Profiles

Deb DeLuca is executive director of the Port of Duluth-Superior and the first woman to lead the organization in its history.

Ugo Nwagbaraocha, president of Milwaukee-based construction tools wholesaler Diamond Discs International, has emerged as a leading advocate for contractors of color statewide, lobbying for the state to take a more active role in helping minority-owned firms better compete for federally funded projects.

Barb LaMue leads New North Inc., an 18-county regional economic development organization that develops and implements strategies for business and talent development in northeast Wisconsin.

Valerie Daniels-Carter grew V&J Holding Companies Inc. into one of the largest restaurant franchise companies with more than 135 units.

Mike Zimmerman since 2014 has led ROC Ventures Inc., which operates numerous entertainment brands, including Ballpark Commons in Franklin.

Bo DeLong started working full-time in the fertilizer division of The Delong Co. in 1974. He now serves as vice president of grain.

Jochen Zeitz took the helm of Harley-Davidson Inc. in 2020. Outside Harley, Zeitz co-founded The B Team with British billionaire Richard Branson.

Since joining A.O. Smith Corp. in 1994, Kevin Wheeler has risen through its ranks to serve as chairman, president and chief executive officer

Tim Michels is co-owner of Michels Corp., the largest construction company in Wisconsin. The Brownsville-based heavy civil infrastructure construction firm has more than 8,000 employees.

John Daniels Jr. joined Quarles & Brady LLP in 1974, was named a partner in 1981 and became chairman and managing partner in 2007.