E63: How the Joliet Chamber Helps Local Businesses Thrive

In this episode, we are joined by Jen Howard, president of the Joliet Chamber of Commerce, and Mike Paone, executive vice president, to explore how the chamber supports businesses and strengthens the wider community. They share their professional journeys, discuss the chamber's evolving role beyond networking, and highlight its work in advocacy, education, business visibility, and leadership development. The conversation also examines current workforce challenges, the importance of connecting employers with educational institutions, and how investments in students and emerging leaders are helping build Joliet's future workforce.