February 23, 2024

By Lane Kimble

New WTBA President Brian Endres wants to clear something up: He and Brian Enders are friends, coworkers, and vice presidents within The Walbec Group. However, they are two completely separate people.

It’s probably not the last time Endres will need to specify.

In an opening speech that mixed humor with heartfelt honesty, Endres drew plenty of laughs from the crowd at the Annual Convention’s closing night banquet.

Endres graduated from UW-Platteville (An “Ivy League School”, Endres said, tongue-in-cheek) and went to work for Walbec right after.  He’s been there for 27 years.

“Years ago I would go to WTBA events and be much more into the networking than the actual content, so it is fun to be on the other side of the equation now,” Endres said.

Endres told the crowd he has two big goals for his one-year term: Develop sustainable, long-term funding options for the Transportation budgets and help the Association navigate an election year where local, state, and federal leaders and transportation allies could look quite different.

Endres also thanked now-Past President JR Ramthun for his guidance and support in preparing him for the leadership role, noting Ramthun became a friend and trusted advisor.

“The stresses, challenges, and time commitments are absolutely worthwhile in the end and I think we’ve seen that in JR’s presentation tonight and what he’s done over the year,” Endres said.

“From when I came in Wednesday to where I’m leaving (the convention) tomorrow, I am much more energized about this role and what we can do as a team,” Endres said in his closing remarks.

MEET THE NEW WTBA EXEC. COMMITTEE

President: Brian Endres

1st Vice President: Dan Zignego

2nd Vice President: Mike Hahn

Treasurer: Josh Wade

Secretary: Neil Bakke

Past President: JR Ramthun