November 2024 ACCELERATE WAUKESHA COUNTY MANUFACTURING VOICES FOCUSES ON THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY Waukesha County Business Alliance ADVOCATE DEVELOP ENGAGE GROW
NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE AMANDA PAYNE President & CEO Waukesha County Business Alliance, Inc. In September, the Alliance hosted its 106th Annual Meeting where we welcomed more than 500 attendees. This program is the Alliance's opportunity to celebrate the business community and all that has been accomplished over the past year. One of our greatest joys as chamber of commerce is recognizing the growth, expansion and success of the business community. As we look ahead, the focus of the Alliance remains clear: to build a thriving business community where companies can grow and succeed. In the coming year, the Alliance team will continue to grow our business education partnerships, which now include partners from across the region. We are helping our members connect with automation and AI solutions that will drive growth and innovation, especially with ongoing demographic and workforce challenges. And we will advocate for pro-business public policies, building on our strong advocacy foundation and expanding the influence of our voice. The Alliance is a business powerhouse organization, representing all corners of Waukesha County and beyond, and I’m incredibly excited for what’s ahead. A POWERHOUSE ORGANIZATION Member FDIC firstbusiness.bank Ready when you are. When other banks stumble, we shine. Built for businesses and individuals with sophisticated needs, we outperform banks designed for the masses. Complex financial challenges? We’ve got you covered. 3
510 S. WEST AVE | WAUKESHA, WI 53186 | 262.522.2600 | DELZER.COM DESIGN FULFILL PRINT Leadership Waukesha County | Spring March - July 2025 www.waukesha.org INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF YOUR ORGANIZATION
4 BGS Glass Service 19 Carroll University 5 Delzer Lithograph 3 First Business Bank 20 HPS/Paymedix 2 Northwoods 9 R&R Insurance Services 7 The Ingleside Hotel 10 Town Bank 25 Waukesha County Technical College 27 WICPA 6 SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS: TRG Marketing 8 106th Annual Meeting 11 EXECUTIVE PROFILE: Tammy Hofstede, WICPA 12 1,200 Students Experience the Trades 13 Alliance Celebrates Manufacturing Month 18 NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT: Hebron Housing Services 21 EXECUTIVE PROFILE: Jerry Pettigrew, Waukesha County Business Alliance 22 Waukesha County GROW Fund Supports Housing Project 24 SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADES: Jessica Sennott, Gorilla Mill 26 Around the County 27 Welcome New Members CONTENTS 14 COVER STORY Manufacturing Voices Focuses on the Future of the Industry ADVERTISERS
TRG MARKETING CELEBRATES 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS TRG Marketing Reflects on Two Decades of Strategic Growth and Client Partnerships On July 1, 2004, Chad Ritterbusch hung out his shingle in a small office on the third floor of 125 North Executive Drive in Brookfield, Wisconsin, as president and owner of The Ritterbusch Group, a new full-service marketing firm. What began that day with one client has grown to include 30 manufacturers, distributors, professional services firms, non-profits and associations, more than a dozen employees, an expanded office space and new location, and a brand overhaul from The Ritterbusch Group to TRG Marketing. "Looking back on 20 years, I’m proud of the growth and depth we've achieved,” says Ritterbusch. “What started as a small venture has evolved into a profoundly creative and strategic team. It's been a journey of constant learning and adaptation, and seeing how we’ve grown alongside our clients has been the rewarding part.” Ritterbusch highlights his team’s collaborative spirit, and the good fortune to partner with people who share a similar trait. It allows TRG to develop and execute marketing plans that make a positive difference and produce real business value. “While technology changes marketing, strategic thinking does not,” says Integrated Marketing Specialist Greg Gardetto. “In the coming years, there will be new tech introduced and it will have staying power. But it’s the strategic thinking that is fundamental to staying in business in the long run.” From traditional methods to cutting-edge digital innovations, the marketing industry has witnessed an unprecedented evolution since the millennium. “The sheer breadth of services we provide clients is lightyears ahead of where it was in 2004,” says Mike Shefky, account supervisor. “We employ experts across a variety of marketing disciplines – everything from digital 6
advertising and social media support to contemporary web design and sophisticated e-commerce development.” The “tools of the trade” have transformed dramatically, says Account Supervisor Marc Whitney, reshaping how businesses connect with their audiences. “Today, nearly full control of what messages get through to an audience is in the hands of the audience, not the content creator,”Whitney maintains. “As consumers each of us decides what we receive, when we receive it, how we receive it, on what device we receive it and at what time we receive it.” In today's marketing landscape, the importance of a strong digital presence cannot be overstated. As companies navigate the complexities of a post-COVID world, Account Supervisor Jacob Werre says the ability to effectively engage with audiences online has become more critical than ever. “The focus on building a robust digital presence continues to gain momentum,”Werre contends. “The secret sauce is tying in the technical capability along with solid marketing strategy and an understanding of the market.” The rise of websites, social media, blogging and inbound marketing were a central focus of marketing back in the early 2000’s. Today, TRG continues these services while expanding its work in website development, digital advertising, and e-commerce. "Small to medium-sized organizations seek partners who are trustworthy and authentic, and need guidance to explore options and execute strategies," says Storyteller and Content Marketing Strategist Julie Gaier. "They’re looking for flexible, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. TRG Marketing delivers all that and more." The marketing firm’s path to success over two decades has been paved with resilience and innovation. TRG has navigated challenges like economic downturns, global pandemics, and rapid technological advancements, thanks to the firm’s ability to adapt. “What has not changed at TRG over these many years? The value of a good conversation, listening and thinking before speaking and, applying the Golden Rule (treat others as you would like to be treated) to the people you encounter each day,” adds Graphic Designer Kim Dunn. “Those values are as strong today as ever.” • 262.547.0201 • 2810 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI 53072 theinglesidehotel.com Waukesha County Business Alliance $109 Weekday Special Rate This special rate is available to Waukesha County Business Alliance members from now until December 30, 2024. Includes: • Premier Guest Room • Your choice of breakfast entrée and non-alcoholic beverage OR two drinks (Rail Cocktail, Beer or Soda). Simply book a room online and click “Add Code”, select “Rate Access/Corporate Code” and enter the partner code WCBA109. Available Sunday - Thursday. Blackout dates apply. Waived resort fee. Based on single occupancy.
106TH ANNUAL MEETIN OF THE WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSI
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NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE 11 What is the most important lesson you've learned in your career? To lead with curiosity and not be afraid of asking questions. I also don’t need to have an immediate answer to every question, and it’s okay to change my mind once I learn new information. What is your key to success? Realizing what is — and isn’t — in my control and not to stress the small stuff. What’s the first job you ever had? My grandparents owned a mom-and-pop restaurant, and I cleared tables as soon as I was tall enough to reach them. I loved stamping the checks and adding them up on the calculator for the bank deposits! I was fortunate to be involved in every aspect of the business growing up. What’s your dream job? Owning and operating a dive bar once I retire — a fun and friendly place for locals and interesting new people passing through town. I would also use proceeds to give back and be part of the community. What books are you currently reading? I enjoy medical/crime thrillers from Tess Gerritsen. What is something unique about you? I once shot a 6-point buck. I also got to suit up and help the pit crew of an American Speed Association (ASA) motorsports race team. What is your favorite pastime? Relaxing on my deck, doing yard work, taking walks while listening to music, and playing darts and golf. • TAMMY HOFSTEDE President & CEO Wisconsin Institute of CPAs Describe your role in 2 sentences or less. As an ambassador for the CPA profession in Wisconsin, my role involves providing leadership, strategic direction and comprehensive management to ensure our organization meets the evolving and diverse needs of our members. I am committed to protecting and promoting the profession by advocating for its interests and fostering a strong community. What has been your biggest takeaway since starting in your role? The importance of staying adaptive in an everchanging environment — whether in the CPA profession, our staff, office culture or anything else that comes our way. EXECUTIVE PROFILE
For more than a decade, the Waukesha County Business Alliance has worked to develop our future workforce by exposing students to the career opportunities available in our region. With manufacturing and construction being driver industries in Waukesha County, the Alliance was proud to ignite students’ passion for the trades through our third annual Experience the Trades expo. Experience the Trades was hosted at the Waukesha County Expo Center and provided over 1,200 middle and high school students from Waukesha County and beyond the opportunity to meet over 30 local manufacturing and construction employers. Students got to 'try on' the trades through interactive and hands-on demonstrations. This year's expo was a remarkable showcase of the collaboration that can happen when business and educational institutions come together. Thank you to the schools, businesses and sponsors who made Experience the Trades a great success! • 1,200 STUDENTS EXPERIENCE THE TRADES IN WAUKESHA COUNTY
NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE 13 ALLIANCE CELEBRATES MANUFACTURING MONTH As part of our celebration of Manufacturing Month, the Alliance conducted a series of visits with elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels to manufacturers across Waukesha County. Manufacturing is a significant driver of both Waukesha and Wisconsin's economy, providing tens of thousands of well-paying jobs that strengthen our community. These tours served multiple purposes. They educated lawmakers about the manufacturing sector, facilitated important conversations between the business community and policymakers about the challenges facing the industry, and fostered relationship-building that enable the Alliance to advocate effectively for policies supporting a robust business environment. By inviting state and local elected officials to participate in these tours, we provided them with firsthand exposure to the cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices that define our manufacturing sector. This collaboration highlighted the vital role manufacturers play in our regional economy and underscored their significant contributions to the broader Wisconsin economy and international markets. These businesses exemplify the resilience, creativity, and expertise that drive our local manufacturing industry forward. • WILL NEITZEL VP Public Policy, Waukesha County Business Alliance
WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG MANUFACTURING VOICES FOCUSES ON THE FUTURE OF THE For more than a decade, the Alliance’s annual Manufacturing Voices program has provided the opportunity for industry leaders to spotlight manufacturing. This year was no exception as business leaders came together at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) to discuss challenges and opportunities facing the manufacturing sector. This year's program included a keynote presentation from Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing & Productivity's Executive Director & CEO Buckley Brinkman. Brinkman shared highlights from the 2024 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report™ which gauges Wisconsin manufacturing executives’ perceptions of the state of their business and outlook on manufacturing to identify and explore key issues impacting their companies and employees. Conclusions From the Data Once again, workforce topped manufacturers’ concerns in the 2024 report. Those concerns catalyzed new investments – both in technology and employee success – and triggered worries about future inflation and competitiveness. Manufacturers largely solved their supply chain issues proving their resilience and ability to recover from crisis situations. Softer demand spurred manufacturers to pursue growth more aggressively, investing in marketing and other initiatives to find new customers. Labor Pains The chronic labor shortage pushed workforce issues to the top of the concern list once again. More manufacturers realize they will face a worker shortage for the foreseeable future and are investing accordingly. More flexibility and a willingness to try more of an “all-the-above” approach to attraction and retention show that creativity is a key element in addressing workforce issues. Also, companies increased their investments building employee capabilities and engagement in their businesses. Economy…meh! Workforce also drove discussions about the economy as manufacturers believed the overall economy was stuck in neutral and showed serious concern about wage and benefit inflation – particularly health care costs. Concerns about inflation in the other factors of production were muted and most manufacturers thought their business would improve in 2025. Filling the Factory The slowdown in the overall economy left many manufacturers with open production capacity. This trend started in last year’s report and intensified this year. Manufacturers have the flexibility to accommodate new customers and are taking action to fill the holes in their schedules. Surprisingly, the most COVER ST 14
NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE E INDUSTRY TORY successful tactic to secure those new customers is through word-of-mouth – especially for smaller companies. Technology Push Manufacturers continue to turn to automation and other technologies to improve their productivity and maximize their ability to grow. This technology adoption improves competitiveness, eliminates undesirable jobs, and enables employees to contribute in more value-added positions. AI adoption also surged during the year as manufacturers find low-cost, low-risk ways to experiment with this new technology. More technology means more exposure to cybercrime and more manufacturers are taking aggressive precautions to address the threat. Moderated by Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership's Executive Director & CEO Chris Baichoo, the Alliance's program concluded with an engaging panel of manufacturing executives discussing workforce, company culture, economic indicators, and more. Panelists included Co-President of Ace Precision Sheri Eubanks, President of Wenthe-Davidson, Rob Ewing, and President & CEO of Sussex IM Megan Tzanoukakis. With the program hosted during Manufacturing Month, the Alliance applauded the work of the manufacturing sector which supplies 1 in 5 jobs in Wisconsin. • BUCKLEY BRINKMAN Executive Director & CEO, WCMP SHERI EUBANKS Co-President, Ace Precision Machining LLC ROB EWING President, Wenthe-Davidson Engineering MEGAN TZANOUKAKIS President & CEO, Sussex IM PROGRAM SPEAKERS CHRIS BAICHOO Executive Director & CEO, WMEP Manufacturing Solutions PRESENTED BY: Scan the image to view WCMP's 2024 Wisconsin Manufacturing Report. 15
Leadership Waukesha County Leadership Waukesha County has been a premier leadership development program for more than 30 years. The robust program provides the tools, processes and inspiration necessary to develop and enhance leadership skills that empower participants to assume effective leadership roles in the community and their careers. Each class is facilitated by an experienced professional who leads the group through leadership development, discussions, book reviews and more. Participants Gain • Enhanced leadership skills and personal effectiveness • The chance to work with, and learn from, other business professionals and experienced leadership facilitators • A broadened understanding of business issues at the local, regional and statewide level • The creation of a personal Professional Development Plan Employers Gain • Leaders prepared to move their organization forward • Employees connected to a diverse network of dynamic leaders • Staff energized and motivated to apply program information to organizational situations • Individuals with knowledge to address a variety of challenges with a well-grounded sense of local, regional and statewide issues Investment As a premier professional development opportunity, participation requires a reasonable monetary and time investment. The 10-session program meets every other week for a two hour facilitated discussion. If you would like to learn more about commitment of this course, please call the Alliance at (262) 542-4249. Register here for the next session! SPONSORS
The State of Waukesha County | January 28, 2025 Hear from regional leaders discussing what you need to know about Waukesha County. Waukesha County Workforce Summit | May 15, 2025 Address evolving workforce challenges, explore talent solutions, and shape the future of our workforce. The BIG One Annual Golf Outing | July 30, 2025 Join 200+ golfers for 18 holes and networking with business and community leaders. 107th Annual Meeting | September 11, 2025 Celebrate the accomplishments of the business community over the past year. Save the Date 2025 Annual Programs Waukesha County Business Alliance ADVOCATE DEVELOP ENGAGE GROW
WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG HEBRON HOUSING SERVICES KATHLEEN FISHER CEO, Hebron Housing Services NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT Q: Describe your organization and its mission. A: For more than 40 years, Hebron Housing Services has been an advocate and resource for those struggling with homelessness in our community. Today, we are the largest nonprofit provider of services to unhoused men, women, and children in Waukesha County. Q: What are some of your biggest challenges or obstacles? A: Some of our biggest challenges are convincing people in the wonderfully abundant county that there are many people experiencing homelessness. The cost of living is so expensive, and many households cannot afford to live independently. Every night, there are more than 275 men, women, and families who live with a family or friend because they don’t have enough money to pay for their own home. More than 100 people are sleeping in shelters, and another 30-40 are living unsheltered in our community. If we could wave our magic wand and house all the individuals and families who need housing, we would need funding and support for a minimum of 300 housing units. The problem is we don’t have enough funding and available housing units to support this incredible need. Q: What have been your biggest successes? A: Hebron’s biggest success is staying in business for more than 40 years, committed to serving a community of people who desperately need our services. Our shift to a Housing First philosophy has helped us focus on getting families stable housing and then establish goals for financial and housing stability. Q: How can businesses support your organization? A: We are so fortunate in Waukesha to have such a vibrant business community supported by the Waukesha Helping families with nowhere to turn. 18
NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE County Business Alliance. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, specifically small projects at our shelters. We love well organized supply drives for household cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items. Of course we always appreciate financial gifts that support our emergency shelter and housing operations. Q: How can individuals get involved in your organization? A: Anyone interested in getting involved can email me at kfisher@hebronhouse.org or call 262.522.1400. Q: What is one thing you wish the community knew about your organization? A: I wish the community knew how much we need you to help us help others. Hebron has a passion for helping people in their greatest time of need. Our staff is a special group of people who are trained to provide compassionate care for people experiencing homelessness. We support men, women, and their families during what might be one of the most traumatizing, vulnerable times in their lives. The generosity of the Waukesha community keeps our doors open, and we are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support! • 19
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NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE 21 Describe your role in 2 sentences or less. The primary goal of my role is to ensure that talent and the talent pipeline are thriving in Waukesha County. What has been your biggest takeaway since starting in your role? I’ve learned that listening more and asking good questions shouldn’t be something I just do at the beginning of a new job; it should become an ongoing habit. What is the most important lesson you've learned in your career? I’m stealing a quote from Dwight D. Eisenhower for this one. “With mutual respect, understanding and goodwill, there is an acceptable solution for any problem that can arise between us". What’s your dream job? Photojournalism What book are you currently reading or would you recommend? I’m currently reading 1st 90 Days. I strongly recommend this book to anyone starting in a new role. What is something unique about you? I’ve lived in Argentina, Mozambique and was married in Kenya. What is your favorite pastime? I enjoy camping, fishing, coaching soccer, and eating french fries and custard with my kids. • JERRY PETTIGREW Vice President, Talent Waukesha County Business Alliance EXECUTIVE PROFILE The Alliance is excited to introduce Jerry Pettigrew as Vice President of Talent. Jerry comes to the Alliance from Michael Best Strategies, where he facilitated the organization's leadership development program and provided customized trainings for clients across industries. With more than a decade of experience, Jerry brings a deep understanding of building highperforming teams that fuel business success. "Jerry’s background and strategic vision will be instrumental in advancing our talent initiatives," states Amanda Payne, President & CEO of the Waukesha County Business Alliance. "His knowledge will play a critical role in strengthening the talent pipeline and supporting businesses across Waukesha County."
WAUKESHA COUNTY GROW FUND SUPPORTS HOUSING PROJECT The Waukesha County GROW Fund is proud to be a financial partner in the Habitat for Humanity Domenica Park housing project in the City of Waukesha. Announced by Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha and Jefferson Counties in 2022, Domenica Park is a previously vacant city block in the Broadway Heights neighborhood of Waukesha. The former site of the century-old Aeroshade factory will be the site of 16 single-family homes and 2 duplex town homes – future homes for 20 families. To support the project, the GROW Fund has provided a revolving construction loan to Habitat for Humanity totaling $660,000. This financing will support three home construction projects at a time. Upon the completion of each home, the GROW Fund will be repaid from the new owner’s traditional mortgage proceeds, at which time a new construction project will be initiated to support a future homeowner, designated by Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, the construction projects will foster continued construction employment and build the tax base of the community in which the housing project is occurring. “Affordable housing is a critical element to attracting and retaining workers in Waukesha County, and we’re thrilled to be able to support the growth of Domenica Park,” states Therese Thill, Executive Director for the Waukesha County Center for Growth. “The mission of the Fund is to ignite economic development, foster innovation, and contribute to growth of Waukesha County – so this project is a shining example of how we’re doing just that.” WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 22 THERESE THILL Executive Director, Waukesha County Center for Growth
“Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha and Jefferson Counties is thrilled to partner with the GROW Fund in driving the transformation of Domenica Park. With the generous support of the GROW Fund, we are empowered to combat the challenges posed by high interest rates and inflation, allowing us to create a new chapter of hope and opportunity for families in need,” shared Melissa Songco, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Waukesha & Jefferson Counties. “Together, we are building a community that fosters growth and enables families to overcome these obstacles, creating a brighter future for all.” Established in 2019, the GROW Fund was created to provide access to financial resources to enable business expansion and attraction. The GROW Fund assists businesses essential to the economic development of Waukesha County including manufacturing, service, and other commercial establishments looking to expand operations or invest in new operations in the county. It also benefits developers with projects that improve available housing stock to meet the housing needs of existing and projected workforce growth. • NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE 23
Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am 29 years old, and living in Mukwonago with my husband, Nick, our dog, two cats, ducks, and chickens. In my free time a few things I enjoy are riding my motorcycle, playing video games, and spending time outside fishing, hunting, or hiking. Why/when did you decide to get involved in the trades? I came to Gorilla Mill in 2017 with no experience and from a law firm working as a legal assistant. I heard about the position through my now husband and decided I wanted to take the risk on a new career. I started out running the cylindrical grinding CNCs and after a year I was given the opportunity to move up to operating ANCAs. After about three years of running ANCAs I was once again given an opportunity to move up and became the second shift CNC supervisor. I was nervous coming into a field that was so unfamiliar to me, but wanted to try something new, and I am so thankful I made the leap into the unfamiliar. What led you to your current career path? When I first joined Gorilla Mill I did not think five years after being hired I would find myself as a supervisor getting to assist and direct a whole team. The first few months of being on this career path I was not confident it was where I belonged or something I would succeed in. The more I learned and grew my confidence the more I fell in love with getting to be hands-on with my work. It is an indescribable feeling to start with something as simple as a metal rod and be able to turn it into a highperformance cutting tool for the aerospace, automotive, medical, and manufacturing industries. What is the hardest part about being in your profession? There can be many difficulties faced in this line of work, but I would say the hardest part would be the learning process. There is a lot of information to not only take in but then also be able to apply to a multitude of different scenarios, to be productive and successful. As a new grinder it can be very confusing especially if you do not come from a shop or have any machining experience. The great thing about an employer such as Gorilla Mill is that they understand new grinders will make mistakes and there is grace given to let each individual learn and grow both on their own and with the assistance of their supervisor. What’s your favorite part about your job? The tool grinding industry holds such a special place in my heart for many reasons but I would have to say getting to be challenged on a daily basis, therefore getting to always learn, and grow in my field is such a gratifying experience. The only limitations on learning you will run into are those you put on yourself especially because the industry is constantly changing and growing JESSICA SENNOTT Second Shift Supervisor, Gorilla Mill WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 24
SPOTLIGHT ON THE TRADES NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE so the ability and need to adapt creates a lot of opportunity for growth. Having the freedom to problem solve as both an inexperienced grinder and now someone who has been in the field for over seven years is what sets this job and company apart from any other I have worked in prior. The ability to collaborate with other grinders on the shop floor when encountering a problem instead of strictly needing your supervisor's help has created a sense of community that I am grateful to be a part of. There is so much to learn between making tools, the machines themselves, and also the application of the high-performance cutting tools we are producing. Now as a supervisor I not only continue to problem solve any issues I come across with the tools and machines I run, but I have the opportunity to more widely share the knowledge I have gained along the way with those I work with. What would you say to someone who wants to get involved in the trades? I would suggest they research what trades are out there and decide what is important to them because there are a lot of factors involved. Some of the things to consider would be salary potential, education opportunities/requirements, the potential for growth within the trade, and all the different avenues that may open up for you after gaining experience. There are companies out there, such as Gorilla Mill, which train on-site and will not require any prior experience, or even offer opportunities to send their employees for a higher education, are great opportunities for someone to get involved in the trades without much risk. I would highly suggest taking the jump into a trade if it is something that you may be interested in, but just make sure you have a good understanding of all the options and which ones would be best for you. Where do you see yourself in the future? I see myself continuing to grow not only also as a CNC operator but as a team member at Gorilla Mill. I would like to see myself continue to be challenged and have growth in this industry, especially by gaining more experience with making more difficult specialty tools and getting to continue expanding my knowledge with both the hardware and software of the machines. I enjoy getting to see not only myself but Gorilla Mill as a whole grow and succeed and I see that becoming even more fitting in the future. • Waukesha County Technical college is venturing into uncharted territory, boldly challenging technical college norms to create an entirely new learning experience. THIS IS THE FUTURE OF HIGHER ED. wctc.edu/unrivaled CREATING VISIONARIES CRUSHING NORMS
The Alliance continued to celebrate growth and expansion across Waukesha County with numerous ribbon cuttings and ground breakings. The Alliance attended WMC's annual Business Day in Madison. Schools2SkillsTM launched for the 2024-2025 school year, taking students through the doors of local manufacturers. AROUND THE COUNTY WITH THE ALLIANCE The 106th Annual Meeting took place at the Brookfield Conference Center with keynote speaker and nuclear engineer Grace Stanke. See what the Alliance was up to over the last few months. The Alliance hosted a panel of influential women across industries in Waukesha County at its Professional Women's Development Network. In celebration of Manufacturing Month, the Alliance visited with multiple manufacturing members for facility tours. Young Professionals heard from Sky High Marketing CEO Josh Kozinski and toured its new facility in Waukesha. Leadership Waukesha County kicked off its fall session with a full corhort of up and coming leaders in Waukesha County. WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 26
AccuTrans Transportation Group Milwaukee Baumann Global LLC Pewaukee BelAir Cantina Brookfield Colliers International Milwaukee Connect The Dots Solutions, LLC Oconomowoc Margaux Brasserie Brookfield OLIVER Construction Co Oconomowoc Shorewood Financial Services LLC Pewaukee Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin Waukesha Wisconsin Early Childhood Association Inc Fitchburg WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! The Alliance is proud to welcome the following companies as new members during the third quarter of 2024: NOVEMBER 2024 MAGAZINE 27 The Wisconsin Institute of CPAs (WICPA) is Wisconsin’s premier association for accounting and business professionals dedicated to enhancing the value and vitality of the profession. The WICPA equips you and your business with resources to keep pace and excel: Professional development to accelerate your career Cost savings to boost your bottom line and help your business thrive FREE CPE to stay informed, maintain an edge and renew your license Networking opportunities to build valuable connections Members-only access to WICPA Connect, the online community for WICPA members Fierce advocate for safeguarding the profession and protecting you and your business Connecting Leaders Protecting Wisconsin Learn more and join today at wicpa.org/benefits
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. © 2024 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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