During my first year as publisher, I have talked with many readers about the Region’s future.
What impresses me most is the mentality that “we’re all in this together.”
Business leaders and owners believe that the scene has been set by government and economic development organizations to help the Region take its rightful place as the place to live and work along Lake Michigan.
That momentum is most evident at regional events like the NW-ISBDC’s E-Day and the Society of Innovators at Purdue Northwest’s induction luncheon. Organziations like these encourage entrepreneurs and innovators to bring their ideas to life and pursue their dreams. We feature this year’s award winners from both organizations.
To realize these goals, workers must decide that the Region is the place to live and work like the young employees in our accounting story. The say work-life balance is the perk that keeps them close to home.
The next generation also will take over longtime businesses like the family members in our succession planning story. Jeff Berglund is one of them. He started working for Berglund Construction when he was 13 and gained employees’ trust. Now he is chief growth officer for the fourth-generation business.
The city of East Chicago also is making plans for growth. With declines in crime and investments by community stakeholders, the city is making strides toward a safe and fun place to call home.
We also talk to Vince Parisi, the Northern Indiana Public Service Co.’s new president and chief operating officer. He is invested in helping the Region grow into its potential as an energy leader.
His message also is one of service to community, which our features on Special Olympics coaches and Habitat for Humanity also exemplify. Kwangsoo Park shares professional advice on including those wtih disabilities.
Heather Ennis of the NWI Forum says goodbye to Gov. Eric Holcomb, and Wade Breitzke of WeCreate offers a few words on indivisibility.
As I embark on my second year as leader of NWI Business Magazine, I look forward to advancing the conversation with you.
Happy holidays and enjoy this issue!
