About This Event
Who Will Build America's Future?
Addressing America's Skilled Trades Crisis and Its Impact on Infrastructure, Economic Growth, and National Security. The Future Won't Build Itself.
October is Careers in Construction Month and to highlight this, the Brookfield Chamber is hosting "Who Will Build America's Future?"
America is facing a skilled trades workforce shortage with consequences that extend far beyond the job site.
From infrastructure and manufacturing to transportation, utilities, housing, and energy systems, our nation's future depends on attracting and developing the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Yet experienced trades professionals are retiring faster than they can be replaced, creating workforce challenges that affect every sector of our economy.
To elevate this critical conversation, the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce is bringing together business leaders, educators, workforce development experts, industry professionals, and community stakeholders for this program.
The event will feature keynote speaker David D. Polk, Wisconsin State Director of Apprenticeship for the WI Department of Workforce Development, along with industry leaders sharing insights on workforce recruitment, talent development, and strategies to strengthen the skilled trades pipeline.
Join us and be a part of this very important conversation.
Opening remarks:
Lieutenant Colonel Justin D. Delorit
Keynote:
David D. Polk
WI Apprenticeship at the Department of Workforce Development
Panel:
Moderator – Jessica Cannizzaro; Master Plumber and Owner Milestone Plumbing
Eric Marty; VP of Operations at Harbor Homes
Jill Ackerman; Assistant Director of Membership Engagement and Workforce Development at PMSMCA
Tony Zignego; VP of Safety & Human Resources at Zignego Company, Inc.
Students Apply for a Scholarship Here!
Scholarship applicants will receive notification of their application status by Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Interested in learning about Sponsorship Opportunities? Contact Carol White at carol@brookfieldchamber.com
When:
Where:
Milwaukee Marriott West
W231N1600 Corporate Ct
Waukesha, WI 53186
Registration:
Registration/Networking: 7:30AM - 8:00AM
Breakfast Served: 8:00AM - 8:30AM
Program: 8:30AM - 10:30AM
Fee/Admission:
GBCC Investor: $50.00
Non-Investor: $75.00
MMAC Member Pricing - email bcc@brookfieldchamber.com and mention that you are an MMAC member for a special pricing.
Note that a 3% service fee will be added to all payments made online.
No refunds for those registered and unable to attend.
The Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to use any photographs or video taken at any meeting, program, or event sponsored by the Chamber, without the express written permission of those included within the photographs or video. The Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce may use the photographs or video in publications or other marketing materials produced, used, or contracted by the Chamber.
Location
Milwaukee Marriott West
W231 N1600 Corporate Court
Waukesha, WI, 53186