Tourdot Named as President of ABC of Wisconsin, Mielke moving to ABC National

The Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin announces a leadership transition, effective September 20, 2024. Kelly Tourdot is promoted to President of ABC of Wisconsin. John Mielke, current president, will transition to a new role as Senior Director of Apprenticeship at ABC National.

Tourdot was selected by a unanimous vote of the ABC of Wisconsin Board of Directors. She has worked for ABC of Wisconsin for 28 years. Her time includes work as an apprenticeship director, vice-president and executive director of the ABC Apprenticeship and Training Trust.

“It is my honor to serve ABC of Wisconsin’s hard-working members,” said Tourdot. “Our members are ‘salt of the earth’ people, supporting family businesses, creating jobs and opportunities, and working with excellence on construction projects across the state.”

“Kelly is one of the most dedicated people I’ve worked with and is perfectly suited to lead ABC of Wisconsin into a bright future,” said John Mielke, current president.  “Her promotion is an obvious example of our Merit philosophy. Kelly’s skills and passion for the industry are clear, and she has earned this opportunity to lead ABC of Wisconsin.”

Tourdot’s work includes building apprenticeship teams, developing ongoing education for members, raising funds to support ABC’s advocacy campaigns and serving as a resource on government boards focused on the trades.

Mielke is leaving ABC of Wisconsin to work for the ABC National office. His new role will include helping other states grow their apprenticeship programs and chapter operations.

“This moment is full-circle for me. I joined ABC of Wisconsin when it was smaller and our team worked to grow opportunities for apprentices and business owners in our state. Now, I’ll be doing this same work, but across the country,” Mielke said. “Our members in Wisconsin have demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. I look forward to bringing that mindset to our partners across the U.S.”

ABC of Wisconsin is one of the largest ABC chapters in the nation. This year, the association exceeded 1,000 member companies, and enrolled more than 600 new apprentices into skilled training apprenticeships.  The apprenticeship program currently serves more than 2475 apprentices statewide.

“We are proud of the work ABC of Wisconsin is doing in our state,” said Jess Cannizzarro, Chair of the Board. “We thank John Mielke for leading the ABC team, and we are so pleased to have Kelly Tourdot ready to lead our association to even greater opportunities.