tight labor market changes hiring strategies employment law audits:
CHAMBER
APRIL 2012 Volume 13, Issue 4
FOX CITIES
fox valley workforce works for all
are you ready for the spotlight? www.foxcitieschamber.com
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this issue
Volume 13, Issue 4 | APRIL 2012
EVERY ISSUE
Fox Cities Board of Directors
3 President’s perspective Views from Chamber President/CEO Shannon Meyer Full
10 New members 14 Accolades, Advancements, Announcements 16 department updates
Linda Kennedy, Business Lending Group Chair-Elect Greg Bell, WHBY Past Chairman Jim Rankin, Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Zak, JPMorgan Chase, N.A. Vice Chairman Membership Services
Hiring Strategies; Monica Vomastic, page 4
Monica Vosmastic, Landmark Staffing Resources
features 4 Tight Labor Market Changes Hiring Strategies; Monica Vomastic 6 Employment Law Audits: Are You Ready for the Spotlight?; Mary Felton 6 Fox Valley Workforce Works for All
Employment Law Audits; Mary Felton, page 6
Chairman of the Board
Highlights 9 Leadership Fox Cities 11 Economic Development 12 Business Expo 13 Networking Tips
Vice Chairman Economic Development Kip Golden, Keller Inc. Vice Chairman Workforce & Leadership Development Joyce Bytof, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group Vice Chairman Government Relations Robyn Gruner, AT&T
Kim Bassett Heitzmann
Vic Lutz
Bassett Mechanical
McMahon
Corey Brumbaugh
Bill Mann
Miron Construction
ThedaCare
Co, Inc.
Dr. Susan May
Kevin Eismann
Fox Valley
Epiphany Law, LLC
Technical College
Daniel P. Ferris
Debra Michiels
SECURA Insurance
Fox Banquets
Jim Gaerthofner
Rivertyme Catering
Nordon Business
John Milanowski
Environments
Innovative Machining, Inc.
Vince Gallucci
Bill Mundy
Affinity Health System
West Business Services
Sharon Hulce
Robert Pedersen
Employment Resource
Goodwill NCW
Group Inc. Dennis Jochman The Bechard Group
James Rossmeissl The Boldt Company Catherine Tierney
Lyssa King
Community First
OuterEdge Stage
Credit Union
John Krause
Joan Woldt
Baker Tilly Virchow
Bank First National
Krause, LLP Marty Lenss Outagamie County Regional Airport
Fox Valley Workforce Works for All, page 8 Octoberfest Gives Back, page 14 Publisher: Shannon Meyer Full Editor: Melody Lane Buller Design: Coalesce, Inc. Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising Sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101
Fox Cities Chamber Business (w 259180). Published monthly 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. Publisher: Shannon Meyer Full. Editor: Melody Lane Buller. Design: Coalesce Inc. Printing: Northeast Wisconsin Printing Co. Advertising Sales: Susan Vanden Heuvel, 920-734-7101. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Fox Cities Chamber Business, PO Box 1855, Appleton, WI 54912-1855.
president’s perspective
As we continue to focus on our mission of
recruited to the area and their spouse. ELP is a
strengthening our business climate and overall
5-session condensed leadership and community
business growth, one of the most critical
development program. We realized that it is
factors is workforce. There is not a day that
critical for us to quickly engage both, that new
goes by where I do not have a conversation
recruit and their spouse if we want to have
about workforce accessibility and quality of our
success in retaining them. The chamber is also
workforce as well as overall workforce training
piloting a program in partnership with NEWERA
and development.
called Intern2Work that will be a database of all internship opportunities throughout the entire
It is becoming more difficult, not just here, but
region. This database will allow employers to
around the country to find enough employees
post internship openings, students to post their
for the demands of our local business. Many
profiles and then eventually, we will work to
business owners have a strong desire to expand
recruit interns, both adults and students,
and grow but are limited by the lack of skilled
from around the country to fit the demands
workers. We thoroughly understand the issue
of our businesses.
and are working with our local universities and colleges to express these needs so new training
Strengthening the development of our
programs are created and communicated to the
workforce has been a focus area of the chamber
business owners. We have also re-engaged our
for many years and we are seeing even more
educators and business leaders in the Business/
demand for that programming at all levels. Our
Education Partnership so we can continue to
new quarterly Signature Symposium Series will
have the critical communications regarding
provide all types of professional development
the increasing and changing demands of
for your employees on areas such as mid-level
our businesses, as well as the gaps between
management training, sales/marketing, conflict
the school districts, colleges/universities and
resolution, and many more. PULSE, our young
business community. There is a tremendous
professionals organization now engages with
amount of momentum around STEM (Science,
over 700 new and next generation leaders
Technology, Engineering and Math) initiatives
providing them with professional development,
and we have answered with strong new
networking and community development
programs within our middle and high schools.
opportunities.
Finally, we know we need to focus on attracting
We understand the challenges facing our
high quality talent to both the entry level and
businesses… we are adapting our programming
the existing professional level. The Leadership
to the ever-changing needs…we are enhancing
Fox Cities program, a staple in this community,
our partnerships… we are focusing every day
is critical for community development and
on the challenges of recruiting and retaining
engagement; however, there has shown to be
high quality workforce to sustain and grow our
an even greater demand in our area. Therefore,
businesses. It’s who we are and what we do, and
in February we started our first Executive
we will continue working hard for our business
Leadership Program targeting CEO/VP/
community.
SHANNON MEYER FULL PRESIDENT/CEO
We understand the challenges facing our businesses… we are adapting our programming to the everchanging needs…
Senior level management that has been newly
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
3
featured story
Tight Labor Market Changes Hiring Strategies Monica Vomastic
President/CEO Landmark Staffing Resources, Inc.
Today there are plenty of good people waiting to be hired; we only need to match their core skills with the right opportunity and provide essential job training.
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Most employers want to hire a candidate with 5-7 years of experience. Unfortunately, the majority of these employees are already working and not seeking to change positions. The solution - human resource managers must think differently and adapt to the available workforce in our communities.
Everyone wants to hire the perfect employee‌ ready to work, already trained and with the right industry experience. However, the labor market will continue to shrink over the next 18-24 months and businesses will have to realign their hiring strategies. The national unemployment rate has consistently been above 8%, so a common misconception is the perfect employee must be out there. Many employers share the same frustrations. They are overwhelmed with resumes and yet none are qualified.
Back in 1976, new college and high school graduates were also faced with a jobless recovery after the 1973-1975 recession impacted by the OPEC oil crisis. The common message to new grads was take any job, start at the bottom and work your way up the ladder. This might be why Baby Boomers were so loyal to the companies who did offer them employment during tough economic times. Businesses hired people who were willing to learn and taught them the necessary skills to be successful. They were trained on the job.
Why? We have a mismatch of talent. When the recession started, it didn’t impact all industries equally. The labor market included construction workers, realtors, sales representatives, store cashiers, insurance agents, bank lenders, loan processors, tellers, marketing specialists, and restaurant workers. Additionally, the labor pool included those with the least experience and those overqualified with management experience.
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
What is the solution to a tight labor market? Businesses will have to change their hiring strategy from acquiring a workforce to building a workforce. This strategy will present new challenges to human resources because it will totally change the concept of hiring. Below are some ideas worth considering:
1
Stop trying to match resumes to job descriptions in an attempt to find the perfect match.
2
Identify core attributes necessary for the job and hire similar skills from other industries.
3
Hire based upon attitude, character, work ethic and the willingness to learn new skills.
4
Develop a company training program and provide mentors.
5
Work closely with your local technical colleges to support and augment your training efforts.
6
If in doubt about skills transferring, use a staffing firm, so you can “try before you buy”.
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Before the recession, I remember companies saying, “send us someone, anyone, we can teach them what they need to know. We just need good people to get our work done.” Today there are plenty of good people waiting to be hired; we only need to match their core skills with the right opportunity and provide essential job training. The end result: a perfect employee!
Find ways to support the on-going skills development of your existing employees and their personal efforts to grow professionally.
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
5
featured story
EMPLOYMENT LAW AUDITS: ARE YOU READY FOR THE SPOTLIGHT? What’s in store for the rest of 2012? Audits, audits and more audits! Mary Felton
President HR Business Partners, LLC
6
collecting staggering amounts in recovery Governmental agencies are out in the from private employers. Fox Cities and all over Wisconsin with more aggressive tactics than ever. Many You may think you won’t get audited employers around the area find themselves because you are a small being audited by OSHA, employer. Don’t bank on it. Department of Labor, ICE No company is Size of the company doesn’t (Immigration and Customs ever too small to matter. Many small employers Enforcement Agency) or get audited. You don’t have in-house expertise, EEOC (Equal Employment so they are easy targets. I’ve Opportunity Commission). need to comply seen audits being conducted These agencies are keenly no matter what. in companies as small as six focused on digging up employees. No company is employer violations in ever too small to get audited. You need to employment law in order to generate comply no matter what. revenue. Be prepared! Your employment practices could be an expensive minefield The focus of the audit can be anything from of liability if not in compliance. wage and hour practices to independent contractors. One common area audited is Government agencies have gained I-9 forms. A simple I-9 form (required for all strength under the Obama Administration employees) completed wrong will cost an and have picked up additional funding and employer on average $750 per form. So if additional investigators. a company has 50 employees and all forms It’s a new strategy are wrong, the fine could be $37,000. It adds to hold employers up quickly for a small mistake. accountable. OSHA has So what should you do? Make it a priority increased its staff to set aside some time to review your and is on track to employment practices. Understand what conduct 1,000 audits laws you must comply with. Realize even if in this regional area in you only have a couple of employees, there 2012. In an effort to be are 19 federal and 25 state employment laws more efficient, the to comply with. Don’t minimize the impact Department of Labor non-compliance can have on your company. is calling employers and Not knowing is not a defense. If unsure of requesting records for audits what to do, get help. You don’t want to get rather than knocking on doors. caught in the spotlight unprepared! Other agencies such as EEOC have broken all previous records and are
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
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featured story
Fox Valley Workforce Works For All Fox Valley Workforce Development Board has long held the belief that local business is the primary customer of the workforce development system. Given that focus, services provided must always be changing to meet the needs of local businesses and the job seekers accessing services to ultimately rejoin the workforce. Additionally, FVWDB works with several partner agencies to provide a wide array of opportunities that are made available at Fox Cities Workforce Development Center (1802 Appleton Road, Menasha). Throughout the Great Recession the workforce system saw a tremendous influx of people who were in need of retraining and job search assistance. Starting in mid 2008, the workforce system was there for many employers when layoffs were necessary. Early engagement with employers is most effective in helping dislocated workers learn more about the system and plan an effective job search/ training strategy. With the help of trained workforce professionals, people who enter
8
training are responsible for choosing careers that are in demand for the local area and have a sustainable wage. Not every individual who accesses workforce services through the local job center will opt for training. Those who choose to re-enter the workforce immediately will benefit from working directly with staff who will make the job search more effective. Throughout the recession, services have been expanded to assist job seekers who find it necessary to navigate a job search world that is ever changing (for some job seekers, they have not been in a search for many years and have no knowledge of how much the job posting, application, interviewing process has changed). Knowing that not every job seeker chooses to, or is able to, commit to a retraining program, limited monies are currently available to provide on-thejob (OJT) training for companies that have the capacity to provide training
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
for new employees. Employer training reimbursements can be as much as 50% wage reimbursement for up to six months for hiring eligible job seekers. The workforce system has also benefited from creating strong ties to local businesses including the creation and development of industry sector alliances (Fox Valley Health Care Alliance and NEW Manufacturing Alliance). These partnerships give focus to activities that strengthen both local workforce initiatives and our communities. Another area of focus for the workforce system has been a greater alignment with educators in our region to ensure that the next generation understands more about workforce trends, opportunities, and the skills needed to enter the workforce. If you have questions about how this system can work for you or how you can become engaged in the process, please call 720-5600 for further details.
leadership fox cities
Recognizing the busy schedules of high level executives, especially those new to the area, the LFC Executive Program is now offering a shortened version of the highly successful adult program. The new Executive LFC condenses the highlights of the program into five evening sessions. The first class is in full swing and participants are enjoying learning about the Fox Cities and all it offers. Appleton (Papers) has generously underwritten the first class. Executive
Sponsored by:
Leadership Fox Cities – 1st Class include:
Karen Spence and Bob Spence
Elizabeth DiMartino and
Laura Kamerer and Howard Kamerer
(Neenah Enterprises, Inc.)
Joe DiMartino (Integrity Mutual Insurance)
(WOW Logistics)
Jackie Hintz (Thrivent Financial for
Joe Schneider and
Mary Meany (Lawrence University)
Lutherans) and Deb Marquette
Diana Schneider (Miller Electric Mfg. Co.)
and Ken Nelson (Schenck SC )
Kathleen Frohna and Kim Villena (Plexus)
Craig Gagnon
Michael Frohna (ThedaCare) and Adam Skarie
Lynn Van Vreede
Travis Full, Shannon Full and
Linda Nila (The Boldt Company)
(Gardens of the Fox Cities)
Kelly Kelly (Herling Clark Law Firm)
and Joe Nila
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
9
new members
We welcome new members to the Chamber Appleton Family Dentistry Ms. Kim Wunderlich 2830 N. Mason St. Appleton, WI 54914-1353 (920) 731-2356 Sponsor: Mike Dreyer DENTISTS www.appletonfamilydentistry.com
Best Western Premier Bridgewood
Mr. Richard J. Batley 1000 Cameron Way Neenah, WI 54956-9807 (920) 720-8000 Sponsor: Greg Bell HOTELS/MOTELS www.bridgewoodresorthotel.com
Bridgewood Golf Course Mr. Richard J. Batley 1020 Cameron Way Neenah, WI 54956-9807 (920) 722-9819 Sponsor: Greg Bell GOLF COURSE - PUBLIC www.bridgewoodresorthotel.com
DentalWorks
Ms. RaeAnn Byrnes 4181 W. Wisconsin Ave. Appleton, WI 54913 (303) 246-1257 Sponsor: Ron Zahn DENTISTS www.dentalonepartners.com
Environment Control of Wisconsin
Mr. Ryan Polcyn 1111 N. Lynndale Dr. Appleton, WI 54914-3045 (920) 882-0152 Sponsor: Les Van Ornum JANITORIAL/BUILDING MAINTENANCE www.ecwisconsin.com
First Data Merchant Services Mr. Randy Rathburn PO Box 106 Seymour, WI 54165-0106 (920) 265-8164 Sponsor: Dennis Korth CREDIT & DEBIT CARD PROCESSING & ATM’S www.firstdata.com
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Get Connected Counseling
RW Management Group, Inc.
Green Bay Packers
SEEK Careers/Staffing
Ground Round Grill & Bar
Uncommon Cents Investing
Ms. Cherie Lindberg 5497 Waterford Lane. Ste. A Grand Chute, WI 54913-8489 (920) 750-6120 Sponsor: Ron Zahn MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES www.getconnectedcounseling.com
Mr. Jason McDonough 1265 Lombardi Ave. Green Bay, WI 54304-3927 (920) 569-7500 NFL FOOTBALL TEAM www.packers.com
Mr. Richard J. Batley 1010 Cameron Way Neenah, WI 54956-9807 (920) 727-1010 Sponsor: Greg Bell RESTAURANTS www.bridgewoodresorthotel.com
Mr. Jeffrey Roemer 1295 Appleton Rd., Ste. 2 Menasha, WI 54952-1371 (920) 727-1000 Sponsor: Chris Hanson CONSULTANT www.rwmanagementgroup.com Mr. Phil Bellis 3203 W. College Ave. Appleton, WI 54914-2906 (920) 954-1566 STAFFING SERVICES www.seekcareers.com
Mrs. Sheena Hanson 100 W. Lawrence St. Appleton, WI 54911-5773 (920) 739-9599 Sponsor: Pam Utpadel FINANCIAL PLANNERS www.uncommoncentsinvesting.com
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Ms. Elizabeth Byczek, 3701 E. Calumet St. Appleton, WI 54915-4149 (800) 730-6295 Sponsor: Sharon Hintz ACCOUNTANTS - CERTIFIED PUBLIC www.jacksonhewitt.com
Kidz Kab LLC
Ms. Georgia Anderson 3019 W. Spencer St. Appleton, WI 54914-5945 (920) 830-2067 Sponsor: Les Van Ornum TRANSPORTATION wwww.kidzkabll.com
Medicare Masters, LLC Mr. Harry Dorman 1500 N. Casaloma Dr. Ste. 411 Appleton, WI 54913-8219 Sponsor: Fidelity National Bank INSURANCE www.medicare-masters.com
NEP
Ms. Nora Schulz PO Box 1757 Appleton, WI 54912-1757 (920) 733-5059 Sponsor: Linda Kennedy OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES www.neponline.com
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
DID YOU KNOW THAT FROM LAMBEAU FIELD TO THE MIRACLE MILE, magazine
REACHES 65,000 READERS EVERY MONTH?
economic development
d logo
Metrics Matter The first step of any successful economic initiative is to develop a comprehensive regional economic development plan and follow through with the implementation of that plan. Throughout the implementation, you must
include: GMP by sector, cluster building,
continually evaluate the efforts against the
productivity by sector and the building of a
plan and make adjustments accordingly. A
viable workforce.
well-functioning performance measurement system that can provide credible, meaningful and actionable insights into the success of our economic development strategies is essential.
You get what you measure--and may fail to get what is not measured. For example, if jobs are the chosen measure, programs that create lots of short-term jobs will be favored over
Without adequate resources, this initiative
programs that make long term
will not be successful. The strategy requires
investments in education and
funding for basic economic cluster and
skills, or focus on developing
industry support strategies, as well as the
community capacity for capital
investment capital critical to cultivate business
investment. Indicators must be carefully
innovation and human capital necessary
chosen to serve their intended purpose. On
to compete in a 21st century economy. By
the other hand, complex outcomes are harder
identifying the resources to fund this strategy,
to measure. For example, the human and
the Fox Cities can establish “first mover”
social capital required for running a business
status and take a new position of leadership
organization is harder to define and tally than
in extracting economic advantage from
jobs. Future outcomes cannot be measured;
innovative new policies that promote
programs that have a long time lag between
local sustainability.
the program activities and the final outcomes,
As the common adage goes, “What gets measured, gets done.” Any viable economic development plan needs metrics and outcomes to measure the success of its plan.
Throughout the implementation, you must continually evaluate the efforts against the plan and make adjustments accordingly.
such as investments in education to increase future earnings, cannot be fairly evaluated and compared with programs that have near term outcomes.
The common metric that most people look for
Economic Development in the Fox Cities will
is the number of jobs created in a community.
be measured by building our community and
But that is not the only or even always the
making us competitive in a world-wide
most important metric to measure. Improving
market.
the quality of jobs and the overall prosperity of the state’s residents should be tracked as well as the availability of start-up and expansion capital. Other metrics that matter
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
11
business expo
Business Expo – June 6, 2012 Taking Care of Business in 2012 Making connections - Growing your business.
Skyline Exhibit Resource will do a free seminar for exhibitors on Wednesday, April 11th, 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber that will offer Tips & Tactics for a successful booth and show.
Presenting Sponsor:
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Business Expo 2012 is the Chamber’s annual trade and networking event designed to give Chamber members affordable access to the business community. Business Expo is a costefficient and easy way to get new business and renew existing business relationships. This year there is a new venue and a trifecta of business networking opportunities. Business Expo 2012 will be held at Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in downtown Appleton on Wednesday, June 6, from 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. The Expo is part of a trio of events starting with the Awards Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., followed by the Expo and for the grand finale’, Chamber members and exhibitors are invited to an exclusive afterhours networking event from 5 – 7 p.m. hosted by the Radisson Paper Valley Hotel. Contributing Sponsors:
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
The Business Awards Luncheon attracts more than 500 attendees honoring our local businesses. This year the Awards include: • Service of the Year Award • Wholesale / Retail of the Year Award • Manufacturing of the Year Award • Company Leadership • Company Innovation and/or Creativity • Exemplary Marketing and/or Growth Performance • Rising Star Award - Service • Rising Star Award Wholesale / Retail • Rising Star Award - Manufacturing
networking tips
Marketing 2012: Ideas Everyone can Afford Take steps to make customers feel special. Customers respond to being recognized, especially in these rushrush, get-the-lowest-price times. Stop servicing break-even customers. If this idea sounds harsh, think harder. You’re falling for the fallacy of increasing sales instead of boosting profits. If you stop marketing to unprofitable customers, you have more time and resources for customers who actually grow your business. Take a detailed look at your customer profitability data and then direct premium services and marketing to customers who count. Develop an electronic mailing list and send oldfashioned letters. Most businesses have harnessed the power of e-newsletters — and you definitely should be sending out one, too. It’s very cost-effective. But exactly because e-mail marketing is now nearly ubiquitous, you can quickly stand out by occasionally sending personal, surface mail letters to customers and prospects.
Submit information to blogs. Blog writers are always looking for content for their sites. Target appropriate ones and send them press releases or descriptive e-mails. Reward existing customers. Offer an exclusive incentive to your regular customers—only your regular customers. Notify them via e-mail or other contact methods, and direct them to an otherwise inaccessible page on your Web site where the offer appears. Get your customers to bring in new customers. Offer an incentive like a discount to customers who get a new customer to make a transaction with your business. Get a toll-free phone number. It makes you look more professional and encourages business—and the fees aren’t as high as you might think.
Combine business with pleasure — and charity. Spearhead an event, party or conference for a cause you care about. That puts you in the position of getting to know lots of people, and shows off your small business leadership skills. Few people turn down a game and it’s a great networking opportunity for guests. It allows you to reconnect with current clients and impress potential clients. Court local media. Editorial features convey more credibility with prospective clients than paid advertising does. To get coverage from the local media, whether from the town newspaper, from TV or radio stations, or from trade journals, you just need a fresh, timely story. Don’t let customers simply slip away. It costs a lot less to retain a disgruntled or inactive customer than to acquire a new one. If you haven’t heard from a customer in awhile, send a personalized e-mail inquiring whether all is well. For a customer who suffered a bad experience, pick up the phone, acknowledging the unpleasantness and ask if there’s anything you can do. A discount can’t hurt either. Being kind to customers is the smartest low-cost marketing you can do.
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
13
accolades, advancements and announcements
accolades Coalesce, Inc., a strategic marketing and communications agency based in Appleton, was honored at the 2011 AAF – Fox River Ad Club ADDY Awards, held on February 29, 2012 at Lambeau Field, earning category gold and silver recognition for creative excellence. Coalesce won the first-place gold award in the Sales Promotion-Point of Purchase Category for the design of a custom sampling kit for an upscale, consumer goods client. Coalesce’s creation of an animated, stop-motion style video to promote the release of a new product line for a national vehicle mounting systems manufacturer was recognized with a silver award in the Online AdvertisingInternet Commercial Category. Scott Smeaton, CRM of Hierl Insurance, Inc., Fond
du Lac was recently honored by Certified Risk Managers (CRM) International for leadership and professionalism in the field of risk management. Mr. Smeaton was awarded a certificate of achievement recognizing five consecutive years of active affiliation with Certified Risk Managers International. The CRM designation requires an annual continuing education update in order to maintain the designation. Certified Risk Managers International is a member of The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. The CRM Program is an independent education and designation program designed expressly for professionals in risk management and related fields.
advancements WOW Logistics has announced the addition of two
strategic positions within the Engineering Department. After an intensive search WOW has appointed Peter Upton-Rowley as WOW’s new Logistics Engineer and Jamie Hess as WOW’s Operations Engineer. These positions are targeted toward achieving two strategic initiatives: Improving customer service and driving additional operational efficiencies through current storage and handling resources. Jamie Hess brings to WOW eight years of engineering experience within the warehousing and logistics industry. Prior to coming to WOW Logistics, Jamie was Manager of Supply Chain Engineering and Parcel Operations for Genco and Engineering Solutions Director for LeSaint Logistics. Jamie is actively involved in the International Warehouse Logistics Council (IWLA) and the Council of Supply Chain 14
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
Management Professionals (CSCMP). Peter UptonRowley joined WOW Logistics in June 2003 and over the past nine years has immersed himself in a range of positions to develop his knowledge of the warehousing and distribution industry. Upton-Rowley got his start at WOW as a Warehouse Forklift Operator before transitioning into an Operations Coordinator/Customer Service role and ultimately Distribution Center Manager. In 2008, Peter joined the WOW corporate group in Appleton, WI as a Financial Analyst within the Accounting and Cheese Financing Departments. Peter’s internal experience, along with his remarkable analytical skills, will be key drivers in this new strategic Logistics Engineering position. Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP, (Baker Tilly) is pleased to announce the addition of Nate Cherne, Kayla Denu, Adam Hughes, Ashley Iverson, and Tori White to our Appleton office. Denu, Hughes, and
Iverson joined the firm as Staff Accountants in the fall of 2011. Denu holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. Hughes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accoaunting from the University of Wisconsin – LaCrosse. Iverson holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. Cherne and White both joined the firm as Staff Accountants in January 2012. Cherne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from Marquette University. White holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. OMNNI Associates is pleased to announce the addition of Ray Smith, P.E. to the OMNNI team. Smith has over
20 years of experience working for the Brown County Highway Department, most recently as Operations and Engineering Manager. His expertise covers all areas of transportation engineering, design and operations. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Smith’s role at OMNNI Associates will be to expand our transportation client base throughout the state. As a certified bridge inspector, he will also provide bridge inspection services on projects. The Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region has announced that Lynn Peters, retiring executive director of the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau, will join its staff as a part-time
community engagement manager, primarily overseeing the community nonprofit’s Basic Needs Giving Partnership. The Foundation’s Basic Needs Giving Partnership awards about $900,000 in grants annually to help established nonprofit agencies with successful programs that address root causes of poverty. It is largely supported by the U.S. Venture Fund for Basic Needs within the Community Foundation with the proceeds from the annual U.S. Venture Open golf outing and by matching grants from the J. J. Keller Foundation Inc., among others. ABR Employment Services is pleased to announce the promotion of Jennifer Zahari from Appleton
Branch Manager to Regional Director. In her new role she will direct the ABR Madison, Sparta and LaCrosse branch offices. Jennifer will also lead opening additional ABR branches in new markets. Jim McNett, CEO of ABR Employment Services said, “Jennifer joined ABR nearly six years ago as a Staffing Coordinator and was quickly promoted to Branch Manager. During her time in Appleton, she became very active in the Fox Valley,
fostering and developing strong client relationships. As a result, the branch experienced unprecedented growth, which is attributed to Jennifer and her unbelievable commitment, intensity and hard work.”
announcements AlignTech Solutions announces the publication of its
new web site, located at www.aligntechsolutions.com. The new site stresses AlignTech’s core strengths of information technology consulting, alignment and engagement for small and midcap companies in the banking, healthcare and education industries in Northeast Wisconsin. Of particular interest is AlignTech’s recent focus on technical alignment services. Companies are more likely to achieve the goals enumerated in their five-year plans when they engage in technical assessments that coincide with, and corroborate, their financial projections. For more information on AlignTech Solutions, please visit the web site above or call (920) 239-4400.
Let the images speak for themselves
www.craigaugustinephoto.com P. 920.810.2616
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
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department updates
government affairs • Chamber Government Issues Council met with the three candidates vying for the two available spots on the Appleton School Board. John DeVantier, Kay Eggert, and Dr. John Mielke.
• The Chamber is actively engaged in conversations regarding changes in truck weight limits as a consequence of the possible upgrade of USH 41 to Interstate status.
• The Chamber attended a Committee meeting in Madison registering in favor of the passage of AB574, which would give Fox Cities communities the ability to form a Regional Transportation Authority, and implement a county sales tax, via referendum, to fill a funding gap resulting from a reduction in federal transportation aid.
• The Chamber is redesigning the Chamber’s Institute for Political Training (IPT). The program will touch on everything from the importance of the political process, to the political complexity of the area, to creating a campaign strategy and raising money. The program is designed not only for potential candidates for state and local office, but is also helpful for individuals interested in working in key positions on a campaign, or simply learning more about the process.
• Chamber members were treated to presentations by national caliber speakers during the Chamber’s annual Madison Drive-In held in conjunction with Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce’s Business Day in Madison. Following an address by Governor Walker, attendees were shuttled to the Capitol to meet one on one with area legislators.
• The Chamber’s annual Washington Fly-In coincides with the United States Chamber of Commerce Small Business Summit May 21-23. The Chamber will be putting together a package which will include; flight, hotel, registration, ground transportation and most meals for approximately $2,000.
economic development • The Small Business Committee continues to explore new initiatives to undertake including establishing a small business mentoring program.
• The Fox Cities Economic Development Partnership (FCEDP) approved its 2012 operating budget and program of work.
• The Business Retention and Expansion Committee is exploring additional initiatives to undertake in addition to conducting surveys of business activity in the Fox Cities Area.
• The Chamber is working with Nation Job to effectively aid small manufacturing firms to close the skills gap for positions such as welders and machine tool operators.
pulse • April 19th – Historic Pub Tour with Nancy Barker – We will take a bus tour of Neenah/Menasha and learn about much of the area’s history. • April 24th – Leaderfest 2012 is hosted this year by Manitowoc’s Sail Young Professional group. This full day of professional/Leadership development will be held at Fox Hills Resort.
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
• May 15th – The Fox Cities Future 15 Young Professionals Awards held at UW Fox Valley’s CAC. Please plan to attend this wonderful event celebrating our 15 young professionals.
Christa McAuliffe Academy • A one-week teacher training program of the Fox Cities Alliance for Education, a division of the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce. • Held at Appleton North High School July 16-20, 2012 • Offers classes in math, science, technology, literacy and other areas of professional development taught by master instructors from around the state • Keeps the cost of graduate credit low. The Academy is offered for 0 to 3 credits. Cost of 3 graduate credits is $685.
membership • Volunteers from the President’s Club and Ambassadors are working on the Chamber’s Annual Spring Membership Campaign. • The team at Famous Dave’s, 1170 Westhill Blvd., Appleton, is hosting the Business Connection on April 25, from 5-7 p.m. • The Ambassadors Club welcomed 6 new members at their last meeting - Kristina Flores, Prospera Credit Union; Sheena Hanson, Uncommon Cents Investing;
• Offers teachers the opportunity to visit local businesses and observe how learning is applied in the work world. Employers spend time talking and sharing ideas with teachers • Provides networking opportunities. Teachers from around the state attend the Academy • The teachers that attended the 2011 Academy gave it an enthusiastic “thumbs up” on their evaluations. An impressive 98% rated the Academy, the instructors and workshops as Excellent! • For more information, contact Mary Jane Grissman, Manager at mgrissman@foxcitieschamber.com or visit www.ChristaMcAuliffeAcademy.com.
Richard Kreitz, Principal Financial Group; Tammy Mackai, Coldwell Banker The Real Estate Group; Andrew Micheletti, Sitzmann Law Firm, Ltd. and Jamey Milheiser, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., Inc. • The April 26th Breakfast Networking Connection promises a great way to promote your business. This event is held at the Chamber office at 7:30 a.m. You will have 2 minutes to talk about your business, distribute business cards and brochures.
leadership fox cities youth
Introducing
Leadership Fox Cities Youth
Amy Ristow
Greater Fox Cities Habitat for Humanity and LFC Youth Committee Member
The Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Leadership Fox Cities Youth a collaborative effort developed by Leadership Fox Cities graduates, and engaging community leaders, government officials, corporate partners and non-profits throughout the Fox Cities. September 2012 begins the pilot 1st year of Leadership Fox Cities Youth. The LFC Youth program is an investment in the future of the Fox Cities - developing young individuals to be the next generation of community leaders through a hands-on, experiential forum. The program will provide opportunities for youth to network with peers outside their current sphere of influence, and enable them to develop contacts with professionals through and beyond the formal LFC Youth program. The program will educate through experience, motivate our young leaders and enable them to take an active role in their community. “Our goal is that LFC Youth will result in strong leaders who have hope for the future and the tools to influence a positive and progressive community”, said Shannon Full, President/CEO of the Fox Cities Chamber.
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
Students will participate in full-day events centered on an industry or theme including government, health & wellness, the arts, business/entrepreneurship, the environment and human services. Leaders in the topic fields work with students providing hands-on experiences and participation in community activities. Students will also work in small groups to develop and implement community service projects, working directly with local non-profits. By getting involved, businesses, non-profit organizations and community leaders will directly connect with these developing leaders, learn more about them, and help to strengthen their dedication and support to our community. For its pilot year, 21 students from Appleton’s public high schools will participate. Students must apply and qualify through an application and interview process, which is under the direction of principal Appleton East High School, Matt Mineau and principal Appleton Career Academy Charter School, David Mueller. “Some students will have demonstrated leadership skills, while others selected are not performing to their fullest potential…” said Matt Mineau. Future years hope to offer the opportunity to about 40 high school juniors throughout the Fox Cities. Information on sponsorship opportunities please contact director Leadership Fox Cities Youth, Gayle Schultz at 920 734-7101 or by email at gschultz@foxcitieschamber.com.
Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
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out and about
Ribbon Cutting at Solea in Neenah
Dropping the Ball Again This Year The Fox Cities Chamber golf outing is scheduled for Tuesday, August 14 at Butte des Morts Country Club in Appleton and will again feature the successful Big Ball Drop.
Some sponsorships are still available:
The Big Ball Drop is a fun way to make a lot of moulah! 500 tickets will be sold at $50 a piece. On the day of the event, 500 numbered golf balls will dropped from a crane on the 18th hole – closest to the hole wins!
• All in One Sponsor (combination of a Hole Sponsorship plus a foursome)
This year the winning continues: • 1st place wins $5,000 • 2nd place wins $3,000 • 3rd place wins $1,000 • 4th place wins $500 • 5th place wins $250 • Farthest from the hole wins $250 The outing is a best ball scramble format, with a shot gun start at 10:00 AM. A boxed lunch will be delivered to the golfers on the course and a reception with heavy hors d’ oeuvres will be offered at the conclusion of the day.
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
• Premier Sponsor • Golf Reception Sponsor
• Tee or Hole Sponsor • Beverage Sponsor Cost to golf is $150.00 per golfer or $600.00 per foursome and includes 18 holes of golf, cart, the box lunch and hors d’ oeuvres reception. Golfers can register online at www.foxcitieschamber.com To register a foursome for more information on sponsorships contact Susan Vanden Heuvel by calling 920-734-7101 or e-mail to information@foxcitieschamber.com
we can’t do it without you The Fox Cities Chamber strives to create programs of value available to all our members at the lowest fees possible. To that end, we acknowledge and thank the many sponsors that enable us to keep providing the services, programs and training our members expect from us. In March many local businesses came together to provide the following: The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce hosted the Fox Cities 8th grade Career Fair on Wednesday, March 28 at Players Choice, Appleton. Eighth graders from 26 middle schools with approximately 3,200 students participated. Public and private schools from Appleton, Ashwaubenon, Black Creek, Brillion, Darboy, Greenville, Hilbert, Hortonville, Kimberly, Little Chute, Menasha, Neenah, Seymour, Shiocton, Stockbridge and Wrightstown participated. More than 80 adult volunteers representing 60 different business disciplines presented to students explaining education needed and the necessary communication skills needed to interact with coworkers. Presenters offered a short interactive activity or display. This experience helps inspire students to choose appropriate high school courses for their future careers. The sponsors that made this event possible were:
On Monday, March 12th at the Grand Meridian, The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with The Heart of the Valley Chamber hosted a breakfast meeting with Congressman Reid Ribble and Dr. Douglas Holtz-Eakin. This meeting discussed the impact of regulations on a local, state and federal level and The Chambers work with our legislators to decrease these regulations that inhibit small businesses growth. The sponsors that made this event possible were:
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Fox Cities Chamber Business APRIL 2012
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