About WVCC
Through a diverse network of members and community partners, we prioritize accelerating business growth. Acting as a matchmaker, we facilitate connections through support, strategic networking, collaboration, and educational workshops, ultimately uniting businesses to grow our community.
Board of Directors

Frank DeGuire, JD, MBA
USN 1991-1994

Courtney Skinkis
Owner

Keith Saeger
Air Force 1984-1988
Chamber Staff

Christian Thornton
CEO & President

Zach Zabel
Vice President

Thomas Parr
Vice President
2026 WVCC Committee Development
Events Building Committee
Purpose: Support planning and execution of key chamber events and programs throughout the year to include monthly, quarterly, special one-time events (i.e., workshops), and the annual business conference.
Why it matters: Events are both community builders and revenue generators. Member volunteers can provide creative input and help staff with logistics, event planning, and the execution of events.
Typical tasks:
- Planning of future events (Current events such as Sound Off, First Call Madison, and the annual conference)
- Developing potential new events (By region that “make sense” and are “self-sustaining” to include fund raisers, monthly meetings, one-time events)
- Help identify speakers / aide in development of the conference speaker series
- Evaluating event ROI and suggesting new programming
Mission Statement:
To assist chamber staff in organizing enjoyable and effective events that bring members together and promote member businesses.
Purpose & Responsibilities:
- Offer input and support for events (e.g., business expo, cyclic events, networking mixers).
- Help recruit volunteers and sponsors when needed.
- Suggest new event ideas based on member interests.
- Provide feedback on event success and improvements.
- Meet a few times a year, with most work done via email or quick check-ins.
Membership and Outreach Committee
Purpose: Grow and retain Chamber membership by educating businesses about programs and networking opportunities.
Why it matters: Strong membership ensures financial stability and supports initiatives that boost engagement and visibility.
Typical tasks:
- Generate ideas to attract and retain members
• Help implement membership and outreach strategies
• Provide feedback and share lessons learned
Mission Statement:
To support the Chamber’s membership growth and engagement by promoting programs, networking opportunities, and member achievements through targeted outreach.
Purpose & Responsibilities:
- Share member news, highlights, and success stories across Chamber channels
- Promote Chamber events and initiatives through personal and business networks
- Offer ideas to strengthen membership recruitment, retention, and engagement
- Collaborate with staff to support marketing and outreach campaigns
- Meet periodically or communicate to coordinate efforts
Education and Programs Committee
Purpose: Strengthen educational programs and resources for members and partners to enhance the local business environment and help guide the Chamber’s role in community and policy matters.
Why it matters: Education and programs form the backbone of the Chamber’s resources for our members. A strong commitment to both is essential to their continued growth and success.
Typical tasks:
- Assisting in development of trending core educational business topics
- Advise on implementation / deletion of WVCC programs based on member needs
- Attending meetings with Higher Education professionals to build out our platforms
Mission Statement:
To support member business growth through programs and educational events designed to strengthen our members through practical learning.
Purpose & Responsibilities:
- Identify emerging business needs and opportunities for collaboration within the community
- Recommend programs and resources that help local businesses grow and thrive
- Stay informed on local issues impacting businesses and share insights with Chamber leadership
- Partner with schools, nonprofits, and local government on educational and workforce initiatives
- Meet periodically or as needed to plan, coordinate, and evaluate committee efforts
Chamber Committee Overview
Our Chamber thrives when members are engaged! Serving on a committee is a fantastic way to support the chamber, meet other business leaders, and have a direct impact on our programs. Committees are designed to be flexible and manageable, with most meeting a few times a year or working virtually.
In January of 2026, the WVCC launched these three committees. We are planning a fourth committee to address our new foundation soon. Stay tuned!
Please email the WVCC with any questions: info@wiveteranschamber.org
#StrongerTogether!


