PPCS president and CEO

How many businesses could you name in Pierce County? I am sure most of us could name the places we frequently patronize, but there are many businesses that create a tremendous amount of value, including several home-based businesses that go unnoticed. In the past, economic development was measured in new “smokestacks.” This is no longer true. Technology, service, growth, and innovation are the new ways to create economic development.

When I first came to Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services, I had an opportunity to join the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC). Being new to the community, I thought this would be a great way to engage with our business leaders. In 2022, I am taking my turn as president of the board of directors. I am grateful to have been selected by my peers and I follow several individuals who have served their community so well in this role.

I have one goal for 2022: Create a broader awareness of and participation in the PCEDC. The PCEDC is funded by businesses with additional support from Pierce County. A wealth of knowledge, people, webinars, and content are already available. Greater participation by our businesses will help to strengthen our economic development environment.

We have seen growth in communities like River Falls and Prescott, but that is just a part of the story. In fact, Pierce County ranked in the top 15 of population growth in the state of Wisconsin according to the 2020 census and it happened across the county, not just in the larger communities. Average household incomes continued to climb over the past 10 years and Pierce County ranks in the top 10 of Wisconsin counties.

These statistics suggest there is an opportunity for businesses to expand into a diverse ecosystem of industries looking to continue providing quality jobs and tap into our well-educated population. At the helm of the PCEDC, as executive director, is Joe Folsom. Joe is well connected to many federal and state funding programs, resources, and technical assistance to help pave the way for this growth and to help existing businesses expand. There is a seismic shift of industry that will grow to support new technologies such as battery storage, electric vehicles, manufacturing automation, enhanced personal services, robotics, precision agriculture, and the greater use of technology in our personal lives. We have an opportunity to invest in businesses and grow our own that can help lead this transformation.

Will we create the type of environment that is open and inclusive to outsiders who want to invest in our communities, or we will hope to hold on to what we’ve always done because change is hard? I believe we can do both. I believe we can move forward to inspire the next generation, fuel innovation, grow our own, and retain our culture and values of Pierce County. Most importantly, we need the current business and community leaders to be a part of the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation. This is where great ideas can come together as we work closely with one another to help our county thrive. I encourage everyone to follow the PCEDC at www.pcedc.com and for our business owners to join as members. Together our county will be stronger as we Dream, Grow and Thrive.

Nate Boettcher