After Six Years of Leadership,
VCEDC Executive Director Kathy Schmitz
Announces Retirement
Eagle River, WI., August 14, 2026 — The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation (VCEDC) announces today that Executive Director Kathy Schmitz will retire at the end of 2026, concluding more than six years of visionary leadership that transformed the organization and strengthened Vilas County’s economy in ways that will be felt for generations.
Schmitz joined the VCEDC in November 2019, and as she enters her seventh year with the organization, she leaves behind a legacy defined by bold programs, expanded reach, and a strong foundation for continued growth. The results speak for themselves: more than $344,000 in grants secured since 2020 to expand programming and capacity; county-wide broadband coverage expanded from just 5% to 86% through collaborative leadership; the launch of the VCEDC Women in Business Program, a structured year-round initiative serving women entrepreneurs; and $2.2 million in financing and grants accessed by local businesses.
Additional highlights of Schmitz’s tenure include:
- Established a one of a kind entrepreneurship education program in partnership with Northland Pines High School to inspire the next generation of Vilas County small business owners;
- Led the VCEDC’s selection for two WEDC Thrive Rural Wisconsin grants, advancing transformative community redevelopment projects in the Towns of Phelps and Land O’ Lakes;
- Led the formation and execution of a Midwest “Northwoods Charm. Big City Connection.” broadband ad campaign to brand Vilas County as a broadband destination;
- Developed and expanded educational opportunities for small businesses by offering virtual Lunch & Learns featuring local, regional, and national business leaders sharing their expertise;
- Evolved and branded the VCEDC from a small business consulting service into a comprehensive economic development organization with statewide recognition.
For Schmitz, her professional work has always had deep personal meaning. “Vilas County has a special place in my heart,” she said. “I grew up spending family vacations here and coming to the VCEDC felt like coming home. Getting to spend six years building something meaningful alongside our board, partners and colleagues who care so deeply about this community and its small business owners, has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I leave with gratitude and with complete confidence that the best is still ahead for this organization and this county.”
Board Chair Kate Ferrel echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the reach of Schmitz’s impact beyond the organization itself. “Kathy’s vision and tenacity have touched the life of small business owners and entrepreneurs across the county, and that impact will outlast any program or title,” Ferrel said. “She leaves behind an organization with deep roots, strong programs, and a tremendous reputation that extends well beyond Vilas County. The Board is deeply grateful for everything she has given to this work, and we are fully committed to honoring that legacy by finding the right leader to carry the momentum forward.”
Schmitz expressed strong confidence in the future of the organization she, together with the VCEDC board and colleagues, helped to shape. “We’ve built something really strong here,” she said. “The next leader will make it even stronger.”
The Board of Directors is committed to a thoughtful search process for the next VCEDC Executive Director to ensure continuity and growth for the Vilas County community.
Schmitz expressed her strong willingness to support the transition and remains deeply connected to the Northwoods community she has served.
The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has a mission to build a strong, resilient Northwoods economy with an entrepreneurial mindset. For more information or to donate, visit VilasCountyEDC.org.
