WINTER 2015
BRAND IN
ACTION
G R E AT E R G R E E N B AY C H A M B E R
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from the chair
It’s now not hard to see that the Greater Green Bay Chamber is changing and evolving for our future. A new visual identity with refreshed logos and an updated name clearly show the Chamber and its programs are part of one organization and one commitment to serving our region at large. But what’s not as easy to see is the three years of work behind the scenes that have successfully rebranded the Chamber and positioned its mission, vision and programs to serve a central role in growing our base of industry, diversity of companies and our workforce to ensure our region’s economic success now and throughout our future. The rebranding campaign allowed us to better align the Chamber’s economic development functions with workforce development initiatives — our two core competencies that now work hand-in-hand. Both are vital to the long-term success of our region. The availability of a highly skilled workforce is necessary in the recruitment of new business and industry, while economic development and new employment opportunities are essential components needed to retain a skilled workforce. The Greater Green Bay Chamber now lives its mission:To strengthen member businesses through enhancing economic and workforce development, resulting in improved quality of life in our community and region. The Chamber’s strong economic development branch not only looks at internal creation of new industry through entrepreneurship, but also works with municipalities and all arms of the local and state government to bring new business into our region. Our membership represents 91,000 employees, or two-thirds of the Brown County workforce, and we have a passion to see the success of our business community. Every new employee added to our workforce and every new business recruited to our region has a positive, long-term impact on community development. Through collaboration and leadership, the Greater Green Bay Chamber hopes to expand the number of opportunities for employment for all the citizens in our area. Perhaps the most important accomplishments achieved through this rebranding process include the internal changes and alignment that have created a foundation for success within the Chamber itself. The national search for a new vice president of economic development that will be followed by creation of a five-year economic development plan; paired with a newly refashioned Partners in Education branch that complements and supports the goals set forth by Achieve Brown County — an initiative that’s co-anchored by the Chamber — work together with other internal alignments to ensure relevancy of the Chamber in an ever-changing business environment. The Chamber continues to evolve not only through its new visual identity, but also through its brand and actions.Years ago, the Greater Green Bay Chamber served primarily as an advocate for local business.While that will always be at its heart, today’s Greater Green Bay Chamber has evolved to include a significant focus on regional workforce and economic development. As the Chamber continues to play all these roles throughout the future, it will continually evolve to both serve as a collaborator of our region’s economic and workforce development resources, and to foster a truly greater Green Bay.
Dr. Ashok Rai Chair of our board of directors President and CEO, Prevea Health
PUBLISHED BY THE GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS VISIT THE GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER AT: TITLETOWN.ORG
Contents. WINTER 2015 | ISSUE #8
PRESIDENT Laurie Radke EDITOR Lori Kaye Lodes GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dana Jacobson Collective Impact is published quar terly by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay WI 54303. Collective Impact is supported by advertising revenue from member companies of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. For information about the advertising rates and deadlines, contact sales at 920.593.3418. Collective Impact (USPS 10-206) is published quarterly for $18 a year by the Greater Green Bay Chamber, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay, WI 54303. Periodicals postage paid at Green Bay, WI. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Collective Impact, 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A, Green Bay WI 54303. PH: 920.593.3423.
feature 04 BRAND IN ACTION
COMMERCIAL LITHOGRAPHY
ADVERTISERS 00 Better Business Bureau
00 The Corporate Conference Center at
Nor theast Wisconsin Technical College 01 Robinson Heating and Cooling 01 UnitedHealthcare 2 2 SMET 27 Express Employment Professionals 27 Element 3 0 WPS Foundation 30 The Aquatic Center at CP 30 YMCA 32 Revitalize 3 3 First Merit Bank 37 American Transmission Company 40 Prevea 360 4 1 Austin Straubel 41 Keller BACK COVER Cellcom
in every issue 22 WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 28 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 32 MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 38 SNAPSHOTS
TEXT JENNIFER HOGELAND
GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER –
BRAND IN ACTION As we hope you’ve heard/seen, the Greater Green Bay Chamber introduced its new brand this fall, including the most visible of its changes: the evolution of its name to the Greater Green Bay Chamber. The Chamber has made a very purposeful effort to be inclusive and regional in focus in its programming, services, other offerings and partnerships. We sought to create a name that would strongly state that we are here to serve all of Brown County. As such, we changed our name to the Greater Green Bay Chamber to visually represent our collaboration, our inclusiveness and our desire to make a difference in the entire Greater Green Bay area. But the rebranding is about far more than a new name and the resulting new logos for Chamber branches and programs. It’s about the Chamber experience, whether you’re a small business owner or top 30 employer, employee of Chamber member company or Current young professionals program member, student participating in one of our Partners in Education programs or Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator tenant. Our customers, audiences, vendors and partners are many, but to all, we want to illustrate one unified message: that we are the champions of business development for Greater Green Bay because strong business builds a strong community. Rather than tell our story, we thought we’d let the people on the receiving end of the benefits of Chamber membership – connections, savings, business development, professional development, recognition, promotion, etc. – tell their individual stories. What follow are examples of our brand in action.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber exists to build a greater Green Bay by helping businesses succeed. Our members represent 91,000plus employees – that’s more than two-thirds of the Brown County workforce.The Chamber is the convener, bringing together resources to enhance economic, workforce and community development.We are the champions of business development for Greater Green Bay because strong business builds a strong community.
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BUILD YOUR BUSINESS JOSH OLIVER IT manager, Humana
“I’ve found there is a personal and professional benefit to being a member of Current, but my employer saw the advantage.
Current’s programming and events help attract, develop, engage and retain the young professionals in our community. By being a corporate member of Current, Humana is able to demonstrate it’s committed to employees’ professional development by engaging them in the community and encouraging them to make connections.”
“Three years ago, I met a fellow Humana associate at a Current networking event. We were discussing our roles and quickly found out by partnering we could save the company upwards of $25,000. I explained I manage an application development team with the primary goal of automating repetitive human tasks. It just so happened we recently implemented a process that could easily be deployed to his area of the company. Without making the new connection at the young professionals event our efforts would have been underutilized. More importantly, the event helped to create a
professional connection that will benefit both my organization and me. “I’ve since become an advocate of Current Young Professionals Network, pushing the young professionals group within Humana. I worked with our executive leadership to set up a meeting with Brian Johnson to discuss the value of a corporate membership. “My professional network has grown dramatically since joining Current; I’ve made a whole new set of friends I likely wouldn’t have met if I weren’t involved in the program. Based on my experience, I believe in Current and the value it provides both professionals and their organizations.”
CINDY ESTERLING
executive director, Great Lakes Asset Corporation
“Great Lakes Asset Corporation got its start in the Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator in the late 1980s. The incubator was the perfect fit for our newly established business. The Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator was extremely helpful — it provided the services we needed at an affordable cost. Having that start and having those services available was critical to our growth.”
“When I joined Great Lakes Asset Corporation in 1992, I was in one room by myself, running the organization. As we grew, Great Lakes Asset Corporation was able to move into a larger space within the incubator — having the capability to grow the business without moving into a new building was definitely one of the advantages of the program.
“It was great to be surrounded by business owners and to have the opportunity to build relationships with them. While we paid for the services provided at the incubator, the rates were extremely reasonable, just what incubator tenants need to get their business on its feet. “In 2002, Advance was building a new facility at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and our business demanded more privacy. We graduated from the Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator and continue to grow.”
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BUILD YOUR BUSINESS “We contacted [former Microloan Director] Marianne Dickson at Advance and from the first time we met with her I knew we were in the right place. Marianne facilitated all the logistics, making sure we were ready to stand before the board and present our business plan. The encouragement she offered throughout the process and the feedback she shared was so valuable to us. Without the Microloan, we would not have been able to successfully buy the business. We were at a dead end — that was our last option.
NATHAN REGISTER owner, BlueSky Flyfisher LLC dba BlueSky Furled Leaders
“My parents were small business owners so I grew up in that environment — I dreamed of one day owning my own business. “I am a 100 percent disabled veteran. Around 2003, I began working as a fly-fishing guide part-time, as my health allowed. Here I met the owner of BlueSky Furled Leaders and through our conversations learned he wanted to retire. My wheels started spinning as I had been looking for an opportunity to better my family, our situation and myself. I began researching the possibility of buying the business. “Because of the financial crisis around 2008, most banks weren’t willing to take the risk and lend money to small-to-medium sized businesses. On paper, my wife and I looked like we would qualify — as veterans and a woman interested in starting a family-owned business — but in the real world we found it to be very difficult. Everywhere we turned we ran into closed doors. Finally, a local banker told me about the Advance Microloan program. 6
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I know about fly fishing and fly-fishing leaders, but my forte may not be business related. But, once I contacted Marianne, with her knowledge of business and business models, she put me in contact with the right people to really build a platform of success for us. The whole Chamber — how they ’ve come together as a community to support the small business here in Northeast Wisconsin — has just been wonderful.”
“While we received the loan in 2012, we continue to receive support from Advance. They look at our profit and loss sheet and other financials quarterly. I know they are always just a phone call away if I need a second opinion — that is such a valuable asset. “We’ve grown the business the past two years, and I’ve been able to add to our staff. It’s been an extremely positive experience, and the resources that are available through the Microloan program are very useful. “One of the best things about owning a business is our two young daughters are able to get involved and learn what it takes to run a business and realize your dream.”
LINDA KIRCHNER
owner and CEO, Kirchner Computer Consulting
“I’ve been the owner and CEO of Kirchner Computer Consulting (KCC) since 1998; six years ago I expanded KCC to include divisions that offer Fiscal Agent services. Then, I had an opportunity to bid on a contract that would allow me to expand my business by creating jobs in the Fiscal Intermediary Services field. I contacted the [UWGB] Small Business Development Center for assistance, and they referred me to an adviser in the Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator. I was impressed by the facility and became a tenant in January 2009. “The affordable rent has helped keep KCC’s overhead costs low so we can be competitive when bidding on contracts. “I’ve found the services offered to tenants, with the Small Business Development Center, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and SCORE so close to the incubator, to be especially valuable. There is also a sense of community among the small businesses within the
LAURA PESZKO PICTURED AT SHINING STARS CHILDCARE AND EDUCATION CENTER LLC’S LLC'S NEW LOCATION IN HOBART WHERE THEY HAVE A CAMPGROUND SET UP FOR CHILDREN TO EXPLORE WHILE LEARNING ABOUT THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
“I have found the resources and the sense of community within the Advance Business & Manufacturing Center incubator to be beneficial to both my business and me. Lisa Harmann and Elizabeth Slade have been extremely helpful in assisting me over the years. They have had a major impact on my business, helping me find solutions to situations as they came up.”
incubator — we support each other. We are each working as incubator tenants in hopes of becoming sustainable and creating jobs in Northeast Wisconsin. “As the owner of KCC, I hope to expand and to create more jobs, and thanks to the incubator I’ll have that opportunity. In the near future, KCC will rely on the services available at the incubator to market software we developed to other Fiscal Intermediary and Representative Payee agencies.”
LAURA PESZKO
owner, Shining Stars Childcare and Education Center LLC
“We opened our first Shining Stars Childcare and Education Center 16 years ago. With a waiting list of kids and outstanding ratings from the state, we felt we could service more children and broaden our impact on the community. We explored the possibility of opening a second location. “Our loan officer didn’t believe a traditional loan would be sufficient to cover the costs of our project so he suggested exploring the Brown County Revolving Loan Fund. I reached out to the Greater Green Bay Chamber and learned about the program [administered by Advance, the economic development branch of the Chamber]. “The revolving loan money is available for startups or small businesses to buy the hardware, furniture and other necessities needed to physically open the door for business. In our case that was critical. As
Shining Stars was a perfect fit for the revolving loan. Fortunately for us, the Chamber does a good job educating the community members that the program is available. Our experience with the Chamber was very positive. It took away the fear of the loan process, making it easy by being personable and professional.”
a childcare center, we needed tables and chairs, kitchen sets and art easels — the ‘stuff ’ banks aren’t comfortable lending money for. “If it weren’t for the revolving loan, the construction of our second childcare center would have had to stop in its tracks.”
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CONNECT
BETSY HANSEN (CENTER) PICTURED AT CURRENT'S FUTURE 15 AND YOUNG PROFESSIONAL AWARDS EVENT HELD IN FEBRUARY 2014. 2014
BETSY HANSEN
communications specialist, BayCare Clinic
SHARON GUYETTE
independent sales consultant, Bankers Advertising
“I was raised in Sheboygan, went to college in Chicago and accepted my first professional job in Green Bay as a communication specialist for BayCare Clinic.
“When I came to Green Bay, I knew no one. I didn’t realize how hard it was to make friends without school being the catalyst to making those connections that are really important to enjoying life.
“I’ve been on the planning committee for the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Business Showcase (formerly the Business Expo) for more than 10 years — I’ve been exhibiting at the Showcase even longer.
I really appreciate there is a program like Current in the Greater Green Bay area because it provides a lot of opportunities for young professionals to meet each other, to meet business leaders and to learn about the community they are working in. All cities don’t necessarily have something like this — it’s a unique group.
“I liked my job so I didn’t want to leave Green Bay. I also wanted to get involved in the community — I’ve always been involved so I felt like that piece of me was missing.
“I mainly joined the Chamber 27 years ago so I could exhibit at the Showcase. I felt it was important at that time because I was relatively new to the industry and in my role as a indepen-
I think Brian Johnson brings something unique to Current and to the Chamber [as a whole] because he lives and breathes his job. Brian is always trying to think bigger and to make Green Bay a really cool place to live, work and play, and in turn keeps the area’s young professionals happy and more willing to stay and make it an even better place.”
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“I ran into Brian Johnson and a few other Current members in the spring of 2013 and asked for advice. Brian made me a bet, saying he would introduce me to 100 people by the end of summer. We eventually stopped counting, but I’m sure he was successful. “Current helped tie me to Green Bay. I made connections and am now serving the community through the Emerging Leaders Society, Brown County United Way, the Girl Scouts and more. I’m actively involved in Current Young Professionals Network, I’m engaged in the community and I’m proud to call Green Bay home.”
STACY SCHLEMMER (ON RIGHT) PICTURED AT A CURRENT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS DISCOVER EVENT.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber Business Showcase provides a valuable opportunity to network with other businesses, showcase my products and meet face-toface with clients and prospects. By participating in the annual event, I’m able to demonstrate I’m a true professional while helping businesses with their promotional needs.”
dent sales consultant for Bankers Advertising. It was a good opportunity to network and get my name out to the business community. “In my booth, I’ll display new items and showcase examples of projects I’ve done for local clients. Visitors can get project ideas, and they can see the variety and caliber of clients I work with. “Exhibiting at the Business Showcase shows I’m a true professional, committed to my business. I try to be consistent, requesting the same booth each year. “Technology has really changed my industry. Many of my clients don’t have time to meet with me so this one-on-one time at the Business Showcase is very valuable. It’s a great place to visit with clients and share new items.”
STACY J. SCHLEMMER
family law attorney, Peterson, Berk & Cross S.C., Green Bay and Appleton “When I joined Current Young Professionals three years ago, I had no idea I’d meet some of my closest friends. “At the time, I was looking to make more professional connections. A Current member suggested I join the group to meet people and to network. I knew I would also make friends, but I didn’t realize how much I’d enjoy hanging out with the people I met in Current. “Of the Current members I’m closest to, we all have different professions, but we became good friends because we had similar interests. We are all motivated people, with like ambitions and ideas, so when we’d see each other at various events we were naturally drawn together. Soon we began getting together outside of Current and have since gotten to know each other on a more personal level. “I try to attend as many Current programs as I can, but my favorites are the
After 5 events — they are a little more laid back and fit better with my work schedule. I also take every opportunity to go to the Lunch n’ Learns, where quality leaders and speakers cover relevant topics over the lunch hour. Current introduced me to a lot of individuals, businesses and community events and organizations that I wouldn’t have otherwise been exposed to. I’ve made great friendships, but it also helped me to grow my professional network and inspired me to get involved in the community.”
“I credit Current with much of my personal and professional growth over the last three years. I've met more people, made professional connections and been able to become involved in the community. I don’t think I would be where I am today without Current and having those opportunities.”
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PAUL GAZDIK (LEFT) PICTURED AT A CURRENT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS AFTER 5 EVENT.
PAUL GAZDIK
emergency management director, Brown County “Current is one of those programs that you get out of it as much as you put in. “I had the opportunity to move to the District of Columbia, but while I was weighing my options I became involved in Current. I met young professionals like myself who were interested in the community. The young professionals network opened my eyes and gave me a new perspective on Green Bay and Brown County — there is more happening here that I wasn’t aware of before joining Current.This discovery inspired me to stay. “Professionally, Current has made it possible for me to execute a 12-month preparedness campaign called ‘Do 1 Thing.’ We are trying to get people to go from being aware of emergencies and disasters to taking action pre-disaster. Through connections I’ve made through Current I’ve been able to move the initiative forward — if Current members can’t help, they can point me in the right direction within their organizations. “I really feel the people I’ve met are the reason I’m still in Green Bay. The people
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you meet through Current are of similar minds. They are also just starting out, trying to make an identity and name for themselves, and you learn a lot of valuable lessons from each other. We share the trials and errors experienced — what has worked and what didn’t work — and I bring that back to my workplace. “The personal and professional connections made through Current make the community feel a little smaller and often put a face to some of the faceless buildings in the area.” “I just wanted to take a moment and express my gratitude for the Current program through the Greater Green Bay Chamber. I was on pace a year ago to sell my downtown home, accept a new job with the District of Columbia and say goodbye to the bitter winters here in Wisconsin. That all changed after becoming an active member in the Current young professionals group. This group of CEOs, developers, bankers, nonprofits and healthcare workers has broadened my vision of our community.”
BRENDAN MARSTON
senior bank manager, Associated Bank, Adams Street branch, Green Bay
I joined the Chamber ambassador program with the goal of becoming more involved with the small business community in Green Bay, and I have not been disappointed. I have made many contacts within the Ambassador Club and can truly see the benefit this group brings to the Chamber and the business community at large. The ambassadors have the pleasure of attending the most positive of functions within the business community — ribbon-cuttings and groundbreakings especially are momentous occasions that represent the culmination of many hours of work by business people and community leaders. As an ambassador I get the pleasure of sharing in those moments and helping to mark their achievement.”
“As the senior bank manager of Associated Bank on North Adams Street, I reached out to the Greater Green Bay Chamber to request their presence at
a ribbon-cutting to celebrate our grand reopening after a major remodel. Even though it was late notice, Missy Steffek, director of membership and retention at the Chamber, kindly reached out to the Chamber’s ambassadors. “I thought having the ambassadors at the ceremony took our event up another level — it was a nice event, the ribbon was cut and the experience made
an impression on me. I reached out to Missy afterwards to ask how I could get involved. I joined the ambassadors program the following month. “Ambassadors are really the welcome wagon of the Chamber, attending groundbreakings, ribbon-cuttings and welcoming new members. By becoming an ambassador, my eyes were opened to not only the benefits of the Cham-
ber but also the importance of getting involved. “In my limited time as an ambassador, I’ve participated in as much as possible. Associated Bank is supportive and committed to efforts such as this on behalf of its employees.”
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Current is working to retain young professionals in our area and to make sure the quality of life in our region fits what the young professionals in our workforce are looking for. By offering a variety of leadership training opportunities, Current promotes professional development while encouraging attendees to make personal connections. I’ve met both professionals and friends through the programming.”
ALLYSON WATSON
executive director, Definitely De Pere
“I’ve been a member of Current since moving to the Green Bay area in 2013, but I really started attending events regularly within the last year. I appreciate the variety of leadership training opportunities and the wide array of topics Current covers.
“As the sole staff person in my organization, I’ve found the personal growth topics to be the most beneficial. I’ve attended sessions focused on personal time management — such as making time for health and wellness — and others like how to use your character strengths in the workplace.
“I try to attend at least two events each month. I pinpoint the topics that interest me and then try to implement some of the things I’ve learned in my professional work environment. “I’d say the primary reason I attend Current is to connect with people my age, although the education component is definitely an added benefit. As a transplant — not growing up here — Current has allowed me to interact with people from different professions that live and work in the Greater Green Bay area.”
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MICHELLE PALUBICKI
marketing director, Navigator Planning Group
“While I’ve attended many of the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Business & Breakfast programs over the years, one of the recent presentations really stood out to me.
I’ve been attending the Business & Breakfast series put on by the Chamber since I can remember. It is great to have the opportunity for quick-hits for professional development and networking with others in the business community.”
“Lee Bouche, president and owner of ERC (Employee Resource Center) and founder of Achieve, shared his wisdom on leadership and organizational development during a presentation on ‘Beyond Employee Engagement: Unleashing Employee Passion.’
preciating employees and including them on important matters. Lee also discussed the social power of work. “Whenever the Business & Breakfast topics are related to Navigator or what I do, I do my best to attend. This program description caught my eye because it mentioned employee passion. I actually thought Lee was talking about me during the entire presentation — the message was intended for all leaders, but I really related to the subject.
“What stood out in Lee’s presentation was his message — how to find the intersection between passion and your profession. He touched on things organizations usually don’t spend a lot of time thinking about, like providing interesting work, ap-
“Professionally, I believe the Business & Breakfast program is something everyone can benefit from. No matter where you are in your career, it’s worth your time and effort to invest in professional development.”
NationJob is among the best tools out there that help companies like N.E.W. Plastics stay visible to potential job applicants. It provides a place to notify potential job seekers of our opportunities, and NationJob does it in a way that is both economical as well as provides for a fairly broad coverage of the different job boards it partners with.”
“NationJob makes our career opportunities widely visible across our recruiting area in a cost-effective way. Through NationJob’s multiple partnerships, we’re able to post our openings to reach individuals searching for employment, and it uses a search engine tool that matches applicants with our job opportunities.
RESOURCES
THOMAS SCHULTZ
senior human resources leader, N.E.W. Plastics 12
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“Before being introduced to NationJob, we struggled to find the right recruiting tool. We bounced around, using different job boards and trying to find what would work best for N.E.W. Plastics. Advance suggested NationJob. We felt for the value and the presence NationJob provides us, in combination with the price point, it was worth adopting the tool as part of our recruiting strategy.
“In the past 12 months we’ve hired several people in our office — all of these hires came directly through NationJob. “As a family-owned business in the hardworking, small town of Luxemburg, we need partners that understand and can help us tap into the job market. I think NationJob does that effectively, and it is a good value proposition so we certainly appreciate that.”
KURT WIPPERFURTH PICTURED IN FRONT OF AN ABLE TAXI VEHICLE WITH HIS SON, KURT WIPPERFURTH 2.
KURT WIPPERFURTH
MARK HIGGINS
I’ve found that as a member of the Greater Green Bay Chamber and having access to staff, our small business feels so much bigger. Everyone at the Chamber is willing to work for you and in my case help my passengers. Happy passengers become repeat customers, resulting in a positive impact on our company’s bottom line. The Chamber also goes to great lengths to help members build relationships by offering valuable networking opportunities.”
“I reached out to Jayme Sellen at the Chamber with an issue for one of our business clients, and she helped connect us to the resources we needed to solve it.
manager, Able Taxi and Tours LLC
“There are two things I learned when I joined the Greater Green Bay Chamber. First, always put your nametag on your right side so when you shake hands others can see your name. Second, by becoming part of the Chamber, the staff is there to work for you. “As a shuttle service provider in Green Bay, there are many times I have passengers who are new to the area. If they want to do something I am not familiar with I say, “Let me call the staff.” When I call the Chamber, they always jump at the chance to help. “The Chamber’s networking opportunities have had a significant impact on our business. I have only missed one Power
Networking Breakfast since joining my son at Able Taxi and Tours in August 2012. We also make the majority of the Business After Hours events. By attending these events, we’ve been able to secure corporate-type accounts that are crucial from a business standpoint — that is where to hope to grow the business. The connections made while at Chamber’s networking events have been critical to our success. “As a member of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, I have an instant connection to other Chamber members. It’s like being part of a club or fraternity. We already have something in common, which makes it easier to start that first conversation.”
regional president, Johnson Bank
“This client sought to expand its manufacturing plant but faced some restrictions with land needed for their expansion that was classified for another use. Jayme stepped in and contacted the Department of Natural Resources to expedite the matter. We received the approval within a couple of days. “At risk were not only 50 to 60 new jobs involved with the plant expansion, but the 150 existing jobs that the employer may have moved to a different location if the plant expansion was not approved. I can’t say enough about the actions of Jayme and the Chamber in helping our client with the expansion project to not only retain the employee base but create new jobs in Northeastern Wisconsin.”
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CHERI GALECKE
director of human resources, DeLeers Construction
“DeLeers Construction has been participating in and using the Northeast Wisconsin Chambers Coalition Wage & Benefit Study for nearly 10 years.
The continued value that participating in and using the Wage & Benefit Study brings DeLeers Construction is knowing the data is coming from Northeast Wisconsin, it is done annually and we can be sure we are paying employees fairly and equitably — we want to recruit and employ the best.”
“The study collects and compiles data annually. I input our compensation and benefit data along with other businesses from the Greater Green Bay Chamber and Chambers throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Cindy Gokey at the Chamber is always helpful and patient as I find an hour of time to input our data. “At DeLeers Construction, we have a very structured compensation system.
It’s very important when we look at wage and benefit information to get relevant and accurate local market data. With the current stretch for finding labor, the Wage & Benefit Study is especially important when trying to compare apples to apples. DeLeers Construction uses the study both as a recruiting tool and when reviewing compensation internally to stay competitive within the local market. “There are other market data resources that are cost-prohibitive or not worth the annual investment. I find the Wage & Benefit Study to be an extremely valuable resource so we invest in the tool every year.”
SAVINGS ERIC HAAS
president and CEO, Automated Records Management Systems, A.R.M.S. Inc.
“At A.R.M.S. Inc, we participate in the Cellcom Smart Business Savings program offered to members of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. Approximately 75 percent of our employees carry devices and are on the business savings plan. With the great local coverage, especially with A.R.M.S. being a predominately regional business, we are able to do our jobs effectively. 14
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“Thanks to the group purchasing power of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, we are able to save on our calling plan, which impacts our organization financially. We continue to find the program attractive because of the influence it has on our business operating costs.”
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
DAMIAN LA CROIX
Partners in Education board member and superintendent, Howard-Suamico School District “My participation and ongoing commitment to Partners in Education is born out of my belief that we’ll leverage the maximum potential of our efforts by working as partners rather than working in isolation. “Partners in Education, a branch of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, states in its mission that by being the lead organization for identifying, developing and supporting education and business partnerships within the Greater Green Bay area we’ll help all learners prepare to be productive community members. We are fortunate to be in a community where the Chamber is locking arms with its members, coming together with Partners in Education and pulling everyone forward in the pursuit of a better quality of life for everyone.That’s energizing, knowing as educators we aren’t on an island. “The workplace has changed, and so must education.The world is now faster — more connected, complex and dynamic but smaller in terms of what technology has done to it. I also talk about the five C’s — creativity, critical thinking, citizenship, communication and collaboration. These workforce development skills are necessary for students to not only survive but to thrive today.
“While schools have definitely changed, the question is if they are changing fast enough with the world around us. That is where business partnerships come into play. “Connections made through Partners in Education help classrooms evolve and get to where they need to be. Interconnections that take place between businesses and classrooms generate incredible learning experiences. “Laurie Radke, president of the Chamber, recognizes, values and appreciates the important role education needs to have at the table as we talk about how to become a more vibrant region economically. She’s been a real partner.” Partners in Education is both the catalyst and the glue that brings together thought leaders from the public, the private, the business and the educational sector around a shared common interest related to promoting a better quality of life for everyone in the Greater Green Bay area.”
LILY ARENDT
college student, recipient of Brian LaViolette Scholarship Upon receiving the Brian LaViolette Scholarship I realized I was going to be part of the Foundation, something that was bigger than myself. I’m grateful to have been selected and am happy to honor Brian’s memory as I complete my education.”
“When I was a senior at Preble High School, I applied for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship, which awards a $10,000 scholarship to a student based on their grades and extracurriculars. I learned at the Chamber’s Partners in Education Youth Celebration a few weeks later that I was awarded the scholarship. “The scholarship will have a dramatic impact on my life as I further my education. I attend De Paul University and hope to become an optometrist so the financial support will be extremely helpful. “The positive experience I had interviewing for the Brian LaViolette Scholarship inspired me to compete in a local pageant. I was crowned Miss Northern Suburbs 2015 and will represent two counties in Illinois. I am doing my best to live out Brian’s vision, ‘The journey is the reward.’ ”
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BRANDON BURTON SPOKE AT THE YOUTH CELEBRATION EVENT IN MAY 2014 ON THE BENEFITS OF THE YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.
SCOTT DAUL MENTORING A STUDENT AT WPS
SCOTT DAUL
electrical designer, Wisconsin Public Service
The Youth Apprenticeship program is valuable for both students and area businesses. I’ve found it to be very gratifying, seeing the students grow through the experience. “For WPS, we are excited to be part of the program and to do our part in developing the future workforce. My department sees a big benefit in participating, and we plan to continue our involvement in the Chamber’s Youth Apprenticeship program.”
“WPS has been part of the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Youth Apprenticeship program for years. I had the honor to mentor three students who recently came through WPS. I was also involved in the interview process, meeting students interested in the Youth Apprenticeship program. “I believe the Youth Apprenticeship program is beneficial to the student, the employer and the community. Students are able to learn and develop a work ethic. At WPS, we are able to get work done while having a hand in developing the future workforce. The students are engaged in the community.
“WPS Youth Apprentice students do our field markups — they convert marked-up drawings to the CAD system. Their CAD skills are somewhat limited when they first come here so we help them improve their skills and understand terminologies.
BRANDON BURTON former Southwest High School student
“During my sophomore year at Southwest High School, N.E.W. Water came into my biology class to discuss wastewater treatment. They revealed there was an opportunity to work at their facility through the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Youth Apprenticeship program. “I interviewed and was selected as the youth apprentice so my junior and senior year I spent my days taking the required high school classes, completing classes at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) needed for the apprenticeship and working at N.E.W. Water.
“While the Youth Apprenticeship program doesn’t deliver instant results, we realize it’s part of a grander scheme — to develop students. They start out so green, then you see them learning and before you know it they are teaching you something. It’s uplifting and encouraging, knowing you are doing the right thing.” BRANDON WORKING AND LEARNING AT N.E.W. WATER. WATER
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GORDON BLACK
I never thought about what I wanted to do in the future. Participating in the Youth Apprenticeship program and having that experience at a young age was very beneficial — it inspired me to focus on my future and take the first steps in my career.”
“The Chamber was great to work with. If I had questions about the Youth Apprenticeship program, they were quick to respond. It wasn’t easy trying to juggle school, college and work, and I was given tips on managing my time and setting priorities. “My experience with the Youth Apprenticeship program and at N.E.W. Water inspired me to further my education and to study wastewater treatment. After high school graduation, I entered a two-year program at NWTC. “Last year, I went back to Southwest High School to recruit students for the program. I was honored to share my experience and highlight the benefits of the program.”
director of human resources, Bay-Tek Games
“At Bay-Tek Games, we’ve been involved in the Youth Apprenticeship program since 2009. Over the past five years, we’ve hosted four Youth Apprentice students from area high schools. Our goal is to get the students started on their life’s journey and to prepare them for a lifetime of success. “Our first Youth Apprentice worked with the team lead in our circuit board area. Then, our needs changed; I spoke to the Chamber, explaining we wanted to continue with the program but we needed students to support our manufacturing engineers. The last three students were tasked with learning SolidWorks, a 3-D design program. The first 90 to 100 days
of the Youth Apprenticeship, the students complete a tutorial of the SolidWorks program to get them up to speed and ready to support the engineers. “Our involvement in the Youth Apprenticeship program is one way we can give back to the community. We can give the future workforce experience that will likely set the foundation for their college career and profession. They discover what it’s really like to work in the manufacturing industry today, and they are able to interact with our employees. These are experiences they may never have had if they stayed in the classroom and gone right off to school.”
To me, what the Greater Green Bay Chamber has done for the participating students in the Youth Apprenticeship program is remarkable. It’s a rare opportunity for the area’s youth — the successes these students experience will have a lasting impact on them. As a company, we are excited to be able to support the program and to see what the future holds. Kudos to the Chamber.”
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TOM SWIECICHOWSKI
manager of specialized markets, Cellcom
Leadership Green Bay does a great job of opening your eyes to the opportunities and challenges in our community. As a graduate, I’ve realized the importance of getting involved — it doesn’t matter what you do as long as you get involved in something that makes the community a better place to live.”
“I was encouraged to join Leadership Green Bay for seven years before I agreed. I was busy, as everyone is, and wondered if I’d get enough out of the program. Friends who had graduated from Leadership Green Bay said it would be worth my time and that I should seriously consider participating. “My initial thought was I’d be able to network and make connections with the 39 other participants. But once I got into Leadership Green Bay I realized I’d get so much more out of the program. “I learned more about the community that I grew up in — I quickly discovered how much I didn’t know about the community. My eyes were opened to the challenges in Brown County, and I was inspired to do more personally and in my workplace.
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“At Cellcom, I am involved in a program around the holidays where I coordinate food drives and adopt-a-families — I try to get people to look outside their little world and see the needs out there. I strive to lead by example. My hope is people see I’m committed to making a difference — I don’t do it for a pat on the back but because I know it’s the right thing to do. “Cellcom believes it has the responsibility to give back to the community — it’s part of our culture. They support Leadership Green Bay’s mission to engage leaders in the community. The wireless industry is tough so we need to do what we can to separate ourselves from our competitors. We attempt to differentiate ourselves by the people working in our organization.”
JEN FIETZ
marketing manager, PAi (Plan Administrators Inc.) “PAi invests in employees, sending them through Leadership Green Bay because the program matches our organization’s core values of care, know and do. We know the employees selected are going to invest their time, energy and dollars back into the community because of what they experience through Leadership Green Bay. “Since joining PAi, we’ve had three employees participate in Leadership Green Bay. It’s amazing how the participant naturally comes to mind and becomes a multi-faceted resource for other PAi employees. “When I went through Leadership Green Bay in 2005, Jeanne Agneessens was leading the program. I loved how connected she was to the community. Now Tom Lyga is looking at the program through a new lens, and I appreciate that. “I stay involved in Leadership Green Bay, serving on the marketing and steering committees, because I feel it creates strong, wellconnected leaders throughout Northeast Wisconsin — in organizations big and small.
RECOGNITION I believe Leadership Green Bay adds value, and the best thing we can do is start connecting the dots across the community. There are more than 100 projects that have been built, created and successful because strongminded people have figured out how to solve some of these problems. I feel strongly about the impact the program has on the community so I’m an internal advocate for Leadership Green Bay at PAi.”
“Leadership Green Bay has tremendous value inside of an organization, but there is also that outside connection. It amazes me every time I talk to someone that has gone through the program the connections they’ve made across the community.”
MIKE REKITZKE
president, N.E.W. Plastics Corp.
The Greater Green Bay Chamber, through the awards they’ve presented, has given us the opportunity to tell people who we are and what we do. I think the Chamber is doing great work by allowing businesses to tell their story and by supporting the businesses and manufacturers in the community.”
“We’ve had the honor of receiving two awards from Advance, the economic development branch of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, the past two years — last year we were given the Manufacturing Award of Distinction and this year the Excellence in Business Award.
JEN FIETZ WAS RECOGNIZED AT THE LEADERSHIP GREEN BAY WELCOME BREAKFAST IN SEPTEMBER 2014 FOR HER WORK AS CHAIR OF THE LEADERSHIP GREEN BAY MARKETING COMMITTEE. PICTURED WITH TOM LYGA.
“These awards are a culmination of where we have been the last few years — it’s been several years of hard work, but we’ve seen growth and solid financial returns. The recent recognitions are really the crowning glory, acknowledging these suc-
cesses. The awards signify we are a strong business and our team members can be proud of what we are doing here. “Being part of the Greater Green Bay Chamber has had a noticeable impact on N.E.W. Plastics. We’ve been given the opportunity to tell our story that otherwise wouldn’t have been heard. As a mediumsized company in Luxemburg, many people in the Greater Green Bay area weren’t aware of us. Upon receiving the awards, we’ve become more visible. “Being recognized as a company achieving excellence in manufacturing and enhancing the quality of life in the community has become a great recruiting tool for us. People take notice of that. We’ve become one of the employers of choice in the area, and that’s always a good thing. “The Chamber has also offered other benefits to our company, including jobs programs and the annual business expo. N.E.W. Plastics has always found the Chamber to be a valuable partner.”
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COLLECTIVE IMPACT
“We established a community advisory board, a cross section of the community to help us develop the MCW – Green Bay. This board interviewed dean candidates. The Chamber hosted the interviews, offering up a conference room and sharing its resources.
KATHRYN KUHN
vice president of government and community relations, the Medical College of Wisconsin
“Dr. John Raymond, president and CEO of the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), believed MCW could make a greater impact statewide by expanding the medical school, bringing medical education outside of the Madison and Milwaukee areas. He believed there was a role for MCW in Greater Green Bay. “Before the MCW could call Green Bay home, we needed to develop partnerships in the community. It was absolutely critical that the community embrace this idea and join us in helping to bring MCW to the Greater Green Bay area. “As we were gauging interest, I discovered the Greater Green Bay Chamber was very connected to the pulse of the city. They immediately asked, “How can we help?” The Chamber knew in order to be successful we’d need to develop partnerships with the business community, educational institutions and healthcare organizations. 20
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“Part of hiring and recruiting a dean was introducing him or her to the community. The Chamber had an ambassador take the candidates around, show them different parts of Green Bay and talk about the fantastic arts and entertainment and educational opportunities. Who can tell the community’s story better than the Greater Green Bay Chamber?
The Greater Green Bay Chamber has been extremely valuable in our journey to bring the Medical College of Wisconsin to the Greater Green Bay area. The Chamber has been there every step of the way — their door is always open. I have been so impressed by the depth and breadth of the services the Chamber provides, not just to its members but also to the community.”
“Laurie Radke has taken so much time to reach out to me and to all of us at MCW. I’ve been brought onto committees and presented opportunities for engagement — that is what we want to do. At the end of the day MCW wants to be as much a part of the fabric of Greater Green Bay area as any other institution or business or community organization. We look forward to educating the future physicians that are going to live in and serve the community.”
TIM WEYENBERG executive chairman, Foth
“I was engaged in Achieve Brown County as one of the formation task force leaders that had as its charge to build the mission and vision of a cradle to career community initiative. “Achieve Brown County consists of a unique group of community leaders representing the education, business, faith, nonprofit, philanthropic and civic sectors that are committed to developing an all-encompassing educational initiative. I believe it is critical businesses are at the table and involved in the initiative because they are one of the primary customers of the product — the student — that comes out of our education system. “As we created Achieve Brown County, Laurie Radke, the other founding sponsors and community partners were integral in coming up with the list of outcomes we expect to happen. These outcomes are divided into age classes from cradle to career, and each one of those outcomes has specific measures that we as a community are going to strive to create. But, we realized it
RECOGNITION It is essential to have businesses at the table for the success of Brown County’s cradle to career initiative. I believe the vehicle for getting businesses actively engaged is the Greater Green Bay Chamber. The Chamber is the primary voice of business in the community. I have had an extremely positive working relationship with Laurie Radke and the other founding sponsors and community partners because we all stand on common ground as we work to build the framework for this community initiative.”
didn’t make sense to re-create the wheel. There are all sorts of wonderful programs, institutions and service agencies already doing good work. “Partners in Education is one of those programs making a positive impact on the community. Achieve Brown County isn’t here to replace the work being done by entities like Partners in Education; we are here to help organize it in a way that is more efficient. By going to existing entities and negotiating an agreement for continued engagement we can discuss how together we can be more effective. “From Foth’s standpoint, the company is willing to support my involvement in Achieve Brown County for several reasons. First, there is the altruistic benefit. Achieve Brown County is a community service, and Foth believes in supporting community initiatives that are going to add value. Second, there is self-interest. The better off the education system is, the better it will be at producing future employees. Everyone benefits. “When talking with business leaders, their primary concern when looking ahead to the next five to 10 years is if a competent workforce will be available to meet their needs. Anything we can do to improve the chances of having a future workforce prepared to improve the sustainability and productivity of our existing business enterprises is at the core of this community initiative.”
PAUL BELSCHNER president, Smet Construction Services
“Smet Construction Services has won various awards from the Greater Green Bay Chamber over the years. In 2010, the Chamber gave us the Green Award [now known as the Environmental Stewardship Award], an award designed to recognize organizations that demonstrate environmentally sustainable practices are a large part of their corporate culture. “These green practices have always been important to our organization, although it has become increasingly important locally as well as globally the last five to 10 years. “Our clients need to know we understand the practices and the paybacks that come from being environmentally responsible so we’ve incorporated the award logo into our branding — the logo can be found on our letterhead, email signatures and project signage displayed throughout the community.
“The award signifies we are environmental stewards, and that recognition comes from one of the most well-known business partners, the Chamber. Anytime you can associate yourself in the business-to-business environment with the Chamber it’s a smart move. Where can you find a better business partner than the Greater Green Bay Chamber? I’d argue that you can’t.”
At Smet Construction Services, we find value in being associated with the Greater Green Bay Chamber. Receiving the coveted Green Award by the best promoter of business in the community meant something to us. We are proud to showcase that honor and to get involved in various programs through the Chamber.”
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workforce development
MBA PROGRAM IS ECONOMIC BOON TO AREA Norbert College has been offering business education on the banks of the Fox River since before the Wright brothers’ historic first flight.The college’s 1912 catalog even pictures the large group of students and faculty of the commerce department, which is what the business program was then called. This is no surprise — the Norbertines of De Pere have always considered their mission to be the betterment of the Northeastern Wisconsin community, and training young people to be ethical business leaders has long been a big part of the college’s work.
St.
* Kevin G. Quinn, dean, Donald J. Schneider School of Business and Economics at St. Norbert College, kevin.quinn@snc.edu
This past year, a substantial gift from Mrs. Pat Schneider has created an opportunity for St. Norbert to do more toward this goal. Her generosity has resulted in the creation of the Donald J. Schneider School of Business and Economics, named in honor of a business leader who was a student, a teacher, a board of trustees member and benefactor of the college, whose own story is emblematic of the Norbertine mission to better the community in which we live. In addition to supporting a number of new programs and activities that will enhance the undergraduate business student experience, Schneider’s gift has led to the development of
NEW LOOK
SINCE 2013
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a master of business administration program at St. Norbert. SNC’s master’s program will guide and help the development of the next generation of senior business leaders in Northeastern Wisconsin by providing a superior business education, dually grounded in excellence in the curriculum and the ethical understanding for which St. Norbert College has been long known. The Higher Learning Commission, the primary accreditation body in the Midwest, has approved St. Norbert’s new MBA program, which is indicative of the esteem in which the college is held by the educational community. MBA classes will begin in summer, and will be offered weeknights so working professionals will be able to complete the program in two years, although some will want to take longer. Three curricular options are available: a general track for those seeking a broad graduate business experience, a track for medical and healthcare professionals and a track for supply chain and manufacturing professionals. The typical St. Norbert MBA student will be someone with several years of professional experience, and who wants a personalized but outstanding graduate business education that emphasizes the importance of networking with established senior and fellow rising business leaders.
SAME VISION SINCE 1934
50 years, and the Powers of the Phoenix We’re planning reunions, an open house and programs that will recall our history and thank our stakeholders. We’ll offer fun ways for 32,000 alumni to reconnect and for 6,500 current students to embrace tradition. We’ll welcome back founding faculty and our earliest graduates, and we’ll marvel together at how Edward Weidner’s field of dreams has become a modern, respected and comprehensive university.
Our 50th isn’t merely about nostalgia, however. It’s about the future. At its founding in 1965, UW-Green Bay was one of America’s most innovative institutions, organized around the idea that students should tackle great problems. In the global knowledge economy of today, we must reinvest in our innovative roots to power education and economic prosperity for our region. We’ll do this by focusing our energies on the three Powers of the Phoenix: the Power of Innovation, the Power of Transformation and the Power of Place.
Innovation
If our graduates are to embrace innovation, so must the institution. The University is in the process of re-examining its array of academic programs; further pursuing advances in program delivery; and structuring itself in such a way as to capture innovations from the private sector, foster creativity internally and promote entrepreneurship by students.
Transforming Lives
College graduates enjoy substantially greater earnings and opportunities, both personally and in giving back to their communities. We must seize the opportunity to work with our colleagues in K-12, the UW Colleges and the technical colleges to transform the lives of every qualified citizen in our region through some postsecondary education. We’ll do this by expanding our award-winning Phuture Phoenix program, building partnerships that promote seamless transfer, creating relevant new grad programs, providing opportunities for working adults and working to make college affordable for all.
In September 2015, UW-Green Bay will celebrate its
50th
anniversary.
Place
The UWGB of the future will look outward, pursuing partnerships with business, government and the nonprofit sector that add value and exploring new partnerships that anticipate the needs of a changing regional economy. Greater Green Bay is our home. When UW System President Ray Cross touts the power of innovation during times of great change, or talks about the statewide Talent Development Initiative … he’s talking about us. We accept his challenge. Together, our future is bright. With inspiration from our past and from the Phoenix itself — a mythical bird that is periodically reborn or regenerated — we at UW-Green Bay will use our anniversary as a launch pad for reinvigoration, and for shaping this community’s future.
* Gary L. Miller, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, 920.465.2207, MillerG@uwgb.edu
Go Phoenix!
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The
* Jeff Dickert, agency administrator, Cooperative Educational Service Agency #7(CESA), jdickert@cesa7.org
branding
“Back in the day,” you moved to a community and likely sent your children to that community’s public school. Some chose the local parochial school, and only in a few cases did anyone send their children to an academy. Fast forward to today, and you have many choices concerning the education of your child – your community’s public school, open enrollment to a neighboring community’s public school, a wide range of parochial schools, charter schools, voucher schools, private academies, home school and the list goes on. Brown County Public Schools, like all Wisconsin Public Schools and America’s Public Schools, are in a choice market where you, the consumer, no longer automatically have basically one choice. Branding and brand man-
agement were foreign concepts to Wisconsin Public Schools up until the past few years. Yet, Brown County School Districts are an educational industry that contributes over half a billion dollars annually to the local economy. The giant is awakening. Your Brown County School Districts are working with independent firms, internal personnel and in some cases their own talented students to create their own brands. Facebook, e-newsletters, television, Twitter and other social media outlets are used to spread the good news. Each district has many similarities as well as vast differences and works hard to inform the public what those are. Green Bay, De Pere, West De Pere, Denmark, Seymour, Pulaski,
MAKE IT
IN NORTHEAST WISCONSIN On Oct. 24, outside the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) Trades Center, we literally “raised the flag” declaring that manufacturing is alive and well in NEW North. The flag, pictured here, was designed by Paul Rauscher of EMT International and Ann Franz, NWTC manager of strategic partnerships. I gave a short speech about Old Testament prophets. I did that because I was sitting there in 2006 when Paul pounded his fist on the table and proclaimed that, despite an aging workforce and a negative image,“manna-facturing” (Paul’s pronunciation) was going to remain alive and thriving in Northeast Wisconsin. Since his exact words were that we would “raise the flag” to make that bold statement, it was really fun to be there to raise a real flag and see his prophesy come true, both literally and economically.
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of Brown County Public Schools Howard Suamico, Luxemburg-Casco and Wrightstown School Districts are what we call the Brown County Public School Districts due to their district boundaries being totally located in or partially in Brown County.
As well as you know the Nike swoosh, can you name the Brown County Districts by their logos used on their districts’ websites?
Most of you can name your own school district, but those of you who know others have to give it up for those schools and their sometimes singular marketing departments. As competition grows amongst school districts due to open enrollment, or with other educational entities via vouchers, branding a district and all that goes with it will become the norm. It is a new age of competiveness for your Brown County Public Schools, and as in the past, your public schools have adapted to mirror their community and business. So expect to see more branding, taglines, social media and much more promoting your public schools. A big change from “Back in the Day”! CESA 7 is an intermediate agency that works with the Department of Public Instruction and provides educational services to 38 Northeastern Wisconsin school districts. Logos top left to right:West De Pere, Green Bay, De Pere, Pulaski, and Seymour. Logos bottom left to right: Denmark, Luxemburg-Casco, Howard Suamico and Wrightstown.
A few months afterward, the NEW Manufacturing Alliance was formed. The Alliance is now up to 150 plus members, has co-sponsored four Manufacturing First conferences, held three Excellence in Manufacturing K-12 Partnership Awards Banquets, published seven annual “AllStars” magazines, and provided tens of thousands of dollars in manufacturing-related scholarships.
paper written by our Local Labor Market Analyst, Jeff Sachse, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), based in Paris, intends to feature the Alliance in a 2015 publication of international best practices. Franz recently returned from Udine, Italy, where she was invited to give a presentation on the Alliance at their Future Forum event.
In the last two years, Franz and Alliance members have travelled the state and country to tell the Alliance’s story. We were featured prominently in a longitudinal study from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago called The Industrial Cities Initiative in 2014. Thanks to an academic
When we coined the tagline “Make It In NEWisconsin” for the Alliance eight years ago, none of us would have imagined all of our accomplishments in this short period of time. But we certainly have raised the flag that manufacturing is thriving in NEW North. And the best is still ahead!
* Jim Golembeski, executive director, Bay Area Workforce Development Board, jgolembeski@bayareawdb.org
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THE CURRENT AND FUTURE ROLE OF THE MILLENNIAL GENERATION (or, why brand loyalty matters) here has been a great deal of conversation about the impact of the so-called millennial generation on all aspects of our economy and society. Much of this conversation assumes a tone that may seem overly skeptical and reflects our general lack of understanding about the potential of this group.
There are a number of defining characteristics of millennials that will have a profound impact on the way we work and live. Forty-three percent of millennials nationally are non-white, compared to 30 percent of the population in general. These numbers are closer to each other locally, but millennials are still significantly more diverse.
The focus on millennials, or those born between 1980 and 2000*, comes both because the generation represents the newest entrants into our workforce, as well as in response to the ongoing aging and retirement of the baby boom generation.The conversation contains a number of inherent contradictions as it implies a discussion of generational succession, which is rarely comfortable for either the old or the young. This is only amplified when considering the size of the respective groups. There are more than 80 million millennials in the United States, as compared to 71 million baby boomers.** The most common single age-year among the population — and the inspiration of a Taylor Swift song from 2012 — is 22. As a consequence, any conversation of the millennial effect is one largely of potential, as much of this coming generation has not yet entered into the workforce.
The generation also has significantly different perspectives on many aspects of life and work. Millennials are far more likely to be married and form families later in life — by age 29 for men and 27 for women. This represents an increase of seven years, on average, since 1960.The principal cause for this delay is concern about financial stability. The first millennial turned 25 in 2005. The generation has been profoundly impacted by the so-called Great Recession of 2007-2009.
T
For as much as we do know about the preferences of millennials — they are far more socially connected than their predecessors and their worldview is shaped by online experiences, for example — there is much that remains to be discovered. Entrepreneurship and self-employment rates among this generation are significantly
The projected share of the Green Bay workforce by generation – 2010-2040
higher than was true of baby boomers at the same age. This is largely a reflection of changing economic circumstances, but it also represents a changing perspective on the meaning of work. The experience of the 2000s has taught millennials to view career development as something within their control, rather than something they are beholden to an employer for. They are far more likely to change organizations to seek advancement rather than to stay in positions where advancement is less certain. A number of surveys have demonstrated that millennials are highly attracted to organizations where they feel their contributions have meaning, and to define success by what one does more than by what one earns. Brand loyalty applies to employers in the same manner as it applies to a clothing line. These are admittedly early impressions, but they do suggest that we are in the midst of a seismic shift in the way we work and view the value of that work. * There is some disagreement as to what birth years are covered under the millennial generation.The definition here comes from National Public Radio's excellent New Boom series: http://www.npr.org/series/352990765/new-boom. ** The generation between the baby boom and millennial generations, of which I am a member, has also experienced a transformation. While those of us born between 1965 and 1979 had been referred to as Generation X by our baby boom elders, we are now viewed as the silent generation by our millennial successors.
30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% 2010 26
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2020
2025
2030
2035
2040
* Jeffrey Sachse, acting chief economist, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, jeff.sachse@dwd.wisconsin.gov
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economic development
Greater Green Bay needs brand to
GO GLOBAL s a region grows in population, so does its level of economic productivity. Natural population growth is slowing (locally as well as nationally), so if the Greater Green Bay area is to prosper, it must attract new residents from other parts of the state, the country and the globe. Demographic, economic and technological changes make us more mobile than ever in terms of where we choose to live and build a career or a business. We encourage people to invest their resources here by creating — and communicating — that we are a community that generates innovative ideas, helps businesses grow and provides a vibrant quality of life. Facilitating interaction among individuals and industries will generate the novel solutions that tackle complex social and environmental issues. For instance: •
In what ways can we combine our regional strength in manufacturing, logistics consulting and materials recovery to solve water quality and waste management problems?
•
How can we use the expertise of mental health practitioners, vocational rehabilitation services and insurance and pension administrators to address the challenges of people living longer lives? We need to enhance events and spaces for smart and creative people to bump into each other inside and outside of work.
Supporting programs that transform innovative ideas into viable businesses demonstrates a commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed. The Advance Business & Manufacturing Center, University of
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Wisconsin – Green Bay Small Business Development Center, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Artisan and Business Center, and Brown County Culinary Kitchen have demonstrated success incubating businesses. Because entrepreneurs are highly likely to remain in the community in which they launch their company, we need to develop complementary programs that can accelerate and expand these startups into high-growth firms.
* Troy Streckenbach, Brown County executive, bc_county_executive@ co.brown.wi.us
Providing natural and cultural amenities that constitute a high quality of life creates an even stronger draw for those seeking employment. We already offer award-winning public schools, several reputable institutions of higher education, direct access to outstanding natural spaces and some of the lowest crime rates in the nation.We enhance these assets by creating public spaces that foster social interaction and commerce and building transportation networks that accommodate individuals of all ages and abilities. We must work — strategically and collaboratively — to brand the Greater Green Bay area as a place that offers both outstanding economic opportunities and a vibrant quality of life. As we attract more smart and skilled people, we develop more innovative ideas, grow more prosperous businesses and start a virtuous cycle that only makes us a more attractive place to live and work.
Northeast Wisconsinites are
big givers merican philanthropy is rooted in the value of help your neighbor, a rural American concept going back to the founding fathers. Philanthropists became noted American figures as wealth accumulated in the late 19th century. Rockefeller and Carnegie epitomized the notion that stalwarts of capitalism should give back to the community and country by establishing and supporting causes that address the quality of life for all citizens. The 16th Amendment gave Congress the authority to collect taxes on income in 1913. Congress enacted the first income tax legislation in 1913 and created the charitable tax deduction in 1916. The point was to broaden participation to support community causes, and it’s been working ever since. An abundance of data supports the evidence that we live in a very giving society. Three recent national reports point to trends in monetary giving over the past five years. The trends are good, and the local data is even better. The reports I refer to come from The Foundation Center, the Chronicle for Philanthropy and Giving USA.The scope of these reports vary, but their conclusions point in the same direction. Monetary giving in the United States has been up each year from 2009 when the last recession ended. Giving will be up again in 2014. Total giving at end of 2013 from 2009 was up 22 percent.
According to Giving USA, total giving in 2013 across the country was up 4.4 percent. 2012 was up 4 percent. Expectations for 2014 is that giving will be up 6 percent. Built into the trends of increased giving are some important changes in the way donors give and what motivates their giving. Partly because of growing charitable fund options, a big change is that giving to charitable funds rather than to an organization is growing the fastest. Donor advised funds are offering flexibility and choice. Donors are motivated by how the money they give is spent. Almost 50 percent of donors say they care most about how their money is spent. They seek organizations that spend less on overhead. Overall the American public has become more engaged with giving as a practiced act of citizenship. $54,787 is the average income, after deductions, of those who itemize, and giving has increased from 2006 to 2012 among those earning less than $100,000 by 4.5 percent. In Northeastern Wisconsin, the trends are even * David L. Pamperin, better. We have more than 530 funds at the president & CEO, Greater Green Greater Green Bay Community Foundation set Bay Community Foundation, up to support various causes important to our DavidPamperin@GGBCF.org quality of life. Last year we experienced our highest level of donor gifts since 2007. We are on pace this calendar year to exceed that amount by almost 18 percent with more than 3,900 donors participating in the support of our community. That’s a trend we can all be proud to be part of.
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economic development
Building a healthier community
with Live54218
ive54218, the Greater Green Bay Area’s Healthy Living, Active Living Initiative, has come a long way in the four years since its inception. What began as an idea on the pages of the Green Bay Press-Gazette is now a budding community-based organization, with the vision of making the Greater Green Bay area the healthiest community in the nation.
L
Through four strategic areas — active community; healthy food system; education, marketing and community outreach; and shared measurement — Live54218 is thinking boldly about changing the ongoing obesity epidemic in the Greater Green Bay community. For many, though, this work is not just about health. It is about quality of life and building a community that is active, vibrant and economically thriving. We know the greatest impact occurs if we start young. A part of our healthy food system strategic area, the Live54218 Farm to School program works to transform the community into a place in which health, academic achievement and the economy are supported by increased access to healthy, affordable, local food. The first year Live54218 offered nutrition lessons to area schools, we gave 15 lessons a month. Fast-forward to 2014, during which we provided more than 200 lessons around locally grown foods and proper nutrition a month to students in eight school districts. We are working to foster a generation of youth who grow up understanding the impact of their food choices not only on their
health, but also on the local economy. We saw tremendous success for Farm to School in the 2013-2014 school year. Through classroom nutrition education, cafeteria taste tests, school gardening and farm field trips, we reached more than 2,900 unduplicated students. Additionally, a focus on increased local food procurement by school cafeterias reached students countywide. We hosted culinary trainings for school food service workers, and funds were allocated to purchase new food service equipment to ease the processing, storing and securing of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Live54218 is wrapping up its three-year startup phase and recently put together its 2014 Partners’ Report. Our success would not be possible without the tremendous community partners and volunteers who have supported us and helped advance this work. But we still have work to do. I challenge everyone to read our Partners’ Report (available at http://issuu.com/live54218/ docs/live54218_partners__re port_2014) and get involved — find the part you can play in building a healthier community.
* Jen Van Den Elzen, executive director, Live54218, jen@live54218.org WINTER 15
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member anniversaries — January
January 25-plus year anniversaries 42 YEARS WLUK FOX 11/ WCWF CW14 WLUK FOX 11 and WCWF CW14 provide local news, network and syndicated enter tainment, and local programming to viewers across Nor theast Wisconsin. FOX 11 is Your Station for Balanced News and Severe Weather Coverage. Both stations deliver outstanding news and enter tainment through web, mobile and social media platforms. The stations have enjoyed many rewarding collaborations with the Greater Green Bay Chamber, such as the Golden Apple Awards, Current, the Business Recognition Awards and others. Both stations are owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcasting Group.
banking products, which is conducted through its new website. Bank Mutual offers a surcharge-free network of 23,000 ATMs, and its subsidiary, BancMutual Financial & Insurance Services, offers annuities and securities. Bellin Health Bellin Health is a community-owned not-for-profit organization responsible for the physical and mental health of people living in Nor theast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The organization exists to serve others through patient care excellence and innovative programs designed to influence health in the region. Bellin Health is steadfast in its commitment to providing compassionate, safe, reliable, and cost-effective services and programs.
36 YEARS
32 YEARS
Bank Mutual Bank Mutual has been Wisconsin’s “go-to” bank for 122 years. Based in Milwaukee, Bank Mutual operates 76 branches that serve more than 100,000 households throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. Bank Mutual spends time, energy and dollars to improve the customer experience in its 76-branch network. The financial institution provides financial solutions that offer added value above and beyond traditional
Aramark Uniform Services Inc. Aramark Uniform Services provides customized rental and purchase programs for uniform services to clients throughout the U.S., Canada, Puer to Rico and Japan. Although primary customers are in the automotive, food, manufacturing and healthcare sectors, the company serves a wide range of industries as varied as forestry, mining and retail. 29 YEARS Edward P. Van Beek, DPM Dr. Edward Van Beek DPM assists with various foot-related problems including total care of the foot and ankle for children and adults, foot and ankle examination and treatment, foot surgery, biomechanical evaluation and treatment, and or thotic evaluation and treatment.
Thomas W. Wilkins, MD Revitalize Anti-Aging Medicine is a personalized service offering testing and the direct treatment of aging female and male symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. Working collaboratively with your primary care practitioner, our goal is to seek the functional restoration of a man and woman’s health and to promote wellness. For more information visit www.revitalizegb.com.
www.revitalizegb.com • 2411 Holmgren Way • 920-857-8197 32
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Eye Care Professionals Eye Care Professionals provide a range of eyewear and eyecare services including family practice optometry, diagnosis treatment of eye infections and diseases, Lasik and cataract consult, referral and post-op follow-up, specialty contact lenses, contacts cleaned and polished while you wait, latest technology in thin and lightweight lenses, repairs and solders, and specialty sports and sunglasses. Global Recognition Inc. Global Recognition Inc. is a leading provider of recognition awards, imprinted apparel, business gifts and promotional products for clients locally and throughout Nor th America. The company operates in a 17,500-square-foot office and production facility with state-of-the-ar t equipment, an experienced team of dedicated employees and an impressive 2,200-square-foot retail showroom including acrylic, glass and crystal awards, eagle sculptures, medallions, coins, plaques and framed awards, clocks, business gifts, promotional products, bricks, garden stakes, benches, apparel and more. Ryan Funeral Home & Crematory Ryan Funeral Home & Crematory offers services in funeral arrangements, cremation options, body/organ donations, as well as personalized services for each individual need. A single, dedicated funeral professional stays in contact with individuals every step of the way and guides
January January 10-24 years
them through the decision-making process. He or she carefully explains options, makes recommendations per request, takes care of all the small details and ensures each family’s personal touch is always present. Stellpflug Law S.C. Stellpflug Law S.C. holds diverse practice, enabling them to provide a broad range of services to clients. By working closely, the firm’s various practice groups are able to deliver innovative solutions to issues clients may face. With the ability to provide clients with a single-source solution to individual and business legal needs, the team can establish a close working relationship with clients, rendering cost-effective service. 26 YEARS James G. Fritsche, DDS, S.C. Dr. James G. Fritsche and his team in De Pere provide a variety of services including preventive care (regular checkups, fluoride treatments, dental sealants), as well as restorative and laser technology treatment. The team strives for clients to leave the office feeling like they finally found a dentist that they like and trust, as well as a caring staff that is friendly and makes them feel at ease. UnitedHealthcare UnitedHealthcare believes everyone deserves flexible healthcare. The organization is committed to changing healthcare through outstanding service, valuable products and measurable savings, year after year. UnitedHealthcare provides services to individuals and families, employers, brokers and consultants, and physicians.
23 YEARS Bayland Buildings Inc. Family & Childcare Resources of N.E.W. Inc. Oneida Printing 22 YEARS Austin-Straubel International Airport Menominee Casino Resort Wal-Mart Stores Inc. – Main Street location 20 YEARS Fairfield Inn by Marriott 19 YEARS Southside Tire Co. Inc. Woodward Radio Group 18 YEARS A. Farah Investments, LLC – Raymond James Financial Inc.
14 YEARS HBBA Referral network Informed Choice LLC 13 YEARS Bonnie M. Lee & Associates CR Meyer & Sons Company Prevea Health Network Pro One Janitorial Inc. 12 YEARS Compufab LLC Eye Associates of Green Bay S.C. Gerbers Law S.C. Margarita’s of Wisconsin Inc. Miron Construction Co. Inc. NEW ENT S.C. Titletown Brewing Company Zepnick Solutions Inc. 11 YEARS American Foods Group LLC
15 YEARS Mau & Associates Sleep Inn & Suites
25 YEARS Sam’s Club With nearly 600 locations, Sam’s Club is not only a great place to save money, but also a destination for solutions that can help ease a busy schedule. Whether stocking a pantry or a business, selecting new electronics or getting ready for a par ty, the company’s members count on Sam’s Club as their source for the products and services they need to keep things running smoothly.
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member anniversaries — February
February 10-24 year anniversaries 24 YEARS Vande Hey Company Inc.
20 YEARS Consolidated Construction Company
13 YEARS Allcox & Associates S.C.
23 YEARS McDonald Lumber Company Inc.
18 YEARS Citgo Petroleum Corporation
22 YEARS De Pere Area Chamber of Commerce Employee Resource Center Inc. GRAEF – USA Inc. Mead & Hunt Inc. Oneida Bingo & Casino Renard’s Country Elegance Inc. VOS Electric Inc.
17 YEARS Davis & Kuelthau S.C.
12 YEARS BAYCOM inc. The Business News
16 YEARS Brett Favre Steakhouse Downtown Green Bay Incorporated Sammy’s Pizza of Green Bay Inc.
11 YEARS IEI General Contractors Inc. St. Brendan’s Inn
February
February 25-plus year anniversaries 60 YEARS
34 YEARS LaForce Inc. LaForce is one of the largest distributors of doors, frames and hardware in the United States, and is a leader in its industry. To be the best possible resource for customers, each department at LaForce specializes in a different task involved in the selling and completing of a job. Its employees are highly educated and trained to be experts in their tasks so that they can complete jobs efficiently and accurately. Customized computer programming allows seamless communication between departments, ensuring customer needs are met quickly.
Medalcraft Mint Inc. Medalcraft Mint Inc. is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality minted commemoratives, awards, recognitions and business gifts. The Medalcraft Mint team specializes in creating die-struck medals, medallions, coins, key tags and other pieces from its catalog of more than 500 stock and custom items. Complete in-house capabilities ensure attention to even the smallest artistic and manufacturing detail, providing on-time delivery for customers’ special events.
34 YEARS
33 YEARS
NBC26 & MYNEW32 NBC 26 and MyNEW 32 are owned by Journal Broadcast Group Inc. You can catch all of your favorite NBC and Packers programming on your Official Packers Station NBC 26. Get the best comedies around on MyNEW 32 where you can find “Modern Family,” “Big Bang Theory,” “Mike and Molly” and “2 1/2 Men” plus all your favorite sports action on “Showdown.”
Schlaefer-Martin Memorials Schlaefer-Martin Memorials has been serving Northeast Wisconsin for more than 30 years. The company’s commitment to quality workmanship, service and value, along with its affiliation with Appleton Marble & Granite Works, provides families with both traditional and the newest concepts and artistic personalization in memorialization.
30 YEARS
29 YEARS
Baker Tilly LLP With more than 2,500 professionals, Baker Tilly is a full-service accounting and advisory firm with specialized professionals who connect with clients and their business through refreshing candor and clear industry insight. The firm’s focus on industry and services specialization means clients can expect to work with business advisers who understand competitive environment and the issues clients face.
Los Banditos Inc. For more than 25 years, Los Banditos and its team have committed themselves to treat every customer as if they were a guest in their own home. The friendly and professional staff on hand is eager to assist customers who are unfamiliar with Cal-Mex cuisine and invites guests to enjoy awardwinning food, friendly service and spirited atmosphere at Green Bay’s oldest and most popular Mexican restaurant.
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y
28 YEARS Cellcom Cellcom is a provider of communications services throughout Wisconsin and Michigan, with more than 80 retail and agent locations. Its renowned network is customized to rural markets and customers. The company provides wireless solutions that help people stay connected around the world right from their very own backyard. Cellcom strives to provide the best coverage and extraordinary customer service, and continues to grow its territory to better serve its most important asset: its customers. 27 YEARS Attorney’s Process & Investigation Services Inc. (API) API is one of the largest and most qualified organizations of its kind in the Midwest, with clients nationwide. API’s staff is highly skilled and can draw on their extensive expertise in a variety of disciplines, to include private, legal, insurance and federal investigations, criminal justice, military security and corporate consulting, with an accumulation of more than 250 years of experience. The company maintains the highest ethical standards in the industry, and its customers trust their matters will be handled with the utmost integrity. County Rescue Services/Eagle III County Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has been in operation since 1982. The organization employs approximately 180 licensed medical personnel ranging from volunteer medical first responders to critical care trained (CCT) paramedics who respond from each of its four stations located in Bellevue, Howard, Suamico and Denmark. In addition to Emergency 911 response, County Rescue also provides local and long-distance, non-emergency stretcher transport, paramedic assistance to outlying ambulances and access to its sister agency, EAGLE III ground and air transport. 26 YEARS American Red Cross of Northeastern Wisconsin The American Red Cross of Northeastern Wisconsin chapter serves a unique role in preventing, preparing for and responding to emergencies. The organization is proud to support the overall mission of the American Red Cross and its core services as well as several community-based programs, which are dictated by the needs of the communities it serves. Proudly serving Northeast Wisconsin and reaching into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: BRIAN MANNERING, PRESIDENT; JEFF MCGLACHLIN,VICE PRESIDENT; KEN METZLER, CEO; AND JILL PRUSKI, CONTROLLER.
LAFORCE INC. Member since Feb. 28, 1955 Brian Mannering, president, LaForce Inc.
Q.
YOU’VE BEEN A CHAMBER MEMBER FOR 60 YEARS. WHY? The business community of Greater Green Bay has supported LaForce since the company was established in 1954. It is important to us to support other businesses as we’ve been supported, and a great way to do this is through the Chamber. WHAT’S YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE WITH THE CHAMBER? Back in 1999, we completed a significant addition to our facility. In celebration, the Chamber sponsored a Business After Hours open house for our customers and the Greater Green Bay business community. The Chamber’s support helped to make the open house a success. WHAT’S THE BIGGEST BENEFIT YOU RECEIVE BY BEING A CHAMBER MEMBER? The Chamber offers opportunities to network with other businesses and their people and serves as a good resource to learn about how other businesses in the area are succeeding and why.
25 YEARS Wal-Mart Stores Inc. West Mason Street location Through innovation, Wal-mart created a seamless experience to let customers shop anytime and anywhere online, through mobile devices
and in stores. The company continues to create opportunities and bring value to customers and communities around the globe. Wal-mart operates more than 11,000 retail units under 71 banners in 27 countries and e-commerce websites in 10 countries. WINTER 15
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member anniversaries — March
March 25-plus year anniversaries 42 YEARS Hurckman Mechanical Industries Inc. (HMI) HMI is a one-stop shop, with expertise in engineering, design, fabrication, installation and service of complete mechanical systems. Projects can be under the direction of one contractor and encompass process piping, HVAC, plumbing, ventilation, fire sprinkler, insulation or any combination of these services. North Shore Bank With 47 offices throughout eastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, North Shore Bank and its 500-plus employees remain committed to its customers by providing personalized service both in-person and from anywhere in the world through its online and mobile banking technology. It’s been that way for 90 years. 36 YEARS Goodwill Industries of North Central Wisconsin (NWC) Since 1971, Goodwill NWC has served North Central Wisconsin communities proudly with programs and services that make a difference. As a not-for-profit human services organization, Goodwill NCW uses the revenue from its stores to fund a wide variety of innovative programs and services that serve North Central Wisconsin communities. In many cases, the organization collaborates with community partners, who also bring resources to the cause. Some of these programs create jobs, offer training and match assistive technology to those who need it. Humana Inc. Humana’s diverse lines of business work to serve all types of consumers. In addition to group health insurance and Medicare plans, Humana offers health and supplemental insurance plans to serve all types of individuals, families, seniors, servicemen and servicewomen, and veterans. Most importantly, Humana is focused on innovation that helps its members, its partners and its industry. 34 YEARS Ayres Associates Ayres Associates has grown into a nationwide multispecialty professional services firm of approximately 270 employees across 12 offices in five states. The impressive ranges of services offered include engineering, mapping, environmental, architectural and survey services.The company’s filterable database makes it easy to check out the credentials of key staff and to contact them directly to get more information about working with customers on a project. Fox World Travel Founded in 1960, Fox World Travel is the largest vacation travel agency in Wisconsin, with 11 travel agencies across the state. The company has earned “Top Producer” awards with virtually every major vendor, with its travel agents averaging more than 11 years of experience with the company. Each and every employee in all divisions of Fox World Travel strives to find a way to accommodate all customers’ requests and ensure superior customer satisfaction and valuable travel experiences. 36
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Rock Garden/1951 West/Comfort Suites Comfort Suites in Green Bay has held the reputation of a premier area hotel destination since its doors have opened. From “The Rock Garden,” the hotel’s gorgeous 20,000-square-foot convention and banquet facility, to “Splash!” indoor water park, Comfort Suites guarantees its guests’ stay will be a highlight. In addition, 1951 West, located within the building, is a contemporary dining experience with a menu that offers a tantalizing glimpse at American cuisine. 28 YEARS
Fabio Perini North America The Fabio Perini companies, with the brands Fabio Perini and Casmatic, are leading producers of tissue converting and packaging machinery. The Fabio Perini companies are part of Körber Process Solutions GmbH, an international supplier of converting, packaging and intralogistics for many different industries. 27 YEARS Robert J. Crowley, DDS Dr. Robert J. Crowleys’ dental office is committed to offering quality dental service through finding out what customers’ unique dental needs and desires are, and then offering options and advice needed to make sound decisions in the direction of care. From basic preventive care to dentures and implants, Robert J. Crowley DDS’s team wants customers to be informed. Some of the firm’s services include cosmetic and general dentistry, endodontics, implant dentistry, oral health, oral hygiene, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry and periodontal therapy. 26 YEARS Bankers Advertising Company Founded in 1896, Bankers Advertising Company is one of the promotional products industry’s oldest and largest firms. The company’s sales team can assist customers with creative promotional products and programs to help achieve customers’ business goals. Bankers Advertising Company has always been committed to providing promotional consulting, products and value-added services. Colortech of Wisconsin Inc. Colortech of Wisconsin Inc.’s business consists of commercial sign, vinyl graphics, vehicle wraps, screen printing and large format digital printing. While the company has undergone many changes since its inception, it specializes in many industrial fields including medical, petroleum, trucks, retail, equipment manufacturers and sports. Disabled American Vets, Dept. of WI (DAV) Disabled American Vets is dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. DAV provides free professional services to veterans and their families in obtaining VA and other government benefits earned through their service to the United States. In 2013, the organization helped more than 330,000 veterans and their families obtain benefits; nationwide and in Wisconsin, more than 3,500 obtained benefits.
March
Keller Inc. Since its doors opened in 1960, Keller has become a leader in cuttingedge design/build services. The company continually evolved, broadening the scope of the services provided to better meet the needs of customers. Today, its team is capable of taking a project from its earliest conceptual phase, providing comprehensive feasibility, planning and designing services, then efficiently constructing the building with a quality and safety-minded approach. Keller Inc. has offices in the Fox Cities, Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau, and the company has grown to more than 200 employee-owners.
March 10-24 years 24 YEARS Brander Construction Technology Inc. Dean Distributing Inc. 23 YEARS OMNOVA Solutions Inc. 20 YEARS Lamers Bus Lines/Lamers Tour & Travel Wisconsin Timber Rattlers 16 YEARS Matthews Tire & Auto Service Centers Northern Electric Inc. 15 YEARS Literacy Green Bay 14 YEARS Nsight Telservices 13 YEARS Advanced Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Maintenance Associates Inc. 12 YEARS Eka Chemicals Inc. Fosber America Inc.
YOUR ENE RGY FUTURE B E G I N S W I T H P L A N N I N G T O D AY
Electricity powers our world. Each day, light switches are flipped, computers are powered up and factories hum with activity. Electricity enables automation, convenience, productivity and opportunity. 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.
11 YEARS Children’s Hospital of WI – Fox Valley Lizer Lawn Care Quality Inn & Suites
Read more at www.atcllc.com/PowerForward
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Chamber snapshots
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4 Who’s who. Leadership Green Bay hosted its opening retreat to kick off the 2015 Leadership Green Bay class with 42 participants on Sept. 17 and Sept. 18.
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Badger State Brewing Company hosted a ribbon-cutting on Oct. 9 with (front and center near the scissors, from left) Mayor Jim Schmitt; Sam Yanda, brewmaster; Andrew Fabry, owner; and Pam Seidl, ambassador.
2
Advance hosted its investor breakfast at the Oneida Golf & Country Club on Sept. 24 to celebrate Advance’s economic development contributions this past year.
3
Current hosted a Lunch n’ Learn on Nov. 19; attendees included Caitlin Weyenberg of Hertz and Adam Thomas of Broadway Rental Cars Inc.
4
We celebrated a ribbon-cutting on Oct. 28 for the new Allouez Avenue Trail in front of Target at 2050 Lime Kiln Rd., Bellevue.
5
Matt Gelb, manager from Wipfli, engages Brown County Teen Leadership students in the Junior Achievement business challenge that was part of Teen Leadership’s Economic Development Day on Nov. 20.
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Find us on Facebook! WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ GREATER GREEN BAY CHAMBER
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Better insurance from the best in health care. When you offer your employees Prevea360 Health Plan, you’re offering a better kind of insurance. That’s because Prevea360 is a creation of Prevea Health, the region’s most comprehensive health care network. With more than 60 specialties, like cardiology, cancer care, pediatrics and women’s health, Prevea’s network includes everything your employees need to be and stay well. And with a healthier, happier workforce, you’ll see the bottom-line savings that go along with it. Reduce your company health care costs with the region’s premier coordinated, wellness-focused health plan. Contact your agent or call us at 877.230.7615 for a custom quote.
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Greater Green Bay Chamber 300 N. Broadway, Ste. 3A Green Bay, WI 54303
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