THAT'S THE MAGIC CONTEXTUAL LEARNING IS KEY FOR STUDENTS WHOLE SELF ASSOCIATE WELL-BEING AT CORPORATE CONTRACTORS LASTING IMPACT MEMBERS SUPPORTING OUR MISSION 14 S. Jackson Street, Suite 200 Janesville, WI 53548 PRE-SRT STD US Postage PAID Janesville, WI Permit No. 157 JANESVILLE experience the power of community FALL • 2024 FJI•REPORT
Life Should Be More Than Just Making A Living. WE HELP GROW THE FUTURE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU. At Johnson Financial Group, we value your story and purpose as your greatest assets. Our commitment extends beyond providing 昀nancial tools; we are dedicated to offering personalized guidance and support to help bring your hopes and dreams to life—so together, we can build a lasting legacy. Talk to an advisor to start planning your future today. JohnsonFinancialGroup.com Products and services offered by these Johnson Financial Group companies: Johnson Bank and Johnson Wealth Inc.
JANESVILLE experience the power of community • INSIDE THIS ISSUE • 14 S. Jackson Street, Suite 200 • Janesville, WI 53548 Phone: 608.757.3160 Email: forward@forwardjanesville.com www.forwardjanesville.com 2024-2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Derek Greene • Chair Baird Mick Gilbertson • Vice Chair The Developing Edge George Cullen • Treasurer JP Cullen David Hiller • Past Chair Prent Corporation Todd Anderson • Mercyhealth Joel Bailey • Johnson Financial Group Jon Ballard • Foremost Media, Inc. Todd Buehl • ABC Supply Co., Inc. Tim Cullen • Bushwood Golf Range Dave Holterman • First Community Bank Bob Kennedy • Rock Road Companies, Inc. Sean Kennedy • Graphite Hill Co. Mark Lewis • The Janesville Gazette Kyle Mair • Baker Tilly Cheryl Peterson • SHINE Technologies Christine Rebout • Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Kari Reents • Velvet & Tulle Boutique Joe Stadelman • Angus-Young Mary Jo Villa • Hendricks Holding Company Tanner Voss • BMO Letter from the President & CEO...........................................4 That’s The Magic....................................................................6 A Fantastic Day on the Links................................................11 Whole Self............................................................................12 Lasting Impact......................................................................16 How Did I Get Here - Patty Hernandez................................18 New Members of Forward Janesville...................................20 Designer: Mary Terry Design • Editor: Claire Gray www.forwardjanesville.com | 3 Unlock new skills, enrich your life, or advance your career with our wide range of courses. Enroll today! blackhawk.edu/lifelonglearning (608) 757-6329 | WI Relay: 711 businessdevelpment@blackhawk.edu Blackhawk Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to manage inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator/Equal Opportunity Officer, 6004 S County Road G, P.O. Box 5009, Janesville, WI 53547-5009, (608) 757-7796 or (608) 757-7773, WI Relay: 711
In Janesville, our greatest resource isn't just the infrastructure, the businesses, or natural beauty—it's our people. As we prepare to make significant investments in our community, we focus on our students and their education, recognizing that they are the foundation of our future. Forward Janesville’s commitment to education is unwavering, and we are dedicated to providing the best opportunities for young minds in our community. In 2024, our Board of Directors set the Policy and Strategic Initiatives Plan, with education identified as a top priority. Forward Janesville is committed to strengthening partnerships with local schools, colleges, and workforce development programs to ensure students have the skills and tools necessary to thrive in today’s workforce. This involves sharing feedback on industry needs, supporting programs that offer real-world experiences, and fostering stronger connections between education and the business community. In turn, Janesville is positioned as a leader in preparing students for success while ensuring local businesses have access to a capable and well-prepared talent pool. One shining example of our community's commitment to nurturing talent is the Craftsman with Character program. This program inspires Rock County students to explore trade occupations as a pathway to successful careers, allows the business community to engage deeply with youth on technical skills, and gives program facilitators an opportunity to teach character building. The launch of the Janesville Business Hub in downtown Janesville last year is another example of our community’s commitment to education and getting students out of the classroom and into real-life environments. You can read about both in our feature “That’s The Magic.” Our community’s vision is also reflected in the newly renovated Blackhawk Technical College (BTC) campus. This year, students will have access to an innovative manufacturing education center with cutting-edge lab space. The Innovative Manufacturing Education Center (IMEC) was made possible through a donation by Prent Corporation. IMEC comes on the heels of BTC’s Public Safety & Transportation Complex completion. These state-of-theart facilities are designed to equip students with the skills they need to excel in their chosen fields. The business community is encouraged to engage with BTC to explore how employee training and skilling opportunities can further strengthen their workforce. The importance of engaging young minds and their families cannot be overstated, especially when we talk about recruiting and retaining talent. As we channel our energy into exploring new ways to improve our educational resources, we also dream big for what our community can become. I am inspired when I read about Tim Lindau’s commitment to our community’s future through his involvement with FJI’s Education Council, or about Kennedy Heckel’s connective energy as an Ambassador and how that links to her role as a University Relations Officer at UWWhitewater and UW-W at Rock County, or about Kelsey Paasch’s growth of JOIN Janesville and launching her own business. Learning doesn’t stop just because we’re out of school. Local employers, like Corporate Contractors, nurture the personal and professional growth of their employees through innovative workforce development programs focused on well-being and dream building. Read about their approach in our “Whole Self” feature or be motivated to strike a new path when reading Patty Hernandez’s How Did I Get Here? story. As we reflect on our journey, it's important to celebrate how far we've come and what we've achieved together. Our community works together to achieve what is vital to Janesville, and when we invest in people, we cultivate a future filled with promise and potential. The Bright Future We’re Building Together 4 | FORWARD JANESVILLE Shar Hermanson President & CEO Forward Janesville
But as business needs evolve, the key question remains the same: How do we train and engage our students to keep them here in Rock County, filling important positions? How do we prepare the future workforce, serving both those who work best with their hands as well as those who work from a desk? Craftsman With Character For Dave Hataj, the long-time president of Edgerton Gear, he saw the problem first-hand 20 years ago. Conventional wisdom dictated that the path to success required a college degree, so filling positions for skilled tradespeople became more and more difficult. “We were all poaching from each other, different companies, because it was really hard to find machinists,” Hataj says. “Starting in the early ‘90s, some educators came out and said tech ed of the future is going to be lab coats and computers. We’re not going to need shop (classes). And across the country, that’s where the demise really happened in the trades and manufacturing, where we’ve lost an entire generation.” But Hataj recognized that the problem went well beyond just the lack of skilled workers. He also witnessed a poor work culture, even within his own company. “What I started realizing was that I have to stop hiring for skills, I have to hire for character,” says Hataj. “We can teach the skills, but…you need good people, flatout people with character.” Hataj had always assumed that you can’t teach character. But he found that students “are desperate to be mentored. They want to be. “What I’m finding when I talk to businesses is that you have to become a mentoring culture. That’s the key to your long-term success.” Those realizations led Hataj to create Craftsman With Character (CWC), a remarkable program for high school students that provides job shadowing opportunities with local manufacturers and skilled-trade businesses. The keys to the program are the mentorship and relationship-building opportunities, as well as the classroom discussions of professionalism, ethics, humility, selfconfidence and purpose. Critically, it requires engaged business and educational partners. For Chris Maedke, CWC’s contact at the School District of Janesville, the program was an easy sell because he saw the results personally. “My nephew participated in CWC a number of years ago. He was the prototype for what Dave Hataj was looking for,” says Maedke. “The program turned his life around, really gave him a sense of purpose. So I see the transformation that this can have.” Maedke says that some participants come in without a sense of who they are or what they want to do. But that changes when they are paired with an adult “who cares and is interested and wants them to be successful.” “To me, that’s the exciting thing,” says Maedke. “That we can change a kid’s life by showing them a direction and a purpose.” When Hataj implemented the pilot program at Edgerton High School in 2013, it was an immediate success. He brought 10 students into Edgerton Gear and to this day, seven of them are still employed there. Buoyed by the success in Edgerton, CWC expanded to other high schools, coming into the School District of Janesville for the 2023-24 school year. Hataj credits longtime Forward Janesville board member Larry Squire for bringing the program to the local community. “I knew the program was successful at Edgerton Gear and in Edgerton schools,” says Squire. “We all know that businesses today are constantly looking for good people. This course is a That’s The Magic Collaborations prep students and fill employer needs By Jim Lyke The message seems to be everywhere: “Help Wanted.” Skilled, unskilled, full-time, part-time. Workers are needed. Education and workforce development have long been core components of Forward Janesville’s mission. While the organization’s initiatives in that area have changed over the last three decades, the commitment to being responsive to local business needs has not. What I’m finding when I talk to businesses is that you have to become a mentoring culture. That’s the key to your long-term success. 6 | FORWARD JANESVILLE Camaraderie is part of the Craftsman with Character experience
The Janesville Culver’s Scoopie Night great step in building some of that workforce strength locally.” The curriculum consists of job shadowing four days a week, and one day of classroom work at one of the business partners’ sites. “We thought it was really important to host it off-site from a school,” says Maedke. “We wanted it to be much more authentic, having it in a business environment.” During classroom days, the students discuss what character qualities they believe are needed to be successful. “Those character qualities,” says Hataj, “(are) what everybody has on the shop floor. We talk about it, and then they see it. They get to hang around these guys that emulate it and are phenomenal role models.” “Relationship building is a cornerstone of the course,” says Squire, who was a classroom facilitator. “We talk about positive relationships and toxic relationships and what our individual responsibilities are. The experiences show them the value of good relationships in a work environment.” Craig High School senior Haleigh Diehl, a 2023-24 participant, agrees. “The businesses were really welcoming,” says Diehl. “They wanted us to ask questions so we could learn from the experience. I was very happy to learn from every business that we went to.” According to Josh Biddick, Vice President of Rock Road Companies, those new relationships are not just beneficial for the students, but also for business partners like him. “Interacting with the kids was my favorite part of it,” says Biddick. “Because honestly, I was in their shoes. I was always good with my hands, and didn’t want to sit in the classroom, but I thought college was what I had to do.” Biddick tried college for a year, then decided to get into the trades. “I was an apprentice, then a foreman, then a superintendent, and now I’m the vice president of Rock Road,” says Biddick. “So, there’s opportunities out there. I explained my story to all of them, and that was the fun part. Just talking to them and seeing the light flicker a little bit.” “It’s work-based learning,” says David Hiller, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing for Prent Corporation, “and that’s paramount to the transformation of education. These kids get life skills out of the program, and that’s huge.” Prent is another enthusiastic business partner of CWC in Janesville. A side benefit to CWC is that, even though the program is aimed at students whose strengths are outside the classroom, their classroom performance often improves as a result. One of Dave Hataj’s key employees, who came to Edgerton Gear as a CWC student a decade ago, went from a D student to an A student. “The most important thing from my perspective,” says Hiller, “is that (once a student is interested in a certain job), suddenly the other classwork becomes a little more important. It’s like, ‘I should know this.’” Parker High School senior Reece Courtney said he found several jobs he felt he would be comfortable doing for a career. “Rock Road gave me the opportunity to be an operator, but I’ve also wanted to be a technician. And some of the big, heavy diesel stuff was what I was really interested in.” The experience Courtney gained led to a job at a diesel tech shop in Janesville. During the 2024-25 school year, his job will be part of the youth apprenticeship program at Parker, with Courtney working in the mornings and attending classes in the afternoons. He can see this being his career. Diehl, whose post-high-school plan is to enlist in the U.S. Army, says her CWC experience also led to employment. She now works as a welder for United Alloy as part of the youth apprenticeship program. “Part of my vision,” says Hataj, “is not only giving dignity to the kids, but to the local businesses as well. You can see the pride of blue-collar people when you remind them of how important they are.” A day in the field with Rock Road Companies It’s work-based learning and that’s paramount to the transformation of education. www.forwardjanesville.com | 7 24/25 CRAFTSMAN WITH CHARACTER PROGRAM PARTNERS Blain Supply Combs & Associates Farm & Fleet JP Cullen Prent Corporation Rock Road Companies SSI Technologies United Alloy 23/24 CRAFTSMAN WITH CHARACTER PROGRAM PARTNERS Blain Supply City of Janesville JP Cullen Prent Corporation Rock Road Companies School District of Janesville United Alloy
To say Hataj has been pleased with the expansion of Craftsman With Character to Janesville is an understatement. “What’s making it happen in Janesville, especially with Forward Janesville, is that they get it,” says Hataj. “The partnership between the schools and the businesses…that’s the magic to me, that the partnerships are so strong.” “What’s unique and wonderful about Janesville is that Forward Janesville is facilitating that partnership, and that is helping us realize that’s the model moving forward. We need to find a Forward Janesville in other communities that can facilitate those connections. It’s absolutely key.” Janesville Business Academy But real-world experience for Janesville students is not limited to those with a career track in the trades. For several years, Craig and Parker high schools have offered students the ability to work directly with local business people. Those programs were taken to a new level in August 2023 when Forward Janesville partnered with Craig High School to bring Craig’s capstone program, formerly called Elevate, to a space in One Parker Place dubbed The Janesville Business Hub. With the inclusion of Parker High School’s DECA program for the 2024-25 school year, the now district-wide program has been rebranded as the Janesville Business Academy, and its home is the Janesville Business Hub in the heart of downtown Janesville. The relocation to the Janesville Business Hub brought classes out of libraries and cafeterias and into a space that emulates what students will one day experience in the world of work. The Forward Foundation (Forward Janesville’s charitable arm) is paying for the space, with the School District of Janesville, UWWhitewater, the Janesville Foundation, and several private donors providing support. “When you talk to the students, they absolutely love the space,” says Hiller, Forward Janesville’s immediate past board chair. “What an opportunity for kids to have their own office space downtown. It’s just a fantastic learning environment.” The students spend the first part of their school day at the Business Hub before returning to their respective schools. “We truly want to give kids immersive capstone experiences in the 11th-and 12th-grade year that they’re not even really at Craig or Parker,” says Shawn Kane, an assistant principal at Craig high who has long been involved in the Business Academy. “They’re out in the field doing things in the areas of ag, or skilled trades, or business, or information technology, or data analytics. We want to grow this, and many other similar programs.” Kane explains that one of the components to the Janesville Business Academy (JBA) is that the students work on authentic business projects as part of a small group. The business partners are asked to provide “post-it note” projects – ideas they’ve always had but lack the time, knowledge or expertise to work on. “It’s a project (that) would benefit their organization,” says Kane. “And we define the deliverables for the kids. That drives their work for their business partner.” As an example, Kane pointed to a project the JBA worked on for Alliant Energy. He explained that Alliant wanted to increase their presence in certain school districts around the state to recruit new employees. “Our kids did a lot of research,” says Kane, “and they developed a strategic marketing plan for Alliant to use to get an entry point into the schools. They developed some marketing resources to promote to young adults. They did a lot of research around the current starting wage, how it compares to other nonskilled trades, and ability to advance. Our kids did things like print materials, videos, vignettes. So not only are we developing our kids, but we’re helping an organization develop a labor pipeline.” Zach Brockman, president of the Beloit Sky Carp, says being part of the program “feeds our mission to improve the quality of life for people in this community. And we got some cool business outcomes from it, too.” The Sky Carp tasked JBA students with developing a promotional night, coming up with ideas to drive attendance and engage with the community and the crowd in the stadium. As a minor league affiliate of the Miami Marlins, the students presented the Sky Carp with ideas for a “Salute To Miami” night, including Miami-themed trivia and a sandcastle-making contest. 8 | FORWARD JANESVILLE The Hub simulates a real-world professional environment Designed for flexibility, The Hub seamlessly transitions from workspace to presentation arena What an opportunity for kids to have their own office space downtown. It’s just a fantastic learning environment.
Getting real-world experience was a real plus for 2024 Craig graduate Abi Austin, who attended the JBA during the 202324 school year. “The most valuable thing I learned was just being exposed to real workplace environments and learning from actual professionals of all kinds,” says Austin. “They want you to ask questions and to be curious about things. It really helped, career-wise. There are so many options out there to explore. Getting to know those adults was very valuable.” Another key component is one-on-one mentorship. Students list their career interests and are matched up with a mentor that works closely with them. Attorney Tim Lindau of Nowlan Law first heard about the program at a Forward Janesville meeting. He signed up to be a mentor the first year and has participated ever since. “I talk to them about what the day-to-day life of an attorney is, the kinds of projects that I work on,” says Lindau. “I also impress greatly upon them community involvement, and so for example, I would bring them to a Forward Janesville board meeting, talk to them about all of the community needs and opportunities.” Lindau says the program is vital because it baits the hook for students to return to Janesville after college to pursue their careers. “Getting these kids relationships in our businesses now could pay massive dividends in the future because (they) know now that Janesville has a lot to offer.” Prent’s Hiller, who also serves as board chair for the Forward Foundation, agrees. “(The Foundation) believes in talent retention. If we can get more students to find a path (here) for a career, they go off to (college), but they come back because they have a connection with one of our organizations.” For 2024 Craig graduate Luke Mullen, his JBA experience ended up leading him down an entirely new career path. “Originally, going into my senior year, I wanted to do something in finance, and I was pretty set in stone on that,” says Mullen. “But I already knew people in finance and had those connections, so I asked for a pilot mentor because ever since I was little, I thought that would be a cool career.” The JBA paired Mullen with Brandon Moore, a 2010 Craig graduate who is now a commercial pilot for United Airlines based at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. “(Brandon) was awesome,” says Mullen. “He showed me his path from college to regional airlines to all the way now to the big leagues with United. He got me hooked on aviation and now I’m at the University of Dubuque doing aviation. I feel great going into my future.” Lindau says that mentors like him gain as much from the experience as the mentee. “I learned so much from (the students),” he says. “Learning what they do, what’s important to them, what they value, how they allocate their time. These are impressive kids. I learned more from them than they learned from me. (It) restores my faith in the next generation and gives me more optimism and hope.” 10 | FORWARD JANESVILLE The Hub provides space to meet with business clients to learn about their unique needs 23-24 JANESVILLE BUSINESS ACADEMY PROJECT PARTNERSS Alliant Energy Beloit Sky Carp Doodlemash Downtown Janesville Business Improvement District (BID) Scarlett’s Charm 22-23 JANESVILLE BUSINESS ACADEMY PROJECT PARTNERS Beloit Sky Carp Janesville Business Hub Janesville Performing Arts Center Prent Corporation MercyHealth The Hub's design facilitates collaborative learning He showed me his path from college to regional airlines to all the way now to the big leagues with United. He got me hooked on aviation and now I’m at the University of Dubuque doing aviation. I feel great going into my future.
150+ golfers waiting for the shot-gun start by FJI President & CEO Shar Hermanson The evening wrapped up with the winners of the Ball Toss Forward Janesville, along with lead sponsor Baker Tilly, hosted its highly anticipated annual Golf Outing at Prairie Woods Golf Course on September 18. The event brought together community leaders, business professionals and golf enthusiasts for a day filled with fun, networking, fundraising and friendly competition, all while supporting Forward Janesville’s ongoing initiatives to foster economic growth in the region. “We are thrilled with the turnout this year,” said Shar Hermanson, President/CEO of Forward Janesville. “The Golf Outing is a wonderful opportunity for our members to connect in a more casual setting while also supporting our mission to enhance the economic vitality of our community.” Forward Janesville extends a heartfelt thank you to the event’s sponsors, prize donors, volunteers and participants for making the outing a success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year! 1st Choice Lock & Security Adams Advia Credit Union Agrace Angus-Young Avid Pallet Avondale Roofing Axley Attorneys Batterman Black Bridge Family Dental Blackhawk Community Credit Union Coldwell Banker - The Realty Group Computers Nationwide Dean Health Plans drafthouse First Community Credit Union First National Bank & Trust Holiday Inn/Janesville Conference Center J.F. Ahern JNB Signs Johnson Financial JOIN Janesville M3 Insurance MacFarlane Pheasants Masonite MercyCare Health Plans Mercyhealth Nowlan Law Paulson Kimball Construction PremierBank Prent Corporation Revitalize Health & Wellness Rooster Roofing The Janesville Gazette The Pension Specialists TRICOR Insurance True North Consultants Turke & Steil US Cellular - Quality Cellular Weed Man Westphal & Co Whiton House Woodsview Apartments & The Glades, A Hovde Community Zilber Property Group A Fantastic Day on the Links By Megan Matuszeski EVENT SPONSORS 2B Consulting Co. ActionCOACH Advia Credit Union A-Glo Spa & Salon Ashley Homestore Bright Side Financial Coaching Centerway Flowershop EyeMart Express Floral Expressions Gordon Flesch Company J to Z Window & Pressure Washing Janesville Country Club Janesville Jets Kip's White Dog Inn MacFarlane Pheasants Mainstream Boutique MAKING DREAMS Realty Nowlan Law Olivia Acton Photography Prairie Woods Golf Course Radke Real Estate Team Rock Retail Collective Rotary Botanical Gardens SHINE Technologies Stagecoach Inn The Diamond Center The Merry Groomer Pet Salon Timber Hill Winery Top Promotions Tree Wise Men Van Galder Bus Company Velocity Multi-Sport & Cycling Weed Man PRIZE DONORS www.forwardjanesville.com | 11
12 | FORWARD JANESVILLE CCI is a leading general contracting firm headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin. With a rich history spanning more than four decades, CCI has successfully delivered a multitude of construction projects. Whether it’s building new community assets, preserving cherished landmarks or renovating outdated buildings, CCI’s comprehensive range of services and expertise across a broad range of sectors ensure each client a successful outcome. CCI’s commitment to associate well-being is engrained in their company culture. CCI Cares - Valued Associates is the company’s associate well-being program that’s based on four pillars: ● Workforce Development ● Wellness ● Chaplaincy ● Dream Builders Workforce Development and Wellness are impactful ways to help associates become the best versions of themselves. Through CCI’s Workforce Development Program, associates have access to professional growth and work-related training opportunities. They also have the chance to be mentored by other CCI associates, helping to develop strong workplace bonds that build trust, engagement and business outcomes. Kimberlee Thomas, also known as Coach Kim, is CCI’s Wellness Coordinator & Dream Coach. She noted the benefits of having associates mentor each other, “The associates feel more connected to each other and the work they are doing when they learn from another associate.” The Wellness Program empowers associates to make positive life choices that improve their overall health and well-being. This program has a broad definition of health that includes benefits like access to a financial planning advisor and YMCA membership discounts and fitness challenges. CCI’s Chaplaincy and Dream Builders programs take the wholeself approach to associate wellness further. The Chaplaincy program provides confidential spiritual support and guidance while the Dream Builders program is centered on helping associates identify and pursue goals that resonate with them on a deeper level. Some associates enroll in the Dream Builders program to take the next step in their professional development aspirations. Others work on personal goals, like achieving peace or developing a business plan for a passion project or retirement venture. CCI’s Dream Builders program was initiated by CEO Brad Austin and developed by the Dream Builders Committee. In Mr. Austin’s words, “we don’t want to be the company that just gives [our associates] a paycheck. We want to be the company that makes our associates' lives better so their work is fun and their lives are fulfilled.” Associates meet with Coach Kim one-on-one to identify their goals, develop self-confidence and find the motivation needed to embrace the journey in achieving their dreams through a series of structured meetings and planning sessions. CCI’s whole-self approach to associate well-being is also marked by an active wellness staff that visits associates at job sites. As a general contractor, worker safety is a key metric. Through onsite wellness visits, CCI ensures that associates in field positions are mentally centered before engaging in high-risk work. As Coach Kim remarked, “our wellness staff are not doctors or therapists. Rather, we’re caring co-workers there to check-in.” The company’s efforts are paying dividends. Engaged associates outperform peers. In 2023, CCI received two Gold Excellence in Construction Awards from the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin’s Projects of Distinction for their work on The Wright & Wagner Lofts - Riverside Building and the Phoenix Industrial Spec Building. In 2021, CCI received a Safety Award of Excellence by the same organization for low rates of workplace safety incidents, their model safety program and an impressive past safety record. Additionally, CCI has low associate turnover rates among its office and field staff. Lower turnover rates contribute to a strong knowledge-base among associates and are good indicators of a healthy work culture, effective hiring policies and successful associate management.Supporting associate whole self wellbeing is a smart workforce retention, recruitment and performance strategy. Whole Self Professional & Personal Well-being at CCI By Claire Gray Competition for workforce is fierce. Companies that focus on supporting the whole employee through professional and personal growth opportunities have a more engaged workforce that outperforms peers. Corporate Contractors, Inc. (CCI) is one local employer embracing the ‘whole self’ perspective - and is reaping the benefits. We want to be the company that makes our associates' lives better so their work is fun and their lives are fulfilled. Coach Kim (left) in a Dream Session with an associate
14 | FORWARD JANESVILLE
www.forwardjanesville.com | 15 Land Surveying + Mapping Civil Engineering Site Development + Planning Construction Management Funding + Grant Assistance Building better communities for state, municipal and private-sector clients throughout Southern Wisconsin since 1917. BELOIT • JANESVILLE • ELKHORN www.rhbatterman.com 608.365.4464
16 | FORWARD JANESVILLE Lasting Impact TIM LINDAU Attorney, Nowlan Law Education Council When Tim first moved to Janesville in the early 2000s he attended a Forward Janesville annual dinner and thought “I would love to be part of this organization.” Fast forward to 2017, Tim was asked to join the Forward Janesville Board of Directors. In 2018, he joined the Executive Committee and became Board Chair in 202022, during the pandemic. The pandemic was a very challenging time for everyone, including FJI. The leadership of the executive committee and the dedication of staff helped navigate the organization through a successful recovery. Tim then transitioned his volunteerism to the Forward Foundation. In 2023, he became a member of FJI’s Education Council. What made you want to be part of Forward Janesville? The energy of that first event was amazing. It was great to be surrounded by all of these involved community members who were making a difference. If you look at all the important and groundbreaking initiatives in the community, Forward Janesville is always leading. It’s exciting and humbling to be part of an organization that’s constantly innovating and has a lasting effect. Everyone’s window to make an impact is small. I believe in taking advantage of now and leaving things better than the way they were found. Forward Janesville seizes the moment to improve the community. That’s what made me want to be part of Forward Janesville and that’s what keeps me involved. What motivated you to be part of the Education Council? Education is foundational to our community’s success. It’s the gateway to our workforce. It’s an important element in recruiting and retaining talent for our businesses. You can’t have a thriving business community without a thriving educational system. Plus, I’m a parent. I understand the importance of providing children - our future - with access to a high-quality education filled with opportunities to learn and grow. It’s fulfilling to be part of the Education Council because we’re building a strong partnership with the School District of Janesville to drive outcomes and achievement. As the chamber of commerce, we’re able to tap into the great knowledge of our business base and be a resource to the district as they build curriculum and programs to help students be career and college ready. What’s the most important thing to you? Creating memories with my wife Bridgett and my two boys. I love to golf. I love to travel. I love live music. But I really love it when I get to do all of those things with my family. KENNEDY HECKEL University Relations Officer, UW-Whitewater & UWWhitewater at Rock County Forward Janesville Ambassador Kennedy has been a Forward Janesville Ambassador for four years, first with the Janesville Jets and now with UWWhitewater/UW-Whitewater at Rock County. She’s tenacious, dedicated and brings her infectious energy to FJI events, especially our Annual Golf Outing where she assumed a role on the Planning Committee to make the event a hit. Kennedy is a University Relations Officer for UW-Whitewater and UW-Whitewater at Rock County. A connector and bridge-builder, she is constantly linking UWWhitewater, alumni and community partners together. What motivated you to join the Ambassadors? I was motivated to join the Ambassadors because I wanted to actively contribute to the Janesville community's growth and success. At the time, I was the Director of Community Relations with the Janesville Jets. Being an Ambassador in the community is very important to the Jet’s mission. Now, being in the education realm, I saw an opportunity to leverage my background to support local initiatives and Forward Janesville is full of doers. Tim Lindau served on the Board of Directors, the Forward Foundation, and is a founding member of the Education Council. Kennedy Heckel is an Ambassador and was on the Planning Committee for the Annual Golf Outing. Kelsey Paasch has guided JOIN Janesville, Forward Janesville’s partner organization, on a sustainable growth path and shared her expertise in leadership with the local organizations. Together, these member-leaders are making a lasting impact on our organization--and the community--with their volunteer involvement.
www.forwardjanesville.com | 17 build relationships between education and community partners and leaders. I love being an Ambassador because it gives me the chance to connect with a wide range of community leaders and stakeholders, while also helping to create positive change for our workforce and education programs. It’s amazing to see how our teamwork not only supports personal growth but also makes a big impact on the community as a whole. How does being an Ambassador cross over into your professional role? My role as an Ambassador aligns closely with my position as a University Relations Officer by allowing me to bridge educational needs with community resources. As an Ambassador, I can support community initiatives, while my university role focuses on fostering partnerships and advancing educational opportunities. UW-Whitewater is Janesville’s four-year university and we offer very strong programs in education and business that are essential to the local area. UW-W at Rock County focuses on meeting specific local needs with programs in nursing, business, education, and engineering, creating opportunities across a wide variety of industries. Both campuses provide affordable, flexible, and accessible education, and I couldn’t be prouder to say that I am an alumnus myself! As an alum, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact of our efforts on individuals’ personal and professional growth. What’s your number one bucket list item? I don’t think I have just one big bucket list item because I feel like I’m living my bucket list every day - building a life for our future family with my husband! But if I had to pick, the front row at a Dave Matthews Band concert would definitely be at the top. That’s an experience I’d love to check off the list! KELSEY PAASCH Owner, Contour Consulting JOIN Janesville Kelsey is a well-known community champion and cheerleader. She became a Forward Janesville member in 2021 and helped get JOIN Janesville, Janesville’s young professional group, off the ground in 2022. In her time on JOIN’s Leadership Team and Events Committee, Kelsey has played an integral role in making the volunteer-powered organization to grow and thrive. As JOIN was taking off, so was Kelsey’s business, Contour Consulting. Through her involvement with JOIN and with a business focused on coaching and management practice, Kelsey shared her insight on leadership as panelist at an event for the Janesville Fire Department. How did you become involved with JOIN and how has it changed since you became engaged? My mentor informed me of an opportunity with JOIN Janesville and encouraged me to apply. At that time, the organization was looking for someone to join the leadership team and head a committee focused on event planning. As they say, the rest is history. Since JOIN’s founding in 2018, we’ve expanded to more than 150 members and have implemented processes for leadership planning, event planning, social marketing, and membership outreach. For the past three years, we’ve partnered with the Beloit Young Professionals group to host an annual collaborative event which provides our members with valuable cross-networking opportunities. As we approach the end of 2024, we're excited about our new website, the formation of our membership outreach committee, and the transition of new leadership into key roles. Why do you think leadership is important? “As a leader, you are someone’s dinner conversation… do everything in your power to ensure it is a good one.” Leadership has such a large impact on our community. Having talented, ethical, and responsible leaders can influence positive change, set examples for others, and help navigate an intentional path to help our community thrive. I believe that investing in our current and young talent alike is the best investment any company, organization, or community can make. Participating in the leadership panel at the Janesville Fire Department was a meaningful experience for me because I am deeply passionate about the topic and strongly believe in the importance of nurturing leaders. It was fulfilling to share my insights and experiences with an organization dedicated to developing the men and women who risk their lives for us every day. When you’re not working or volunteering, where would we find you? With my family. I am a wife of 16 years to my husband Kevin and we have three kids together: Joshua (12), Michael (10), and Beverleigh (6). We love to travel and spend family time together. We also enjoy spending time with my in-laws, my parents, and with my sister and brother and their families. Family is important to us and we try to soak up as much time as possible together. Kevin and I also started a real estate rental company here in Janesville in 2022 and we are actively growing that business to provide quality homes.
Value Hard Work and Persistence Success is often the result of consistent effort over time, not instant results 1 2 3 { LIFE LESSONS} Give Back Helping others strengthens communities and brings meaning and fulfillment to life Embrace Failure as Growth Mistakes and setbacks are opportunities to learn and improve, not signs of defeat 18 | FORWARD JANESVILLE I actually left education after seven years and went into business for myself. I worked as an independent decorating rep for Home Interiors and Gifts for nearly a decade, where I became a manager and led a team. I went back into education later. It was then that I experienced the incredible role of a teacher. I fell in love with teaching and have never left. This year marks my 30th year in education. I believe a teacher has the best and most rewarding job. We get to work with kids and inspire them to think holistically about things and work to achieve their best and make this world a better place. As a Family and Consumer Science teacher, I taught culinary courses where we hosted Top Chef and Restaurant War competitions. One of the highlights was making and selling 200 cinnamon rolls every Friday at Bradford High School. This experience, combined with my love for baking, inspired me to launch my own home cottage business. I knew I had a great product that many people don’t have the time or patience to make. I also knew I could offer a variety of flavors to suit any palate, from classic cinnamon rolls to unique ones like lemon blueberry and caramel macchiato. Naming the business took some time, but my love for oldies music and our proximity to the river made Rollin’ on the River the perfect fit. I also have plans to be rollin’ on the river in a food truck. Something people might not expect about being a principal is how much of my role involves balancing being both an instructional leader and a community builder. While many assume my job is mostly about managing discipline or administrative tasks, a big part of what I do is fostering relationships—whether it's supporting teachers with professional development, connecting with students to ensure their academic and emotional wellbeing, or engaging with parents and community members to build a strong, supportive school culture. I wear many hats, and the human connection aspect is just as important as running the day-to-day operations. HOW DID I GET HERE? success • challenges • life lessons • education • career • family • inspirations I have the incredible opportunity to assist students at Rock University High School (RUHS) with shaping their futures. Our students work toward their associate degree while completing high school, and I love being part of that process, helping them design an educational path that sets them up for a successful future. The most rewarding part is working with first-generation students. For many of them, their parents didn’t graduate from high school or attend college. The impact a college degree will have on their lives—and the generational change it will bring—will be nothing short of transformative. It’s more than just an education; it’s building generational wealth and opportunity. • • • There’s quite a bit of crossover between being a school principal and running Rollin’ on the River. Both roles require strong leadership, organization, and the ability to problem-solve on the spot. As a principal, I focus on building relationships, managing a team, and creating a positive environment for both students and staff—skills that are essential when running a business. In the bakery, I apply those same skills to customer service, ensuring the quality of my product, and managing operations. Just like in education, where I try to meet the needs of each student, in my bakery, I’m customizing flavors and creating an experience that fits what my customers want. Whether it’s in the classroom or in the kitchen, both roles require flexibility, creativity, and a deep commitment to the people I serve. PATTY HERNANDEZ PRINCIPAL, ROCK UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL DISTRICT OF JANESVILLE ENTREPRENEUR, ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVER { EDUCATION } 2017 - 2021 Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership & Administration Edgewood College 2003 - 2005 Master of Science, Educational Leadership & Curriculum Instruction Cardinal Stritch University 1994 - 1998 Bachelor of Education, Home Economics University of Wisconsin-Stout { WORK EXPERIENCE } 2024 - PRESENT Principal Rock University High School 2022 - 2024 Principal ARISE Virtual Academy 2018 - 2023 Principal TAGOS Leadership Academy 2024 - PRESENT Owner Rollin’ on the River
• Business Cards/Brochures • Postcards/Doorhangers • Books/Catalogs/Direct Mailing • Invitations/Thank You Cards • Business Checks/Forms • Posters/Banners/Signs • Name-Plates/Custom Stamps • Pens/Bags/Koozies . . . We Design, Print & Promote YOU! www.janesville.minutemanpress.com 303 W. Milwaukee Street • 608-752-7428 FREE ONLINE QUOTING & ORDERING Visit Us at Our Newly Restored Location in Historic Downtown Janesville
2B Consulting Co. Brittany Brandt P.O. Box 8254 Janesville, WI 53545 (608) 371-9629 2bconsultingco.com Full-service marketing and business development agency Accurate Machine Products Amanda Drinkwater 1520 E. Delavan Dr. Janesville, WI 53546 (608) 314-1260 ampcnc.com Manufacturing professionals ActionCOACH Business Coaching Susan Thomson 5133 W. Terrace Dr., Suite 104 Madison, WI 53718 (608) 441-8650 makemoreworklesswi.com/ Business and executive coaching Flooring Inspirations Shawn Dressler 2863 Liberty Ln. Janesville, WI 53545 (608) 208-6168 flooring-inspirations.com goJefferson.com John Foust 231 S. Main St., Suite A Jefferson, WI 53549 (920) 674-5200 gojefferson.com Computer consultant Guist Wealth Advisors Fritz Guist 14 S. Jackson St., Suite 100 Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 371-9959 Financial planning International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 890 Ben Myers 1900 Reuther Way Janesville, WI 53546 (608) 752-0321 ibew890.org Labor organization New Definitions Consulting Ben Killoy Milton, WI 53563 (815) 262-9662 benkilloy.com Leadership Consulting Northwestern Mutual Julia Whitcomb 400 Midland Ct., Suite 104 Janesville, WI 53546 (608) 774-4623 northwesternmutual.com/ Financial Advisors PictureThis Creative Workshop Shara Meade 211 W. Beloit St. Orfordville, WI 53576 (608) 921-7437 picturethiscreativeworkshop.com Art studio and DIY events Pincherry LLC Brett Gabrielatos 645 3rd St. Beloit, WI 53511 (773) 551-6467 pincherry.net Business innovation and service design company Revitalize Health & Wellness Jim Plasky 215 W. Court St., Suite 203 Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 470-1710 revitalizewi.com Hormone replacement therapy and medical weight-loss management Rockstar Builders Heather Volkey 1056 S. Terrace St. Janesville, WI 53546 (608) 235-9221 Rolli Worx LLC Matthew Rolli 1105 17th St. Brodhead, WI 53520 (608) 577-4613 rolliworx.com Customized signage and graphics solutions Rollin’ On The River Patricia Hernandez Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 322-1270 facebook.com/rollinontheriverwi/ Homemade bakery Sam’s Club Stacey Haight 3900 Deerfield Dr. Janesville, WI 53546 (608) 741-2367 samsclub.com Discount retailer and grocery Scarlett’s Charm Kimberly Elsen 218 W. Milwaukee St. Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 931-7232 scarlettscharm.com/ Entertaining essentials and gift shop School District of Milton Rich Dahman 114 W. High St. Milton, WI 53563 (608) 868-9300 milton.k12.wi.us/ Spherion Staffing & Recruiting Becky Romens 735 N. Perryville Rd., Suite 3 Rockford, IL 61107 (815) 397-5075 spherion.com/ouroffices/rockford_1216/ Staffing agency THE Dispensary Jeremy Wand 2228 Humes Rd., Suite 3 Janesville, WI 53545 (608) 530-5195 thed8dispensary.com/janesville-wi Hemp products store The Louisa 20 E. Milwaukee St., Suite 104B Janesville, WI 53545 (608) 449-1967 thelouisajanesville.com Natural light photo/video studio Unite Private Networks Stacey Stewart 4201 42nd St. NE, Suite 210 Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (319) 464-0135 uniteprivatenetworks.com/ Fiber-optic communications infrastructure services Willow Walk Photography Autumn Ferreira Janesville, WI 53548 (608) 481-3739 willowwalkphotography.com/ Photography Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce Thomas Parr 313 N. Plankinton Ave., Suite 207 Milwaukee, WI 53203 (414) 207-4376 wiveteranschamber.org/ WMTV 15 Megan Grover 615 Forward Dr. Madison, WI 53711 (608) 274-1515 wmtv15news.com News and digital media services NEW MEMBERS OF FORWARD JANESVILLE 20 | FORWARD JANESVILLE Scan the QR code to find all of our Members in the Forward Janesville Membership Directory. Contact forward@forwardjanesville.com to receive membership information and join today! CHAMPIONS CLUB LEVEL INVESTORS
At Zilber Property Group, our dedicated team of real estate development, acquisition, construction, and leasing professionals possess the expertise to address your commercial real estate needs in Rock County and beyond. Contact us to learn more about our available industrial buildings, sites, and trailer storage lots or to obtain an opinion of value on your industrial property. SOLUTION-BASED COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE www.zilberpropertygroup.com
909 N. PARKER DR. • JANESVILLE, WI 53545 608.752.7888 www.congressglass.com EVERYTHING IN GLASS Congress Glass, Inc. is the area's leading window repair specialist serving Rock, Walworth and Green counties. WE SPECIALIZE IN: Congress Glass, Inc. • Shower door installation and repairs • Window repair • Car mirrors • Storm and screen repairs • Commercial and residential glass and glazing and more. CONTINUE YOUR JOURNEY ONLINE uww.edu/rock Count ALL your applied associates degree credits toward a bachelor's in marketing, sales, leadership, criminology, human services, safety, or personnel. 22 | FORWARD JANESVILLE
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTEwNzI5