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One of the main ways FGPM brings value to our first generation members is by acting as a resource for common questions and experiences. We invite you to explore our library of short articles - written by the FGPM Board of Directors or Milwaukee’s community leaders, links to our partner organizations, and ways to get involved with the FGPM mission.
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Corry Joe Biddle: Attracting Talent through Authentic Leadership in Milwaukee
FGPM is thrilled to welcome Corry Joe Biddle to our Community Leader Interview series!
Corry Joe is a prominent leader dedicated to advancing Milwaukee’s business community and cultivating its next-generation talent. As Vice President of Talent and Community Affairs at the Milwaukee Metro Association of Commerce (MMAC) and Executive Director of FUEL Milwaukee, she promotes workforce inclusion, community engagement, and professional development. In this Interview, we explore Corry Joe’s work driving equity, community inclusion, and professional growth, as well as her optimistic vision for Milwaukee’s evolving inclusive future.
Exercising Discernment that Aligns With Your Goals: How to Assess Opportunities at Work
First generation professionals are often hungry to prove themselves in the workplace and may be tempted to raise their hand for each and every project offered to them. While this sense of helpful initiative will behoove one’s career overall, it is important to be discerning about which opportunities offer real value. There may be unlimited opportunities to work on projects but there is a finite amount of time in the day, and energy to put toward meaningful work. In this Article, we review three important aspects of practicing discernment when considering workplace opportunities.
Interviewing the Interviewer: A Conversation with J.J. Brizendine for First Generation Jobseekers
J.J. Brizendine is here to help you find a job. By leveraging curiosity, and transparency throughout the process, J.J. has been assisting his constituents find meaningful employment since 2020. In this Interview, J.J. shares his first generation journey, the power of a pivot, and the importance of wearing a tie.
Supporting First Generation Professionals in 2025
First generation professionals bring unique perspectives, a fresh attitude, and incomparable drive to the corporate world. However, navigating an unfamiliar environment can be challenging, especially without prior exposure to corporate norms or the “unspoken rules” of professional life. If managers want first generation professionals to thrive in their workplaces, they must approach management through a new lens, one that empowers first-generation professionals to thrive by offering opportunities and fostering collaboration.
Here are five effective strategies to support first-generation young professionals in your workplace.
What Is a KPI? And Why Your Manager Keeps Talking About It
If you've recently started your corporate career, you've probably heard managers, colleagues, or team leads mention something called a "KPI." But what exactly is a KPI—and why does it seem so important to everyone around you? Understanding this tool can connect day-to-day work to larger business goals and achieving KPIs will help you stand out on your team.
Network Connectivity: Lena DeLaet on Building Summerfest Tech, Mentorship, and Her First Generation Journey
Lena DeLaet is redefining what it means to be a woman in tech in Milwaukee. As the Director of Sales and Summerfest Tech, one segment of her role at MWF is to produce and expand Summerfest Tech, with a goal to “convene technologists, startups, investors, non-profits, and all other members of the tech ecosystem through a multi-day event.” Now celebrating its 8th annual conference, Summerfest Tech is now one of Milwaukee’s premier technology showcases, featuring talk tracks, keynotes, breakout sessions, a pitch competition, and networking events.
In this Community Leader Interview, Lena discusses the impact of community service, the growth of Summerfest Tech across the Midwest, how networking (both internal and external) opens doors, and being the best mentor she can be.
FGPM is thrilled to welcome Lena DeLaet to our Community Leader Interview series!
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Get Involved
at First Generation Professionals of Milwaukee
Are you interested in furthering the FGPM mission? We would love to have you. See below for three easy ways to help us uplift the next generation of young professionals in Milwaukee.
One
Join the Mentorship conversation
Not sure on career next steps? The Mentorship Program can help.
Join an FGPM Committee
How can your professional skills help further the FGPM mission?
Two
Three
Let’s get creative
Have an idea for a program or presentation that would benefit the FGPM membership? Let us know!
DONATIONS
DONATIONS
We couldn’t do this without your support
In an effort to make FGPM as accessible to young professionals as possible, we have decided to forego membership dues for both general membership and participation in the Mentorship Program. For this reason, we are seeking public support through donations to continue to further our mission. FGPM is a 501(3)(c) non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible.
If you would like to get involved through sponsorship or in-kind donation, please email president@fgpm.org.
Become a Member
Providing value to every member
Gain career insights from cross-generational mentorships with industry professionals
Leverage resources to answer common questions, develop your resume, or practice corporate communication skills
Network with other Milwaukee young professionals and mentors, including through our strategic partner organizations