Join the Lakes Area Human Resource Association in partnership with Smiles for Jake as we host four Brainerd Lakes Area Executives in an open discussion, allowing for a better understanding of what goes in to a high level position as well as the how and why we can be of better assistance in Human Resources.
Kristi Westbrock is the Chief Executive Officer/General Manager at Consolidated Telephone Company (CTC) and has been with the Cooperative since 2007. She has over 22 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and has a strong background in Human Resources, Sales and Marketing and Business Operations, Strategic Planning and Product Development. Kristi has a passion for organizational management, effective communication and creating unique work environments/experiences while driving business revenues.
Kristi is mother to 12-year old Emily and spouse to Mike for 15 years. In her free time she loves to adventure to new locations, volunteer for the Smiles for Jake Movement and have cooking parties with friends.
Michael Bowman has served as the CEO of Magnum Machining, Inc. since 2019. Michael graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Management from the University of Minnesota Duluth in the Spring of 2013.
Nicknamed “Tommy Boy” by his late father Jerry Bowman (founder and prior CEO) Michael started his professional career with Magnum working with and managing various departments from Shipping and Receiving up to Corporate President. This allowed him to learn the ins and outs of the company’s operations prior to taking over as CEO.
With business operations in both the USA and Mexico, Michael is exposed to a worldwide scope of what employees value and look for from their employers. From the Baby Boomers to Gen Z, Michael sees identifying these generational values as a tool to help implement a strategic balance that meets those needs and is key in retaining, recruiting and attracting a solid workforce while promoting a strong and positive culture allowing continued growth and success of the area’s manufacturing industry.
During Michael’s free time, he enjoys golfing, hunting, as well as entertaining and cooking for all of his friends and family.
Chuck Albrecht has been active in the financial industry for more than 40 years and is the current President/CEO at Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union serving the financial well-being of those in central Minnesota. He is a graduate of Central Lakes College, St. Cloud State University and Credit Union Executive Society CEO Institute. Chuck has a long history of community involvement including currently on the Board of the Region 5 Children’s Museum, past chairman of MCBI Christian Radio; past board member Central Region Essentia Health, Emeritus board member of Brainerd Lakes Area Development Corporation, and multiple leadership roles in the state trade association for 100 credit unions. Chuck and his wife Deb live in Merrifield, MN, and enjoy time with their two adult children and their families. They can often be found on the water or in the woods enjoying time together and many hobbies.
Bob Spizzo learned the value of hard work while growing up in Chicago. He grew up with a very strong work ethic, and never relied on anyone giving him anything. That work ethic eventually led Spizzo to the top position at Breezy Point Resort. He owns Whitebirch Inc., the parent company of the resort and other subsidiaries.
He and his wife, Kay, came to Breezy Point in 1977 for what was supposed to be a three-year commitment with Whitebirch. That company bought Breezy Point Resort in 1981. The Spizzos stayed, and their three children – Thomas, Marisa and David – graduated from Pequot Lakes High School. David is assistant general manager at Breezy Point Resort.
They’ve had good years and bad years, just like any resort. They’ve been successful in attracting loyal and dedicated staff. Besides being proud of his staff, Spizzo is proud of expanding the timeshare ownership base to 12,000 and maintaining employment for 400 people locally.
