The 2025 CEDC Annual Meeting, was held on Friday, May 16. The meeting coincided with Economic Development Week, a time to reflect on regional progress and sets the tone for continued growth and collaboration. The theme of this year’s annual meeting was Communities at the Core. The gathering-one of the Chippewa Valley’s largest business networking events-is a time for local economic development stakeholders to reflect on the organizations past 12 months of work in assisting local businesses, making entrepreneur connections, and helping local communities grow.

Over 350 attendees connected at the Eau Claire Event District while keynote speaker Sylvie Nelson, a nationally recognized leader in workforce development, reminded the audience that bold ideas and going beyond expectations is the only way to create real change for communities. “Businesses Must Step up even more, go above and beyond in their community involvement activities which is critical for local economic development to succeed,” Nelson said.

While the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation’s Annual Banquet was a celebration of progress, partnerships, and people working together to make the Chippewa Valley stronger the event took time to recognize a few individuals, businesses, and organizations that helped create the area’s unique fabric.

Among the morning’s most heartfelt moments was a surprise tribute to UW-Eau Claire Chancellor James Schmidt, who was honored for his 12 years of visionary leadership and impactful community collaboration. Schmidt was praised by CEDC, business leaders, and colleagues alike for his tireless work building bridges between higher education and the private sector.

“These last 12 years have professionally and personally been among the most fulfilling of my life,” Schmidt told the crowd. “I couldn’t work at a university where the business community didn’t understand the value of working together.”

Those in attendance witnessed the recognition of several local high school students who completed the DWD Youth Apprenticeship Program and signed employment agreements to continue working at those local businesses after their graduation. Finally, CEDC honored several businesses and individuals that have made remarkable contributions to Chippewa County’s economic landscape:

  • Entrepreneurs of the Year: Bob and Stephanie Sworski of Pondview Lavender Farm in Wheaton, who have grown a blooming business from the ground up—literally.
  • Trade Ally Award: Rocket Construction, recognized for its role in building homes for Hope Village, combining temporary shelter and affordable housing in Chippewa Falls.
  • Manufacturer of the Year: PMI of Bloomer, which launched an on-site training center to give high school students a direct path into skilled manufacturing careers.
  • Leadership Award: Rob Mooney, a driving force behind Farm Technology Days 2024, which brought the community together with a shared vision for youth, jobs, and rural pride.