Meet the 2025 Centergy Board of Directors and officers, featuring new members John Jacobson and Maureen Carlson!

January 9th, 2025, Central Wisconsin, WI – Centergy, a nonprofit regional marketing and economic development organization, is proud to announce the 2025 Board of Directors and officers. This year’s two newly appointed members bring diverse expertise and a shared dedication to advancing economic growth and community development in Central Wisconsin.

New Board Members

John Jacobson – Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C., Director of Public Affairs

John Jacobson is the Director of Public Affairs at Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C., where he connects clients with state lawmakers, the governor’s office, and various agency officials. With a focus on tax and business-related policies, John has extensive experience in shaping public policy and advocating for clients at the state level. Before joining Ruder Ware, John held roles with elected officials in state and local government and represented the policy interests of a statewide association at the Capitol. His professional journey has made him an expert in government relations, public affairs, and strategic communication.

John is deeply involved in the Eau Claire community, serving on the governmental affairs committee for the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce and the board of directors for the United Way Greater Chippewa Valley. He is also a member of the programming committee for the Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists and the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics.

A Milwaukee native, John is happily married and lives in Eau Claire with his two dogs, Libby and Murray. An avid aviation enthusiast and passionate traveler, John also dedicates his time to volunteerism, including his past work as an adult literacy tutor and leading efforts to renovate a women’s shelter in Milwaukee.Reflecting on his new role with Centergy, John shares:

“Central Wisconsin’s natural beauty, rich culture, innovative businesses, and renowned institutions make it a place families and businesses are proud to call home. Centergy’s efforts to attract talent, drive development, and champion growth are vital to the area’s continued success. I’m excited for the opportunity to serve on the board and to contribute to shaping a vibrant and prosperous future for local families and businesses.”

Maureen Carlson – Greenfire Management Services, Regional Business Development Manager

Maureen Carlson is the Regional Business Development Manager for Greenfire Management Services, where she oversees business development efforts across the central and northern regions of Wisconsin. With over three decades of experience, Maureen has a proven track record of creating strategic partnerships and driving organizational growth. Her background includes 11 years in commercial construction, 25 years as a licensed real estate salesperson, and 30 years in community economic development.

Maureen’s professional achievements include increasing sales by 500% during her tenure with a Wisconsin-based construction firm and founding her own economic development consulting company, 3D Strategies, LLC. She has also held leadership roles at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, where she directed integrated marketing and led the Stout Technology Park. Currently, she serves on the board of MCDEVCO and has chaired both Momentum West and the Chippewa Economic Development Corporation.

Her contributions to her field have earned her recognition, including the Women in Construction award in 2023. Outside of work, she enjoys boating, exploring the outdoors, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. A De Pere native, Maureen is passionate about advancing Central Wisconsin’s economic growth. She shares her thoughts on joining Centergy:

“I joined Centergy because of its mission to advance economic growth in the region and because of the excellent leadership of the staff and board of directors. With 30 years of professional economic development experience, I am thrilled to join such a proactive and ‘get-it-done’ organization.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Maureen adds:

“The momentum of the ‘Central to Success’ campaign is poised to really take off and help the region continue to prosper. Helping to spread the word about all Central Wisconsin has to offer is also very exciting.”

2025 Centergy Officers and Other Board Members

2025 Officers

• Chair: Gautam Malik, Chief Executive Officer at Gamber-Johnson LLC
• Vice Chair: Joe Schuchardt, Findorff, Director of North Central Operations
• Treasurer: Nick Faber, CPA, President/CEO at Simplicity Credit Union
• Secretary: Denise Sonnemann, Executive Director, Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Other Board Members

• James Matheson, Senior Vice President- Chief Strategy Officer, Aspirus
• Michael M. Smith, JD, Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Church Mutual Insurance Company
• Brad Gast, Dean of Workforce Training and Professional Development, Northcentral Technical College
• Manny Vasquez, Vice President/Partner, Pfefferle Companies
• Melinda Osterberg, Regional Economic Development Director, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

Advancing Central Wisconsin Forward

Centergy’s 2025 Board of Directors and officers are set to lead the organization in driving regional growth through initiatives focused on Talent Growth, Regional Advocacy, Business Development, and Partner Engagement. This dedicated team is committed to promoting economic development, fostering collaboration among businesses and communities, and enhancing the quality of life in Central Wisconsin.