Trish Welzien

What do you most enjoy about working in the Fox Cities?

The Fox Cities are home in the truest sense — I was raised in Neenah. As an adult, I’ve lived in Virginia, Ohio, and Milwaukee, and every one of those places taught me something, but nothing compares to what we have here.

I love the Fox Cities for the traditions and the way our communities are always growing and enhancing. Each of our little towns and cities offers so much of its own personality. Neenah’s downtown events feel like something straight out of a Hallmark movie. Downtown Appleton brings incredible diversity and energy. And the smaller towns have their own fun events that make each one worth exploring.

What ties it all together? Everyone is always welcome. That spirit of community is exactly why I love living here, working here, and helping people put down roots here.

Why did you become a member of the Fox Cities Chamber?

I’ve always believed that a chamber of commerce is the heartbeat of a community. It’s where you feel the pulse of everything happening — the new businesses opening their doors, the established ones growing, the events that bring us all together, and the people working hard behind the scenes to make this area thrive.

I became a member because I wanted to be part of that heartbeat, not just watch it from the sidelines. Becoming an Ambassador took it a step further — I get to welcome new businesses, celebrate milestones with ribbon cuttings, and connect with the people who make the Fox Cities such a special place to live and work. As a Realtor, my business is built on community, so being plugged into the Chamber isn’t just good for business — it’s genuinely one of the most rewarding things I do.

Please share your favorite/most impactful moment as a Fox Cities Chamber Ambassador.

For me, it’s not one single moment — it’s the ongoing ability to connect people. As an Ambassador, I get to talk with people across so many different trades and businesses, and I genuinely love learning what they do and what makes their work unique. Then, when I’m out with clients or peers and someone mentions they need a service or are looking for an opportunity, I can say, “I know exactly who you should talk to.” That’s the magic of it.

One experience that stands out is volunteering at the Chamber’s Career Expo, where high school students explore careers and companies right here in our area. I went to help the kids — and ended up learning so much myself. I’ve since shared what I learned with people in my own life who were considering a career change. That’s the Chamber at work: knowledge flowing in every direction.

I’d also encourage any company to send their employees to events like Morning Mingle or Business After Hours. They’re not just networking events — they’re a chance for people to build confidence, sharpen their communication skills, and grow both personally and professionally.

How do you help make the member experience an impactful experience at the Fox Cities Chamber?

I try to be the friendly face that makes people feel like they belong. Walking into a Chamber event for the first time can be intimidating — especially for new members or employees who’ve never networked before. As an Ambassador, I make it a point to seek those people out, introduce myself, ask about their business, and then introduce them to others in the room. Nobody should stand in the corner at a Morning Mingle.

Beyond the events, I show up. Whether it’s a ribbon cutting celebrating a new business, volunteering at the Career Expo, or simply following up with someone I met to make a connection they mentioned needing — I want members to know the Chamber isn’t just a membership, it’s a relationship. When members feel genuinely seen, welcomed, and connected, that’s when the experience becomes impactful. And honestly, after eight-plus years as an Ambassador, making those connections never gets old.

Do you have any advice for someone considering joining the Fox Cities Chamber?

YES! Do it — and don’t just join, use it. Your membership is only as valuable as what you put into it. Go to a Morning Mingle. Stop by a Business After Hours. Volunteer at the Career Expo. Attend a ribbon cutting and cheer on a brand-new business. Every single event is an opportunity to learn something, meet someone, or grow in a way you didn’t expect.

I’ve been an Ambassador since 2018, and I can honestly say the Chamber has made me better — better connected, better informed, and a better resource for my clients and my community. The opportunities are all there waiting for you. All you have to do is show up.
And when you do come to your first event? Find me. I’ll introduce you around.