Next Wave+ Profiles: Meet another trio of participants

Earlier this year, the Chamber launched Next Wave+ to build upon the success of the Next Wave program. Next Wave+ is an advanced professional development series for young professionals ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. This six-session series dives deeper into leadership, community understanding and cross-industry collaboration. Each session is designed to give participants executive-level insights, real-world perspectives and opportunities to connect with influential leaders shaping the region.

The Chamber will profile current participants in this blog, this time with Brianne Barta, Travis Erler and Kay Pickar.

Brianne Barta, General Manager, Wausau Ignite Softball and Assistant General Manager, Wausau Woodchucks:

Your hometown: Kewaunee, Wisconsin

What do you love about the Wausau area? There are many great outdoor activities to do year round! 

If you could waive a magic wand and change one thing about the Wausau area, what would it be? I would wish for more opportunities for young professionals to connect at programs like Next Wave and Next Wave+!

What are you hoping to achieve by participating in the Next Wave+ program? I hope to continue to learn and grow as a young professional, and connect more with others in the Wausau area. 

Travis Erler, Banking Officer, Intercity State Bank (branch of One Community bank):

Hometown: Mauston, Wisconsin

What do you love about the Wausau area? Everyone is so friendly and welcoming here. After moving to the area a couple months ago, it already feels like home.

If you could waive a magic wand and change one thing about the Wausau area, what would it be? Do the winters have to be so cold??

What are you hoping to achieve by participating in the Next Wave+ program? I want to connect with professionals similar to me while learning the history of the area.

Kay Pickar, Career Center Coordinator at Wausau West High School, Wausau School District:

Hometown: Manitowoc, Wisconsin

What do you love about the Wausau area? The Wausau area became home in 2003. There is so much to do here and my children and I have enjoyed many of the amenities. From terrific neighbors to excellent schools, a thriving homeschool community, art, leisure, recreation and the beautiful outdoors. 

If you could waive a magic wand and change one thing about the Wausau area, what would it be? My wish is for the community to continue hard conversations, support those in need and have every confidence when we care for our neighbor, it elevates us all. 

What are you hoping to achieve by participating in the Next Wave+ program? My hope is to gain a greater awareness of the opportunities for employment and development in this area and meet those newer to the area and those who chose to return. 

More details and a schedule for the Next Wave+ program are available on WausauChamber.com. The cost for members to participate in Next Wave+ is $300 annually.

More Next Wave+ profiles:

Meet Casey Rogers and Lyssa Edwards

Meet Chelsea Brusky and Matt Hoenecke

Meet Audrey Webster and Christopher Ashburn