelor’s degree in the field. The new major program was created under the direction of Mike Mortensen, director of Carroll’s aviation science program and clinical associate professor of graphic design and interactive arts. The program places an emphasis on the skills needed for students to research and design new sensor systems for drones in fulfillment of a mission. This will allow graduates of the program to lead cutting-edge, multi-discipline work with other focus areas like agriculture, criminal justice, environmental science, forensics, freshwater science, and marine sciences. Graduates of the program will become experts in the use of sensors, data gathering, and visualization of data. Carroll is also the first university in Wisconsin to enter a longterm relationship with the Federal Aviation Administration by becoming a certified partner of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI-UAS) program. The FAA predicts that commercial drones in the United States will approach 800,000 by the end of this year. “Carroll University is positioned to provide up-to-date drone education that ensures drones and sensors are safely integrated into the National Airspace System and that there is a pipeline of qualified professionals to meet the increasing demand,” said Mortensen. “The ongoing relationship CARROLL UNIVERSITY: A PIONEER IN AVIATION SCIENCE AND DRONE TECHNOLOGIES 6
with the FAA and the FAA Safety Team will ensure Carroll students are qualified to enter careers in drones and remote sensing. Drones with remote sensing are a new leadingedge technology which will soon be a significant segment of the aviation industry.” Upon graduation, an Aviation Science and Drone Technologies major at Carroll will be able to: • Demonstrate an understanding of FAA and the National Airspace regulations. • Plan and execute mapping missions using mobile applications. • Interpret, analyze and evaluate data to produce meaningful reports and visual graphics. • Design and build payload sensing technology platforms and systems. • Read, write and apply Python and C++ coding to micro controller platforms. • Demonstrate drone mastery through autonomous drone flights. • Develop the skills and knowledge for further FAA or industry specific training in the non-engineering aerospace industry. • Achieve FAA Remote Pilot certification. • Plan and execute counter drone systems. However, with new technologies come new challenges. In keeping with Carroll’s Ethos, the ethical considerations involved with using drones will be fully considered. Students will be presented many opportunities throughout the program to put values into practice, whether it be through course assessments, academic research or potential internship partnerships. “Carroll is thrilled to be offering this new academic program,” said Carroll President Cindy Gnadinger. “This program demonstrates Carroll’s longstanding commitment to developing majors that meet the needs of an everchanging society. In keeping with our pioneering reputation, Carroll has a long history of innovation in education; Aviation Science/Drone Technologies continue that proud tradition.” Carroll offered the state’s first minor in Aviation Science and Unmanned Aircraft Systems in 2021. The minor was developed in response to this rapidly growing demand for UAS pilots and related sensor specialists. Adding a minor in unmanned aircraft systems to any number of majors at Carroll can broaden a student’s career prospects. “Drones are quickly becoming a significant part of everyday life,” said Dr. Kareem Muhammad, dean of Carroll’s College of Arts and Sciences. “Companies that adopt drone technologies will need experts to guide those efforts, and Carroll’s new major in Aviation Science and Drone Technologies will equip our students to be leaders in this new career field.” Carroll’s commitment to drone technology education extends to a variety of experiential camps for middle and high school students. Each spring, Carroll hosts an Aerospace Jam event that is co-sponsored by the NASA Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium. During this event, high school teams from across Wisconsin join together to use drones on a NASA-inspired simulated mission to Mars. In addition, Carroll will offer professional drone workshops that will include a credential next year. • JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 7
ALLIANCE WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Waukesha County Business Alliance has added three new members to its board of directors: Heather Nelson, president, Spring Bank; Megan Tzanoukakis, president & CEO, Sussex IM; and Mike Veum, president & CEO, IEWC. “We are delighted to have these three individuals join our board of directors,” said Suzanne Kelley, president and CEO of the Waukesha County Business Alliance. “Each one of these leaders brings a different background and unique expertise to the board and we look forward to working with them to make Waukesha County the best place to do business.” • HEATHER NELSON Spring Bank MEGAN TZANOUKAKIS Sussex IM MIKE VEUM IEWC Member FDIC The Bank Built For Business firstbusiness.bank When there’s a lot at stake, it’s essential to work with a bank focused on delivering what businesses need without wasting your time. That’s why it’s smart to work with First Business Bank, founded intentionally to serve business owners. For more than 30 years, our focus on business has led to unmatched expertise, industryleading service, and smarter financial decisions. Kim Preston Senior Vice President Director of Treasury Management WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 8
9 JULY 2023 MAGAZINE The Housing Action Coalition has been a part of the Waukesha community since 1986. The mission of The Housing Action Coalition is to educate, advocate, and raise awareness while providing a cohesive and coordinated response to homelessness and the issues related to it such as affordable housing throughout Waukesha County. The Housing Action Coalition (HAC) functions in a variety of capacities as the Coalition for Waukesha County. We are the Coalition Administrator; operate the Winter Emergency Overflow Shelter, and provide answers to many questions about support, assistance and which members of our coalition may assist them. Where does it all start? It begins at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at the federal level of government. HUD is responsible for providing housing support and uplifting communities. Every state in the nation is responsible for creating a Continuum of Care (CoC) within the state. The CoC Program is designed to promote communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; provide funding for efforts by nonprofit providers and state and local governments to quickly rehouse homeless individuals and families while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused by homelessness; promote access to and effect utilization of mainstream programs by homeless individuals and families; and optimize self-sufficiency among individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The state of Wisconsin has four CoC: Milwaukee, Racine and Dane counties are three and the “Balance of the State” makes up the fourth CoC. We are a Coalition within that Balance of State (CoC). Coalitions may represent one county or multiple counties; there are 21 Coalitions which encompass the remaining 69 counties in Wisconsin. Our Coalition currently has 20 member organizations working together to support people experiencing homelessness. Our members include other nonprofit organizations; health care providers; shelter providers; religious organizations; mental health agencies; public agencies; philanthropy organizations, and businesses. We meet routinely to discuss how we can provide improved, quicker and lasting assistance to those who are homeless. HAC works very closely with local shelters and other agencies when the Winter Emergency Overflow Shelter is open. In 2022 it was open in February, March, April, November and December. Typically, the EOS is open from November – April and receives guests referred by other AIDING & RESPONDING TO HOMELESSNESS SINCE 1986 PATRICIA FABIAN Executive Director, Housing Action Coalition of Waukesha County
agencies when their own facility is full or they cannot provide support. From November 2022 through April 4, 2023, we had an average of 22 people per night in the EOS. We have the capacity to support three families, nine men and eight women every night. The goal is to provide a safe and warm place for anyone, three meals a day and case management support to start their plan for returning to a secure housing situation. We are a temporary stop on their path. The Housing Action Coalition is also the Lead Agency by virtue of an annual Coalition voting process. This puts HAC in the role of administrative lead for major grants from the Wisconsin Department of Administration that are funded through HUD. The Department of Administration is responsible for allocating funding through programs in the Division of Housing, Energy and Community Resources (DEHCR). We accept the grant and then subcontract the dollars to several local organizations which provide shelter, immediate housing, prevention assistance and ongoing case management. The Coalition has the final approval on the allocations to these varied support programs based on the needs within Waukesha County. Our Coalition membership is facing an increased challenge in Waukesha County due to the incredibly tight housing and rental market. We are one of the top 10 most competitive housing markets in the nation with less than five percent of rental units being available; and ones that are available are generally not in an affordable price range for people struggling to regain a stable housing situation. Our board of directors is comprised of City (Mayoral) appointees (2); County Executive appointees (4); four elected Coalition members representing the providers; one faith community member; one philanthropy member; a person with lived experience; a health care representative and remaining seats are filled by community members at large. Our board has a minimum of 13 members. If this is a mission that you are interested in learning more about and becoming part of an organization working to create solutions, please reach out as we are in the recruitment process for one at large member to join us in January of 2024. We also welcome any financial donations to support the Winter Emergency Overflow Shelter. • WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. 10
JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 11 Raquel Dominguez Baker's Quality Pizza Crusts Charlie Eads Berghammer Construction Corporation Janelle Emanuele B2E Solutions Inc Daniel Gitto TopLine Results Corporation Andrew Grundmann Grundmann Properties Justin Guagliardo Sussex IM Tom Hartwick Duffek Construction LLC Alyssa Holly Mathematics Institute of Wisconsin Susan Hornung Catholic Memorial High School Courtney Hull Ellenbecker Investment Group Erik Huppertz ProHealth Care Kyle Jensen Hausmann Group Sarah Kikkert Waukesha County Technical College Holly Kuerschner Ixonia Bank Greg Larson Woodway USA, Inc. Kristen Laures Grundmann Properties Lee Lundy Eaton Corporation Sarah Lutz Interstate Sealant & Concrete, Inc Erik Melberg Woodway USA, Inc. Dan Montiho Berghammer Construction Corporation Paul Mueller Health Payment Systems Kate Murphy Ellenbecker Investment Group Natalie Schim Hydro-Thermal Corp. Daniel Schindler UWM at Waukesha Kristina Schnuckel Ellenbecker Investment Group Aaron Wichmann R&R Insurance Services Burt Yang Bevco Engineering Company, Inc. Zac Zeuske MSI General Corporation Scott Zukewich Real Time Automation Noelle Jameyson Hydro-Thermal Corp. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SPRING 2023 LEADERSHIP WAUKESHA COUNTY GRADUATES
NEXT-LEVEL BANKING NEXT DOOR WAUKESHA COUNTY’S BANK FOR BUSINESS™ MEET THE TEAM: townbank.us/yourpartnerships GRIFFIN PROCHNOW SVP, Business Banking gprochnow@townbank.us 262-966-7714 PAUL SCHLEICHER Vice President Business Banking pschleicher@townbank.us 262-369-4224 CRYSTAL KENITZER NMLS #472263 SVP, Private Client ckenitzer@townbank.us 262-369-4229 PEGGY ARMSTRONG Group EVP, Private Client parmstrong@townbank.us 262-369-8804 Securities, insurance products, financial planning, and investment management services offered through Wintrust Investments, LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), founded in 1931. Trust and asset management services offered by The Chicago Trust Company, N.A. and Great Lakes Advisors, LLC, respectively. Investment products such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds are: NOT FDIC INSURED | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT A DEPOSIT | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY COURTNEY BRODERICK Vice President Treasury Management cbroderick@townbank.us 414-255-1013 Local expertise and bank security make a powerful pair. Our 25 years in Waukesha County have allowed us to serve and support the area’s growth. With five local branches, our team offers the resources you need to succeed. With a commitment to excellence, our locally-based, knowledgeable, and experienced experts offer tailored service and personalized solutions you deserve. $12,000,000 $7,200,000 $19,000 OUR RECENT WINS Working Capital and Equipment Financing Plastics Manufacturer Working Capital and Recapitalization Financing Equipment Distributor Easy Access Working Capital Loan in City of Milwaukee Child Daycare Center
JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 13 The Wisconsin Policy Forum has released a housing study examining the affordability of housing in Waukesha County, barriers to continued workforce housing development and potential solutions. The Policy Forum partnered with several organizations, including the Alliance, the Waukesha County Center for Growth, Waukesha County Community Foundation, United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County, Waukesha County Technical College and AARP to complete the project. Given that workforce is the single biggest challenge facing Waukesha County employers, the business community continues to look at additional areas impacting the worker shortage, including the availability (or lack thereof) of workforce housing in the county. The Wisconsin Policy Forum’s study evaluated market trends, barriers to additional housing development and potential solutions. The report identified key challenges, including rapidly rising housing costs, low inventory and low production, zoning regulations, infrastructure and utility costs and public opposition. The information below includes several excerpts from the report. The full study can be downloaded at https://wispolicyforum. org/research/building-blocks-understanding-andresponding-to-waukesha-countys-housing-affordabilitychallenges/. THE CHALLENGES Some of the key challenges to workforce housing in the county include the following. Housing costs are outpacing income growth. • The county’s median home sales price increased by over 41 percent between 2016 and 2021, while its median household income rose only 15 percent. • Rent burden affects 43.4 percent of Waukesha County renter households. • Occupations such as teachers and firefighters, do not pay enough to afford the county’s median cost of owning a home. COVER STORY AMANDA PAYNE Senior Vice President of Public Policy, Waukesha County Business Alliance WAUKESHA COUNTY HAS A HOUSING PROBLEM
WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 14 Inventory is low and production is lagging. • Owner-occupied vacancy was just 0.2 percent in 2021, which is the lowest it has been in at least a decade. • The county added nearly 1,200 more households than housing units between 2010 and 2021. • In the affordable housing market, only three developments (176 total affordable units) were developed in the last decade in Waukesha County using federal or state low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC), which typically are needed to finance affordable rental housing developments. (This does not take into account the Bishops Woods development that was just proposed and approved in the City of Brookfield.) Zoning can be a barrier. Some Waukesha County municipalities restrict developers from building smaller homes on smaller lots. The cost of infrastructure and utility extensions and expansions are additional barriers. Public opposition poses a major obstacle to affordable and workforce housing development. You only need to look at the recent media coverage of two proposed housing developments in Brookfield from last year (one was approved, one was not) to know that public sentiment can heavily impact a project’s success. THE SOLUTIONS The bad news is that there is no silver bullet solution to address the problem. The good news is that there are many potential solutions, each of which can have a small positive impact working towards solving this daunting challenge. Some can be addressed locally, while others are likely to be statewide solutions or industry changes. For example, zoning changes to increase density could help. Oconomowoc eliminated its minimum lot size, which is a great example. Expediting the permitting and development approval process, which can be lengthy and costly, could eliminate costs. In the City of Waukesha, one of the biggest challenges is meeting housing needs with limited available land for development, combined with the high cost of redevelopment. To address this, Waukesha has become creative by approving housing above commercial spaces and allowing housing in commercial districts. “Waukesha has been working to address housing affordability. We have set up funds with both ARPA and TIF dollars, we have programs that provide assistance, and we partner with those who are constructing affordable housing. Waukesha will continue taking action to create more affordable housing,” said Shawn Reilly, Mayor, City of Waukesha. In the City of Brookfield, the Flats at Bishops Woods project was recently approved. The development will repurpose an old office building into a mixed-use development, including 200+ affordable units. The project was not without public debate, but the Brookfield Common Council ultimately voted in support of the project. "We heard loud and clear from our business community the need for workforce housing in Brookfield as a key component to attracting and developing talent,” said Mike Hallquist an alderman from the 4th district in the City of Brookfield. “Our high occupancy and rental rates of apartments in Brookfield have led to increasingly unaffordable housing options for young professionals, people with disabilities, single adults, and senior residents. I'm elated The Flats at Bishop's Woods mixeduse development will provide 203 units at lower-than market rental rates for at least the next 30 years to help address our city's housing affordability and workforce challenges. This was a big step in the right direction for our community."
One concept often referenced is lifecycle housing, or housing mobility. In many portions of Waukesha County, part of the challenge is adding housing at varying levels, allowing people to move from one “life stage” of housing to the next. City of Waukesha Community Development Director Jennifer Andrews said Waukesha is focused on solving that problem. “The City of Waukesha has been committed to adding housing units of all types, believing this will add mobility to the market and ultimately free up some of the city’s more affordable units,” Andrews said. “In the past five years Waukesha has approved (and in some cases incentivized) and seen built, new affordable singlefamily homes, affordable rental units, 2- and 4-family condos, market rate multifamily units, and market rate single family houses.” At the state level, public officials recently passed a series of bills as part of an overall workforce housing package, including $525 million to pay for the programs: Assembly Bill 264, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 14: Creates a residential housing infrastructure revolving loan fund program, allowing a residential housing developer to apply to the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) for a loan to cover the costs of installing, replacing, upgrading, or improving public infrastructure related to workforce housing or senior housing. Assembly Bill 265, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 15: Creates a main street housing rehabilitation revolving loan funding program, allowing an owner of rental housing to apply to WHEDA for a loan to cover the costs of an improvement to workforce housing to maintain it in a decent, safe, and sanitary condition or to restore it to that condition. Assembly Bill 266, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 16: Establishes a new procedure for certiorari review of local land use decisions regarding residential development, providing that the new procedure for certiorari review is the only review available for a decision of a political subdivision regarding an application for approval, such as a permit or authorization for building, zoning, driveway, stormwater, or other activity related to residential development. Assembly Bill 267, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 17: Makes various modifications to the Workforce Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program administered by WHEDA The Policy Forum concludes that housing challenges need to be tackled at all levels, in a variety of ways. “Housing problems are a local issue, a southeastern Wisconsin issue, a state issue and a national issue,” said Mayor Reilly. The Wisconsin Policy Forum’s report provides much needed data and perspective around the shortage of affordable housing in Waukesha County,” said Andrews. “Housing is an economic development issue. Without housing that is affordable, and near major employers, the economic growth of the county won’t be as robust as it could be.” “The study shows we have a red-hot housing market and opportunities for us to build out housing for young professionals. The challenge is we have less property that we can develop, and we have a high rate of people who want to live here,” said Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow. “While the report highlighted individual incomes per household, in Waukesha County, the vast majority of homes are dual income. The county has been looking closely at this issue for the past few years and we’re seeing some encouraging trends. Communities like Waukesha and Sussex are embracing the idea of adding a better mix of homes. You’re going to see more and more communities realize we have to look at our zoning to figure out how we create the housing we need for the workforce we want here in Waukesha County,” Farrow added. • JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 15
BEN BERGLES Senior Project Manager, VJS Construction Services Ben has been with VJS since 2008, bringing over 15 years of experience. In his role, Ben demonstrates exceptional leadership skills by overseeing multiple teams across various projects of different scales. His expertise lies in managing complex construction projects, skillfully negotiating contracts and leases, proficiently handling budgeting and bidding/estimating processes, and effectively managing change orders. Ben is committed to self-growth. He aims to succeed while learning, operating, and preparing for the next role that will advance his career. He understands the value of peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and has in turn worked to provide the same knowledge and experience to the future generation of the workforce. As a result, his colleagues and partners at the firm have recognized his leadership and work ethnic multiple times via VJS’ internal award recognition program, ‘Brand Champions’. MICHAELENE HEALY Quality Manager, Superior Crane Corporation Mickie started her career as a Special Education teacher in the Milwaukee Public School system before joining Superior Crane Corporation (SCC) in 2011. As Quality Manager for SCC, Mickie is responsible for collaborating with all levels of employees to ensure processes, procedures and quality exceed customers’ expectations. “Raising the bar” is Mickie’s professional goal. Combining her experience as a teacher and her contagious personality, she wants to help bring manufacturing and skilled trades back to schools. She acknowledges the lack of workforce in the trades as well as the huge population of students that may not be interested in a traditional college path after high school graduation. Mickie currently helps leads Superior Crane University (SCC-U) which helps expose students of all ages to the various careers manufacturing offers. Mickie is passionate about bringing solutions and support to the local school leaders and community on this issue. MONICA NICHOL Financial Advisor, Baird Monica has been a Financial Advisor with Baird’s Consiglio Osmanski Hienz Group since 2018. Monica’s driving principle in her practice is to educate her clients so they can be more confident and in control of their finances. She first aims to understand what is important to her clients and their families and then aligns investment strategies around the financial plan created in collaboration with her clients. Monica’s leadership outside of the office is nothing to be rivaled with, as a young professional she serves on the nonprofit boards for The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County, and Wellpoint Care Network, and has previously served as a board member of TEMPO Waukesha, and chair of the 2022 Celebrating Women Leaders event. She does not just join an organization, she learns by jumping in and asking, “What is needed?” and “How can I help?” and exemplifies follow through on projects and tasks. Monica is also a graduate of the Alliance’s Leadership Waukesha County Fall 2022 Cohort. CARTER OLLES Midwest Acquisitions Senior Associate, MLG Capital Carter Olles is MLG Capital’s Midwest Acquisitions Senior Associate. He is responsible for sourcing, underwriting, and acquiring multifamily, industrial, and retail real estate across the greater Midwest. He also plays EMERGING LEADERS OF WAUKESHA COUNTY This annual award honors young professionals who live or work in Waukesha County and are creating and inspiring a better vision for the future. These leaders are taking strides to further themselves personally and professionally by showing initiative, determination and commitment. Congratulations to our 2023 Emerging Leaders! WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. 16
a key role in working with Legacy Fund contributors in the Midwest. Carter leads MLG’s Model Committee, which is responsible for the company’s underwriting models and standards, as well as leads MLG’s internship program. But it’s not Carter’s impressive career accomplishments alone that are impressive. Carter also makes a huge impact on an audience that hits close to his home. In 2013, Carter and his sister Caragan co-founded the organization Bright Young Dyslexics, with a goal of changing the landscape for dyslexic students across the country. They started small – raising money in northeastern Wisconsin through brat fries and homegrown fundraisers – but with time, the organization grew to supporting students across Wisconsin, and then across the country. In the past decade, Bright Young Dyslexics has raised more than $300,000 and positively impacted hundreds of thousands of dyslexic students across in Wisconsin and across the U.S. MARCEASE WARREN Vice President of Manufacturing, Sentry Equipment Marcease Warren first joined Sentry Equipment back in 2007 as a mechanical engineering student in Marquette University’s engineering co-op program. Three years later, he made history as the company’s first co-op student-turnedemployee, becoming the company’s first manufacturing engineer – in a department of one. Now, at just 35 years old, Marcease is in his second year as Sentry Equipment’s Vice President of Manufacturing. His quick ascent up the corporate ladder is a testament not only to his technical mastery, but his insatiable desire to learn. In constant pursuit of becoming a more dynamic engineer and well-rounded leader, Marcease received his Master's Degree in Integrated Supply Chain Management in 2016 from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville; the following year, he returned to Marquette and received his Executive MBA in 2018. Marcease Warren is an active, vibrant young professional committed to the development of his skills and the success of the greater Waukesha area. WIDE OPEN SPACES INDOOR & OUTDOOR OPTIONS 262.547.0201 • 2810 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI 53072 theinglesidehotel.com • 194 guest rooms and suites • 40,000 sq. ft. of exible meeting space • 40 acres of outdoor space available for all types of events • Conveniently located o I-94 between Milwaukee and Madison
Small Business of the Year Founded by Karen Ellenbecker in 1996, Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG) began with an entrepreneurial vision to launch an organization that would enhance the lives of clients, employees, and the community. Today, under the leadership of Karen and her daughter, Julie Ellenbecker-Lipsky, the group’s president, EIG is thriving as a premiere employer, pillar of the community, and an exemplary investment firm. EIG stands by a promise to its employees, clients, and the community: We will meet you where you are, with unmatched personal attention, and guide you along your financial journey with honesty, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to your well-being. Large Business of the Year IEWC is a global distributor of wire and cable products, a manufacturer of custom fiber assemblies, and a provider of value-add solutions that advance a connected world. IEWC serves as an entrusted partner to both its customers and suppliers – accelerating and simplifying their businesses. With 23 locations in 11 countries, IEWC supports manufacturing and infrastructure industries around the world. Proudly headquartered in New Berlin, Wisconsin, IEWC was founded in 1962 and recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. As an employee-owned company, IEWC has a strong culture built on mutual accountability where great people work together to do great things. Medium Business of the Year Wisconsin Metal Parts, Inc. is a contract manufacturer based in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Through a foundation rooted in servant leadership, WMP strives to empower and serve its employees, customers and community alike. WMP understands that its success lies in its ability to positively influence the lives of others and people are its greatest asset. Whether it’s sponsoring educational programs, providing resources for skill development, or investing in the community, WMP does so with its core values of Purpose, Pride and Passion leading the way. WAUKESHA COUNTY AWARDS In partnership with Waukesha County and the Waukesha County Center for Growth, the Waukesha County Awards recognize top-performing businesses and nonprofits who have a significant presence in Waukesha County and are making our community a great place to work, play and live. Congratulations to our 2023 winners! WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. 18
Nonprofit of the Year Since 1989, Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha County (Habitat Waukesha County) has been the leading provider of affordable housing opportunities in Waukesha County. At Habitat Waukesha County, we provide a hand-up, not a handout, through a low-interest, affordable mortgage to families or individuals that cannot purchase a home through traditional means. Building 45 homes and serving over 240 families, Habitat Waukesha County has become a fixture of the community and a rallying point for those who believe in the American Dream of homeownership. DON RICHARDS LEADERSHIP AWARD & ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR Don Richards Leadership Award In 1973, Dave Bahl borrowed $800, got a welding machine, rented a 500 sq.-ft. shop and Weldall was born. Fast forward to today, and Weldall is a global company focused on providing superior products and services with nearly 300 employees across multiple locations. Throughout the last 50 years, Dave has grown the company through its reputation for the highest of quality and integrity in its work. Throughout the years, both Dave and the company have been recognized with the Alliance’s “Business of the Year” awards and as a Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year. Dave’s leadership of the family-owned business has inspired the company to address the most complex applications and differentiate Weldall from competitors all over the country. Weldall takes pride in its community and supports a wide range of nonprofits and partners with area education organizations to help create the future talent pipeline. Advocate of the Year For 100 years, Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) has been igniting imaginations and instilling a love of learning through transformative education. With more than 150 areas of study, including associate degrees, technical diplomas, apprenticeships and short-term certificate programs. WCTC’s academic programs offer hands-on training that can be immediately applied in the workplace. WCTC is innovative. Responsive. Constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of the business community. Proven. Successful. Outcomesbased and more. WCTC truly embodies the spirit of serving as an advocate for the Waukesha County business community. JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 19
BEYOND VISION JIM KERLIN President & CEO, Beyond Vision WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT Q: Describe your organization and its mission. A: Beyond Vision is a fully self-funded social enterprise focused on creating career opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. As a mission-driven organization, our competitive edge is driven by our people - a team that is more engaged and dedicated to proving to the world that we can, and do, deliver high quality products and outsourced services. We offer a variety of services and products to both private sector and government customers. Our services include customer care, machining, assembly, packaging, kitting and website accessibility testing. We produce SKILCRAFT products for the U.S. government; floor mats, privacy filters, socket sets and sit stand workstations. Q: What are some of your biggest challenges or obstacles? A: Getting businesses to understand that we are not a staffing agency for people with vision loss. The work your business needs to outsource can be done by our talented team of employees who just happen to be blind or visually impaired. People with vision loss have access to technology and creative adaptations to make the work they do at Beyond Vision safe, accessible and error-proof. We would love for more businesses to know that we are here and ready to help with overflow work. Q: What have been your biggest successes? A: Moving into the VisABILITY Center has taken us to a new level. With a modern facility that applies universal design principles and modern amenities provide the quality work environment our employees deserve. We even have a dedicated Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) stop in front of the facility to make the commute for many of our employees much safer. The move also reinforces our commitment to sustainable employment and career paths for our employees to grow with us. We’re able to showcase our success and bright future in this building. Enriching the lives of Americans who are blind. 20
JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 21 Q: How can businesses support your organization? A: Let’s work together! We are easy to work with, responsive to your company’s needs and offer the perfect solution to your labor shortage. There’s a lot of talk about not having enough staff. Contact us to find out what you can outsource to us for fast turnaround. We have an experienced team of employees who are professional, consistent and dependable. Q: How can individuals get involved in your organization? A: Each year we host a golf outing that helps us raise funds for employee training programs. Called “The Shot in the Dark”, golfers experience half of the course at night using glow equipment. Truly unique, the event also helps us communicate what Beyond Vision is and does to help encourage my business partnerships and awareness. We welcome everyone to register and join us September 8th for an unforgettable event. Q: What is one thing you wish the community knew about your organization? A: I would love for people to know that we’re here! We seem to be one of the area’s best kept secrets. In fact, we were founded in 1903, just like Harley Davidson! It would be great if more people in the community knew what we can do and spread the word! •
HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS ATTEND HEALTH CARE EXPO In May, over 400 students attended the Alliance’s Discovering Health Care Expo at Waukesha County Technical College to learn more about the career pathways in health care. Waukesha County students participated in various hands-on, interactive activities like learning how to use physical therapy tests, blood testing equipment, following proper procedures to dress like a surgeon, and more. The expo provided an opportunity to engage students considering a career in health care and show them the multitude of career paths available in the industry. •
we know. Do you know the financial impact your insurance broker is having on your business? If your insurance broker is not helping your bottom line, it may be time to make a change. At R&R Insurance, we serve as your trusted business advisor. We provide leading industry insights, market trends and benchmarking tools so you can make informed, data drive decisions, and run your businesses more efficiently. Our custom designed approaches to commercial insurance and employee benefits will improve your productivity and reduce absenteeism which means growth and profitability for you. And our specialized insurance products will protect your assets and income. As a Business Insurance Top 100 Agency, an owner in the Assurex Global Network, and one of the largest independent and family owned agencies in the region, we work with thousands of businesses in Wisconsin, the U.S. and all over the world. MyKnowledgeBroker.com Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. Brookfield Conference Center www.waukesha.org Presented By: As the Waukesha County Business Alliance wraps up its 105th year, join us to celebrate the accomplishments of the business community and discuss trends facing businesses in southeast Wisconsin. Hear from Waukesha County business leaders and celebrate our 2023 award winners.
JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 25 Describe your role. As Chief Commercial Officer at CentroMotion, I am responsible for the development and execution of growth strategies, strategic business units, commercial processes, and talent development and engagement. What has been your biggest takeaway since starting in your role? No matter how much you think you know about your customer, there is always more to learn. What is something unique about you? My mother is a first generation immigrant, and I am 50 percent Swedish. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career? Even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you sit still. What is your personal key to success? Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts. What’s the first job you ever had? Marketing Communications Assistant for Applied Power. In my role, I was fortunate to immediately begin working globally and work on an acquisition integration. What is your dream job? I have it. Getting to know our customers and collaborating internally within the organization to drive transformational growth—this is what makes my role exciting. What book are you currently reading or would you recommend? I’d highly recommend Endurance Shackleton's Incredible Voyage—a true historical adventure about a team of explorers who set out to cross Antarctica on foot, but their boat gets caught in the ice and crushed. The team survives based on the leadership of Shackleton. Later in the book, Shackleton’s leadership is examined vs. modern day leaders. I’m currently reading Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins— Goggins became a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world’s top endurance athletes. He has become the only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller. He didn’t stop there, however, and he went on to set records in extreme endurance events and has been named The Fittest (Real) Man in America. What is your favorite pastime? Alpine skiing and sailing with my family and friends. • JOHN THOMAS Chief Commercial Officer, CentroMotion EXECUTIVE PROFILE
Tell us a little bit about yourself. I started with MetalTek shortly after graduating high school. MetalTek provided an opportunity for me to learn a skill (machining) that I turned into a career. I quickly realized that the path I wanted would involve me gaining more knowledge through formal education. Before I entered a Senior Process Engineering role at MetalTek, I began to attend WCTC to earn my associate degree in Manufacturing Engineering. Many of the learnings from WCTC plus 13 years of experience working in manufacturing helped me refine my skills and made me confident that I could take on the management role that I reside in today. The opportunities that MetalTek has awarded me have allowed for me to plant my roots in Waukesha with my wife and children. What led you to your current career path? I was working as a cabinet maker after high school and saw a greater opportunity for growth at MetalTek. I had always felt that I could make a difference in the company and had a passion for helping others. This led me down a leadership path which started with a lead person role that expanded into supervision. My knowledge of our operation eventually took me into an engineering role before my current role as manager. What is the hardest part about being in the trades? The hardest part is managing my time both at work and outside of work. Having passion for the industry and MetalTek as a company really makes you view your coworkers as being somewhat of your family. You want to make time to connect, coach and help all of your employees, but running a three-shift operation can stretch you pretty thin. What’s your favorite part about your job? My favorite part is fixing problems at their source and celebrating successes. The nature of the work we perform always presents unique problems that need to be solved. Being able to help fix a problem and be creative really excites me. I also enjoy being able to show my appreciation for our employees. Thanking them for a job well done individually is great, but our employees love to succeed as a team and when we do, we celebrate. What would you say to someone who wants to get involved in the trades? Don’t be afraid to jump into something you’re interested in. If it is something you are about, do it. Don’t let people get in your way. Where do you see yourself in the future? I love what I do and cannot see myself not involved in something other than manufacturing. MetalTek has plenty of other opportunities for me to grow and succeed and I expect that I will fit into a greater role within the company in the future. • TIM GEYER Machine Shop Manager, MetalTek International Wisconsin Centrifugal Division SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADES WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 26
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The Alliance hosted its annual Bridging the Gap for Waukesha County program at WCTC. John McGivern of PBS' Main Streets hosted a Facts & Snacks program at the Alliance office. The Manufacturing Alliance of Southeast Wisconsin toured Eaton's new Waukesha facility. AROUND THE COUNTY WITH THE ALLIANCE The Alliance participated in the Latino Chamber of Commerce's Waukesha Business Day. See what the Alliance was up to over the last few months. WHEDA's Chief Executive Officer Elmer Moore connected with business leaders at One-on-One With Public Officials. The Alliance celebrated growth and expansion in Waukesha County at various ribbon cuttings. The Alliance hosted a panel discussion on the Republican National Convention. The Alliance's Board of Directors gavel was turned over to Mark Sobczak of Sikich. WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 28
Bear Real Estate Group Kenosha CBIC Bank - Wisconsin Milwaukee Community Action Coalition of South Central Wisconsin Waukesha Home Federal Savings Bank Pewaukee Inspired Training Institute Brookfield Leap Forward, LLC Waukesha McIver Engineering & Controls, LLC Sussex Mill Creek Academy Waukesha MuL Technologies Mequon Poblocki Paving Corp. New Berlin Secchi Inc. Greendale WM Germantown WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! The Alliance is proud to welcome the following companies as new members during the second quarter of 2023: JULY 2023 MAGAZINE 29 YOUR CONNECTION Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, increase your expertise and leadership or protect the business you’ve built, the WICPA will help you stay connected to the profession and succeed. CONNECTING YOU Become a member and connect with over 7,000 CPAs and accounting and business professionals. } Advocacy } Credibility } Development } Exclusive Savings } Networking } Resources LEARN MORE Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants Tammy Hofstede, WICPA President & CEO
All rights reserved. No part of this guide may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information retrieval system without written permission from the publisher. Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. Waukesha County Business Alliance, Inc. cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information presented here or be held accountable for omissions or errors. Please report any changes to the Alliance for inclusion in subsequent editions. © 2023 Waukesha County Business Alliance, Inc. 2717 N. Grandview Blvd, Suite 300, Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 542-4249 | www.waukesha.org Waukesha County Business Alliance ADVOCATE DEVELOP ENGAGE GROW MISSION To drive economic growth in Waukesha County. VISION To make Waukesha County the best place to do business.
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