Board of Directors
Meet the Board
Behind Our Success
The Watertown Chamber of Commerce is driven by a dedicated Board of Directors who play a crucial role in the growth and success of commerce and organizations. Composed of elected members from various sectors, the board oversees the Chamber’s operations, financial responsibilities, community and Chamber mission accountabilities, and ongoing leadership development. The Chamber continues fostering a supporting environment for businesses and organizations with the leadership of the board of directors.
Carl Bednark
MetalTek International
Carl Bednark
MetalTek International
I am the Operations Manager at Wisconsin InvestCast (661. S. Twelfth St.), a division of MetalTek International. MetalTek, in Watertown, WI, manufactures investment castings for heat, wear, and/or corrosion-resistant applications for a variety of customers involved in defense, turbine engine, petrochemical, and other engineered markets.
Before I joined the InvestCast team in 2022, I worked at other MetalTek facilities and Grede Foundries, each offering different types of casting technologies. After graduating from Michigan Technological University with a Material Science and Engineering degree, I started my career in various engineering roles. My passion for the casting process paved the way for leadership opportunities, fostering an appreciation for the work and the incredible individuals involved in metals manufacturing.
My wife Aubry, and our four children (Aurora, Carson, Hannah, and Hallie) live in Dousman, Wisconsin. Despite spending time in Missouri and Tennessee, our hearts remained tethered to the Midwest, and we’re thrilled to be back in Wisconsin. I am enthusiastic about engaging with the community, sharing experiences, and contributing to Watertown’s vibrant tapestry.
Margaret Brady
Watertown Unified School District
Margaret Brady
Watertown Unified School District
As the Director of Human Resources for the Watertown Unified School District for over four years, I’m dedicated to providing excellent education and enjoy engaging with the community. With experience in state government and healthcare, I bring decades of HR expertise and hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in leadership and organizational development. Committed to continuous learning, I also hold a SHRM-CP certification.
I am proud to have four amazing children, most of whom are adults. My youngest daughter is attending the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. My sons are successful in engineering, entertainment, and software. One of my daughters-in-law advocates for the elderly and disabled, while the other specializes in supply chain and marketing. My family enjoys holidays, traveling, and engaging in discussions. I also love reading, spending time with my Chiweenie dog, playing guitar, and volunteering.
I am excited about the opportunity to be a part of the Watertown Chamber of Commerce and contribute to this wonderful community.
Sharon Heinzelman
Ixonia Bank
Sharon Heinzelman
Ixonia Bank
I was born and raised in the Lake Country Area. I raised my two girls in the Hartland area, and they were 3rd generation Arrowhead students.
I enjoy going to NASCAR races, concerts, plays and camping. My most recent favorite thing to do is watch my Grandchildren, Ellie born 7-6-2021 and Rory born 9-27-2023!
Growing up, my family-owned different restaurants and bars, which I went on to manage. After I was married and raising my own family, we sold our last restaurant. I continued to serve at local restaurants until my girls were older. In 2006 I started my career in banking as a part-time CSR at a local Community Bank. I worked my way up to a Customer Service Manager and led various teams for ten years. I then was offered an opportunity to be the Branch Manager at Ixonia Bank’s Corporate office in 2018. After three years in that position, I was approached to become the Watertown Area Market Manager, and manage both our offices here in Watertown.
I enjoy being part of the Chamber Board. It gives me so many opportunities to learn about Watertown. I also look forward to all the fun events that I am able to support and be part of.
Steve Hunt
Watertown Regional Medical Center
Steve Hunt
Watertown Regional Medical Center
I started as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Watertown Regional Medical Center in February 2020. During this time, I began interacting with the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce. When offered a position on the Chamber Board of Directors in 2021, I eagerly accepted the opportunity to support local businesses.
After graduating from Beaver Dam High School, I obtained my bachelor’s degree in journalism and advertising from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. I applied my skills as a Marketing Associate and Market Analyst at ANIMART (now Armor Animal Health) in Beaver Dam and as a Marketing Specialist at TAB in Mayville.
During college, I interned at the Special Olympics of the Fox Valley and continued volunteering after graduation. I am actively involved in my church’s leadership team, utilizing my writing skills to keep the congregation informed. I relish opportunities to assist the local business community, whether it involves participating in surveys, promoting businesses online, or patronizing my favorite local establishments.
Outside of work and chamber duties, I prioritize spending time with my family. We enjoy traveling, discovering new places and businesses, and attending Wisconsin sporting events.
Jordan Hynum
Realty Executives Platinum
Jordan Hynum
Realty Executives Platinum
After graduating from Fort Atkinson High School in 2016, I pursued a Liberal Arts program at Madison Area Technical College. In 2019, I embarked on my real estate career with Realty Executives Platinum, obtaining my real estate license the same year, and subsequently earning my broker’s license in 2021. I am passionate about providing comfort and peace to people during the stressful process of moving.
I currently reside in Oconomowoc, where I enjoy outdoor activities, such as kayaking and savoring the scenery with my beloved dog, Prince, whom I adopted from the Watertown Humane Society in September 2022. As a huge Wisconsin sports fan, I particularly support the Milwaukee Brewers and Lake Country Dockhounds.
Family holds a special place in my heart, as I take delight in being an aunt to my nephew, Elliott, and niece, Eloise, engaging in activities like playing dinosaurs, tag, and swimming in the pool with them. My older brother, Jared, and younger sister, Joy, are cherished members of my family, with whom I share a close bond. Combining my love for family and serving others into one career brings me immense joy. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me!
Jennifer Johnson
Secretary
The Marquardt
Jennifer Johnson
Secretary
The Marquardt
I have worked in healthcare since 2005, when I graduated from UW-Eau Claire with my bachelor’s degree in health care administration. As the now Executive Director at The Marquardt, I oversee the day-to-day operations of the entire Watertown campus. This included managing our dedicated staff, handling the marketing initiatives for the campus, and ensuring top-notch care for all residents in the Health Center Towne Centre, as well as the independent living, assisted living, and HUD neighborhoods. My passion lies in creating exceptional experiences for seniors to savor life. Throughout my tenure at The Marquardt, I have actively engaged in Watertown Leadership activities and proudly served as a member of the Rotary.
I reside in Sun Prairie with my husband, Jeremie, and our two kids, Payton and Annika. Our family cherishes leisurely time spent at our cabin up north in Neillsville, cheering on Annika during her softball games and enjoying rounds of golf together.
Melissa Lampe
Watertown Main Street Program, ex-offcio
Melissa Lampe
Watertown Main Street Program, ex-officio
Bio coming soon!
Karen Lanser
Heroes for Heroes
Karen Lanser
Heroes for Heroes
As the Founder and President of Heroes for Heroes, I am dedicated to raising funds for veterans and first responders to acquire fully trained, certified service dogs at no cost. We focus on fundraising and also work towards educating and advocating for service dogs, PTSD, and other challenges our heroes may be facing. Our organization operates solely on the support of volunteers and donations.
Having lived in Watertown for nearly 30 years, I have been actively involved in the community, whether through my work at local companies or participation in various community groups. When I’m not pursuing my passion for supporting veterans, I dedicate my time as an Agile Coach/Senior Program Management Consultant for Allstate Insurance Company. During my leisure time, I enjoy activities such as scuba diving, supporting local businesses, and cherishing moments with my friends, family, and pets. I am eagerly looking forward to giving back to the community that has consistently supported both me and Heroes for Heroes.
Al Larson
Vice Chairperson
Bender Levi Larson & Associates
Al Larson
Vice Chairperson
Bender Levi Larson & Associates
Since 1997, I have been practicing law and have been a co-shareholder at Bender, Larson, Chidley, Koppes & Associates since 1999.
My focus is on residential and commercial real estate representation and litigation, estate planning and probate representation, municipal representation, and business representation. I specialize in landlord and tenant representation, serving property management clients, individual landlords, and tenants. I previously served as the Assistant City Attorney for the City of Watertown and other municipal clients, providing legal counsel on real estate development, zoning issues, and prosecution of cases in municipal court. I am a member of the Jefferson and Dodge County Bar Associations.
Originally from Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990 and completed Law School at the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1997. I currently reside in Nashotah, and I am actively involved in the Lake Country School Board, Watertown Tennis Association, and have a love/hate relationship with golf, while also supporting my daughters, Emily, and Sarah, in their college and high school sports endeavors.
Laurie Rehm
Drehm Insurance
Ex-officio
Laurie Rehm
Drehm Insurance
Ex-officio
Bio coming soon!
Robert Rehm Jr.
Pizza Ranch
Robert Rehm Jr.
Pizza Ranch
Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors – 2024
I was born in Watertown, my mom’s hometown, and raised in Lake Mills, where I graduated high school. I graduated from UW–River Falls with a bachelor’s degree in education.
After I graduated from college, I began my professional career. First, there is a teacher and sports coach in the nice communities of Luck and Pardeeville, WI. I taught mainly grades 3 and 4 and coached high school football, wrestling, and track & field. In the mid-1990s, I went into private business, first in the poultry industry with my family and then into hotel development with my father. Upon my father’s retirement, my company had the opportunity to develop a Pizza Ranch restaurant in Elkhorn, WI, in conjunction with a hotel development project. This project led us to many other opportunities to bring Pizza Ranch to Wisconsin communities. This includes the Pizza Ranch in Watertown. We are extremely grateful for all Pizza Ranch brings to our communities and family.
My wife and I live in Lake Mills, now empty nesters with our children grown and with families of their own. We enjoy the lifestyle that living in Jefferson County gives us. I enjoy Badger football games, reading, and walking in Korth Park in my free time.
Bridget Van Ert
Vice Chairperson
Bank of Lake Mills
Bridget Van Ert
Vice Chairperson
Bank of Lake Mills
I am a proud native of Watertown, having graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Business and Marketing degree after finishing high school. My career journey has included roles at financial institutions like Landmark Credit Union and M&I Bank, culminating in my current position as Branch Manager at Bank of Lake Mills in Watertown for the past decade.
Living and working in Watertown brings me immense joy, especially in supporting our community. I assist individuals and businesses with deposit accounts and consumer loans, delighting in helping them achieve their financial aspirations. Witnessing customers reach their goals and employees flourish in their careers is incredibly fulfilling to me.
Active in local organizations like Kiwanis and serving as a Chamber Ambassador for two decades, I also hold positions on the Chamber Board of Directors and as Vice Chair of the Executive Board. I live in Watertown with my husband, and I have three grown sons and two granddaughters. I also enjoy hiking, playing tennis, attending music and sports events, and exploring new destinations!
Cassandra Wagner
Chairperson
ITW Shakeproof
Cassandra Wagner
Chairperson
ITW Shakeproof
After graduating from Watertown High School, I obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science and business administration from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Since 2013, I have been serving as the HR Business Partner for ITW Shakeproof Fasteners, a global manufacturing company in the Watertown area.
Community involvement is a priority for me, as I aim to give back to the Watertown community where I was raised and where I want my two daughters to grow up and thrive. Advocating for younger generational families has become a passion of mine, reflected in my involvement in various organizations such as the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, AAUW (American Association of University Women), and the Watertown Country Club Ladies Board. Additionally, I am running for City Council District 6 Alderperson in the upcoming April 2024 Spring Election. I am dedicated to leveraging my expertise in human resources to benefit the local community in areas such as recruitment, training, staying updated on employee-related laws, and more.
In my leisure time, my husband, Ryan, our two daughters, and I enjoy golfing, family movie nights, outdoor activities, and are avid football fans, particularly of the Green Bay Packers.
Tori Woolley
Summit Credit Union
Tori Woolley
Summit Credit Union
I was raised in Watertown and attended both Watertown High School and the Watertown campus of Madison College. I am a 2005 graduate with my Associates degree in Accounting.
I started my career in the housing industry as an office manager in a real estate office in 2006. After various back office mortgage positions I became the mortgage loan office at Summit Credit Union’s Home Loan office in Watertown in 2016. I have a passion for financial education and credit counseling and I specialize in first time homebuyers and low or no down payment buyers. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring the credit union difference and financial education to my hometown.
My husband and I live in Lake Mills, along with our three boys and pets. We enjoy the small town communities we live and work in. In my free time, I enjoy vinyl crafts and working my garden. As a family, we enjoy camping several times during the summer.
