Ashley Smart
Ashley covers startups, technology and manufacturing for BizTimes. She was previously the managing editor of the News Graphic and Washington County Daily News. In past reporting roles, covering education at The Waukesha Freeman, she received several WNA awards. She is a UWM graduate. In her free time, Ashley enjoys watching independent films, tackling a new recipe in the kitchen and reading a good book.
🔒 MKE Tech Hub Coalition launches AI Roadmapping Program for startups
The MKE Tech Hub Coalition has launched a new AI Roadmapping Program that will help startups integrate AI into their product roadma
🔒 Generac acquires Colorado-based microgrid solutions provider Ageto Energy
Town of Genesee-base Generac Power Solutions has acquired Fort Collins, Colorado-based Ageto Energy for an undisclosed price.
🔒 Hartford-based Helgesen Industries acquired by Minnesota-based metal fabricator
Hartford-based fabricated metals manufacturer Helgesen Industries has been acquired by Monticello, Minnesota-based Standard Iron
🔒 Generac expands partnership with Spanish manufacturer Wallbox, invests $35 million
Wallbox received a $45 million investment from several shareholders, including a $35 million investment from Generac, both companies announced.
🔒 Jackson-based wellness brand vH essentials acquired by Florida company
vH essentials, a manufacturer of wellness products for women, has been acquired by Sarasota, Florida-based WellSpring Consumer Healthcare.
Harley Homecoming attendance dips as visitors adjust to new annual format
Harley-Davidson’s 2024 Homecoming Festival saw a decrease in attendance as visitors adjusted to the new format of the event.
🔒 Trade Press Media Group acquires Iowa-based Meetings Today
Wauwatosa-based Trade Press Media Group, a business-to-business media company, has acquired Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based Meetings Today.
🔒 Charter Manufacturing acquires Ohio-based Niles Iron
Mequon-based Charter Manufacturing has acquired Niles Iron & Metal Company from Brown Gibbons Lang & Company.
Johnson Controls CEO George Oliver to step down
Johnson Controls CEO George Oliver has informed the company’s board of directors that he plans to step down from his position.
🔒 Briggs & Stratton promotes Kristina Cerniglia to CEO
Wauwatosa-based Briggs & Stratton has promoted Kristina Cerniglia, the company’s chief financial officer, to the role of CEO.
Beloit-based Lean Design Werks plans to relocate to St. Francis
Beloit-based Lean Design Works, a manufacturer specializing in automation and robotics, hopes to renovate an abandoned St. Francis building.
Governor’s Task Force on Workforce Development and AI releases final action...
A specialized task force dedicated to examining the impacts AI will have in Wisconsin has released its final action plan.
