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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.
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.
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!
PEARLS of Wisdom: Dr. Tiffany Tardy on Mission Service, Empowering Young Women, and Her First Generation Journey
Dr. Tiffany Tardy is a powerhouse advocate for education and youth success in Milwaukee. After holding successful leadership roles within Milwaukee’s premiere impact organizations, including All-In Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Public Schools Foundation, Dr. Tardy currently serves as the President and CEO of PEARLS for Teen Girls, a fabulous Milwaukee organization with an incredible mission to uplift our community’s young women. In this Interview with FGPM President Molly Madonia , Dr. Tardy shares more about the PEARLS mission and impact, the importance of mentorship, and her own first generation professional journey.
Pacman, Personality, and Sharing the Pie: An Interview with Michael Testa
Meet Michael Testa, CCIM®, ARM®
Michael Testa currently serves as the Business Development Manager | Senior Associate, at Ogden & Company, Inc. In his free time, he volunteers for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the Institute of Real Estate Management, and the Wisconsin chapter of CCIM.
Most notably for this Interview, however, is Michael’s innate ability to make connections. A master networker, Michael can find common ground with anyone, on any topic, and have fun in the conversation. By combining his professional networking skills, a genuine interest in meeting new people, and a friendly demeanor, Michael shares his best tips for growing your circle.
Following Your Passion as a First Generation Professional: An Interview with Paul Hanon
Paul Hanon is a testament to following your passions. In this high-energy interview, Paul shares his valuable advice for young professionals, including:
The value of mentorship and how paid mentorship can pay back dividends, in both career and technical expertise
The blessing and curse of a niche industry
How consistency builds brands
The importance of networking and visibility (and where to find networking events!)
Finding common ground in social-centric professions (even as an introvert!)
Listening with best intentions and how non-verbal communication speaks volumes
Ignoring the naysayers
And finally, what makes Milwaukee great
lend your time
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