A little bit about me....
I'm Joel, Executive Consultant and owner of JACL Strategics. When not immersed in problem-solving mode, you'll often find me embracing the great outdoors, whether it's hiking through scenic trails, soaking up the sunshine, or simply enjoying the fresh air. I have a passion for driving, finding solace and adventure on the open road, exploring new routes and destinations. Hanging out with my church family brings me a sense of community and belonging, fostering connections and shared values. A good movie is always a welcome escape, offering a chance to unwind and immerse myself in captivating stories and cinematic worlds. Above all, spending quality time with my family is my greatest joy, cherishing moments with my wife Amanda, and the kids, Chloe and Liam. Even if it's hanging around the house doing our own separate things, just hearing they are around gives me a comfort and peace. Naming this company after them just made sense. J.A.C.L. Strategics.
My Story
Out of high school, I really didn't know what I wanted to do for a career. I went into a machine shop for a spell, worked in the finish carpentry field becoming a cabinet maker, obtained my CDL's and hit the open road. Just not what I was looking for. I discovered my career and passion in a small manufacturing company in Pewaukee, Wisconsin in the early 2000's - The Comfort Company. Interesting enough, I would learn a few years later after parting ways with this company there was something that company had that kept drawing me back to them. Something I needed but couldn't place my finger on. Then it clicked in late 2009, at the age of 25. This company offered something no one else I worked for did......mentorship and employee development, engagement and retention.
Michael Groth, Owner/COO, since retired, has played a significant role in my professional life and some aspects of my personal life. His patience, sense of humor, humility, knowledge of manufacturing/business and wisdom has become desirable traits for me and someone I have always secretively looked up to. He truly is one of a kind.
In my absence of working with Mr. Groth, in the early 2000's, he recruited some real serious talent that I was fortunate enough to work beside and learn from. In the 20 years I have been in this field, these are among the best leaders I have worked with in the manufacturing industry. I would be remiss not to mention some other key mentors and the impact they had on me.
Ryan Irene, VP of Operation, took a big risk on a young guy like me. For the next 10 years, Reid taught me about what it takes to manage myself, my time and my schedules while overseeing a production facility. How to analyze and measure current /future state. Reid did an amazing job at taking a complicated situation or project and break it down into manageable sizes while keeping our targeted deadline. Employee development, engagement and retention, Development of a process and procedure.
Steven DuFresne, VP of Product Development. Steve, now CEO at Anthros, was a man with a drive for offering the best product that is oneself. He is a visionary in the art of redesigning ourselves and the product we have to offer. Be the best "you" no matter the circumstance. He brought innovation and energy to the projects he was involved in. Always a glass half full mentor. If the glass was in fact, a little empty, just fill it up. Employee development, engagement and retention, Development of a process and procedure.
Keith Thoms, VP of Materials Management, Keith was a right-hand man to Mike Groth and for good reasons. Keith is very reliable, well-spoken and highly effective in communication. He made communicating and documenting look easy, second nature. He always made time for those who needed someone to talk to whether you were a new employee, or a Plant Manager like me. He provided guidance and viewpoints that would open up discussion and lower defenses in am atter of moments. It's a unique skillset I have yet to see in anyone else I have met. Employee development, engagement and retention
Diane Gaberino, Director of HR, I met Diane early 2000's during my career search while working together in another manufacturing facility. Diane has been a resource, a wealth of knowledge and a mentor to me in the HR area for many years. She has sacrificed so many hours on days/nights/weekends, working with me in discussions on policy developments, employee wellbeing, safety, benefits, education, legal, and personal health. She is genuine when it comes to employee/employer relations. Employee development, engagement and retention
Beyond the tangible skills and knowledge, I am grateful for these mentorship's profound impact on my personal growth. Their exemplary leadership, integrity, and dedication serve as a constant source of inspiration for me. I am truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from those as accomplished and compassionate as these.
Where I left off with these life changing mentors, I pick back up here with you, at JACL Strategics.