Recently Blanca Gonzales, executive director of i.c.stars Milwaukee, participated in an engaging panel at the 2025 WEDA Governor’s Conference on Economic Development. Joined by Jenny Kuderer-Radcliffe (Economic Development Representative, Dairyland Power), Gail Huycke Professor of Practice, UW-Madison Division of Extension), Matthew Kures (Community Economic Development Specialist, UW Madison Division of Extension), and BJ Williams (Associate Dean of Workforce & Community Development, Northwood Technical College) they shared a thought proving discussion on the Intersection of Broadband, The Economy and Workforce.
The panel highlighted how broadband access and adoption serve as crucial catalysts for Wisconsin’s workforce development and economic growth. As our working-age population directly impacts job growth and industry development, the speakers emphasized the state’s encouraging trend toward entrepreneurship since 2021. This entrepreneurial spirit provides opportunities for Wisconsin’s continued economic expansion, when the proper infrastructure is in place.
Compelling insights were shared by both BJ Williams and Blanca Gonzales, who emphasized the importance of rural connectivity in their respective area’s. Blanca even sharing an inspiring example of a intern commuting from Zion, IL to Milwaukee to participate in their program – demonstrating the remarkable drive within our community. This underscores the critical need for comprehensive support systems, encompassing the financial, emotional, personal, and technological resources, that we provide to our interns in the program to all residents of Wisconsin, so they have the access to opportunities for growth and success.
