CHAMBER
TECHNOLOGY
RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW LOCATION QUOTIENT DEFINED COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:
PROJECT SEARCH
SPRING 2015 Volume 16, Issue 1
FOX CITIES
EXPERIENCE NETWORK HEALTH
AT NETWORK HEALTH, WE SPEAK YOUR LANGUAGE. Shopping for health insurance isn’t what it used to be. We understand choosing a plan is about balancing benefits, wellness, the right doctors and your budget. It’s also important to know what you’re signing up for so there aren’t any surprises along the way. Isn’t it time you experienced a different kind of Wisconsin health plan?
MeetNetworkHealth.com 800-826-0940
HMO plans underwritten by Network Health Plan. POS plans underwritten by Network Health Insurance Corporation, or Network Health Insurance Corporation and Network Health Plan. Self-funded HMO, POS and PPO plans administered by Network Health Plan. SAL-209-01-11/14
this issue
VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1 | SPRING 2015
14
5 Every Issue 2
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full
22
NEW MEMBERS
26
OUT AND ABOUT
28
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Fox Cities
Cover Story 5
Technology Right Here, Right Now
News 10
Economic Development Defined: Location Quotient
11
Economic Development: Progress at the Local Level
12
Meet Our New Chamber Team Members
14
19 Features 19
Congratulations Future 15 Class of 2015
24
Community Spotlight: Project SEARCH
Highlights 3
America’s Pitchtank Wisconsin
17
Business Trifecta
23
Diamond Member Honor Roll
Collaborative Outcomes
25
Cultivate
16
Boiler MACT’s Burden
28
Fox Cities Chamber Golf Outing
18
Ask a YP Cover image supplied by Miller Electric Manufacturing Company
Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Fox Cities Chamber Business (v 259180). Published quarterly by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911. PH 920-734-7101. WEB www.foxcitieschamber.com. Periodical postage paid at Appleton, WI. Annual subscription fee to members for Fox Cities Chamber Business is $9 and is included in dues. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, 125 N. Superior Street, Appleton, WI 54911. Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
1
president’s perspective Chairman of the Board Kip Golden CR Structures Group, Inc.
Our community is highly influenced by technology, and is seeing tremendous growth because of it.
Chairman-Elect Daniel P. Ferris SECURA Insurance Companies Past Chairman Greg Bell WHBY Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak JPMorgan Chase, N.A.
Dear Members, Happy Spring, finally… I am very excited to be writing about the topic of technology is this issue of the magazine. I may not be a techie, but I do know that technology is the catalyst leading chamber organizations, our business communities and our region to be competitive – not only as a place for business, but as a progressive place to live. The chamber, as an industry, is experiencing an incredible transformation. The Fox Cities Chamber in particular is moving from a reactionary, membershipfocused mindset to a proactive, solutionbased organization that focuses on regional, community and business growth. In order for us to serve our members, stakeholders and collaborative partners, we must utilize technology to its fullest capacity. Although our chamber has been antiquated in the past, our businesses deserve an organization that’s innovative and technology forward. In order to meet these needs, we have invested in a dynamic database management software, allowing us to better know our members and their needs and respond in a more timely, effective fashion. In order for us to provide regional research and data as it relates to business growth trends, the Fox Cities Regional Partnership, which is the economic development division of the chamber, now has the ability to provide regional research and data that companies need to relocate here or to further grow their business here. Our community is highly influenced by technology, and is seeing tremendous growth because of it. Our organization has the privilege of working with more than 1,100 diverse businesses, many of which 2
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
are global leaders in technology. From advanced manufacturers that are utilizing robots in their workplaces, to our farmers producing the very best quality raw materials, to our small business owners creating niche marketplaces and tapping into the global world, to our creative class techies that are seeking out our region as a great place to start their business, our region is submersed in innovative ways to use technology. As a region, we use technology to set ourselves apart from other Midwest communities. Placemaking is a concept being discussed in numerous circles throughout the region. Many millennials and young professionals are choosing where they want to live first and then finding or creating their career second. This requires our communities to make investments and decisions that inspire the creative class to seek out the Fox Cities as the MOST desirable place to live and work. We are fortunate to have innovative thought leaders invested in creating a culture that attracts and allows us to retain great creative tech talent. There are currently more than 700 current openings for IT and engineers within the Fox Cities. Utilizing technology, we’ve created a program, Talent Upload, where we bring 75 college students from 21 different universities to our community for a three-day community immersion plunge. This is happening April 16-18, and we could really use some volunteers to help us welcome these students and demonstrate how awesome it is to live in the Fox Cities! Technology is alive and well here in the Fox Cities. We may not be the Silicon Valley, but the Fox Valley is embracing technology, innovation and the creative class.
Shannon Meyer Full President/CEO
Board of Directors 2014-2015 Lisa Cruz Red Shoes PR, Inc. John Dennis Gardan Inc. Kevin Eismann Epiphany Law, LLC Travis Froze BMO Harris Bank Robyn Gruner AT&T Sharon Hulce Employment Resource Group Inc. Dave Jansen ThedaCare Lyssa King OuterEdge Stage Vic Lutz McMahon Chris Matheny Fox Valley Technical College Jen Wagner Mauk Affinity Health System Mayor Don Merkes City of Menasha Robert Pedersen Goodwill NCW Todd Romenesko Calumet County Bruce Sasman We Energies Kathi Seifert Katapult, LLC Monica Vomastic Landmark Staffing Resources Bob Zemple Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP Publisher Shannon Meyer Full Editor Kristin Sewall Design Coalesce Marketing & Design, Inc. Photography Dave Friemuth: Future 15 Kevin Virobik: Ribbon cuttings Printing JP Graphics Inc. Advertising Sales Laura Gruender, 920-734-7101
May 14 • 6:30 - 9:00 pm Performing Arts Center, Appleton WI
Corporate Partners:
Get more info and pitch your idea here: www.americaspitchtank.com/wisconsin.htm
A PITCH EVENT FOR INNOVATORS AND ENTREPRENEURS
4
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Technology
Right Here, Right Now
A vast majority of the human race would cease to function without the advancement of products embedded with technology. Smart phones, laptops, the cloud and wireless internet are imperative to a productive day. But consider the role technology plays in business on a global scale and in industries that our region is built on — advanced manufacturing, equipment manufacturing, printing and secondary educational institutions. I asked local organizations on the cutting edge of technology how they got there. Here’s what they were able to share. By Kristin Sewall
Miller Electric Manufacturing Company Bruce Albrecht, President of Global Innovation and Technology ITW Welding Technology Center — Miller Electric Mfg. Co.
Q: What are some ways that your technologies are helping customers and the industry as a whole? A: Our goal at Miller is to develop technologies to address our
Q: How have these advancements improved your organization or created success for your customer(s)? A: Our guiding philosophy is to help customers solve their
customers’ key challenges. The welding industry has a shortage of skilled welders. Miller® LiveArc™ welding performance management system helps recruit, screen and train welders via simulation and live welding modes, offering immediate feedback to help quickly build skills via this fun, interactive technology. We’ve also developed wireless remote control technology to monitor and change settings at the joint, minimizing downtime to walk to the power source. Combining these systems with our latest weld processes makes welding easier, so companies can quickly train new welders and increase productivity with current staffing. As companies further efforts to attain a cleaner work environment, one of our new offerings—the FILTAIR® Capture 5 fume extraction system—utilizes Miller-exclusive ZoneFlow™ technology to create a much larger fume capture area than competitive products. We also offer personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators and half masks, plus welding processes that align with OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls for improving the welding environment. To help businesses streamline their welding operations, we offer our Insight Core™ and Insight Centerpoint™ welding information management systems. These Internet-enabled systems help companies monitor the welding operation and provide data that enables owners and management to improve quality, productivity and reduce cost, while also providing work instructions and data that empower the welder. This creates better-managed operations and furthers competitiveness in this global economy.
problems so they can become more productive and profitable. That’s how we earn their business and that’s been the DNA from the start of this company. We don’t develop technology for technology’s sake – we develop products utilizing technology to address customer challenges. That relationship grows trust and fuels our focus at Miller.
Q: What advice can you give businesses on a mission to embrace technology? A: Every business plan should start with the customer in mind and then work back to what the technologies can be. Have a trusted relationship with the customer and understand their needs, and then look at how to add value with the right technology. Niels Miller started Miller because he saw a way to create low-cost welding technology for a market that was underserved. We still have that same desire to understand customers, add value, and engage with them with technology and products.
Q: Why did you choose to set up or expand your business/organization in the Fox Cities? A: This has been our home base since 1929. While Miller has a global reach, we like being centrally located in the heart of much of our customer base in the manufacturing-heavy Midwest. Northeast Wisconsin has a great deal to offer in the arts, athletics, higher education and the outdoors. It’s a hub of activity with good people and a nice community.
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
5
Fox Valley Technical College Chris Jossart, M.A., Manager of Media Relations, Fox Valley Technical College
FVTC’s digital cadaver table brings the study of anatomy to high-tech proportions.
Fox Valley Technical College 3D printer in action.
Q: What are your best-kept tech secrets (that you can share)? A: First, Fox Valley Tech protrudes technology at every turn in nearly
for example, is a virtual hospital where robotic-like simulators breathe, blink and utter symptoms of pain like a real person. There’s even a simulator that gives birth. It’s where both health care students and professional caregivers train to keep their skills aligned with changing regulations and best practices. We even have a digital cadaver table!
all of its training centers. We hear all the time, “I had no idea the Tech has so much technology.” Promoting our technology until we’re blue in the face is nothing in comparison to getting people in the doors to see what wows them first. Consultants and trainees from around the country notice our world-class technology in one visit. It’s always amazing to hear that constituents in our own backyard take years to realize the amount of innovation that exists here. Second, FVTC produces high job placement rates and trains tens of thousands of incumbent workers every year, locally and internationally, and those outcomes at the very least draw the attention of diverse industries. Those results lead to new collaborations. What often follows next is the inception of exemplary partnerships like: • ATECH at Appleton West High School for advanced manufacturing training in younger learners • Service Motor Company for agriculture training on the latest equipment • Miller Electric Co., Walker Forger, Precision Thermal Processing, and other companies for welding and metal fabrication innovations and automations • J. J. Keller, Bergstrom Automotive and General Motors for transposition labs, general industry support and donated vehicles • Plexus, Kelly Services and the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board for training 70 individuals in our Soldering Lab to arm Plexus with skilled labor for electronics-related objectives • The community for supporting the passage of a 2012 public referendum to build the nation’s premier Public Safety Training Center at ATW—comprised of 75 acres of technology that integrates training for police officers, firefighters, paramedics and more. Third, FVTC’s classrooms, by and large, are really high-tech learning labs. The three-story Health Simulation Technology Center, 6
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Q: How have these advancements improved the way your organization operates? A: Technology partnerships that augment customized curriculum are a cost-effective way to respond to workforce needs. Fox Valley Tech enhances its mission through technology by way of better preparing students as professional, skilled workers for industry. Technology paves the way for producing such talent.
Q: Why did you choose to set up your business/ organization in the Fox Cities? A: The origins of Fox Valley Technical College date back to nearly 105 years ago in Appleton and surrounding communities. The Fox Cities’ longstanding history of industry and commerce, surrounded by a complementary array of waterways, roads and railways, remains a geographical gem to do business.
Q: What advice can you give businesses on a mission to embrace technology? A: Include the faces behind your technology, for both internal and external audiences, in all communications and marketing initiatives. Technology is cultural. FVTC recently hosted its first Technology Day—an event that showcased 32 exhibits. It drew more than 200 people from both the public and inside the college. Technology is relational collateral; leverage its purposes and related results from its uses to build relationships. No networking event should be without technology as a conversational piece.
C3 Corporation Mark Desjardin, Marketing, C3 Corporation C3 is technology for manufacturing. They are also an engineering firm involved in industries such as food and beverage, foam – urethane, finished metal products, packaging, material handling, and ergonomics.
Q: What are some of the tech tools you use to streamline your business? A: Eric Ries wrote a book called, The Lean Startup. It’s all about taking an idea, listening to the customers and adapting to their demands quickly and effectively within the company. It’s a fantastic method, not just for a startup. His formula is simple: • Ideas • Build • Product • Measure • Data • Learn At C3 Corporation, we build machinery, integrate manufacturing lines and provide data collection services to a variety of industries. We engineer systems that produce a better product for consumers. The lean startup methodology works from machine design to product launch. Measuring against the customer’s feedback will determine the product life cycle and pivots needed for the success of the product or project. There are certain tools utilized for refinement, project management and focus. Internally, we use an OIL (Open Issues Log) list. The OIL list allows communication regarding the project from responsibility assignments and the level of priority, along with completion goals and notes. This was achieved via a simple Excel® sheet. Additionally, an important aspect C3 developed is our own machine efficiency program called PlantQue™, installed on every machine we build. This proprietary key performance indicator measures the machine, the product and identifies bottlenecks, providing manufacturing facilities valuable reporting.
Q: How have these tools improved your organization or created success for your customer(s)? A: Working with these tools allows C3 to move quickly and make adjustments within customer demands. In 2013, we developed a mattress compression roll pack machine. The CWU2000 laterally compresses a foam mattress and rolls it up without damage; allowing a king size mattress to fit in the front seat of a twodoor Honda Civic. It’s impressive! We presented the CWU2000 at the 2014 International Sleep Products Show. Patent applications made this the first opportunity to show the product to a customer. Feedback was invaluable! C3 shrunk the footprint, increased its capabilities, relaunched the machine upon our return to Appleton and sold four units right after these changes. This is just the beginning for this product, and the ecommerce bedding market response is very favorable.
Q: Why did you choose to set up or expand your business/ organization in the Fox Cities? A: Appleton, Wis. is the paper capital of the United States, and at one time was
A king size foam mattress, laterally compressed and rolled up.
integration firms and a number of engineering providers; perfect for an equipment manufacturing company like C3. We’ve expanded technology obtained through paper and brought it to new industries like foam and urethane products. Maintaining and evolving established Fox Valley relationships has become invaluable to our success.
Q: What advice and/or resources can you share with someone on a mission to adopt tech tools or innovative principals? A: Technology and innovation isn’t just about software or a physical product to move you faster. It may be a methodology or system you implement. No one makes money unless something sells. Stay connected to your customer. Measure the feedback closest to real-time. We are a successful, technology-driven company providing an outstanding customer experience by building machines, integrating manufacturing lines, and using data collection and products in engineered systems.
the paper capital of the world. C3 was chosen by the paper industry and not so much by geography. The paper industry’s involvement in the Fox Cities makes for an area rich in manufacturing companies, machine builders, fabricators,
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
7
JP Graphics Rod Stoffel, President, JP Graphics
Q: What are some of your latest technologies/products that are new to your company/industry?
Q: Why did you choose to set up or expand your business/ organization in the Fox Cities?
$2 million press, bringing our customers the latest technology in the print industry and added $400,000 in finishing equipment that increased our capacity by 50%. In addition to that, we upgraded our MIS system, which increases efficiencies in project estimating, job tickets and prepress.
Cities. JP Graphics has been a part of the Fox Cities for 46 years! I chose to expand JP Graphics as it was the best thing for the company. If you are sitting idle, you are dying on the vine. Investing in the latest technology best positioned JP Graphics for long-term success.
Q: How have these advancements improved your organization or created success for your customer(s)?
Q: What advice can you give businesses on a mission to embrace technology?
A: JP Graphics recently invested in a new
A: Our investments have led to faster
turn times, improved quality and increased capacity.
A: I am a life long resident of the Fox
A: Technology is a necessary evil; embrace it. Although it’s expensive to continually invest in your business, in today’s world things move so fast that if you fall too far behind it can be difficult to catch up.
Committed to building vibrant communities since 1909
NEENAH WI 8
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
MACHESNEY PARK IL
VALPARAISO IN
MCMGRP.COM
Calling all Non-Profits!
TM
May 21– May 22 9am to 9am Now accepting applications for the 2nd annual 2GETHER•4GOOD™ marketing marathon. The Coalesce Marketing & Design team will work non-stop to create marketing materials and creative deliverables for one or more pre-selected non-profit organizations.
Apply online at www.2gether4good.com/apply. Applications are due Friday, May 1.
For more information, visit www.2gether4good.com or call us at (920) 380-4444.
Marketing | Design | Packaging | Public Relations | Web & Interactive | 920.380.4444 | www.coalescemarketing.com
economic development Economic Development Defined:
Location Quotient A location quotient (LQ) is a useful measure used by economic developers and others to assess the strength of a particular industry sector within a specific geographic area. When understood appropriately, it can be used as an indicator, providing information that can be helpful in developing economic and community development strategies to either build on strengths or to address weaknesses. As a snapshot in time, a location quotient provides a quick overview of how well matched an area appears to be for certain business activities. Very simply, a location quotient serves as an index that measures the prevalence of a specific economic activity or sector when compared to a national average. In all cases,
that national average is quantified as 1.00. If we examine the Fox Cities, we find that the location quotient for manufacturing is 2.50. This means that there is two and onehalf times the amount of manufacturing activity occurring within the Fox Cities than the national average. The immediate conclusion drawn is that the Fox Cities region is clearly a powerhouse for manufacturing— especially when compared to the rest of the country. Conversely, the location quotient for professional, scientific and technical services sector in the Fox Cities is 0.49—meaning that we have approximately half the amount of that activity occurring here when compared to the national average. This information could
serve as the impetus to learn why the Fox Cities lags behind the national average in that sector, and to structure a strategy to develop a more attractive business environment that could be used to sustain a greater presence of that business group.
Larry Burkhardt, CEcD
Executive Vice President Fox Cities Regional Partnership
Fox Cities Location Quotients by Industry Health Care and Social Assistance
0.83
Public Administration
0.9
0
0.5
0.49 0.42
Utilities
Management of Companies and Enterprises
1.24
Construction
1.18
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services
1.0
Information
10
Finance and Insurance
0.5
Wholesale Trade
2.5
Manufacturing
1.0
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
1.69 0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
Economic Development:
Progress at the Local Level The Village of Little Chute In a recently adopted strategic plan, Village of Little Chute officials indicate that Economic Development is one of four strategic areas of focus from 2015 through 2019. In particular, Little Chute will focus on developing an all-encompassing strategy that takes into account commercial, manufacturing and residential development while leveraging the resources of the Highway 41/441 corridor. Other action items resulting from the adopted strategic plan will entail upgrading the Village’s Revolving Loan Funds, leveraging the Little Chute Windmill for increased commercial opportunities in the Central Business District, and enacting long-range plans for new industrial and commercial opportunities that also incorporate the Fox River. Little Chute has experienced moderate growth in commercial, manufacturing and residential sectors over the past year and looks forward to an active 2015 and 2016. Village leaders are committed to responsible development while working with developers on projects that bring long-term value to the community. The village currently has active Tax Increment Districts along the Highway 41 corridor, along with a modest amount of shovel-ready properties available. For more information, visit www.littlechutewi.org or call at (920) 788-7830. The City of Kaukauna Starting in spring of 2015, the renovation of the former Eagle Mill in downtown Kaukauna will house the corporate headquarters of Expera Specialty Solutions. Expera operates five paper mills in two states and has shown considerable growth in the specialty paper industry. The Kaukauna facility alone employs more than 500 workers, and the renovation will provide office space for an additional 140 employees. The 88,000-square-foot mill, originally built in 1872, will also house a new 22,000-squarefoot public library, and a fine dining/catering establishment. In addition to thriving paper industry, Kaukauna has been called the “Machine Shop Capital of the Midwest” with a number
of expansions in the fabrication, piping and manufacturing sectors. Kaukauna’s Industrial Park Network is ideally situated on Highway 41 (soon-to-be Interstate 41) between the Appleton/Oshkosh and Green Bay labor markets with a population of more than 500,000 people. This location is further enhanced by the city’s low electrical rates, shovel-ready lots and easy highway access. For more information, visit www. cityofkaukauna.com or call (920) 766-6315. City of Menasha Great things are happening in City of Menasha as people from around the area are increasingly recognizing the unique opportunities that exist here and acting on them. Last year, the city adopted a new brand position statement recognizing that throughout its history the water has played a significant role in the allure of Menasha. Today, the waterfront continues to be Menasha’s most unique asset, and the centerpiece of attraction and retention efforts for businesses and residents alike. Menasha is going through dramatic growth throughout the community and in all sectors. The attraction of Simply Incredible Foods to the city’s former power plant brings new jobs while continuing Menasha’s industrial heritage. Downtown continues its revival with a new branch of Community First Credit Union in a new office tower, the opening of Lake House Supper Club and Lemon Loves Lime, and the short-term home of Menasha Corporation’s headquarters. After a 10-year hiatus, the Third Street Market now offers more than just groceries and has become the centerpiece of the neighborhood. Menasha takes pride in the development of its youth as well. A new Boys and Girls Club and a multi-million dollar renovation of the city’s classic 1930’s High School will ensure Menasha youth have the educational and leadership opportunities necessary to excel in adulthood. You too can live the waterfront lifestyle enjoyed in Menasha, and there are still a few choice spots downtown and on the Fox River’s south shore to locate your business. For more information, visit www. ci.menasha.wi.us or (920) 967-3600.
“The Fox Cities Regional Partnership allows the Village of Little Chute to engage economic developers on a national stage, while also focusing on retention and workforce solutions for our current business partners.” – Michael R. Vanden Berg, Village of Little Chute President
“The Fox Cities Regional Partnership has assisted in a number of our expansions/ attractions, and had been instrumental in diversifying the city’s base economy by working with several food processors now located in the Fox Valley.” – Bob Jakel, City of Kaukauna Director of Planning and Community Development
“The Fox Cities Regional Partnership assisted the City of Menasha by providing an evaluation of the economic impact of repurposing the former Menasha Steam Plant into a food processing facility. The partnership promptly provided projections of the direct and indirect impacts of the project on job and income generation.” – Greg Keil, City of Menasha Community Development Director
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
11
news Meet Our New Chamber Team Members The Fox Cities Chamber is thrilled to welcome our newest team members. If you see them out in the community, stop and say hello!
YOUR ENERGY FUTURE B E G I N S W I T H P L A N N I N G T O D AY At American Transmission Co., we’re hard at work keeping the lights on and planning today for how the electric grid of our future will deliver reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible power. Read more at www.atcllc.com/PowerForward 12
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Leah Schapiro, Member Engagement Director Leah coordinates the Chamber ambassadors, business development programs, and is working to ensure that your experience as a Chamber member and the value you get from your membership exceeds your expectations. Leah’s passion for small business success stems from experience; she and her husband Jeremy are the owners of Fleet Feet Sports. Leah’s previous experience is at the United Way in Community Building and the American Red Cross in Strategic Planning and Program Evaluation. Prior to the career shift to Fleet Feet Sports, she spent years in Program Development and Organizational Development. Leah is a seven-time marathon finisher and three-time Ironman, but the real lights of her life are her and Jeremy’s two children, Lucy and Dylan. Leah can be reached by email at lschapiro@foxcitieschamber.com or by phone at (920) 734-7101.
“ Fox Valley Tech combined academics with hands-on problem solving. The instructors did an outstanding job.� Barry Degler Electrical Foreman Waupaca Foundry Laura Gruender, Member Engagement Strategist Laura works to ensure our area businesses know what resources and tools the Chamber offers to help grow their business and how to use those tools. As the co-founder (along with her husband) of the Snowdrop FoundationWisconsin chapter, Laura is passionate about community involvement and strives to make a difference in the lives of others. Along with the volunteer work she does for her foundation, which raises funds for research to eliminate childhood cancer, Laura volunteers at the Epilepsy FoundationHeart of WI Chapter, at local benefits for pediatric cancer patients and at Tri-County Community Dental Clinic to provide hygiene care for their patients who receive state assistance for dental care. Laura can be reached by email at llgruender@foxcitieschamber.com or by phone at (920) 734-7101. Amy Flanders, Director of Events and Sponsorships Amy is responsible for the planning and execution of Chamber events, including Octoberfest, and event sponsorships. Bringing more than 15 years of nonprofit management experience to her new role at the Chamber, Amy has held several leadership positions with responsibility for fundraising, marketing and branding, public relations, and planning. Amy serves as a board member of newVoices (f.k.a. White Heron Choral) and is an active member in the Appleton Rotary Club. Before moving to the area from Milwaukee, she was also initiating a nonprofit special interest group designed to meet the needs of nonprofit marketing professionals. Amy can be reached by email at aflanders@foxcitieschamber.com or by phone at (920) 734-7101.
Services for Business & Industry
Customized. Innovative. Solutions. Contact our industry experts today! www.fvtc.edu/BIS !PPLETON s /SHKOSH
Success Your community helped you achieve it. Want to give back? We can show you how. 920-830-1290 cffoxvalley.org info@cffoxalley.org
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
13
talent
Collaborative Outcomes Today’s cutting-edge Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are preparing our youth and for a wide range of high-wage, high-skill and high-demand careers. These high school programs are using innovative methods to integrate a rigorous and relevant curriculum with hands-on workplace experiences—like job shadows, internships, business tours and more—thereby preparing high school students for college or a career. By engaging students in work-based learning opportunities now, you’re filling your talent pipeline, so when it’s time to hire, the perfect candidate is already at your door. We asked area school districts, “How does your CTE program enhance business/education partnerships with opportunities to reinforce skills they learn in the classroom in a work-setting, and teach the necessary employability skills and work behaviors to be effective in the workforce?”
Little Chute School District Our work-based learning program is extremely comprehensive, and is only made possible because of our innovative classroom structure, which allows students to essentially pick up and leave for a career experience knowing that they can jump right back into their curriculum when they get back to school. During their first year, both our Health Science and Engineering and Manufacturing students participate in a comprehensive program of career exploration. Our first year Engineering and Manufacturing students are exposed to a large number of technical fields through participating in 10-12 industry tours at places like Amerequip Corporation, Bemis, Plexus, Miller Electric and many others. Our first year students are getting a constant, consistent message about the employability skills and work behaviors required to be successful in a 21st century workplace by regularly being immersed in actual workplaces. All of our second year students participate in a yearlong Lean Workshop in which they learn principles of continuous improvement, waste identification and process improvement from our expert industry partners. Students then job shadow in career areas they found intriguing during their first year exploration, as well as participate in a variety of projects with our partners. Our Health Science students have received dementia training from Parkside Care Center and completed
First Year Engineering and Manufacturing students on a grocery store tour with Bemis employees. 14
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
a Dementia Box project for Parkside. They have also participated in an extensive Lean related job-shadowing project with St. Paul Elder Services. Our goal is to have students engaged in a Youth Apprenticeship or volunteer opportunity as they complete their high school career. We currently have a group of six students volunteering regularly at St. Elizabeth hospital and a group of seven (and growing) students working in the Youth Apprenticeship program.
Appleton Career Academy Our students are currently working with a team from Leadership Fox Cities on promotional materials for Valley Packaging Industries. Our goal is to get all of our seniors into the community for an internship or senior experience as part of their senior capstone project. We currently have senior interns at McKinley Elementary, Ferber Elementary, VOITH, Winagamie Golf Course, Willems Marketing, Motion Works Physical Therapy and Lawrence University.
Appleton Area School District – Culinary Program Our district has worked tirelessly to foster and nurture strong community connections, and we are truly blessed to have so many local professionals willing and excited to donate their time and talents to our students. Our program takes advantage of the Your Future Fox Cities program, an exemplary tool giving students opportunities to explore all career clusters. The local businesses that work with the program offer classroom presentations, student job shadows and mentoring from a professional in the field of their interest. The Advanced Foods class collaborated with Chef Joe of the Grand Meridian. He mentored students as the class prepared for a regional culinary competition. Students experienced the big screen when they presented a cooking segment on Fox 11’s Good Day Wisconsin. Presenting on live TV was an exciting and challenging experience they will never forget.
Appleton West Culinary program students preparing for their Good Day Wisconsin segment with Pauleen Le.
Neenah Joint School District — Family and Consumer Education Program Our program incorporates community and work-based learning in a variety of ways. We partner with local colleges and universities that allow duel credit and advanced standing opportunities. We also partner with local health care organizations that provide field trip opportunities and an ample supply of guest speakers on a regular basis. Certified Nursing Assistant students are required to perform clinical hours in a variety of community health care facilities. Students in our culinary classes are exposed to career opportunities in the food service industry, and may receive graduation credit for their participation in the work-based program, which is available to all juniors and seniors.
Youth Apprenticeship student (Neenah High School’s first CNA program participant) working at Alten Haus.
Getting connected is easy. Go to www.yourfuturefoxcities.com and create a business profile, and decide which opportunities are right for your business. Students and educators are able to explore these opportunities and connect with you.
Kimberly High School student working in the on-campus credit union.
Kimberly High School — Business & Marketing program This program provides students with a variety of work-based learning experiences through the Workplace Co-op, a program of approximately 30 students working alongside their cooperating employers who mentor them in preparation of their futures. We work closely with area employers to provide them with classroom experiences that incorporate industry experiences. For example, Capital Credit Union comes to the classroom and works with students to help them make practical use of money management strategies. In addition, our students have the opportunity to participate in a regional Innovation Academy where they attend class every other Tuesday night on-site with employers that are instructing them. Skyline Technologies has been a great partner in helping develop our future I.T. workforce. As a result of the program, students can also participate in job shadows and potentially in related youth apprenticeship positions. Our students leave with an understanding of what it means to truly be college and career ready.
It doesn’t have to be a foreign language.
Successful Journeys Need a Guide™ 920.427.5077 www.guidentbusiness.com
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
15
advocacy
the
Burden of
Boiler Control
Wisconsin’s paper industry has a long and successful history of building the middle class in many Wisconsin communities, providing family-supporting jobs that generated tuition for many first generation families to send their children to college. The industry then provided professional jobs in engineering, finance, accounting, procurement, logistics and more for graduates to return to in their home communities—a great system. Many believe the paper industry is obsolete with the advent of the internet. Nothing could be further from the truth. Although the printing and writing segment of the industry is under pressure, more than 75 percent of companies manufacturing paper in Wisconsin produce tissue, toweling, containerboard, boxboard and flexible packaging, and these sectors are growing. If the product segments are growing, why aren’t companies hiring more people? Much can be traced to excessive federal regulation that is adding to the cost of doing business. With international competition making it difficult to pass the costs through to customers, the regulatory costs must be countered by lowering other fixed costs: trimming benefits, wage growth or headcount. For example, one new regulation known as Boiler MACT (Maximum Achievable Control Technology) requires industrial, commercial and institutional boilers across 16
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Maximum Achievable
Technology the nation to meet new emission limits and work practice standards. Boiler MACT is not a new law by elected officials, but rather a new rule from a non-elected regulatory agency. Although our communities will see no material change, the capital required for Wisconsin’s paper industry to comply is estimated at $470 Million (source: Wisconsin Paper Council). For many mills, this regulation will cost several years of discretionary capital investment, reducing the dollars available for facility and equipment improvements. Additionally, annual operating costs of the required equipment or fuel charges are estimated to equate to five-to-ten percent of payroll. Imagine the impact on the workforce to counter these increases. It is our responsibility to educate and inform our legislators. While the impact of regulation already experienced is difficult to reverse, we can try to prevent future burden. We can make our voices heard to our legislators and community leaders. We need their support and influence at both the state level and in Washington to find a balanced approach to achieving positive regulatory standards while supporting economic growth. While the federal government has created challenging conditions for manufacturing, the state of Wisconsin has been working hard to make this state manufacturing-friendly. Elected officials in Wisconsin recognize that
in order to continue to have a strong middle class manufacturing needs support. Manufacturing has had a profound impact in our communities, from the small machine shop down the road to the local coffee shop. With continued support from lawmakers, Wisconsin’s paper industry can continue its long history of supporting the state and our communities. Expera takes pride in being an anchor in the communities we serve, which include Kaukauna, De Pere, Mosinee and Rhinelander. Our facilities are more than 100 years old, and we plan to stay strong for the next 100 years! Addie Teeters is the Marketing Communications & Media Relations Manager for Expera Specialty Solutions and is also responsible for government relations. Expera Specialty Solutions is Wisconsin’s largest paper company and North America’s largest specialty paper manufacturer.
Addie Teeters, Expera Specialty Solutions, Marketing Communication & Media Relations Manager
Make 160 new contacts in 90 minutes.
8:00 am - 9:30 am
SPEED NETWORKING Win a trip to Riu Palace Peninsula, Mexico
8:00 am - 9:30 am
BUSINESS EXPO
Now accepting nominations: applications.foxcitieschamber.com
11:30 am - 1:30 pm
AWARDS June 10 • 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Radisson Paper Valley Hotel Registration and information: foxcitieschamber.com • 920.734.7101
pulse
Ask a YP: Future 15 winners: What digital resources do you depend on most? A: Calendar and e-mail phone apps, Twitter Keegan O’Brien
Marketing Teacher and DECA Adviser Appleton Area School District
A: LinkedIn, Twitter
Mary Weimer
Jim Zuleger
Branch Director Boys & Girls Club of the Fox Valley
A: Twitter
A: Facebook
Abe Weber
Nathan Litt
Airport Director Outagamie County Regional Airport
A: Google Calendar, Evernote Cal Kanowitz
Associate Pastor of Community Care and Adult Ministry Appleton Alliance Church
Project Coordinator Willems Marketing & Events
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Peer-Run Respite Director NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Fox Valley
Trina Doxtator
Owner/Operator Tusler Law
Jennifer Popek
Associate Manufacturing Engineer Pierce Manufacturing
Karen Iverson Riggers
Ron Tusler
James Fenlon
Rob Peterson
A: Facebook, LinkedIn
A: Google Calendar
A: The Post-Crescent, BBC, Distiller
A: Smartsheet
Vice President, Investments Robert W. Baird & Co
A: Facebook
A: The Post-Crescent, The Wheeler Report Village Administrator Little Chute
18
A: Facebook
Financial Representative Modern Woodmen of America
A: Microsoft OneNote Kara Homan Planning Director Outagamie County
Development Manager St. Elizabeth Hospital Foundation
A: Facebook, The Skimm Alison Mayer
External Communications Manager Affinity Health System
A: my iPhone, The Post-Crescent Joda Wunderlich
Event Coordinator and Assistant General Manager Supple Restaurant Group and Fratellos Waterfront Restaurant
CONGRATULATIONS
future 15 class of 2015 2015 YP of the Year Robyn Gruner Director of External Affairs AT&T Wisconsin
CONTRIBUTING
SPONSOR
TECHNOLOGY
SPONSOR
IN-KIND
SPONSORS
B. Brad Creations
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
19
You can narrow your focus because we broaden ours. Wish you could do more of what you love about running your business? And less of what you loathe? Simply put Schenck on the job and you can. From accounting to technology consulting to retirement plan administration—and everything in between—Schenck’s experienced problem solvers take on your challenges, so you can get back to business. To learn more about our full line of solutions and how we can help, visit us online at schencksc.com or call 920-731-8111.
Accounting & Auditing • Business Consulting • Cost Segregation Services • Estate & Trust Planning • Financial Management • Human Resources Consulting • International Business Solutions • Medical Billing • Mergers & Acquisitions • Payroll Services • Property Tax Consulting • Retirement Plan Administration • Risk Services • Succession Planning • Tax Planning & Compliance • Technology Solutions • Valuations & Litigation Support Industry Specializations: Agriculture & Dairy • Dealerships • Financial Institutions • Government • Health Care • Manufacturing & Distribution • Not-for-Profit Organizations • Real Estate & Construction • Retail • Trucking & Logistics
200 E. Washington Street • Appleton • 800-236-2246 • schencksc.com © Schenck sc 2015 3.15
Our people
KNOW BUSINESS. That’s why they’re our people. There’s a difference between bankers who “do” business banking and bankers who know business. At First Business we’ve built a team whose expertise extends to specific types of businesses and the unique challenges they face. We know why businesses succeed — and what makes them fail. What we’ve learned working with hundreds of successful businesses can help your business thrive. Visit firstbusiness. com or call us today. Fox Cities: 920-734-1800 Oshkosh: 920-231-2400 Green Bay: 920-435-5442 Manitowoc/Sheboygan: 920-450-0454 (L-R) Mickey Noone, CTP, President - Northeast Region Tim McKeag, CTP, Vice President Jerimiah Janssen, Assistant Vice President First Business Bank
BUSINESS BANKING
20
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
|
PRIVATE WEALTH
Member FDIC
|
SPECIALTY FINANCE
Did we cat ch yo ur e? ey
3001 East Venture Drive Appleton, WI 54911 Phone 920-733-4483 Fax 920-733-1700 www.jpinc.com
Printing ... as Promised Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
21
new member welcome
| December 2014 — February 2015
Alta Resources Corp. Kimberly Peterson 120 N. Commercial Street Neenah, WI 54956-3006 (920) 751-5800 www.altaresources.com BUSINESS SERVICES
Custom Marine Mary Gago 1315 County Road G Neenah, WI 54956-9214 (920) 720-4225 www.custommarine.com MANUFACTURER
Inspired Training Institute, Inc. Terri Jacke 1631 Shallow Creek Court Green Bay, WI 54313-3963 (920) 217-9226 www.inspiredtraining.net TRAINING AND CONSULTING
Anakh Leadership Coaching LLC Cindy Nelson-Singh (920) 372-3990 www.aleadershipcoach.com CONSULTANT
Extreme Audio Jack Zuleger 211 N. Lynndale Drive, Suite 4 Appleton, WI 54914-3072 (920) 574-2112 www.extremeaudio.com ELECTRONICS
Keller Williams Realty Dina Mitchell 4311 N. Lightning Drive Appleton, WI 54913-6736 (920) 740-1242 www.kwgreenbay.com REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL
F.C. Dadson Lori Reynolds N1043 Craftsmen Drive, Suite 2 Greenville, WI 54942-8082 (920) 757-1486 www.fcdadson.com MANUFACTURER - CUSTOM WOODWORK
Kyle M. Lange Agency American Family Insurance Kyle Lange 851 Racine Street, Suite A Menasha, WI 54952-2364 (920) 725-2002 www.kylelangeagency.com INSURANCE
Final Touch Interiors, LLC Jaclynn Verkuilen P.O. Box 803 Appleton, WI 54912-0803 (920) 858-8375 www.finaltouchinteriors.net WINDOW COVERINGS
Marco, Inc. Kysia Mortensen 3000 N. Pointer Road Appleton, WI 54911-8600 (920) 257-2021 www.marconet.com IT SERVICE & SALES
Forward Marketing Emmie Rugotska 1835 E. Edgewood Drive, Suite 105 #205 Appleton, WI 54913-9325 (920) 470-7438 www.forward-marketing.net INTERNET MARKETING
Plexus Corp. Susan Hanson One Plexus Way Neenah, WI 54957-0156 (920) 722-3451 www.plexus.com ELECTRONICS - MANUFACTURING
Ho-Chunk Gaming Nekoosa Lynette LeGarde 949 County Road G Nekoosa, WI 54457-9773 (715) 886-4560 www.Ho-ChunkGaming.com CASINO
RanderCom, Inc. Robert Randerson 1358 W. Prospect Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-5056 (920) 731-3944 www.randercom.com TELEPHONE & DATA COMMUNICATIONS
Anderson Pens Brian Anderson 10 E. College Avenue, Suite 112A Appleton, WI 54911-5757 (920) 997-8220 www.andersonpens.com RETAIL SALES Arbonne Nicole Korn 3330 E. Paris Way, Apt. 12 Appleton, WI 54913-8355 (920) 410-0636 www.arbonne.com HEALTH & WELLNESS Camp Away From Home Dennis Kohlmeier 3300 N. Mayflower Road Appleton, WI 54913-8846 (262) 623-2720 www.campawayfromhome.com RECREATIONAL VEHICLES CBS-Global, LLC / Creative Business Services Michael Schwantes 319 N. Broadway Green Bay, WI 54303-2701 (920) 432-1166 www.cbs-global.com REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL Center For Diagnostic Imaging Deborah Kestell 201 W. Northland Avenue, Suite A Appleton, WI 54911-2039 (920) 996-0724 www.mycdi.com/fox valley HEALTH CARE Cerebral Palsy, Inc. Claire Williams 1113 W. Kennedy Avenue Kimberly, WI 54136-2212 (920) 337-1122 www.cp-center.org NON-PROFIT AGENCY
22
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Home Helpers / Direct Link Denis Ashauer P.O. Box 7752 Appleton, WI 54912-7752 (920) 757-9610 www.homehelperswi.com HOME CARE Innovative Services, Inc. Sarah Wylie 445 S. Madison Street Green Bay, WI 54301-4101 (920) 830-2995 www.myinnovativeservices.com NON-PROFIT AGENCY
Sandler Training, PSTA Eric Thompson 1985 W. Packard Street Appleton, WI 54914-3171 (920) 819-4186 www.psta.sandler.com BUSINESS CONSULTANT SCM Marketing Solutions Katie Phalin 717 Eisenhower Drive, Suite D Kimberly, WI 54136-2155 (920) 268-4596 www.scmmarkets.com INTERNET MARKETING
Sears Outlet Store Chris Renner 4635 W. College Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-3915 (920) 733-1526 www.shos.com APPLIANCES & FURNITURE
TechNosis Inc. Kyle Restoule 400 S. Linwood Avenue Appleton, WI 54914-4970 (920) 243-3518 www.technosis.biz IT SERVICE & SALES
U.S. Cellular Allison Hageman W3198 County Road KK Appleton, WI 54915-9466 (920) 420-0387 www.uscellular.com CELLULAR PHONES
Skyline Technologies Carrie Rhoads 100 W. Lawrence Street Appleton, WI 54911-5773 (920) 257-2100 www.skylinetechnologies.com TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANTS
Titus Talent Strategies Ben Murphy 120 N. Morrison Street Appleton, WI 54911-5472 (920) 344-9444 www.titus-us.com HUMAN RESOURCE CONSULTANTS
Westbury Bank Roy Kordus 200 S. Main Street West Bend, WI 53095-3344 (262) 334-5563 www.westburybankwi.com BANKS
Stadtmueller & Associates Renee Torzala 433 North Main Street Kimberly, WI 54136-1440 (920) 858-7725 www.stadtmuellerandassociates.com REAL ESTATE - DEVELOPERS
U.S. Cellular Ashlei Schade 117 N. Mall Drive Appleton, WI 54913-8531 (920) 738-7787 www.uscc.com CELLULAR PHONES
World of Beer Darold Doris 149 N. Mall Drive Appleton, WI 54913-8531 (920) 277-7547 www.worldofbeer.com/appleton TAVERN
Stellpflug Law, S.C. Robyn Kindle 100 W. Lawrence Street, Suite 112 Appleton, WI 54911-5734 (920) 336-5766 www.stellpfluglaw.com ATTORNEYS
U.S. Cellular Eric Nelson 4301 W. Wisconsin Avenue Appleton, WI 54913-8605 (920) 470-5997 www.uscellular.com CELLULAR PHONES
diamond member honor roll March, April and May 2015
The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce relies on its members to continue its work in promoting business interests in the Fox Valley region. Without these committed members, the Chamber would not be able to provide the high quality services it is known for. Diamond Members are companies that have supported the Chamber and community for more than 40 years. We’d like to express our gratitude to the following Diamond Member businesses for their membership and support to the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Albany International Amusement Devices, Inc. Appleton Trophy & Engraving, Inc. ARAMARK Uniform Services, Inc. AstenJohnson AT&T AZCO INC. Badger Plug Company BMO Harris Bank The Boldt Company Calnin & Goss, Inc. Christensen & Wisnet, Inc. Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group, Inc. Crane Engineering Sales, Inc. Eagle Supply & Plastics, Inc. Fox Valley Truck Service, Inc. Grant Thornton LLP
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Harris & Associates, Inc. Jerry’s Pages & Pipes Korth Financial Services Mechanical Contractors Association of North Central WI Memorial Florists & Greenhouses, Inc. Miron Construction Co., Inc. OMNNI Associates Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. Radiology Associates of Appleton, S.C. Schroeder Moving Systems, Inc. The Post-Crescent Thiel Insurance Group, LLC United Way Fox Cities, Inc. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Willis of Wisconsin, Inc. Ziegler Investment Services Group
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
23
community spotlight
Project SEARCH: Preparing
Students with
Disabilities for the Workforce
By Matt Busch, Valley Packaging
While working as the Director of the Emergency Department at
one hour each morning in the classroom to prepare for the day and
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center in 1996, Erin Riehle
then five hours at their internship sites. They return to the classroom
became frustrated with the high turnover rate in entry-level jobs.
for a final hour in order to review the day and receive instruction on
Erin wondered if people with disabilities could fill these jobs. This
job-seeking and job-keeping skills.
idea of filling a handful of jobs evolved into Project SEARCH — a
For new internships, an instructor and job coach provides
comprehensive work-training program with more than 300 locations
support until the intern is secure in his or her duties. At that point,
worldwide.
a St. Elizabeth staff member takes over as the day-to-day contact
The Project SEARCH High School Transition Program provides work experiences to help youth with significant disabilities make successful transitions from school to adult life.
and mentor. This cycle occurs during each of the three 10-week long internships completed during the school year. Currently, there are 18 departments at St. Elizabeth Hospital available to host interns. While the opportunities vary, all begin at
It is a business-led, one-year school-to-work program that takes place entirely at the workplace. This total workplace immersion facilitates a seamless combination of classroom instruction, career exploration and hands-on training through worksite rotations.
Locally, Project SEARCH at St. Elizabeth Hospital began in the 2013-2014 school year. It involved the collaborative efforts of St. Elizabeth Hospital, Appleton Area School District, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Care and Valley Packaging Industries. Thus far, the program has been very successful, and all of the 2014 graduates are competitively employed in the community. What makes this level of success achievable is the program structure. Project SEARCH occurs in the last year of high school. The program is total-immersion, and participants are involved in real-life business operations. At St. Elizabeth, Project SEARCH interns spend 24
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Project Search student working at St. Elizabeth Hospital.
the intern’s skill level and progressively increase. To monitor intern progress and keep an eye on eventual competitive employment, interns meet monthly with their instructors, parents/guardians and community agency staff. At the conclusion of each internship, a 360-degree performance review is completed to note progress, identify strengths and determine areas for improvement.
Intern development and growth at St. Elizabeth Hospital’s Project SEARCH has been phenomenal, and graduates leave ready to work. Project SEARCH produces graduates with workplace knowledge, many who have greater than entry-level skills. This is good for interns, their families, businesses and the community. From its inception, Project SEARCH has involved business leadership. St. Elizabeth Hospital’s Project SEARCH has a Business Advisory Council that meets monthly to advise the program and share information with the business community. To learn more about Project SEARCH, request information about becoming a Business Advisory Council member or inquire about interns as future employees, contact Matt Busch, Placement Team Manager at Valley Packaging Industries, at (920) 749-5859.
Project Search student working at St. Elizabeth Hospital.
May 20 • 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Fox Cities Stadium • Appleton www.CultivateEvent.com
Cultivate: Community will captivate, inspire and connect Entrepreneurs •Non-Profits • Business Leaders • Up-And-Comers Cultivate is a program of
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
25
out and about
A Very Special Place ribbon cutting.
Leadership Fox Cities Youth meet the Appleton Police Department’s canine.
Learning networking tips at the Chamber’s Break the Ice program.
The Economic Outlook Breakfast brought our community’s best and brightest!
A packed house listens to Senator Ron Johnson at the Chamber’s Legislative Dialogue Breakfast.
Networking at the Chamber Business Connection.
Big Brothers Big Sisters ribbon cutting.
Enjoying camaraderie at the Chamber’s Business Connection.
FNB Fox Valley ribbon cutting for their new Appleton office. Conversing at the Chamber Business Connection.
Senator Ron Johnson giving an update on Wisconsin at the Chamber’s Legislative Dialogue Breakfast. Curling, hosted by Pulse Young Professionals.
26
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
Ribbon cutting at Cellcom’s new location in Neenah.
Legislative Dialogue Breakfast conversations.
The Leadership Fox Cities Youth class tours the Performing Arts Center.
Budget Committee Chair, John Nygren at the Chamber’s Legislative Dialogue Breakfast.
Keenan Meitner, Thrivent Financial introducing himself at the Chamber’s Accelerate Your Membership program.
Leadership Fox Cities student Chris VanDreese taking in Health and Human Services day.
Leadership Fox Cities student Erin Marques taking in Health and Human Services day.
Leadership Fox Cities Youth in a leadership exercise. The Leadership Fox Cities Youth class learn about hand blowing glass. Skyline Technologies ribbon cutting.
The Appleton Police Department receives a grant from the Chamber’s Octoberfest Event grant program.
Swim Dog Wellnes Center ribbon cutting.
Steinhafel ribbon cutting.
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
27
Fox Cities
Calendar of Events
Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Go to www.foxcitieschamber.com for up-to-date event details.
April
Cultivate
Golf Outing
License to Cruise
YP Week
Fox Cities Stadium
High Cliff Public Golf Course
Octoberfest
Wednesday, May 20
April 13-17
Monday, July 27
Friday, September 25
Accelerate
Accelerate
UW-Oshkosh College of Business’ Appleton Executive Education Center
UW-Oshkosh College of Business’ Appleton Executive Education Center
October
June
August
Tuesday, October 13
Copper Rock Coffee
Business Trifecta
Business Connection
Career Fair
Radisson Paper Valley Hotel
Waverly Beach
Business Connection
Thursday, May 28
Tuesday, April 14
Transportation Funding Panel Friday, April 17
Wednesday, June 10
Monday, April 20
Thursday, July 30
Wednesday, August 12
Radisson Paper Valley
Golf Outing
September
May
Ridgeway Country Club
Break the Ice
Monday, June 22
Break the Ice
Wednesday, November 4 Fox Cities Chamber
Business Connection
Radisson Paper Valley
Fox Cities Chamber
UW-Fox Valley, Menasha
Business Connection
Wednesday, July 1
Wednesday, September 2
Wednesday, September 9
FVTC Public Safety Training Center
Business Connection
Accelerate
America’s Pitch Tank
Trolley Square
UW-Oshkosh College of Business’ Appleton Executive Education Center
Tuesday, July 14
Fox Cities Performing Arts Center
November
Break the Ice
Fox Cities Chamber
Thursday, May 14, 6-9 p.m.
Platinum Flight Center
The Event: Celebrating Business
July
Wednesday, May 13, 5-7 p.m.
Business Connection
Fox Cities Chamber
Break the Ice Friday, May 1
Saturday, September 26
Thursday, November 19
Thursday, September 24
FOX CITIES CHAMBER
GOLF OUTINGS July 27
June 22
High Cliff Public Course Ridgeway Country Club Sherwood, WI Neenah, WI 10:30 am - 2:00 pm 10:30 am - 2:00 pm will captivate, inspire vate: Community and connect start Shotgun start eneurs •Non-Profits • Business Leaders • Shotgun Up-And-Comers Register: foxcitieschamber.com • 920.734.7101
Beverage cart sponsor: General Beer Northeast
28
Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015
...to
Partner
Locally! “I never considered a credit union for commercial purposes, but now that’s changed. Community First’s mission to save people money is real. They saved my business a lot of money,” said independent businessman, Tom Purdy. “I was awed by Community First’s rapid response and competitiveness. They found a way for me and are an extremely valuable partner to me.”
If you’d like to do business locally with your financial partner, visit us at Community First for all your needs. Local Lending Decisions Business Checking that Pays Dividends SBA Preferred & SBA Express Lender 401(k), SEP & SIMPLE Planning Merchant Credit Card Services Investment and Insurance Services Free 24-Hour Online Account Access
Let Community First find a way for your business too!
Tom Purdy Apple Hill Farms Development CFCU Member/Owner
APPLETON, GREENVILLE, NEENAH, DARBOY, DE PERE, HOWARD BELLEVUE, OSHKOSH, MANITOWOC, WAUPACA, NEW LONDON, NICHOLS
www.communityfirstcu.com • (920) 830-7200 or Toll-Free 1-866-273-2328 Fox Cities Chamber Business | SPRING 2015 29
FOX CITIES
CHAMBER
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business c/o Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc. 125 N. Superior Street Appleton, WI 54911
rned into a tu n io is v r u yo t n a W
reality?
rs e n w O e e y o l p Em of Keller Keller’s on-staff Architects provide complete design services for our clients and are hands-on in determining floor layouts and building designs. Our team has the expertise necessary to personally create a space that is not only unique but completely functional and built to stand the test of time. Keller, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned construction company. This means that our clients work with an owner of Keller each and every day. Our employees have a vested interest in the success of our company, working diligently to ensure that our clients are more than satisfied with the entire building process by performing the highest quality of work.
Steve Architect wner Keller Employee-O
1.800.236.2534 l www.kellerbuilds.com Offices in the Fox Cities, Madison, Milwaukee & Wausau
Before You Buy The Land
Before You Draw The Plans Call Keller.