Blog

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) has always had a sharp vision to relentlessly grow, develop and support a healthy business community. A major component of a healthy business community is having a skilled workforce that will attract and retain businesses. And, as we attract and retain more businesses, the region attracts and retains…

From day one as chamber CEO, I’ve struggled to understand the intricacies, complexities, and nuances of our region’s workforce development programs. I’ve met with the Chamber’s Talent Committee, talked to the leaders of training and development organizations, researched available grants and funding mechanisms, studied economic development reports, and combed through workforce data charts. I’ve talked…

In our region, we take a collaborative, holistic approach to workforce development. Collectively, we strive to address not only the immediate needs of businesses but to also prepare individuals and employers for the workforce of tomorrow. We embrace cooperation and create sustainable solutions, even in the midst of inevitable and sometimes difficult changes. As a…

It’s often said that if you do what you love, then success will follow. Sounds simple, right? However, simple doesn’t necessarily mean easy. Chasing your dreams can be a tale of setbacks, thwarted hopes, and maximum effort with little reward. But Paul Sletten proves that the payoff is there for entrepreneurs with the tenacity, resilience,…

In 2008, I found myself newly graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University, a semester earlier than the traditional four-year experience, mostly friendless, and tired of binging Netflix alone on my newly purchased adult couch. Growing up in Byron, I had known the commercial side of Rockford – Target, Kohl’s, AMC – but I was completely unaware…

As four travel companions and I piled into a minivan outside our rented home on the big island of Hawaii, we happily chatted about our morning spent snorkeling, getting fitted for gear at the surf shop, and gliding among the corral at Captain Cook Bay. After a glorious day on the water, hunger was setting…