Executive leaders from the employee-owned ESOP holding company and sponsor will share expert insights at the conference.
Waukesha, Wis. (March 25, 2026) — OwnersEdge, a 100% employee-owned ESOP holding company that invests in and builds sustainable businesses throughout the Midwest, announced that it will participate as a sponsor and its executive leaders will speak at the 2026 NCEO Annual Employee Ownership Conference, taking place April 6–9 at the Baird Center in Milwaukee.
The conference, hosted by the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), brings together more than 2,200 attendees from across the United States and around the world to explore best practices in employee ownership, governance, culture, and growth.
As part of its sponsorship, OwnersEdge will contribute to the conference’s educational programming through presentations from three members of its leadership team: Chris Adee, CEO; Angi Krueger, Chief Marketing Officer; and John Hooyman, Chief Financial Officer.
“Events like the NCEO conference are critical for advancing the conversation around employee ownership,” said Adee. “OwnersEdge was built on the foundational belief that employee ownership creates stronger companies, stronger cultures, and stronger communities. We’re excited to share what we’ve learned while continuing to learn from others who are committed to the same mission.”
During the conference, OwnersEdge executives will lead the following sessions:
- What Do Standout Trustees Do Differently in Governance?: Chris Adee will share perspectives on governance, leadership accountability, and ensuring that employee owners’ long-term interests remain at the center of strategic decision-making.
- Brand Is Culture, Culture Is Brand: Why Strategic Marketing Adds ESOP Value: Angi Krueger will discuss how organizations can align brand identity, internal culture, and employee ownership to create stronger engagement and long-term performance.
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Due Diligence Demystified: CFO Insights: John Hooyman will speak on ESOP transaction due diligence, offering insights into evaluating acquisition opportunities, structuring deals within an employee-owned framework, and maintaining financial discipline while supporting long-term ownership value.
Together, the sessions reflect OwnersEdge’s commitment to advancing the employee ownership model through thoughtful leadership, operational discipline, and strong ownership culture.
The NCEO Annual Conference is widely regarded as the premier gathering of the employee ownership community. Attendees include CEOs, CFOs, board members, HR leaders, and employee-owners representing more than 1,300 companies across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, technology, and professional services.
The 2026 conference marks a particularly meaningful moment for OwnersEdge, headquartered in Waukesha, just outside the host city.
“Having the conference in Milwaukee this year creates a great opportunity for companies across the Midwest to connect, share ideas, and continue strengthening the employee ownership ecosystem,” Hooyman said. “We’re proud to be part of a community that is focused on building companies that create lasting value for employees, customers, and the communities they serve.”
About OwnersEdge
Based in Waukesha, Wis., OwnersEdge Inc. is a 100% employee-owned ESOP holding company that invests in and builds sustainable, technology-driven businesses throughout the Midwest. The operating companies within the OwnersEdge portfolio leverage industry expertise to drive growth and create value for customers, communities, and employee owners. The portfolio includes Asche & Spencer, BAYCOM, CC&N, EmbedTek, Implecho, and QComp Technologies, which serve markets ranging from public safety and construction to manufacturing and music production. For more information, visit ownersedge.com.
About the NCEO
The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) is your trusted guide on the path to business elevation. With a legacy tracing back over 40 years, the NCEO serves as a beacon of knowledge, advocacy, and support for organizations seeking to reach new prosperity through employee ownership.