On Wednesday, WMC board members gathered in Milwaukee at the historic Pfister Hotel for the first WMC Board of Directors meeting of 2026. 

The meeting was a momentous occasion, as outgoing WMC Board Chairman Chris Drees officially passed the gavel to Jane Blain Gilbertson. On behalf of everyone at WMC, we extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude for Chris’s outstanding leadership over the past two years. As chairman, Chris oversaw many important WMC accomplishments, including the organization’s first headquarters relocation in 40 years. We are beyond excited to welcome Jane as WMC’s 51st chair. Watch her introduction interview here.

Jane is the first woman to serve as chair in WMC’s history. Ahead of the official installation, WMC President and CEO Kurt Bauer sat down with Chairwoman Blain Gilbertson for a conversation about her career, leadership journey, and priorities in her new role. The discussion highlighted her commitment to Wisconsin’s business community and her vision for advancing Wisconsin’s business community.

WMC was also honored to welcome MPE Inc. President and CEO Hank Kohl, Brakebush Brothers Inc. Vice President Rusty Schieber, Glenroy Inc. CEO Katie Juehring, Seneca Foods Corporation President and CEO Paul Palmby, and Waukesha County Business Alliance President and CEO Amanda Payne as WMC’s newest board members. 

During the meeting, the Board received updates on WMC’s progress and successes in 2025, as well as plans for the organization’s future growth and policy agenda. 

The Board of Directors was also joined by Milwaukee County Executive and candidate for Governor David Crowley, along with Fond du Lac County District Attorney and candidate for attorney general Eric Toney. Crowley and Toney shared their visions for Wisconsin’s future and provided updates on their campaigns.