GACCoM 2011/2012 - (GACCoM) Chicago

GACCoM 2011/2012
german American chamber of commerce of the Midwest, inc.
AtlAntA | chicAgo | houston | new york | philAdelphiA | sAn frAncisco

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LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN
As I am entering my tenth year of service as GACCoM’s Chairman of the Board
in 2012, I have seen our Chamber undergo substantial growth and development.
Since I became Chairman in 2003, the number and quality of our member events,
the range of our services and our staff have expanded.
We could not be happier about this trend, not only because of what it says about
our Chamber and its leadership, but, more importantly, because of what it says
about German-American business in the Midwest: The Chamber’s continuous
growth would have been impossible without the ever-increasing number of German
firms doing business in our region. The past few years and 2011 in particular have
shown that the success of German companies in the U.S. is built upon a solid
basis of innovative, high-quality products and services, which allowed these firms
to weather and rebound quickly and strongly from the crisis.
Our Chamber now offers more professional and specialized consulting services to support your business
endeavors. We have made strategic additions to our team with the goal of adding in-house industry expertise in
areas most relevant for German-American business in our region. In addition to improving our existing services
(career services, market entry USA, market research, business partner search, virtual office presence, etc.),
we have expanded our portfolio to include food industry programs as well as site selection services for German
companies entering the U.S. market. We also substantially expanded our renewable energy and energy efficiency
teams in 2011 – which for one resulted in the traveling “DasHaus” exhibit – an exciting project of unprecedented
geographic scale for our Chamber. In addition, our Christkindlmarket team expanded its reach by organizing our
first “Germany’s Best & Oktoberfest”. You will learn all about our new initiatives in this report.
We hope that the following pages will let you experience the breadth of our Chamber’s mission and give you new
ideas of how you may profit from our activities and service offerings in 2012. No matter what type of service or
support you may be looking for, we wager that the following pages will show you that the Chamber is there to
help you professionally and efficiently.
On behalf of our entire Chamber, we wish you a healthy and successful year 2012!
W. David Braun
Chairman of the Board of Directors
German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
The following pages may not be what you expect from a typical Annual Report.
After several years of growth at the Chamber and the introduction of many new
programs and services, we felt that it was time for a “State-of-the-Chamber”, an
illustration of the full range of activities and opportunities now available to you. In
putting together these pages, we put special emphasis on aspects that don’t easily
fit on paper – the countless possibilities our unique network holds for you and your
business.
One of our main goals over the past few years has been to strengthen the network
and collaboration we have established among our three German American
Chambers of Commerce in the United States. This includes our chapters, branch
offices, affiliates, and also the Representative of German Industry and Trade in
Washington DC, as well as Germany Trade & Invest. Add our 120 offices in 80 countries around the globe and
the 80 Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Germany (IHKs) you will see just how far your membership
can take you. Because of this strong partnership, we operate from a unique platform which allows us to serve
our members’ and clients’ needs just the way they arise in today’s economy: locally, regionally, nationally, and
globally at the same time.
In 2012, our Chamber will continue to focus on expanding our membership base, service portfolio, and the scope
of our industry programs. Membership growth is a key goal for 2012 and each of us will strive to make this the
strongest year ever! Yet, growth to us is about more than just numbers. We also want to continue to enhance your
membership experience – by increasing the dialogue among members, by promoting the unique resources our
global Chamber network has to offer, and by offering more and more opportunities to connect with contacts even
beyond the German-American business community - through our enhanced cooperation with other European
Chambers and institutions in the U.S.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you - our Directors, members, clients, and
partners for supporting us throughout the year and helping us make 2011 such a great success. To our Directors
- thank you for your commitment, advice and guidance to the Chamber and to helping us promote our mission.
To our over 800 Members throughout our 14 states– we thank you for your support, you are truly the backbone
of our organization and what brings our network to life.
Let’s all keep working together to put the network to work for our members in 2012!
Simone Pohl
President & CEO
German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.
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THROuGHOuT THE WORLD:
Welcome to the global network of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs)! Our Chambers are located
in markets of particular interest to German industry and commerce – and we currently count 120 locations
in 80 countries around the globe. 1,700 employees work to support German businesses in their international
endeavors, through consulting services provided under the joint AHK service brand DEinternational, and by
connecting them to the local business communities through membership services and events. Around the world,
the AHKs have 42,000 member companies. The Association of German Chambers of Industry
and Commerce (DIHK) in Berlin coordinates the global network of German Chambers Abroad.
In December, Dr. Volker
Treier (4th from left)
visited the three main
Chamber locations
in the U.S., Atlanta,
Chicago, and New York.
As the DIHK’s Deputy
CEO and Managing
Director of International
Economic Affairs, he
has been responsible for the coordination of the global AHK network
since January 2011. In each city, Dr. Treier was able to meet with
members of the GACC boards and other German and American
members of the local business communities.
THROuGHOuT THE uNITED STATES:
The three German American Chambers of Commerce (GACCs) in the
United States, together with their three branch offices, their chapters and
affiliates, support and promote German-American business in key economic
and political centers. The GACCs’ network consists of approximately 2,500
members, as well as excellent contacts to associations, governmental
institutions, and corporations. The political liaison office of DIHK and BDI in
Washington DC, the Representative of German Industry and Trade (RGIT),
with whom we work closely, represents the interests of the German business
community to the U.S. government.
kEy PARTNERS:
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THROuGHOuT GERMANy:
In Germany, the AHKs are closely connected with the 80 Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) throughout
the country, as well as industry associations, and economic developers. There is a particularly close cooperation
with Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), the foreign trade and inward investment agency of the Federal Republic
of Germany headquartered in Berlin. The Chambers and GTAI even share offices in Chicago, New York, San
Francisco, and Washington DC, and work together on various projects.
Let us support you beyond borders!
“Are you looking for ways to meet more potential business
partners while traveling abroad? Just let us know where you
are headed, and we will be happy to connect you with our local
German Chamber colleagues worldwide - so you can make the
most of each business trip!”
~ Simone Pohl, President & CEO
DIHK CEO Dr. Martin Wansleben at the festivities
SERvING GERMAN BuSINESS
FOR 150 yEARS
The umbrella organization of the global Chamber (AHK)
network, the Association of German Chambers of Industry
and Commerce (DIHK), celebrated its 150-year anniversary
in March 2011. The DIHK was founded 1861 in Heidelberg
under the name of “Allgemeiner Deutscher Handelstag” and
has since lent its voice to German business on the national,
European, and international level.
GACCoM Vice Chairman, Dr. Friedrich-Hans Grandin, and
President & CEO, Simone Pohl, attended the festivities
in Berlin that drew over 600 politicians, entrepreneurs,
and Chamber representatives and included meetings
with several Federal Ministers and other high-ranking
government representatives.
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6
MIDWEST AND CHAPTER NETWORk
u COLORADO
The Colorado Chapter of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest, Inc. is
thriving and has set ambitious goals to further international business and cultural activities. Besides
partnering with other international Chambers and the Denver World Trade Center for a variety of
events, the Chapter presented its annual Biergarten Festival and Denver Christkindl Market. It
also welcomed a delegation of German solar energy companies as part of the Renewable Energies Export Initiative of the German Federal
Ministry of Economics and Technology. The Colorado Chapter President is Jesse Young who is supported by an active volunteer Board. Visit
www.gacc-co.org for more information.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jesse D. Young Christopher Bartlett
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Anthrope Communications LLC
Fred Beisser John Bennett
Tioga Consulting Corporation Granite Consulting Group, Inc.
Matthias Edrich Inge Frerichs
Peck, Shaffer & Williams LLP Trans World Realty, LLC
Paul Maricle Karl W. Schmidt
Anton Law Group Karl W. Schmidt & Associates Inc.
Joshua Seeberg
Guest Services Translations, LLC
u MINNESOTA
GACCoM’s Minnesota Chapter is flourishing, bolstered by
its very successful Annual Gala in May 2011, a true highlight
on the Chapter calendar each year which was honored with
the presence of special guest Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert,
President of the German Parliament (Bundestagspräsident).
In addition, the Chapter’s scholarship program, established
in 1998, continued to award scholarships of up to $1,000
to Minnesota high school students to promote German
language studies in high schools. On the “fun” side, the
German Heritage Night including a game against the
Dallas Mavericks and its former NBA MVP and Germany’s
own, Dirk Nowitzki was another highlight. The Minnesota
Chapter President is Lübbert Kruizenga who is supported by
Executive Director Patti Wendling and a dynamic Board. Visit
www.gaccom-mn.org for more information.
ANNuAL GALA WITH
PRESIDENT OF THE
GERMAN BuNDESTAG,
PROF. DR. NORBERT
LAMMERT
SOLAR ENERGy BuSINESS
CONFERENCE AND DELEGATION
TO COLORADO IN JuNE 2011
COLORADO
CHAPTER
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Lübbert Kruizenga Joachim Baecker
Novoterus LLC Novoterus LLC
MINNESO
CHAPTER
Dr. Heino A. P. Beckmann Edward J. Hayward
University of St. Thomas Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly LLP
Don Keysser Mark S. McNeil
Hannover Ltd. Lindquist & Vennum, P.L.L.P.
Sabine Rapp Boje Siebels
HP Enterprise Services Accenture LLP
Christa Tiefenbacher-Hudson Louis Wendling
Honorary Consul of the Wendling Financial Group, LLC
Federal Republic of Germany

TA
u MICHIGAN
GACCoM’s Michigan Chapter represents the largest chapter membership in the country. The annual
signature events (New Year’s Gala, SAE Reception, Spring Reception, Annual Fall Dinner, and Unity
Day Reception) were well attended by the local membership. This past year, the Michigan Chapter
and the Chicago GACCoM team worked together to host a political and business delegation from
the German state of Thuringia, as well as the 2nd eMobility Forum. Resources such as the online membership directory and job board offered
businesses additional opportunities to network, connect, and discover synergies. The Michigan Chapter’s Heinz Prechter Tribute Scholarship
program supports Michigan college and university students going to companies in Germany to work as interns, encouraging Michigan
students to learn about German business, life, and culture.
Logan Robinson serves as President and Chairman of
the Michigan Chapter and is supported by Administrative
Director Ingrid Justice, as well as a number of dedicated
volunteers. Visit www.gaccmi.org for more information.
WISCONSIN
CHAPTER
MICHIGAN
CHAPTER
10 yEAR
ANNIvERSARy
CELEBRATION
WITH WISCONSIN
GOvERNOR,
SCOTT WALkER
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Logan G. Robinson
University of Detroit Mercy
Horst M. Busse
Martin Windsor & Associates
Owen Johnston
Bekum America Corporation
William P. Kelly
Environmental Solutions & Technologies
Dr. Manfred Mueller
Robert Bosch Corporation
Martina Schlagwein
Access Europe, L.L.C./MEDC
Meredith Upward
United Airlines
Walter Wegmueller
Comerica Bank
Peter Zieringer
Daimler Financial Services Americas
u WISCONSIN
GACCoM’s Wisconsin Chapter
celebrated a true milestone in
2011 – the 10th Anniversary! We
were honored that Governor Scott
Walker accepted the invitation to address over 70 distinguished guests at the
Anniversary celebration at the Grohmann Museum in Milwaukee. A recurring
highlight is the annual get-together at the German Fest in Milwaukee during
the summer when members bring family and friends to enjoy live music, brats
and German Gemütlichkeit. Dr. John Gatto is the President of the Wisconsin
Chapter and is supported by Vicki Fox, Treasurer.
Visit www.gaccwi.com for more information.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. John D. Gatto
NRW.INVEST (North America) LLC
SPRING RECEPTION WITH
MINISTER-PRESIDENT OF
THuRINGIA, CHRISTINE
LIEBERkNECHT
Peter I. Beswerchij
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Frederick W. Hoffman
Honorary German Consul
Peter Kaub
Re-Sol, LLC
Dr. Walter Maisel
Kostal of America, Inc.
Simone Pohl
German American Chamber of
Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.
Bruce C. Thelen
Dickinson Wright PLLC
Dr. Janet Van Valkenburg
University of Michigan
Johan Wesslen
ThyssenKrupp Steel North America, Inc.
Victoria Fox
Eisen Fox & Company, LLC
“The significant ties between Germany and Wisconsin, from ancestry to sister city and state relationships, and especially with respect
to trade and investment, reflect the importance of building on these relationships to further strengthen investment and job creation.”
~ Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker
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ABOuT uS
In existence since 1963, GACCoM’s continuing mission is to further, promote and assist in the expansion
of bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States, especially the Midwest. Our
organization combines the elements of a trade commission, a membership association, and a professional
consultancy - quite a unique concept in international trade promotion. GACCoM’s territory covers 14 U.S. states:
the 13 states of the Midwest and Colorado, comprising together approximately one quarter of the nation’s
geographical area, its population, and its GDP. GACCoM’s office is located in the heart of downtown Chicago.
As the official representative of German business, we have unparalleled access to German firms in our region
and insight into their activities.
OuR THREE kEy TASkS:
OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIvE OF GERMAN BuSINESS: We are uniquely positioned as the official and direct channel for
German trade and investment. Our function is similar to that of the trade commission of other European states. In
this role, we are a conduit for trade missions from Germany to our region and offer ongoing support for German
companies entering the U.S. market. We work closely with German diplomatic missions such as the Consulate
General and the Embassy to bring official representatives of German Government and Federal Ministries to our
region. In addition, we generally inform and educate the broader business community on German business and
trade.
MEMBERSHIP: Our unique position provides us with unparalleled access to German firms operating in our region.
We have over 800 members throughout the Midwest. Our members consist of the U.S. subsidiaries of German
firms, the service providers supporting this market (lawyers, accountants, consultants, etc), as well as U.S. firms
active in transatlantic trade.
CONSuLTING: We are the “first stop” or “go-to point” for German firms interested in entering into and investing in
the U.S. market. We assist from start to finish, offering services ranging from initial market research, market entry
strategies, site selection, career services for bi-lingual candidates, and much more. Aligning with the strengths of
German firms in our territory, GACCoM has particularly strong expertise in the following key industries:
u Automotive & eMobility
u Machinery & Automation
u Medical Technology
u Renewable Energies: Bio Energy; Solar Energy; Wind Energy
u Energy Efficiency in Buildings & Industry
u Food Products

yOuR CONTACTS
OuR SERvICES
BuSINESS PARTNER SEARCH
COLLECTION SERvICES
INTERCuLTuRAL TRAINING
MARkET ENTRy SERvICES
SITE SELECTION SERvICES
TRADE SHOW SERvICES
Virginia Attaway Rounds
Director, Consulting Services
rounds@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2163
OuR PRIMARy INDuSTRy CONTACTS
MEDICAL TECHNOLOGy
Mark Tomkins
Vice President
tomkins@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2172
RENEWABLE ENERGy
James Hollis
Renewables Project Manager
hollis@gaccom.org
(312) 644 3785
FOOD PRODuCTS
Werner Gruenberg
Manager, Consulting Services
gruenberg@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2166
MEMBERSHIP CONTACTS
MEMBERSHIP
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTuNITIES
Jayne Riemer-Chishty
Director, Membership & Chamber Development
riemer-chishty@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2169
vIRTuAL OFFICE
MARkET RESEARCH
Laura Flamm
Manager, Consulting Services
flamm@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2167
CAREER SERvICES
Justin Flaxbart
Manager, Career Services
flaxbart@gaccom.org
(312) 644 3369
AuTOMOTIvE AND eMOBILITy
MACHINERy AND AuTOMATION
ENERGy EFFICIENCy IN INDuSTRy
Virginia Attaway Rounds
Director, Consulting Services
rounds@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2163
ENERGy EFFICIENCy IN BuILDINGS
Daniela Daus
Senior Manager, Transatlantic Relations
& Transatlantic Program
daus@gaccom.org
+49 (0) 4036138 954
EvENT SERvICES
Anna Cournoyer
Manager, Membership & Events
cournoyer@gaccom.org
(312) 494 2176
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10
INFORM, CONNECT, & CREATE OPPORTuNITy
Is there a recipe for business opportunity? We believe that timely information, combined with the right contacts
can go a long way and will help to put you in just the right place at the right time. Our membership and consulting
departments work together to make sure you are always in the know about the most promising industries, trends,
and partners.
u TAkE OuR BuSINESS DELEGATIONS PROGRAMS
The Chamber brings groups of German companies from promising industries to the U.S. for content-driven encounters with potential
business partners. In addition to setting up targeted matchmaking appointments, the week-long trips typically feature a conference at
which German and U.S. speakers provide updates on industry trends and developments in their respective country, before the German
guests have a chance to present their products and solutions to potential American partners. In 2011, GACCoM organized four such
delegations, all of which were supported by the export initiatives of different German Ministries:
BIO ENERGy BuSINESS DELEGATION
AND CONFERENCE TO WISCONSIN
ENERGy EFFICIENCy IN
INDuSTRy DELEGATION
AND CONFERENCE
TO MICHIGAN
u GACC AND RGIT ANNuAL ECONOMIC
FORuM
Always the first signature event of the year, the Annual Economic
Forum is a great example of how Chamber events bring you
timely information and top networking opportunities with over
200 members of the German American business community.
Participants can work the crowd at our pre-event reception, hear
keynotes of top economists, and connect with fellow members at
lunch, followed by an interactive panel discussion during which
U.S. and German economists are joined by executive-level
industry speakers.
SOLAR ENERGy BuSINESS CONFERENCE
AND DELEGATION TO COLORADO
SWEETS AND SNACkS
BuSINESS DELEGATION
AND RECEPTION
IN CHICAGO
u WORk WITH OuR TEAM TO GAIN A FOOTHOLD IN THE u.S. MARkET
A successful example of the Chamber’s market entry expertise put to work is our “Virtual Office” or “Geschäftspräsenz” Service. At the
basic level, GACCoM provides virtual office clients with a U.S. postal address and phone line, and one of our staff members is personally
responsible for each client’s account. Building up from this structure, our bi-lingual team will provide these companies with varying levels
of support in their U.S. market activities, involving initiatives ranging from U.S. customer service, to research of potential clients, all the
way to assistance in U.S. market strategy implementation. In 2011, the Chamber supported no less than 13 companies from a variety of
industries through virtual office services.
The 2011 panelists (from left): Rolf Meyer, President & CEO - HARTING Inc. of
North America; Diane Swonk, Chief Economist - Mesirow Financial; Moderator
Michael Backfisch; Caroll Neubauer, President & CEO - B. Braun Medical, & Prof.
Dr. Joachim Scheide, Head Forecasting Center & Research Economist - Kiel Institute
for the World Economy.

u BE AT THE CuTTING EDGE OF TECHNOLOGIES
Together with our partners, we continuously offer initiatives to keep you informed about industrial and technological developments that
could translate into new opportunities or competitive advantages for your business. Each event is planned carefully to ensure you will not
only walk away with the latest and most relevant information - we always build in ample networking time to give you the opportunity to
meet and connect with our speakers and presenters that are at the forefront of their respective industries.
uGACC EMOBILITy SERIES
With Germany and the United States
both being leaders in the emerging
electric vehicle industry, we are
committed to fostering transatlantic
dialogue and business-to-business exchange in this important field with the U.S.wide
GACC eMobility Series. 2011 was out most active year yet with four events
throughout the U.S. and Germany: A seminar at the Hannover Fair in April educated
German companies on the U.S. market for electric vehicles, another one in San
Francisco in June informed U.S. companies about opportunities in eastern Germany.
In the fall, GACCoM and GACC South organized two eMobility conferences in the
same week in September, allowing guests and speakers from Germany to attend
both events during a single trip. Each event was organized in close cooperation and
with the support of Germany Trade & Invest.
Recognizing electric mobility as a topic of global scope and significance, the GACCs
are also a part of the international eMobility peer group of the German Chamber
Network and Germany Trade & Invest, where they discuss trends and developments
with colleagues from China, Japan, and France.
u GERMAN AMERICAN WATER FORuM
This new program was organized jointly with Germany Trade & Invest and
the Transatlantic Climate Bridge Initiative and informed manufacturers
about best practices in energy efficiency and industrial water systems.
At two stops in Chicago and Cincinatti, German and American speakers
shared water and energy-saving strategies with a very engaged audience.
Germany is the number one exporter of sustainable water technologies
worldwide and fostering transatlantic dialogue in this field has been
among the Chamber’s focus areas in 2011. Besides the premier of the
German American Water Forum, one of our Transatlantic Program -
Young Technology Leaders trips introduced American students and young
professionals to the use of water management technologies in Germany.
(More about this program on page 15)
“Throughout this past year, we have really started
leveraging our network for our eMobility activities.
For the “eMobility in the USA” seminar, our
partners at the Hannover Fair and U.S.
Commercial Service were a great help. Our
second German American eMobility Forum was
organized in cooperation with Germany Trade &
Invest, and was coordinated with a similar event
by the GACC South in Atlanta. Our first event in
2012 will expand this cooperation even further, as
the German Chamber Network will jointly present
opportunities for German suppliers in the USA,
Japan, China and France at the Hannover Fair.”
~Virginia Attaway Rounds
Director, Consulting Services
u RSNA GERMAN NIGHT
NETWORkING RECEPTION
GACCoM and Fraunhofer were proud to
present the next generation of German High
Tech Champions in medical imaging technology
at this unique trade show networking reception.
Germany’s top talent, RSNA exhibitors,
visitors, and GACCoM members gathered to
celebrate the award winners and to learn about
their winning business cases. The Chamber
organizes networking receptions at different
trade shows throughout the year, always with
the goal of connecting the local business
community to visiting industry experts from
Germany and around the United States.
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12
LEvERAGE GERMAN BuSINESS, TECHNOLOGy, AND CuLTuRE
IN THE u.S.
Germany is known for innovation and engineering prowess that is not only demonstrated in high-end products
like world-renowned cars, but also in technology solutions addressing timely challenges in energy, environment,
and sustainability. Through their activities, German companies in the United States are creating over 500,000
well-compensated jobs. Part of the Chamber’s mission is to leverage the impact of German business in the
U.S. and the Midwest in particular, thereby helping companies achieve their goals and further expand their
engagement in the U.S. Finally, in addition to business, there is also room for the celebration of German culture
– a number of our Chamber’s events and programs even combine the two.
u HONORING “ExCELLENCE IN GERMAN-AMERICAN BuSINESS”
ANNuAL MERLIN AWARDS GALA
u LENDING A vOICE TO GERMAN BuSINESSES IN THE u.S.
GERMAN AMERICAN BuSINESS OuTLOOk SuRvEy
When it comes to leveraging the impact of German business in the U.S., we need
to mention our annual survey among German subsidiaries. In cooperation with the
Representative of German Industry and Trade (RGIT) and Roland Berger Strategy
Consultants, we ask firms to review the ending year, fill us in on their expectations
and strategic plans for the year ahead. Respondents also share their perspective
on a topic of special interest each year, such as the skilled workforce challenge in
2011. The presentation of the survey results in New York City is an annual highlight
and again drew broad coverage in the press last December. Turn to page 16 for a
summary of the survey results.
Our Annual MERLIN Awards Gala is a fixture on calendars throughout the German-
American business community and the perfect example of how our Chamber
celebrates the achievements of German firms in the U.S. market. Combining the
award ceremony with a glamorous evening filled with exquisite food, drinks, and
music, the Gala is a perfect opportunity to entertain clients and make new contacts
and friends in a great atmosphere.
The 2011 MERLIN Award Winners:
Best New Company– K+S North America Salt Holdings LLC
Best Innovator – Bosch Software Innovations
Best Service Provider 2011 – Hegele Logistic LLC
Excellence in Training & Education 2011 –
Richard Wolf Medical Instruments Corporation
u COMBINING BuSINESS AND PLEASuRE IN THE BEST POSSIBLE WAy
ANNuAL ExECuTIvE WINE DINNER
Wine may not be the best-known beverage coming from Germany, but the Annual Executive Wine Dinner
is definitely one of our most popular events. 200 members of Chicago’s international business community
enjoyed an exquisite seven-course meal paired with fine wines in early November 2011. Whether you
want to entertain your own table of clients, friends, and family or be seated with a hand-picked round of
guests sharing similar business interests, the Wine Dinner is one of the prime opportunities throughout
the year to connect with the business community while enjoying some of the finest delicacies Germany
and Europe have to offer.

u PROMOTING DIALOGuE AND INNOvATION IN RENEWABLES AND ENERGy EFFICIENCy
DAS HAuS TOuR
The Das Haus tour is a traveling pavilion and exhibition
showcasing the latest German technologies for energy
efficiency and solar energy use in building, which is being
coordinated by GACCoM. It promotes international dialogue
about advanced technologies for construction and solar energy
use. Each stop features a series of expert presentations,
symposiums, networking opportunities, and guided tours of
the exhibition pavilion. Following Atlanta and Houston in 2011,
Das Haus will visit 10 additional cities throughout the U.S. and
Canada in 2012, including Chicago and Denver in the fall. It is
presented by the German Federal Ministry of Economics and
Technology, as part of its export initiatives in renewable energy
and energy efficiency, and in cooperation with the German
Federal Ministry of Transport, Building, and Urban Affairs.
“Das Haus embodies an exciting idea: that a traveling exhibition of advanced German technologies can spur an ongoing international
dialogue on the use of energy efficiency and renewable energy. It’s working, judging from the incredibly strong interest from industry and
the media we experienced at our first four stops on the 12-city tour. At the same time, this project is really taking the logistical cooperation
between our Chambers throughout North America to a new level – and I have been proud to witness the smooth and successful
execution thus far. To me, Das Haus exemplifies “our network put to work”, not only here in America, but also among our German
partners that have been instrumental in bringing Das Haus to life. We can’t wait for it to reach the Midwest in the fall of 2012!”
~ Mark Tomkins,Vice President
u SWEETENING HOLIDAy
SEASON IN CHICAGO
CHRISTkINDLMARkET CHICAGO
After 16 years, our Christkindlmarket
Chicago has become a true institution.
From Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas Eve 2011, the market
once again turned downtown Chicago’s Daley Plaza into a German
Christmas Village, much to the delight of visitors and Chicagoans alike.
The Christkindlmarket is a beloved Christmas tradition for many families
and travelers, and creates yet another reason to visit the city during the
winter season.
uBRINGING THE BEST OF GERMAN BuSINESS
AND CuLTuRE TO A LARGE AuDIENCE
GERMANy’S BEST & OkTOBERFEST
Germany’s Best & Oktoberfest, held at Chicago’s popular Navy Pier,
was yet another 2011 premier. Over a full 18 days, the event attracted
over 50,000 visitors with a unique combination of technology and cultural
exhibits portraying modern-day Germany AND a traditional Munich-styled Oktoberfest. The
large festival tent featured authentic entertainment, beverages, food, and dancing. Many
companies took advantage of the opportunity to reserve tables with designated wait staff to
entertain clients and business partners. Visitors also had the chance to meet the Chamber’s
staff and learn about German business in the Midwest at GACCoM’s exhibitor booth that was
permanently staffed throughout the festival.
13

BuILD NETWORkS – ACROSS CONTINENTS, INDuSTRIES,
AND GENERATIONS
It is hard to put a number on the value of a network. Instead, let us simply tell you what ours can do for you. We
believe that the most useful business networks are multi-dimensional. Therefore, we strive not only to connect
you to peers that share similar interests and challenges, but across different industries and generations. The
Chamber’s unique positioning at the crossroads of business, transatlantic institutions and associations, and
government also allows us to act as a facilitator between these parties - to transport your message and make
you aware of new opportunities as they arise.
u CONNECTING THE PuBLIC AND PRIvATE SECTOR
In 2011, GACCoM was proud to welcome several high-level political delegations to the
Midwest. These trips, organized in close cooperation with the German Consulate General in
Chicago, are the ideal opportunity to connect business leaders and political decision makers
and further deepen economic and cultural ties between countries, regions, and cities.
CHICAGO HAMBuRG BuSINESS FORuM –
SISTER CITIES TALk BuSINESS
In June 2011, Hamburg’s business and political
leadership was the first international business delegation
to be welcomed personally by Chicago’s new Mayor
and former White House Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel.
The conference on “Green Technology: Cooperation
Perspectives for the Midwest and Northern Germany”
brought over 120 business and policy experts from both
countries to Chicago to discuss the current state of the
industry in both regions and identify opportunities for
future collaboration.
u CONNECTING PEOPLE ACROSS GENERATIONS, INDuSTRIES
AND LANGuAGE BARRIERS:
MONTHLy INTERNATIONAL BuSINESS NETWORkING/FORMER
yEC STAMMTISCH
In 2011, we re-invented GACCoM’s networking classic, the YEC Stammtisch, to better
reflect the multi-national character of Chicago’s business community and our Chamber’s
network. Now held together with the French-American Chamber of Commerce, and, as of
early 2012, the British-American Business Council, our monthly get-together has become
one of Chicago’s prime opportunities to mingle with an international crowd and practice
up to three languages in one evening. Yet, some of the old rules still apply: Everyone
is welcome at “Stammtisch” and you will find a diverse crowd from C-level executives,
newly or not so newly arrived expats, international students and young professionals, and
Chicagoans with professional or personal ties to either of the three hosting countries.
14
Minister-President of Hesse, Volker
Bouffier, visits the Sister State of
Wisconsin
“I extend a special welcome to the German
companies that have traveled to Chicago for the
Chicago Hamburg Business Forum. While in
Chicago, I hope you will experience all our city has
to offer, from a dynamic business community, to
vibrant neighborhoods, world renowned cultural
institutions, breathtaking architecture and much
more. I invite you to make Chicago your regional home in North America.
With our premier location as a global transportation hub, our dynamic
workforce, and our business-friendly attitude, our city offers an unrivaled
setting for you to grow and expand your business. (...) I look forward to
the new economic opportunities this dialogue will bring to enhance the
quality of life for citizens in the great cities of Chicago and Hamburg.”
~ Rahm Emanuel, Mayor of the City of Chicago

OuR NETWORk AS A RESOuRCE FOR PROBLEM-SOLvING
Take one of 2011 most discussed topics as an example - the challenge of securing and maintaining a skilled workforce, both here in the
U.S. and in Germany. By offering different initiatives and services, we wanted to put our network to work and provide a multi-dimensional
approach to the topic that could help you solve your company’s specific challenges.
u PROMOTE ExCHANGE AMONG PEERS
PANEL DISCuSSION: FIND, TRAIN, RETAIN
In November, we held a very well-received panel discussion on the mitigation of skilled
workforce shortages in manufacturing. Four panelists gave insights into different types
of training initiatives established at their respective facilities. This event was the perfect
opportunity for manufacturing executives to discuss challenges and solutions and share
their experiences in training their own employees.
u PROvIDE PRACTICAL SOLuTIONS FOR yOuR BuSINESS
CAREER SERvICES
As part of our consulting services portfolio, we find highly-qualified, bi-lingual job seekers to match your hiring needs. For our candidate
search, we can draw upon a constantly updated database of highly-qualified job seekers and an extensive network of personal contacts
in the German-American business community and beyond.
u SECuRE TOMORROW’S TALENT AND BuILD
BRIDGES BETWEEN GENERATIONS:
TRANSATLANTIC PROGRAM yOuNG
TECHNOLOGy LEADERS (TAP-yTL)
With this on-going program, GACCoM organizes content-driven,
topical delegation visits for young Americans to Germany.
Select groups of students and young professionals from various
technology sectors have the chance to experience first-hand how
a given technology is applied in Germany, improve their language
and intercultural skills, and start building international networks
early in their careers. The program’s alumni organization with
its annual get-togethers, on-going exchange on social media
platforms, and frequent participation in other Chamber events is the
perfect gateway for young talent to the German-American business
community.
“Whether it’s ensuring new members feel welcome,
introducing members with complementary
business interests, or discussing who we are
with potential members, it all comes down to
connectivity between people and their business
and establishing relationships. GACCoM’s
Executive Roundtables for CEOs, Finance, and
HR executives of U.S. subsidiaries of German
companies are one of the ways we try to
further this dialogue among our member firms.
These “circles” provide the opportunity for peers
from German manufacturing companies to
exchange ideas and discuss common challenges
in an exclusive, confidential environment. These
executives are also our “go to” sources for business
issues related to strengthening EU-U.S.
trade via comment to the Representative of
German Industry and Trade in Washington DC.
We strive to not only connect you with our vast
national and global network but to make you an
integral part of that network.”
~Jayne Riemer-Chishty
Director, Membership & Chamber Development
15

16
Effects on business sales volumes and prices in Effects 2009-2011 on business s
GERMAN FIRMS IN THE u.S. CONFIDENT DESPITE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC
uNCERTAINTIES - COMPANIES CONTINuE TO INNOvATE, Effects on GROW, business' AND sales HIRE volumes and Effects prices on in business' 2009-11
I STATE OF THE BUSINESS
In its third consecutive year, this survey conducted by the GACCs, the Representative of German Industry and Trade, and Roland
Berger Firms Strategy experienced Consultants has strong become top-line an institution growth in German-American as CHANGE IN SALES VOLUMES IN 2009-11
business. In fall 2011, we once again approached CHANGE IN 1,900 SALES VOLUM
headquarters of German-owned subsidiaries in the U.S. to review the ending year and ask for their expectations and strategic plans going
forward. Firms sales volume experienced has continued strong top-line to increase growth and as sales volume has
49%
∑ 2011: 72%
44%
45%
price levels have recoverd
38%
44%
38%
27%
continued to increase and price levels have recovered 23%
17%
23%
14%
u FIRMS ExPERIENCED STRONG TOP-LINE GROWTH
9%
12%
6%
10%
14%
6%
Effects on business sales volumes and prices in 2009-2011
2%
6% 0% 2%
AS SALES vOLuME HAS CONTINuED TO INCREASE
Much worse
Worse
No change
Better
Much better
Effects AND on PRICE business' LEvELS sales HAvE volumes RECOvERED and prices in 2009-11
Much worse
Worse
CHANGE IN SALES VOLUMES IN 2009-11
38%
I
6%
2%
STATE OF THE BUSINESS
In response to this top-line growth, companies
Much worse
In increased response their to workforce this top-line and 67% growth, expect companies further increased their
workforce and 67% expect further headcount growth for 2012
2009 > On 2010average,
2011 firms have
CHANGE headcount IN SALES PRICES growth IN 2009-11 for 2012
experienced a NEUTRAL
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009, 2010, 2011
IMPACT ON SALES
52%
u IN RESPONSE 47% TO THIS TOP-LINE 47%
PRICES
42%
GROWTH, COMPANIES
Changes in headcount by company size [employees] Insights DID YOU KNOW?
INCREASED 24% THEIR WORkFORCE AND 28%
21%
67% ExPECT > However, an ongoing trend
19%
Changes FuRTHER HEADCOuNT in headcount GROWTH by company 9% FOR size 2012 [employees] in sales price change
2% 3% 1%
0% 2% 3%
indicates CONTINUING
better
Much worse
Worse
No change
Better
Much better
RECOVERY
volumes
IN PRICES
0-50 51-500 501+
INSIGHTS
Insights 45%
IncreaseREBOUND
61% from sales 64% volumes drop in 2009 has further
INTENSIFIED throughout 2011, with more 75% firms experiencing
73% 71%
82%
better volumes
On average, firms have experienced a NEUTRAL IMPACT
ON SALES PRICES
43%
However, an ongoing trend in sales price change indicates
No CONTINUING RECOVERY IN PRICES
38%
32%
change
10%
13%
23%
21%
Reduction
12%
4% 8%
13%
4% 8%
2011
(planned)
2011
(actual)
2012
(planned)
Source: German American Business Outlook 2010, 2011
Insights
44%
23%
14%
Worse
2009 2010 2011
9%
6%
No change
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009, 2010, 2011
12%
10%
2011
(planned)
49%
45%
Better
2011
(actual)
27%
17%
0%
Much better
2012
(planned)
∑ 2011: 72%
I
2011
(planned)
Firms sales volume experienced has continued strong top-line to increase growth and
Firms sales volume experienc as has s
price levels have recoverd price levels have r
continued to increase and price continued levels have to incr re
CHANGE INSIGHTS IN SALES PRICES IN 2009-11
Much worse
> REBOUND 47% from sales
42%
volumes drop in 2009 has
further INTENSIFIED
24% 21%
throughout 2011, with more
1%
firms experiencing better
volumes Worse
2011
(actual)
STATE OF THE BUSINESS
Firms experienced strong top-line Firms growth experienced as
52%
47%
47%
28%
19%
24% 21%
2% 3%
9%
2% 3% 0% 1% 2% 3%
No change
> Workforce has increased by
5
an AVERAGE OF 7% IN
2011 – reaching almost
10% for Automotive and
Manufacturing firms
STATE OF THE BUSIN
CHANGE IN SALES PRICE
Better Much worse Much better Worse
2009 2010 2011
REBOUND from sales volumes drop in 2009 has REBOUND further from
INTENSIFIED throughout 2011, with more firms experiencing INTENSIFIED thro
better volumes
On average, firms have experienced a NEUTRAL On IMPACT average, firms
ON SALES PRICES
ON SALES PRICE
However, an The ongoing Directory trend of in Subsidiaries sales price change of German However, indicates Firms an ongo
CONTINUING RECOVERY IN PRICES
in the U.S. is a unique resource CONTINUING compiled REC
and published jointly by the GACCs. Detailed
73%
27%
64%
36%
information on over 3,500 U.S. operations of
German firms is available online as well as in an
> Last year, 69% OF FIRMS
Annual Print Edition. This Who’s Who of German
WERE PLANNING to
business in the U.S. offers our members and
increase headcount in 2011,
clients a perfect platform to find new business
but ONLY 55% ACTUALLY
partners or leverage their company’s profile within
FOLLOWED THROUGH
the German-American business community and
beyond. > Firms It is also INTEND an invaluable TO resource for the
Chambers RECOUP themselves, THIS HIRING allowing us to solicit
2012
(planned)
feedback DELAY from in hundreds 2012 – on of firms in surveys
such as average, the Annual 67% German of total American firms Business
Outlook, plan making to increase the directory their an important pillar
of our mission workforce to represent German businesses
in the United States.
I
Source: German American Business Outlook 20
Insights
7

Looking I STATE OF forward, THE BUSINESS surveyed firms are very
optimistic about their own businesses and
confident Looking forward, about the surveyed U.S. economy firms are very optimistic about their
own businesses and confident about the U.S. economy
u LOOkING FORWARD, SuRvEyED FIRMS ARE vERy OPTIMISTIC
Outlook for the coming year
29%
ABOuT THEIR OWN BuSINESSES AND CONFIDENT ABOuT 2% 2%
THE u.S. ECONOMy
Unclear
Outlook for the coming year
I STATE OF THE BUSINESS
U.S. GROWTH OUTLOOK
Following this optimism, firms expect to keep
their focus on growth-oriented 91% 89% initiatives ∑ 2011: 93% and
62%
double-dip recession
Following increasing this workforce optimism, firms expect to keep their focus on
29%
> 18% Overall, 48% of
8%
14%
2% 2%
2% 4%
1% 5% 5%
5% 7%
4% 7%
growth-oriented initiatives and increasing workforce
respondents are expecting
Unclear
ContractionStrategic
initiatives
Flat to
moderate growth
OWN BUSINESS GROWTH OUTLOOK
Strong growth
the Unclear ECONOMY TO Contraction
GROW moderately (43%)
2009 or strongly 2010 (5%) 2011
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009, 2010, 2011
> Firms are even MORE
Flat to
moderate growth
Strong growth
69%
59%
61%
18%
14%
5% 7%
4% 7%
+24
+7
Unclear
Contraction
Flat to
moderate growth
2009 60% 2010 2011
59% 62% +6
53%
+12 55%
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009, 2010, 2011
49%
22% 25%
9%
-1
Strong growth
54%
57%
53%
OPTIMISTIC ABOUT
THEIR OWN OUTLOOK
INSIGHTS
compared to U.S.
Insights
Insights
economy
> German-American firms are
> 86% expect 96% DO moderate NOT GROWTH-ORIENTED foresee to a double-dip recession and
strong growth FOR THEIR
OWN BUSINESS plan to engage both in
-1 TO GROW moderately short-term (43%) and long-term or strongly (5%)
9 strategic initiatives
40%
36%
34%
34%
35% 33% 34% OUTLOOK u> FOLLOWING compared Focus remains to U.S. on economy THIS OPTIMISM,
26%
III WORKFORCE DILEMMA
FIRMS introducing ExPECT new product TO kEEP THEIR
Insights 22%
86% expect moderate to strong growth FOR THEIR
lines, but INCREASING
In response to OWN a potential BUSINESS FOCuS ON shortage GROWTH-ORIENTED of skilled
III WORKFORCE DILEMMA WORKFORCE has seen
96% DO NOT foresee a double-dip recession
INITIATIvES AND INCREASING
workforce, German-American the biggest jump firms - firms plan mostly rely
Overall, 48% of respondents are expecting the In ECONOMY response to a potential WORkFORCE
on in-house training to add more shortage employees in of skilled
Increasing TO GROW Entering moderately new Introducing (43%) or newstrongly
Investment (5%) Process Investment
workforce, German-American 2012 – an average firms growth mostly rely
workforce
Firms
geographies
are even MORE
product
OPTIMISTIC
lines in PPE
ABOUT THEIR
production/
OWN
in R&D
of 10% vs. 7% in 2011
OUTLOOK compared to U.S. economy on optimization in-house training
Measures for potential skill > shortages Interestingly, on all the firms U.S. labor market
implemented their
53% 86% expect 35% moderate to strong 55% growth FOR 33% THEIR 49% 34%
OWN BUSINESS
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
Measures for potential skill shortages
AS PLANNED
on
LAST
the U.S.
YEAR
labor market
Strategic initiatives
Planned
for 2011
Taken in 2010 Taken in 2011 Planned for 2012
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009, 2010, 2011
Insights
U.S. GROWTH OUTLOOK
10
MEASURES [%] TRAINING BENEFITS
German-American firms are GROWTH-ORIENTED and Others plan
to engage both in short-term and long-term strategic initiatives
Do not have
Focus remains on introducing new product lines, but
in-house programs
INCREASING WORKFORCE has seen the biggest jump
- firms plan to add more employees in 2012 – an Collaboration average with
growth of 10% vs. 7% in 2011
community colleges
Planning in-house
Interestingly, all firms implemented their STRATEGIC
training or cooperation
INITIATIVES AS PLANNED LAST YEAR
with community college
In-house
programs
1)
8% Do not have
33% in-house programs
Collaboration with
u IN RESPONSE TO A
33%
8%
community colleges
POTENTIAL SHORTAGE
4% Planning in-house
OF SkILLED WORkFORCE,
training or cooperation
8%
GERMAN-AMERICAN FIRMS
4% with community college
MOSTLy RELy ON IN-HOuSE
In-house
TRAINING
47%
programs
47%
In response to a potential shortage of skilled wo
In American response firms to a mostly potential rely shortage on in-house of skilled training wo
American firms mostly rely on in-house training
Measures for potential skill shortages on the U.S. labor marke
MEASURES [%] TRAINING BENEFITS
Others1) 8%
9% Lower risk of injuries
THE FuLL RESuLTS Source: German OF American THE SuRvEy Business Outlook ARE 2011AvAILABLE
AT WWW.GACCOM.ORG/GABO
1) Example: bring technicians from Germany
Source: German American Business Outlook 2011
Outlook for the coming year
8%
OWN INSIGHTS BUSINESS GROWTH OUTLOOK
> 96% DO NOT foresee a
Outlook for the coming year
2%
Contraction
4%
62%
18% 9%
18%
25%
25%
47%
91%
CHANGE IN SALES VOLUMES
IN
89%
38%
6%
1% 2%
Lower employee
Lower turnover risk rates of injuries
Lower employee
turnover Increase rates productivity
Increase productivity
Higher product/
service quality
Higher product/
service quality
5%
∑44% 2011: 93%
5%
Flat to Much worseStrong
growthWorse
moderate growth
59%
69%
Effects on business' sa
CHANGE IN SALES PRICES
>
61%
Effects on business sale
22%
2% 3%
9%
1%
23%
14%
25% 24% 21%
Much worse Worse
REBOUND from sal
INTENSIFIED throug
Overall, 48% of respondents are expecting the better ECONOMY volumes
On average, firms h
Firms are even MORE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT THEIR ON SALES OWN PRICES
47%
2009 2010 2011
Source: German American Business Outlook 2009,
However, an ongoing
CONTINUING RECO
Measures for potential skill shortages on the U.S. labor marke
1) Example: bring technicians from Germany
Insights
47%
17
>
>
>

18
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2011/2012
CHAIRMAN
W. David Braun
Partner
Quarles & Brady LLP
vICE CHAIRMAN
PRESIDENT & CEO vICE PRESIDENT
Simone Pohl
German American Chamber of
Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.
Patricia H. Besser
Managing Director
US Trust, Bank of America Private
Wealth Management
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Ambassador J.D. Bindenagel
VP for Community,
Government & International Affairs
DePaul University
Dr. John D. Gatto
President & CEO
NRW Invest (North America) LLC
Fred Hoffman
Honorary German Consul
Wolfgang Hoffmann
Vice President,
Finance and Administration
Robert Bosch LLC
Lübbert Kruizenga
Shareholder/CFO
Novoterus LLC
HONORARy DIRECTORS
Luke Baer
President
Bosch Management Services North America
Dieter A. Schmitz
Partner
Baker & McKenzie
vICE CHAIRMAN
Dr. Friedrich-Hans Grandin
President & CEO
Komet of America Holding, Inc.
THANk yOu TO OuR 2011 PLATINuM AND PATRON SPONSORS
PLATINuM
SPONSORS:
PATRON SPONSORS:
Mark Tomkins
German American Chamber of
Commerce of the Midwest, Inc.
Karl Lehman
Director Regional Sales, Central USA
Lufthansa German Airlines
Dr. Walter Maisel
President & CEO
KOSTAL North America
Karl-Georg Mielke
CEO
K+S North America Salt Holdings LLC
Jürgen Reers
Managing Partner
Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, LLC
Jack S. Richter
Director
J.S. Richter Ltd., CPAs
Logan Robinson
University of Detroit,
Mercy School of Law
Uwe Schoberth
Executive Vice President, Head of
Regional Management/Distribution
North America P&C
XL Insurance America, Inc.
Markus Schyboll
CEO
Schunk of North America
Ronald L. Skwarek
Partner
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Geoffrey Somary
President & CEO
Ipsen, Inc.
Norbert Weichele
CEO
Zentis Food Solutions North America LLC
Jesse D. Young
Financial Advisor
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Harry E. Huff Peter H. Merlin
... AND ALL OuR OTHER 2011 SPONSORS

STAFF
2011/2012 INTERNS
Thank you to all of the interns who have worked with GACCoM in
some capacity over the past year. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Katrina Denny
Florina Gamp
Helene Hartmann
Frederike Holdhof
Corinna Jess
Anne Koenig
Ulrike Leifheit
Norman Leonhardt
Dolly Livingston
Afra Lucas
William Mrazek
Nicholas Negulescu
Morgan Pendleton
Kingsland
Colin Preszler
Ranja Radwan
Sabine Rehbein
Ian Rinehart
Julia Schubert
Isabell Steinert
Theresa Toewe
Franziska Weyer
Alicia Weippert
Matthias Woort
MANAGEMENT
Simone Pohl President & CEO
Mark Tomkins Vice President
Kerstin Fooken Executive Assistant
ACCOuNTING & FINANCE
Matt Wallace Director, Accounting & Administration
Sylvia Knoerzer Accounting Manager
Brad Hamburger Office Manager & Bookkeeper
MEMBERSHIP SERvICES
Jayne Riemer-Chishty Director, Membership and Chamber
Development
Anna Cournoyer Manager, Events and Membership
Eva Krause Manager, Public Relations
Nadine Schieban Event Coordinator
Renate Weber Manager, Web Services
CONSuLTING SERvICES
Virginia Rounds Director, Consulting Services
Daniela Daus Senior Manager, Transatlantic
Relations & Transatlantic Program
Laura Flamm Manager, Consulting Services
Justin Flaxbart Manager, Consulting & Career Services
Christian Goetz Consultant
Werner Gruenberg Manager, Consulting Services
James Hollis Renewables Project Manager
Corinna Jess Renewables Consultant
Afra Lucas Consultant
Meredith Marsh Das Haus Project Coordinator
GERMAN AMERICAN SERvICES INC.
Ray Lotter Vice President & Managing Director
Maren Biester Vice President & Manager,
Christkindlmarket
Sonja Martinez Assistant Manager, Christkindlmarket
19

EvENTS 2012 – MARk yOuR CALENDARS!
JANuARy FEBRuARy MARCH
MI Chapter: New Year’s Gala
MI – Jan. 17
GACC and RGIT Annual
Economic Forum
Rosemont, IL – Jan. 26
APRIL MAy JuNE
MI Chapter: SAE Reception
MI – Apr. 24
MN Chapter Annual Gala
Minneapolis, MN - Apr. 27
JuLy AuGuST SEPTEMBER
Annual GACCoM Family Boat Cruise
Chicago, IL– July TBD
Members Forum
Chicago, IL - July TBD
CO Chapter: 16th Annual Biergartenfest
Morrison, CO – July 13-14
WI Chapter: Annual German Fest Reception
July TBD
OCTOBER NOvEMBER DECEMBER
Das Haus – Innovation in
Renewables and Energy Efficiency
Denver, CO – Oct. TBD
Wind Energy Business Delegation
and Conference
Chicago, IL - Oct. 29-31
GACCoM Members Reception
Chicago, IL – Feb. 9
Annual MERLIN Awards Gala
Chicago, IL – May 4
Business Delegation
“Sweets and Snacks”
Chicago, IL – May TBD
AHK World Conference
Berlin, Germany - May 21-23
International Business Networking
Chicago, IL - Aug. 15
Annual Executive Wine Dinner
Chicago, IL – Nov. 2
Christkindlmarket Chicago
Chicago, IL – Nov. 21-Dec. 24
RSNA German Night Reception
Chicago, IL – Nov. TBD
Visit www.gaccom.org/events regularly for updated information and additional events.
MN Chapter: Annual German
Scholarship Award Dinner
St. Paul, MN – Mar. 3
Solar Energy Business Delegation
and Conference
Denver, CO – Mar. 15-16
Stammtisch on the Road – Mar. 29
Energy Efficiency as the
Competitive Edge for Manufacturers
Milwaukee, WI - June 5
Stammtisch on the Road – June 28
IMTS/IANA Reception @ McCormick Place
Chicago, IL – Sep. 11
Stammtisch on the Road – Sep.TBD
Das Haus – Innovation in
Renewables and Energy Efficiency
Chicago, IL – Sep.TBD
Stammtisch on the Road – Dec. TBD
German American Business Outlook
Press Conference & Reception
New York, NY – Dec. TBD
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