Two ABC Staff Members Recognized at Construction Leadership Event

MILWAUKEE — ABC of Wisconsin Membership Engagement Coordinator Mary Austinson and President John Mielke were recognized with some of their peers at the Rising Young Professionals and Icons In Construction event in Milwaukee on Thursday, March 14.

These honorees at the event are people who have demonstrated leadership, contributed to their community and successfully achieved positive outcomes early and late in their careers.

Austinson said she loves working with ABC members.

“The best part of my job is working with all the members. I think it’s really special that you have 881 different personalities you are working with and you have to tailor your job to them, so it’s really rewarding to be able to help them get what they need,” Austinson said. “We are one big team. We all work together to make sure the members get what they need in a quick and concise manner,” she added.

Mielke credits the members for much of his success.

“The best part of my job is representing the members, who all have an origin story,” Mielke said. “It’s the people who will work to serve customers all day long, come home and work in the shop in some cases, sometimes sleeping in their offices at night only to do it all over the next day. It’s kind of the American dream to work for people like that,” Mielke said.

“Our rising young professional honorees are making a difference in the industry. They are also contributing to standout projects throughout the state and they all, as a group, see a bright future,” said Joe Yovino, associate publisher/group editor of The Daily Reporter. “Our icons of construction show that dedication and perseverance can result in a fulfilling career. Our seven icons have seen it all, from booms to recessions and everything in between.” Yovino said.

The event, held at the Harley Davidson Museum and Garage, was organized by The Daily Reporter.

See Mary’s video from the event.
See John’s video from the event.