Synergy 2006

The conference provides an opportunity for leaders in business, community, work force development; government, health care and education to focus on issues and find practical solutions to the challenges that accompany economic growth in a nine-county region of West Central Wisconsin. The region includes the counties of Barron, Chippewa, Clark, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, Pierce, Polk & St. Croix. Keynote speakers include Rebecca Ryan, founder of Next Generation Consulting, and Jack Schultz, author of ?Boomtown, USA.? Ryan?s presentation will focus on the steps West Central Wisconsin can take to reverse its brain drain. She also will present a ?handprint,? or regional profile, of the area based on seven leading indexes for retaining and developing a talented workforce. Schultz will present innovative ways rural communities can recruit new businesses and retain young adults through better job opportunities. He also will participate in a breakout session on economic development.