Patrick Booth, President & CEO
Patrick officially joined the family business a few years after graduating from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He held nine positions at CCB before becoming CEO and believes that hiring the right people in the right positions is key to the annual growth CCB experiences. Patrick has been a part of the company from the very beginning in 1991 and often says his business training started at the dinner table each night. “My dad and mom taught me that we are in the people business and I’ve learned myself that if you take care of people you will build deep loyalty, and in turn they will take care of you. It’s all about relationships in life!” Patrick has a passion for serving others and is active in the community, serving as President of Rotary and on numerous business and nonprofit boards.
Fun fact: Although he has a pretty strong fear of heights, Patrick pushes himself to overcome it by trying new adventures including taking in Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower to parasailing in Mexico. Skydiving is on the bucket list, but his wife Lori has asked him to wait until all the kids are over 18.
Logan McCoy, Vice President of Services
Logan began his career at CCB in sales after graduating from Carthage College in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in International Political Economy. Four years later, he was promoted to Vice President of Sales and led his team to record sales three consecutive years. In 2015, Logan transitioned to Vice President of Services, eager to develop CCB’s growing IT services business and establish them as leaders in the space. Since then, CCB has significantly grown the number of managed services clients that they serve and maintains a customer satisfaction score of 4.9 (out of 5). Under Logan’s leadership, CCB has been awarded the prestigious MSP Elite 150 status by CRN, which recognizes the top 150 MSPs in North America.
Fun Fact: Logan loves traveling and has visited Australia, Italy, Haiti, Greece, Ireland, England, and the Dominican Republic. He has taken on a new traveling adventure with his wife by taking their four young children on their first major family trip to Hawaii, with plans to travel to Europe in the near future.
Melody Bernhardt, Vice President of Marketing
Melody joined CCB in 2008 with over 20 years of marketing and business experience. As director of vendor relationships, she developed and managed CCB’s partnerships and established new industry authorizations. She became Vice President of Marketing in 2011, growing the department into a fully functioning marketing division that includes managing industry relationships. Under her leadership, Consistent Computer Bargains became CCB Technology and completely rebranded. In 2013, her team paved the way for CCB’s expansion into the corporate segment, focusing on IT service offerings and hosting the first annual TechShowcase, now the largest business IT event in SE Wisconsin. Melody is active on several industry marketing boards, and in 2015 Microsoft presented her with the Digital Marketing Excellence Award and CRN named her to the Women of the Channel in the Power 50 category. She holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Marketing and Communications from Olivet Nazarene University.
Fun Fact: Melody (aka Mel) is an avid gardener and spends as much time as possible dreaming about and scaping her half-acre canvas. Her perfect downtime is being in the north woods of Wisconsin spending time with her family pontooning and fishing, catching up on reading, and watching sunsets.
Stacey Neideffer, Vice President of Finance
Stacey joined CCB in 2012, bringing over 20 years of financial and managerial experience to the team. As vice president of finance, she oversees both the accounting and purchasing departments. In her time in this role, Stacey has implemented strategic procedures and controls that have enhanced the quality of CCB’s accounting processes and systems. She has undertaken various cost-saving measures that have directly resulted in improving pricing for customers. Stacey has a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is a part of several local organizations, including serving as board treasurer at Tempo Racine.
Fun Fact: Everything Stacey does centers around family, including attending her children’s sporting events, volunteering as cheer coach at her daughter’s school, and taking pictures of her family’s adventures and creating scrapbooks with them. She also loves gardening and using what she grows for canning and cooking.
Steve Scherer, Vice President of Sales
Steve graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and came to CCB with over seven years of sales experience in 2013. Since joining the company, Steve has moved from sales recruiting and training to field sales, to sales management and in 2018 was promoted to his fifth role as VP of Sales. He was instrumental in launching and overseeing the development of the field account executive team, helping grow CCB’s corporate market. Steve leads by example, inspiring his team to put people first, keep integrity at the forefront, and work hard every day, weaving in fun whenever possible. He has also organized and led CCB’s softball team to become league champions.
Fun facts: When not spending time with his wife and four children, Steve looks forward to bow hunting in the fall or bass fishing in the summer. He may have a beard on one occasion and not on the next, and he owns – and yes does wear when the mood hits him – a purple bunny suit.
Our People
Alicia Schmitz
Field Account Executive
Tell me about YOUR business
I love seeking out new opportunities to connect with other local business; I enjoy learning about their businesses and sharing about CCB and our story. Essentially, I enjoy going on a lot of first dates with hopes to turn them into second and third dates down the road and then possibly a “marriage” of some kind. I am passionate about CCB because CCB is passionate about me. They constantly give me the tools to build my skills and talents.
My school and work
I earned my bachelor’s degree from UW-Parkside in business with and emphasis in accounting. When I got out of college I spent a year or so working in development at the YMCA. From there I went into full blown sales. My job prior to CCB was working for the local newspaper and doing Advertising Sales.
What I enjoy
My passions outside of work are my family, music, reading, cooking, and being outdoors. I have three kids, Grace, Sophie, and Quinn, a husband, Mark, and a golden retriever, Bo. My kids also share my love of music and we spend most of our days singing and dancing around the house. My great grandmother once told me “A singing person is a happy person.”
I love to karaoke! I am very impulsive when it comes to trying new things… especially hair styles. Sometime they work out and other times…. not so much.
See my profile
Ashley Mogensen
Graphic Design Specialist
Here at CCB
What I love most about CCB is the people. Everyone is passionate about what they do. I’m a painter and it’s fascinating to bring that to the digital world and let my creativity thrive.
My road to the IT industry
Before I came to CCB, I worked at an MSP for three years in several roles and grew to love the industry. I’m passionate and dedicated to helping our customers succeed.
Family and future
I was born and raised in Kenosha, WI where I currently live. My dad and I love going to estate sales and bringing home treasures. My family talks about leaving K-Town to live somewhere warm, but we can’t find it in our hearts to go. The seasons and the people are just too great.
Outside of work
I LOVE plants, especially cacti. I have about 25 plants in my small apartment – which doesn't sound like enough if you ask me! I’ve grown to appreciate all types of tea and try to make a different variety every night during the fall season. At the end of the day, I love coming home to my boyfriend and Pomeranian named Emma.
Fun facts about me
I enjoy long road trips and have made two 5,000-mile trips out west to see national parks and monuments including Great Sand Dunes, Dinosaur National Monument, Mesa Verde, Grand Canyon, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, and more. My goal is to see them all!
Austen Hoenig
National Account Manager
CCB is like a family
I like how welcoming the environment is here. Everyone is quick to greet one another throughout the day and lend a hand when it is needed.
Education
I graduated from the College of Lake County with an Associate degree in business and I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in marketing and sales.
My story
I’m from Winthrop Harbor, IL. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend Jessica and playing in a slow pitch softball league with my friends. I am a huge fan of the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears.
Very fun fact
On my thirteenth birthday I had the privilege of meeting one of my favorite baseball players of all time – Frank Thomas.
Barb Wren
Director of Human Resources
Why I love what I do
As the Director of Human Resources I work closely with the president of the company to oversee policy and procedures, benefits, and wellness programs. I love getting to work with every employee in the company; participating in growth on the ground level with each team member is a truly special part of my job.
About me
My husband and I love spending time with our four dogs (two border collies and two bichon mixes whom we call our kids) and our family (especially our beautiful granddaughter). We travel to places like Northern Wisconsin, California, Tennessee, and far across the pond to England. We also love going to concerts, especially Bruce Springsteen!
Fun fact
My husband Pete is from the England, and we met through my sister’s pen pal when I was 15. We wrote for a while, but then didn’t reconnect until 25 years later. Shortly after reconnecting, Pete came to America and we were married! I’ve now been married to my best friend and longtime sweetheart for 13 years.
Bryon Perona
Senior Service Desk Engineer
Computers + People = Endless Possibilities
I am passionate about my work at CCB because of our focus on helping people get the most out of their technology. When we succeed, it’s a beautiful thing! My interest in computers was first piqued when I was in middle school. The self-taught computer guru at our church saw I had an interest and took me under his wing. Since then, I haven't stopped learning all I can about computer technologies.
My experience
I have worked professionally in IT since 2006, during which time I provided IT support for home customers, small to mid-sized businesses, and public schools, troubleshooting just about any piece of computer technology people cared to throw my way. I have had my hand in creating websites, support documentation, and training videos. I am also one of the few people I know that is as comfortable behind the keyboard of a Mac as with a PC.
When not solving your IT troubles…
I love spending time with my wife and playing with my two young boys. I also enjoy reading current tech articles, classic literature, and listening to eclectic music. I've been dabbling at making different things in the kitchen, and for a few years now have been baking all our family's bread from scratch.
Cameron Cooper
Services Engineer
A foundation of excellence
CCB has set a standard for providing clients with the best IT solutions and services, and it’s exciting to see the energy of our staff executing this on a daily basis.
My experience
Before joining CCB, I worked as a lab manager for The Picture People and in 2004, I transitioned to IT where I worked for a background screening company that was later acquired by CareerBuilder.
About me
While I currently live in Sugar Grove, IL, Racine, WI is where it all started. Growing up included living in the Wind Point Lighthouse (here in Racine). Some creative hobbies I enjoy include photography, woodworking, and enjoying the solitude of backpacking.
Cameron Gaither
National Account Manager
My amazing job
I get to talk to people all day long and help problem solve and meet their IT needs – and in-between I enjoy camaraderie with my co-workers. How great is that? I love the entrepreneurial aspects of what I do here at CCB. There’s never a sense that I’m just punching the clock to earn a pay check. I’m fully-engaged in my work and always building toward something.
My life
Growing up in Nashville, TN I used to dream of all of the magical snow… that I now get to shovel here in WI. More seriously, I’m very thankful for the business experience I’ve had over the past 15 years here in the greater Milwaukee area. I’ve gained a skillset that I was not always wired for.
My family
My wife and I carve out regular date nights and usually go to the movies to see the latest superhero or fantasy film. I’m always halfway through a novel and enjoy grappling arts as well as regular game days with a group of long-time friends. Guiding priorities in my life include serving in our local church and raising our kids to have a humble Christian character with a genuine mindfulness of the needs of others.
Fun fact
I’m kinda’ stuck in the 90s – burning CDs and such. Throughout the year, my family and I burn a list of favorites that ends up becoming the continually-looped soundtrack of our lives for the subsequent months while taxiing around town in the mini-van. Might as well enjoy it all together. [Insert still shot of midair, family high-five.]
Chris Burdick
Network & Infrastructure Engineer
My experience
I was born and raised right here in Racine and got my first experience in IT on Best Buy’s Geek Squad. I went on to earn an associate’s degree in IT Network Specialty from Gateway, then got my Bachelors of Science in MIS from MSOE.
While at MSOE, I worked on the Tier 3 IT Infrastructure Support team until graduation. I also worked for Northwestern Mutual on the Windows 7 rollout for their home office and on the N-Tier/Tier 3 support for over 15,000 employees across the U.S. For the last three years, I have been supporting a Racine elementary and middle school in all facets of IT.
Career path to CCB
I learned about CCB through my CCB sales rep when I worked with them to acquire Chromebooks for the Racine schools. My favorite thing about CCB is that it feels more like a family than a company and I enjoy coming in each morning.
What I like to do
As an avid geek, I love to tinker with Ubiquiti network products to break, fix and improve my home network, play video games, write code and learn more about operating systems and networking. I enjoy going up north on the weekends to hunt, fish and spend time with my entire family.
Interesting fact
When I was 14, I was in an ATV accident and lost a kidney. It has yet to be found…
Cindy Jeffers
National Account Manager
Why CCB?
I like the people I work with and most importantly I really like working with nonprofits. I enjoy helping customers that help others. It really gives me a feeling of satisfaction that I am able to help an organization, even if it is in a small way, to accomplish their purpose to help others.
Before CCB
I was an Assistant Manager and then Store Manager for a retail chain before going on to work for a distributor that sold computer hardware and software. I’ve also been as a sales associate, Assistant Buyer and Department Manager for Dillard’s.
Fun Fact
My parents bought a general store the day before my ninth birthday and I started working as a cashier. I worked for the business up until I went off to college and I have been in sales ever since. I am originally from Arizona.
Cole Urban
National Account Manager
Here at CCB
Everyone at CCB genuinely cares about each other’s success, as well as the success of our customers. My goal is to develop trusting relationships with my customers so they can rely on us to help them achieve their goals.
My background
I am from and currently live in Winthrop Harbor, IL. I went to college at Southern Illinois University where I had the privilege of playing both football and baseball, and I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Before coming to CCB, I worked in sales for a medical supply company.
What I like to do
I have always loved playing and watching sports, especially my Chicago teams. I enjoy playing slow pitch softball and other outdoor activities. I also like traveling with my girlfriend and my family and trying new foods.
Darla McMillon
Accounts Receivable Representative
Why I love CCB
Before starting as CCB’s Accounts Receivable Rep, I spent time at Kranz, Inc. as the AR Manager and then went into sales. I’ve now been at CCB for more than nine years and I love my job. Specifically, I love what CCB does for our nonprofit customers.
What I do for fun
I was raised in Racine, WI and I love spending time with my family here, especially my three grandkids: going to the beach, visiting the Racine Zoo, cooking, eating, and watching movies.
Interesting fact
I love storms! The bigger the better! Loud thunder, no problem. Lots of rain, no problem! I want to be a storm chaser when I grow up.
Deneen Cook
Project Coordinator
Life at CCB
I love my job and the people here at CCB – and the dress code!
Education and experience
I have a BS in IT Business Management and am currently working on my BS in IT Networking and Security. Before CCB I did data analytics in health information management (HIM) at a hospital in northern Illinois.
A little about me
I’m originally from the northwest side of Chicago. My favorite pastimes are DIY home projects, listening to audiobooks and watching Nova on PBS.
Fun fact
I served five years in the USAF and my first assignment was in England. During war games, it was my job to drive fighter pilots to their jets.
Derek Matsche
Service Desk Director
About me
I was born in the Twin Cities area in Minnesota, but from the age of six, I was raised in Racine. I consider Racine to be my home town. I enjoy golf and woodworking.
Work Life
Here at CCB we have a great team, which is hard to come by. I come from an IT Manager/IT Support background where I worked with religious nonprofits, a Fortune 500 company and a global manufacturer of tunneling and mining equipment. I have an Associate’s degree in Hotel/Hospitality Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.
Fun Fact
I spent 14 months as a missionary in Mexico during 1996-97 working with children and their families. I miss it very much.
Haley Wellborn
Service Desk Engineer
What I love about my job
When I joined the CCB family I was welcomed by everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) with open arms. My favorite part about being a service desk engineer is directly interacting with clients and working on the backend to help keep their networks protected – all while learning new things every day as technology continues evolving.
The road to CCB
I was a service desk technician for a small managed service provider in Athens, GA which I eventually outgrew. I came across CCB while planning my move to Milwaukee and now I’m still amazed that I found the perfect fit.
Where I’m from
I was born and raised in Covington, Georgia (aka Mystic Falls in The Vampire Diaries) and later moved to its sister city Monticello. It’s a very rural, small town, but with most of my family and friends still living there I’ll always be proud to call it home. In 2015, I represented Monticello in Miss Georgia Teen USA.
When I’m not working
I like being active and going running, hiking and to the gym. To unwind after a stressful day, I try to read books or write.
Fun facts
I’ve never had a cavity or broken bone.
Heather Flores
Purchasing Lead
Why CCB is special
I love what I do here as a purchasing assistant, and I think the atmosphere is really unique. The company puts a lot of time and effort into activities and gatherings for us. Friends that I’ve brought along to these gatherings remind me just how lucky I am to be part of CCB!
About me
I’ve lived in Sturtevant, WI all my life until I recently moved to Milwaukee. I love summers and going to Brewer games, festivals and having cookouts with my family and friends. It's a ritual for my best friends and I to go on a trip every year to a different city.
Fun fact
I like bunnies—it probably stems from our childhood pet bunny named Dewey. We treated him just like a dog! I wish I could have one but don’t have time, so I follow a few bunnies on Instagram to get by in the meantime.
Jacob Turowski
Director of Enterprise Architecture
Why CCB stands apart
I'm passionate about CCB's approach to technology. We strive to provide the best solutions at an affordable cost. Every day, I get a chance to make a difference by providing innovative solutions to companies across the country. We uphold a level of integrity that sets CCB apart from the rest – doing what is right for our clients and customers even if it is not the straightest path.
Before CCB
I hold an associate and bachelor’s degree in two different areas of IT from Herzing University – Madison. I have worked in various IT positions over the years, ranging from helpdesk to network engineering, including a stint of independent consulting. A friend of mine introduced me to CCB a number of years ago, and as they say, “the rest is history."
Family life & out-of-work fun
I grew up in a small town north of Milwaukee called Kewaskum and moved to the Racine area with my wife after college. I love that CCB value spending time with family and makes an effort to provide opportunities to do so. When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, our 2 children, and our energetic chocolate lab. My hobbies and interests include sports, being outside, water skiing, technology, and music. I play a variety of instruments including guitar, piano, and saxophone, and write my own music. It is a rare occurrence when I don’t have music playing – my personal favorites: Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall, Led Zeppelin IV, Future of Forestry, and David Crowder.
Jeff Wainwright
Sales & Marketing Analyst
Why I love CCB
As CCB’s Sales and Marketing Analyst, I create reports, analyze data, and offer business intelligence so that we can make strategic and informed decisions on how to help our customers. CCB serves a great purpose, helping organizations like churches, ministries, and nonprofits be more effective and use their resources to better serve people. That is something I can whole-heartedly stand behind.
How I came to CCB
I come from Waynesville, Ohio, the antique capital of the Midwest! While in high school I opted to search for a business mentor, which led me to Chris Booth, CEO of CCB. I met with Chris consistently, and when I finished a three month project for the company in one month, my mentorship turned into a job! The rest, as they say, is history.
Me outside of CCB
I enjoy taking walks with my family and playing board and card games with friends. I will own anyone at Settlers of Catan, Risk, Bang!, or Dominion. I am a huge Tolkien fan; movies, books, you name it. Lord of the Rings is the best. As a result of my Tolkein love, I enjoy many fantasy/science fiction books and movies like Star Wars (original trilogy) and Terri Pratchett books (i.e. Going Postal).
Johanna Smith
Billing and Sales Tax Staff Accountant
What I love about CCB
EVERYONE is very welcoming and I love the longevity of our employees.
My professional background
I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Parkside with a marketing degree and received an AA in graphic design from Gateway Technical College. I worked at Walgreens for almost 20 years, 15 in the tax department where I gained licensing, taxability, and sales and use tax compliance experience. I also worked at Uline and Crate & Barrel in various tax accounting roles.
Some of my favorite things
Originally from Muskego, WI, I am a soccer and baseball mom and enjoy spending time with my kids. In the summer, I love playing sand volleyball and going tent camping with my kids.
Fun facts about me
I was accidentally electrocuted as a toddler, but I’ve never broken a bone. As a kid, my dad called me Johanna Banana, and the name has stuck since.
Kelly Kwiatkowski
Accounts Payable Specialist
Why I love CCB’s people
I can honestly say I’ve never worked with so many great people all in one place! As far as out of work activities, I have kids – no need to explain further, I’m sure.
My career
Although I have more than ten years of experience in accounts payable specifically, I have also been employed as a Health Unit Coordinator/Surgical Tech.
Something unique about me
I LOVE bats. I’ve been fascinated with bats ever since I found a bat when I was a kid (not even knowing it was a bat at the time). I would have a pet bat if I could! I even follow people in Australia on Facebook who raise bats as pets. Pretty awesome.
Kevin Rochol
National Account Manager
Why I love my job
I love CCB because of what we stand for and who we work with. I love being part of an organization where my opinions count and what I do matters.
How I got to CCB
After working in the car business and as a store manager for Walgreens, I decided to stop working and focus on finishing my bachelor’s degree in business, all with the help and encouragement of my wife. In October of 2011 I walked across the stage and received my degree. This was one of the proudest moments of my life. Four years ago I got back in the job market and found my way into the CCB family.
Me outside of work
I was born and raised in a great town called Grafton, WI about an hour from where I live now with my wife, three kids, and two dogs. I love camping, boating, and spending time with my family. I am also a huge baseball and football nut. I am a foster parent of two amazing little kids.
Kyle Jolly
Director of Operations
Why CCB is the world's best company
I am passionate about CCB because our company loves their employees and they take care of us. We are treated so well here and are in a place where we can grow both professionally and personally. Best company in the world… hands down.
About me
Outside of work I love spending time with my family; I am married to my beautiful wife and have two stunningly beautiful little girls and a step son that helps me watch out for the three beautiful ladies in our life.
What I enjoy
Born in the Chicago area, I lived there until I was about three and from then on split my time between Kenosha, WI and Northern Chicago. I am one of the biggest Bears and Cubs fans you’ll ever meet and I love sports. I have ascended to the peak of Mount Everest THREE different times in my life. Just kidding! I can’t stand beans and I like winter.
Louis Wegner
Network & Infrastructure Engineer
About Me
As a Network & Infrastructure Engineer, my job is to fix things. I enjoy solving problems for nonprofits and small businesses across the globe. I’m an Illinois native and previously hailed from Arlington Heights before relocating to Wisconsin.
Before CCB
I have a two-year Associate’s Degree of applied science, followed by five years developing innovative products in the Real Time Location System and Radio Frequency Identification industries.
Fun Fact
“It is a mistake to think you can solve any major problems just with potatoes.” – Douglas Adams
Max Kolodny
Business Development Representative
Here at CCB
I’m a summer intern at CCB and will begin my senior year at JI Case High School this fall.
There is an overall supportive and positive work environment here. Everyone seems to care about the work that they do, which influences me to try my best every day.
My background
I’ve lived in the middle of Racine for as long as I can remember, but make pilgrimages to Evanston, IL to visit my birthplace.
My first job was working at historic landmark Bendtsen's Bakery washing dishes, which turns out that soapy bread and hot water is not great for my skin.
Fun facts
My favorite thing to do is play pickup basketball with my friends at local courts or the YMCA. When I was 11, I went on a two-week trip to Okinawa, Japan with my dojo to study karate with the great masters.
Michael Sullivan
National Account Manager
What I love about CCB
There is a common core of respecting and helping both our customers and each other.
My background
Born in Colorado and raised in Naperville, IL, I have a B.S. in manufacturing engineering technology from Western Illinois University and a minor in German. Ich Liebe Deutschland!
Since 2010 I’ve split my time between horticulture and customer-service based roles. I worked for greenhouses and garden centers and have taught others how to grow and garden a variety of plants at an indoor hydroponic facility.
Outside of work
I enjoy gardening in many capacities, walking my dogs Cedar and Sam along the lake, playing board games and video games. I also enjoy brewing beer, baking, and messing with my 3D printer.
Fun facts about me
I stream German radio to reinforce my language abilities and discover different music. I also enjoy exploring historical recipes when I cook.
Mike Crawford
Senior Inside Sales Representative
How I came to CCB
Because of my former field and bachelor’s degree in health and physical education, I developed a love to help people succeed in some way, shape, or form. During my job search I met Patrick Booth at my church one afternoon and he suggested that I apply at CCB. I am now in a position that causes me to drive and manage customer expectations, which I love to do.
What I love about CCB
CCB's people care about one another. If someone is down everyone else lifts them up. If someone succeeds everyone is more than willing to send out praise. The support structure that is in place keeps me going and challenges me to be better.
Mike Crawford: Readers Digest
I am an athlete through and through. I like lifting weights, playing basketball, football (go Lions!), and anything else I can get my hands on. I also have a passion to play the guitar. One of my favorite activities is to play on my church’s worship team.
Molly Cacciotti
Director of Purchasing
Why I Love CCB
I’ve had the privilege of seeing CCB grow all the way from its infancy to its current size. The company has allowed me to grow as an employee. I’ve come to see what I can do to foster the company's expansion and my own sense of personal growth. I cannot imagine being any place but here.
Me pre-CCB
I graduated from Alverno College with plans to teach at the early childhood and elementary level, but decided that I was better suited to work with adults. I am sure children everywhere are thrilled with my decision. I still treasure interacting and working with people. I find great pleasure in realizing how diverse this world is and yet how much we are the same in our basic wants and needs.
Outside of Work
I love to hunt, fish in many different lakes in Wisconsin, and volunteer at my church and at the Wisconsin Humane Society. I truly enjoy the outdoors and all of nature’s beauty. I enjoy spending time with my family and our dog, Goose. I am quite busy keeping up with my daughter who is a junior in high school and my stepson who is a junior at UW-Whitewater.
Nick Longrie
Network & Infrastructure Engineer
CCB’s culture is the best
CCB has a true mission that we strive to achieve every day, which includes building strong relationships with our clients. CCB also has a big heart, helping nonprofit clients and giving employees opportunities to give back to the community.
About my career
Before CCB I’ve worked in various helpdesk positions and in desktop support and engineering. My role at CCB mainly involves moving clients’ email systems to Office 365, as well as upgrading, configuring, and optimizing client network infrastructure.
Outside of work
I’ve lived in Wisconsin my entire life in Franklin and Madison. I enjoy playing tennis and golf and skiing in the winter. I love to travel and my favorite site so far is the Grand Canyon. I enjoy playing the bass guitar, billiards, video and board games, being out in nature, and roller coasters and water parks.
Nicolas Aponte
Service Desk Engineer
CCB is a family
I have never worked in an environment where everyone is so caring and really tries to help and support you whenever possible. Everyone here has an admirable work ethic and I am grateful to work with a very talented team.
My road to CCB
I graduated from Cardinal Stritch University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. I heard about a tech company in Racine where they love the community as much as they love technology and set my sights on CCB!
More about me
I am a Racine native and both sides of my family are from Puerto Rico – I can’t wait to visit again! I play guitar, drums and bass and love writing and recording music in a little home studio I made. I also enjoy small woodworking projects and building cool computers.
Interesting facts
I taught Tae Kwon Do and am a third-degree black belt – I even wrote the nun-chucks curriculum. I helped start a boxing and martial arts club at my school teaching self-defense. I also used to host a worship session at Cardinal Stritch for students to have a place to come, relax and refocus.
Nicole Shortslef
Website Management Specialist
Why I love my job
I am CCB’s Media Communications Specialist, which pretty much means I get to do a variety of all the things I love – photography, video, design, writing, and social media. It’s amazing to hear about the rich history of CCB and how it has developed into the company I work for today. It’s even more exciting to be involved in the new feats we are moving in.
My Experience
I’m originally from Cudahy, WI (almost Milwaukee). I went to school for journalism and English and then worked at a small photography studio right out of school, fulfilling a variety of tasks, including photography, marketing, and retouching.
Fun Facts
I still hold the indoor mile record at Drake University. I’m one of those die-hard Packer fans other teams hate (go Pack!). I go to as many Brewer games as possible even during the heat of a bad losing streak. I’ve been to 21 of 30 MLB stadiums. I love Wisconsin’s Autumn season.
Nik Lipor
Sales Engineer
Why CCB is special
As a Sales Engineer, I partner with CCB account managers, having deep technical conversations, helping gather information, and creating estimates for projects or IT management. I love the people that work here, the atmosphere, and the drive to be the best for our customers.
My background
• I studied at the University of Parkside in Kenosha.
• I have been working in sales in one form or another since the age of fourteen.
• I worked for Gateway Computers managing one of their locations and focusing on IT.
When I have free time…
I enjoy reading, working on my website, gardening, video games, cooking, politics, and TV. I have been married for 14 years. I have traveled to a number of locations in Asia (Japan, Singapore, China, and more) and my wife was originally born in China.
Olivia Manlove
Marketing Support and Event Coordinator
Best part about CCB
This is an incredible community of people who have welcomed me since the beginning.
My background
I’ve lived in the Kenosha County area my entire life and though I’d love to live somewhere like Spain, my tendency to stay close to home keeps me here. I grew up in Silver Lake, which is a very tiny town with a tiny school and lots of tiny treasures. It was a great place to be a kid and grow up.
I attended UW Parkside for my bachelor’s in art with a concentration in animation. After that I worked briefly in E-learning at SC Johnson, and for the past couple of years worked retail as a floor supervisor.
What I like to do
When I’m not working, I’m typically drawing or painting, watching a lame video on the internet, or accidentally tripping over things. I also enjoy random dancing, air guitar (especially if Van Halen is involved), getting lost, swimming, riding my bike, thrifting, and going to my family’s cabin which has been in our family for almost 60 years – one of my favorite places to be!
Fun facts about me
I will ALWAYS get lost going somewhere for the first time. I love funky patterns so most of my wardrobe is pretty outgoing. I also enjoy funky socks and at this point I probably own over 60 pairs (I’m not even slightly ashamed). I’m learning Korean which is challenging but really exciting and fun.
Patti Lojeski
Senior Inside Sales Representative
Why I love CCB
I’m passionate about CCB because of the values the company was founded on and continues to live by. In over 20 years I’ve spent with CCB, we’ve helped many nonprofits and other customers save money on technology so they’re able to do more of what they value.
My history with technology
I am originally from Grand Rapids, MI and have a BBA from Western Michigan University. I worked for Kenosha Unified in school labs, helping students and teachers use computers when they were first implemented.
Me out of work
Outside of work, I spend time with family, mainly going to family sporting events. I enjoy biking, walks, gardening, and getting outdoors as much as possible, and when the weather isn’t nice I like to do puzzles. I’ve lived in six states including Wisconsin and liked them all; however, the Midwest ranks first for seasons and people. Lots of great things to see and do here.
Patty Regan
Business Development Specialist
Here at CCB
I am passionate about finding new business opportunities. I enjoy talking with people knowing that CCB can truly help them find the best IT solutions to meet their needs. I love developing trusting and cohesive business relationships.
The company culture here at CCB is great! Everyone is an expert in their specific role AND they are also very caring - whether it comes to our clients, fellow coworkers or the community. CCB has a big heart!
My background and experience
Since I was a kid I lived in Chicago's north suburbs and visited Wisconsin almost every weekend. Now I'm excited to finally be living in Wisconsin year-round.
I have over 20 years of inside sales, marketing and recruiting experience both as an employee and entrepreneur. I've been working in IT managed services for the past 13+ years and love it - IT is always changing and always challenging. I graduated with a marketing and communications degree from Bradley University in Peoria, IL.
What I enjoy most
I love spending time with my husband and three boys. I think I have seen every superhero movie ever made and enjoy them more than "mature" genres. ;) During the winter I enjoy spending Saturdays watching Big Ten college football. In the summer I'm kayaking, boating, water skiing, fishing and barbecuing with family and friends! Every day I enjoy taking my golden retriever Dexter on walks outside or playing hide and seek inside.
Fun facts about me
I played the guitar, violin and the piano when I was young. I also enjoyed being in theatre throughout high school and performed with a Chicagoland Theatrical song and dance troupe on the Chicago-based Bozo show.
Paula Rorek
National Account Manager
Why CCB is unique
I’ve been at CCB for over 20 years now, and it is a great place to work; you feel like a family with coworkers and customers from the very start. I love my job because of my customers; over time they become your friends, and I know them so well that I can usually recognize who is calling me before they even say. CCB makes that possible and I love it.
Where I'm from
Not only am I from Racine, WI, but I have lived my entire life in the same neighborhood (I’m now only 3 blocks from the house I grew up in). In fact, I pretty much have a family member of some sort on every block. We love being close to each other!
I enjoy…
Outside of work I love spending time with my granddaughters Reese and Lacey. I am a huge Brett Favre and Packer fan. Really, I tolerate Aaron Rodgers, but he’s growing on me.
Sheri Manka
Accounting Assistant/ Receptionist
My favorite thing about CCB
The people – hands down. ?
My history
I grew up in Cudahy, WI where I met my husband in junior year of high school – we’ve been together since! My experience before coming to CCB includes being in customer service at Dentsply Ortho Lab, a K4 teaching assistant at Racine Unified schools, and a stay-at-home mom when my girls were young.
Outside of work
I enjoy yoga, kayaking, biking, gardening, swimming, and late night bonfires in the back yard eating s’mores with my family (burnt marshmallows are the best). I love spending time with my family ❤️ – my husband, our 3 daughters (Allison, Ashley and Anna), and two granddaughters (Nora Raine and Lilly Brooke).
My special place
I love waking early and watching the sunrise on the lakefront. I love life and all it has to offer.
Stephani Bradshaw
Director of Sales Management
This role is a dream come true
I’ve been leading sales teams most of my life and immediately connected with the people and culture of CCB. It almost doesn’t seem possible that EVERYONE here is passionate about what they do and truly care about our clients and each other.
Wired for sales
I’m a UW-Parkside graduate and have always been sales-minded. Early in my career I worked in the HVAC industry followed by the agriculture and construction finance industry. I have been in sales management the past ten years and am super excited about the next chapter in my career with CCB.
Life in Southeast Wisconsin
I’ve been here all my life and currently live in Wind Lake with my husband John, son Rylan, stepdaughter Piper and our two rescue dogs Caine and Jack. When the weather is nice, we enjoy spending time in our camper on the Wisconsin River. In the winter we watch a lot of boy’s hockey (brrr!) and girl’s gymnastics. Our family loves traveling and we’ve taken the kids on multiple cruises visiting the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada, and have a cruise planned for next spring!
Facts of life
I’m a true Wisconsinite and of course a huge Green Bay Packer fan. I dislike winter so my husband (who is from Canada) and I have big goals to retire in Sarasota, FL. I worked for my family’s business until 2003, when my parents and siblings moved it – and their families – to Oklahoma, and I made the very difficult decision to stay in Wisconsin. When the opportunity at CCB came along, this was another job transition that felt right in my soul, and I’m happy right where I am!
Stephanie Putnam
Sales Support Renewal Manager
My background
My role and the culture at CCB are a great fit. I’m a helper by nature so sales support is right up my alley. Born and raised in Racine WI, I studied horticulture and marketing in college. Although I’ve never worked in the industry, I’ve designed quite a few beautiful spaces for friends and family.
I love all things nature.
Beautiful flowers and healthy gardens are a passion of mine and I enjoy taking pictures of nature’s wonders including birds and flowers. One of my biggest fears is tipping in our canoe with my camera. I tease that I was raised by wolves but turned out okay.
600+ monarch butterflies
A couple of years ago I started rearing monarch caterpillars in my kitchen which has now turned into a much bigger operation outside. To date, we’ve released 600+ monarch butterflies back into nature!
Tim Prust
Director of Relationship Management
The people make CCB great
Everyone here is ready and willing to help, no matter the task, to get the job done. The culture is one of family, teamwork and passion. It’s no wonder CCB has been awarded Best Places to Work three years in a row!
My role at CCB is to extend that culture to industry manufacturers and distributors to build and grow strategic partnerships that improve our customers’ experience.
My professional background
I earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. I have worked for 15+ years in project management, sales, and marketing and I also have experience in photography and design.
Some of my favorite things
I was born, raised and currently live right here in Racine, WI with my wife and two kids. In the summer I love being outdoors – but in the winter I hibernate. I enjoy watching my son’s soccer and baseball games and having cookouts with family and friends. I also like photography and mostly take pictures of my kids.
While on my honeymoon in Jamaica
I was a part of the 2003 Green Bay Packer Hard Body Calendar with Ahman Green and Donald Driver.
Tom Haven
National Account Manager
Why I love CCB
I really enjoy helping customers find solutions to their IT needs, and it makes me proud every time I get to see the results of those actions. Also, no two days are ever the same here—which helps keep it exciting!
When not working
I enjoy reading, rooting for Wisconsin sports teams, attending concerts, baking, trivia in just about any format, and showing friends and family all that Milwaukee has to offer. Board games, video games, and visiting new places are also hobbies of mine.
Fun facts
• I’m an animal lover that would adopt and care for every single creature available if I had unlimited resources. For now, my wife and I are parents to the world’s best dog (Cy) and cat (Sam).
• I’m a founding member of the CCB “Jorts Day” and “Bad Movie Night” clubs. If you’re looking for a horrible movie to watch, I have some recommendations!
• I consider myself CCB’s resident hip-hop expert and will discuss the genre with you for hours if given the opportunity.
• I was the king of a castle in Ireland for 3 minutes in 2016, reigning as “King Thomas the Intransigent”.