In 2018, the task of Visioning a Great Racine’s Thriving Economy WAVE team was ““How do we enable a Thriving Economy for our general community now and for years to come”.  Through this process, I met outstanding people in students, volunteers, youth, civic, education and business leadership.  I learned that the entire community “wants” to do great things – the community has a huge spirit of volunteer energy.  The key question: “what to do and how to do it together”.  Instead of sitting on the side and complaining, I’ve chosen to work, talk, listen and act, with a group that desires the same.  We have a blast, people come together and things get done – just think – if we could get every person in the community to find their way to help – what a great reward. 

Together, lets shape our future!  We would love to have you join us 🙂

In January 2018 I became involved with Visioning a Greater Racine as they announced the WAVE teams.  The Thriving Economy WAVE team captured my attention because I believe if we have a thriving economy in Racine, we will have people living, working and playing in Racine…and as a local business person, a thriving economy means people enjoying themselves at Uncorkt.  Having a technology background myself, when then goal became restoring Racine’s “Innovation City” history, I was hooked.  I love the opportunity to give back to the community by helping others to develop their skills, and for them to innovate their products in Racine.  This goal, a Thriving Economy and restoration of “Invention City” and helping others is the perfect opportunity to my own goals, both personal and professional.

Our Family ACE Hardware Store is celebrating it’s 70th Anniversary this year. My grandfather had a mentor locally known as Colonel Christensen. He gave my grandfather business and real estate advice and the first of several business loans to buy inventory and to get his new venture launched on State Street in 1951. Grandpa always commented how helpful and appreciative he was for the mentoring Colonel Christensen provided. For many years after my grandfather later served on the Christensen Foundation Board that provided scholarships and helped local civic organizations as a way to “pay it forward” to others excited to start their new beginnings.

Tech-Prize is a truly unique opportunity for people with a wide variety of interests and abilities to come together and make something great. Industry 4.0 jobs and skillsets are the best way to transform our regional economy and community into something the next generations can be proud to call home.  Tech-Prize allows each of us to draw on our specific passions and talents, as we work towards the shared goal of creating an environment of success, entrepreneurship, and creativity. So no matter your background, you can make a huge impact with Tech-Prize. 

I came to Racine from Detroit Michigan in 1981 by way of Menomonie, Fond du Lac, and Kenosha Wisconsin cities.  I was immediately impressed by the numerous entertainment and recreational opportunities as well as the diversity of the businesses in Racine.  I have been here through recessions, but have also seen the addition of the beautiful marina.  I became aware of the history of Racine as “Invention City”.  As a former Industrial Education teacher (shop classes such as drafting, woodworking, and the like) and presently employed by Racine Unified School District (RUSD), I am intrigued by the Tech-Prize effort to bring Racine back as a “maker of things” and not just selling others products.  I am proud to be a Tech-Prize volunteer and competitor.