Wisconsin Economic Summit

Jack Salzwedel, former executive chair of American Family Insurance, retired as CEO in 2021 after a distinguished career that began in 1983 as a claims adjuster. From DeForest, Wisconsin, he advanced through various roles, including agent and sales leader, before becoming CEO and chair in 2011. Under his leadership, the company expanded nationwide, growing its brands and doubling revenues and assets. He also established the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation and launched the $105 million Free to Dream Initiative. In 2024, he was honored with the Jack Salzwedel Distinguished Faculty Chair at UW-Madison, appointed a regent, and inducted into the Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame. He remains engaged with local organizations like the Greater Milwaukee Committee and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

Jeff Frank began his career at Hormel Foods in 1998 as a sales representative, later managing brands like Hormel® Black Label® Bacon and CURE|81® Ham. He advanced to lead marketing for Farmer John® Meats in Los Angeles and served as President & CEO of MegaMex Foods, driving growth and fostering a strong company culture. Returning to Minnesota in 2018, Frank integrated the Planters® brand following its $3.3 billion acquisition and later led Hormel’s grocery brands as Group Vice President. Since becoming CEO of CROPP in January 2023, he has built a strong team, executed a strategic plan, and improved financial performance. Frank holds an executive certificate from UCLA, an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth, with additional training from Harvard Business School. 

Jyoti Gupta has been the President & CEO of Women’s Health & X-ray at GE HealthCare since August 2022. Before joining GE HealthCare, she was the CEO of Volk Optical, where she revitalized the company through international expansion and innovative product launches, leading to record sales and profits. Prior to Volk, Jyoti was VP & General Manager at Unilife, where she built the pre-filled syringe business and helped secure over $150M in funding. Her earlier roles include strategic marketing at Becton Dickinson and clinical trials at Medtronic. Jyoti also advises the External Advisory Board at Georgia Tech’s School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, where she earned her PhD.

Matt Kirchner, an international speaker, author, and podcast host, focuses on issues pertinent to educators, public policymakers, and private sector employers. He is dedicated to advancing the American Dream for the next generation of STEM and workforce talent, hosting the weekly TechEd Podcast™ and serving as President of ATS/LAB Midwest, a leading distributor of high-quality curriculum, eLearning, and training equipment.  With over 20 years of experience as an industrial CEO, he previously led three prominent manufacturing companies, including American Finishing Resources, which was sold to DuBois Chemicals in 2014. Additionally, Kirchner serves on several American company boards and is actively involved in volunteer roles, such as the First-Past President of the Education Dealers Association and a board member of the Smart Automation Certification Alliance. He earned his degree from the Marquette University School of Business.

Michael Knetter has been the president and CEO of the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association since 2010, after eight years as dean of the Wisconsin School of Business. Prior to joining UW–Madison in 2002, he was associate dean and professor of international economics at Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business and served as a senior staff economist for the Council of Economic Advisers under Presidents George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton. At WFAA, Knetter has led significant initiatives, including a new constituent relationship management system, the $4.2 billion All Ways Forward campaign, and the 2014 merger of the UW Foundation with the Wisconsin Alumni Association. He also chaired the capital campaign for The Road Home Dane County, a nonprofit aiding homeless families. Knetter earned his undergraduate degree in economics and mathematics from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and his PhD in economics from Stanford University.

Rebecca Ryan is a noted top 50 professional futurist, economist, best-selling author and entrepreneur. She is the founder of NEXT Generation Consulting through which she partners with government leaders across the country. Looking a generation ahead, she outlines strategies in urban planning, economic development and workforce development to ensure communities are well equipped for future trends and challenges. Rebecca is a graduate of Drake University with a certificate in Strategic Foresight from University of Houston; she is the Resident Futurist at the Alliance for Innovation and on the Executive Committee of the global Association of Professional Futurists.

Summer Strand was appointed by Governor Tony Evers as a Commissioner at the Public Service Commission (PSC) on March 2, 2023, and became Commission Chairperson in January 2024. She is a member of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and its Committee on Electricity, as well as the Executive Committee of the Mid-America Regulatory Conference, and the Honorary Committee of the National Utilities Diversity Council. Before joining the PSC, Strand was the Director of Government Affairs at Walbec Group and previously managed the State of Wisconsin Building Program as Administrator of the Division of Facilities Development at the Wisconsin Department of Administration. She has also been an advisor and citizen member of the State Building Commission. Strand began her career in the Wisconsin State Senate and holds a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a law degree from Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. 

Pete Dulcamara founded Pete Dulcamara & Associates, LLC with a mission to “create businesses that improve people’s lives.” His approach, “humanity-centric innovation,” focuses on solving major global problems in a sustainable manner. Pete advocates redefining billionaires as those who help a billion people rather than merely amassing wealth. Previously, Dulcamara was Vice President of Corporate Research at Kimberly-Clark, where he led a team that developed essential global products like Huggies®, Kotex®, and Kleenex®. He also served as the company’s first Chief Scientist, shaping long-term science and technology strategies. Before Kimberly-Clark, he held senior executive roles at The Dow Chemical Company, overseeing research, development, and various business areas including sustainable development and mergers. Dulcamara holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Cameron University and both a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Chemical Engineering from Oklahoma State University. He has furthered his education through programs at the University of Cambridge, Dartmouth College, Indiana University, and Babson College. 

Craig Dickman is the Managing Director at TitletownTech and a key visionary behind its creation. Before joining TitletownTech, he founded StageThree, an innovation-driven firm that collaborates with corporate partners and entrepreneurs to develop and commercialize new ventures. Dickman is a seasoned entrepreneur, having founded Breakthrough Fuel and co-founded the New Venture Foundry. He is also an inventor with multiple patents and has served as a chief executive at Breakthrough Fuel, Paper Transport, and Master Fleet. His career includes executive roles at Schneider National and SHADE Information Systems, as well as contributing to NASA’s Lunar Prospector and Near-Earth Asteroid Rendezvous (NEAR) missions. Dickman earned his bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He is currently Vice Chair of the UW-Green Bay Council of Trustees and serves on the Boards of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation and the Green Bay Packers. 

Katie Boyce is the Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at Exact Sciences Corporation, where she began as Director of Corporate Social Responsibility in December 2019. She founded the Katie Boyce Company, LLC in 2011 and brings over 23 years of experience in management, fundraising, and both non-profit and government sectors. A skilled leader, Boyce excels in navigating complex relationships across legislative, business, labor, and philanthropic spheres, and is known for her strong community connections in healthcare and policy. She holds a double major in English and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Lindsay Blumer is a distinguished nonprofit professional with over 20 years of experience in executive leadership, strategic planning, social enterprise, and innovation. She has held various impactful roles, including community fellow with United Way of America, where she designed community impact solutions, and has advised on advocacy and policy in state government. Blumer has also served as assistant dean at Ripon College, led a domestic violence and sexual assault prevention organization, and developed entrepreneurial programs at Marquette University. Currently, as President and CEO of WRTP | BIG STEP in Milwaukee, she drives workforce development initiatives to connect underserved communities with quality career opportunities. Her commitment to mission-driven and community-focused work continues to guide her both personally and professionally.

Dr. Lord has been with the Medical College of Wisconsin since 2009, holding key positions including Chief of Staff and VP for Communications and Philanthropy, where she spearheaded a $300 million campaign. She currently serves as Senior Vice President for University Engagement and Strategic Planning, overseeing external engagement and fostering partnerships across clinical, academic, community, and industry sectors. Dr. Lord also contributes to the MKE Tech Hub Board and co-chaired the Vaccine Integrated Communications, Outreach, and Mobilization efforts for the Milwaukee region from 2020 to 2022. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative History of Ideas and Medical Ethics from the University of Washington, an MBA from UW-Milwaukee Lubar School of Business, and a PhD in Public and Community Health from the Medical College of Wisconsin. Additionally, she is an Associate Professor in the Institute for Health and Equity, specializing in Global Engagement and Epidemiology. 

Tim Mahone is the president and founder of Mahone Strategies, a public affairs firm specializing in government relations, civic and community engagement, corporate communications, crisis management, and public relations. His firm offers comprehensive intergovernmental relations and constituent outreach services. Additionally, Mahone serves on the board of The Mary Lou & Arthur F. Mahone Fund, which aims to alleviate financial barriers for first-generation college students. Before establishing his firm, he was the State Political Director for President Obama in 2008 and for Governor Jim Doyle in 2006, as well as serving as the Southeast Regional Director for Governor Doyle. A native of Kenosha, Tim Mahone holds a BA in Communications from Marquette University. 

Wendy Harris is a veteran healthcare professional with an impressive 33-year career spanning leadership roles in medical technology, imaging services, clinical training, and business management. Her expertise covers a broad range of functions including operations, program management, sales, marketing, and process improvement. Currently, as the Regional Innovation Officer for the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub, Harris leads a consortium of 15 companies and over 30 supporting entities, focusing on advancing personalized medicine in Wisconsin. She played a key role in securing Wisconsin’s designation as a BioHealth Tech Hub in October 2023 and is leading efforts to obtain further funding in February 2024. In addition to her role at the Biohealth Tech Hub, Harris owns Wendy Harris Consulting LLC, where she consults on medical technology programs and engineering development, working with industry, academic, and community leaders to secure grant opportunities and drive innovation. 

Sam Rikkers is the deputy secretary and chief operating officer for WEDC. He joined in November 2019, following his role as strategic economic initiatives director at the Wisconsin Department of Administration. With a strong background in rural development, Rikkers has worked internationally and in the U.S., He served in the White House from 2013 to 2014, was the administrator of the USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and led the Rural Opportunity Initiative at Georgetown University. He also directed Tiny Earth at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Rikkers holds a J.D. from the University of Wisconsin, a master’s in international affairs from Columbia University, and a bachelor’s in political science and philosophy from Macalester College. He is also a former Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia.

Becky Bartoszek is the president and CEO of the Fox Cities Chamber. Prior to moving to Wisconsin in 1998, she was vice president of the Great Lakes region for Alltel Wireless, a market leader for the QTI Group, and owned a State Farm agency. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, the New North, Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives (incoming chair), WMC, and ThedaCare’s Community Health Action Team. Additionally, she is a member of Gov. Tony Evers’ Advisory Council on Workforce Investment.  

Kate Merton brings over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, with a background spanning R&D, Marketing, Business Development, Medical Affairs, Health Outcomes, and Innovation. She has contributed to discovering new drugs and developing blockbuster diabetes products. Passionate about the intersection of science and advancing healthcare technology, Merton recently led Anthem’s Digital Incubator and the J&J Incubators on the US East Coast, showcasing her talent in integrating entrepreneurial innovations into mainstream healthcare. Merton earned her undergraduate and Ph.D. degrees in Pharmacology & Toxicology from King’s College London and the University of California, Irvine, and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Dominick Bindl is the Vice President of Technical Development at Realta Fusion, a startup focused on advancing fusion energy technology. He leads the technical teams working on developing the company’s compact magnetic mirror fusion system, overseeing experimental research, engineering design, and computational analysis. With over 15 years of experience in translating scientific research into commercial products, Bindl’s expertise spans multiple sectors, including semiconductors, energy storage, and manufacturing systems. Before joining Realta Fusion, Bindl completed his PhD in Materials Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Mike Bremel has extensive experience across various roles and industries. Currently, as Director of Engineering & Customer Solutions at Alliant Energy, he directs corporate strategy for the evolving distribution grid, ensures effective execution, and fosters a culture of innovation. Previously, Bremel was Director of Sustainable Solutions at Alliant Energy, where he focused on customer pricing, sustainability, and large power contracts. He also held roles such as Director of Wholesale Services & Account Management and Manager of Wholesale Services. Before Alliant Energy, he worked as a Financial Advisor at UBS Wealth Management from 1997 to 2003. Bremel  holds a B.S. in Economics & Business Management from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1994) and an MBA from the Wisconsin School of Business (2008).  

Nadeem Afghan is the CEO of BIOFerm Energy Systems, a leading company specializing in sustainable and renewable energy solutions, particularly in biogas and anaerobic digestion technologies. Under Afghan’s leadership, BIOFerm has been at the forefront of creating environmentally friendly systems that convert organic waste into clean energy, contributing to both energy independence and waste reduction. He brings a strong background in environmental engineering and sustainable energy innovation, which has enabled him to spearhead numerous successful projects in the U.S. and internationally.Afghan has expanded BIOFerm’s portfolio to include both commercial and municipal projects, including waste-to-energy systems for farms, industrial facilities, and communities. Afghan’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with his expertise in navigating regulatory landscapes and fostering industry partnerships, has positioned BIOFerm as a thought leader in the renewable energy space.  

Dr. Jorge Elizondo is the President of Heila Technologies, a company focused on simplifying the deployment, operation, and optimization of microgrids. He co-founded Heila in 2015 as a startup, which was later acquired by Rehlko in 2021.Elizondo earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from MIT in 2016, where he developed innovative strategies for microgrid control and optimization. These strategies were subsequently commercialized through Heila. He has been an influential figure in the energy sector, winning the MIT Clean Energy Prize twice and serving as a director for the Energy Conference. Prior to his work with Heila, Elizondo was involved in the development of various renewable energy projects in Mexico. 

Jacqui Sharpe serves as the Director of the Three Lakes Area Visitors Bureau, where she plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism and fostering economic development within the Three Lakes community. With a deep passion for local culture and natural resources, Sharpe leads initiatives that showcase the region’s scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and unique heritage.

Raynetta “Ray” Hill is a dynamic leader passionate about driving economic growth. Known for her collaborative style, Ray has held leadership roles in both private and nonprofit real estate sectors. Before joining the BID, she led Wisconsin’s fundraising and property portfolio for CommonBond Communities, overseeing a $14.1 million redevelopment project and significantly increasing philanthropic giving. Hill previously served as Associate Director of the Historic Business Improvement District No. 8, focusing on revitalization and community engagement. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice from Concordia University and is an alumna of several leadership programs. Appointed by Governor Evers to the Wisconsin Housing Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) in 2019, Hill was elected Vice Chair in 2021. She’s also a 2021 Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree and recipient of the African American Chamber of Commerce’s Young Pioneer Award. 

Joe Kirgues is the Co-Founder of gener8tor, with a background in private equity and securities law. He previously worked as an Associate in the Corporate Services Group at Quarles & Brady LLP and served as a Law Clerk for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, working under the Honorable William E. Callahan, Jr. Kirgues  holds a BA in finance from Marquette University and earned his JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School.