About the WVCC
The Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce unites small business owners, corporate executives, and community leaders to empower and support veterans and military-connected families. Bridging the gap between various community segments and the business world, WVCC welcomes all types of businesses and organizations, including veteran-owned, military-friendly, entrepreneurs, and corporate executives across every industry. Our partnerships extend to businesses of all sizes.
The WVCC is dedicated to creating an environment where members, whether veterans, the corporations employing them, organizations serving their families, or those seeking military-connected partnerships, can access the tools and knowledge needed for growth and success. By fostering connections among small businesses and larger organizations, the WVCC provides opportunities for members to expand their networks and potential customer base.
Through a diverse network of members and community partners, we prioritize accelerating business growth. Acting as a matchmaker, we facilitate connections through support, strategic networking, collaboration, and educational workshops, ultimately uniting businesses to grow our community.
Chamber Staff Members
Christian Thornton
President & CEO
Christian Thornton
President & CEO 
Christian Thornton is a 12 year Navy Veteran, while serving Christian received numerous
commendations and citations and completed five combat tours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Christian holds baccalaureate degrees in Marine Transportation from Kings Point US Merchant Marine Academy, and Clinical Laboratory Science from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. Whilst attending both institutions Christian was part of several teams and societies.
After separating from the military Christian devoted his time to working with several non-profit organizations where he promoted programs, in the form of corporate sponsorships and access to various educational programs and resources, to support Veterans during their transition from military to civilian life.
Zach Zabel
Vice President
Zach Zabel
Vice President
Zach Zabel is a highly experienced professional specializing in program development, nonprofit organizations, and change management. As the Vice President of Programs at the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce, he empowers veteran business owners and optimizes talent attraction. Zach's innovative programs support growth and sustainability for veteran businesses while offering tailored workforce development solutions for employers.
With prior experience as a Workforce Program Director and Community Engagement Manager, he has a strong track record in planning and executing initiatives that benefit veterans. As the Executive Director of Tech For Vets, Zach connects and engages veterans through technology and gaming, providing community-building opportunities and fully funded education programs.
With his background as a former US Navy electronics technician, he understands the unique challenges veterans face during the transition to civilian life. Zach Zabel's dedication to supporting veterans and his expertise in program development make him a valuable asset in empowering and assisting veterans in their entrepreneurial and employment endeavors.
Thomas J Parr, M.S.Ed.
Southwest Regional Director
Dr. Susan M. Schrank, Ed. D.
Southeast Regional Director
View Bio
Southwest Regional Director
Tom served the nation and his hometown community of Madison WI for the first 32+ years of his adult life. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves right after high school, served on Active Duty as a Field Artillery Officer, and finished his service in the WI Army National Guard, leaving as a Captain.
He proudly wore the uniform of a City of Madison WI Police Investigator and did strive to meet the safety needs of the community wherever he could. He was instrumental in solving many high profile cases during his 24 years of service and retired from MPD in 2022.
After retiring from the police department, he worked on promoting accessible higher educational opportunities for South Central WI community members at the Upper Iowa University Madison and Janesville Centers. Tom was the Center Director for both locations until their closure in June of 2023.
Now, Tom is working with the WI Veterans Chamber of Commerce to advance business opportunities for veterans and vet friendly businesses. He is humbled to be able to help his fellow veterans establish themselves in their local business communities and relish opportunities to discuss advancing those possibilities with others.
View Bio
Southeast Regional Director
For over 33 years I have served as a dedicated military spouse and mother. Now that my husband has retired from the US Army and we have moved to our hometown, I am thrilled to support this community and partner with organizations that allow me to share my gifts while growing personally and professionally.
I have a deep passion to contribute to the continual development of an organization’s people, processes, and financials. I enjoy inspiring others to think more broadly by introducing diverse perspectives, sharing ideas, and promoting creativity through positive dialogue and inclusive collaboration. The ability to utilize technology, manage objectives, problem solve, and remain organized are skills that come naturally to me. I am passionate about community and serving others. Undoubtedly my colleagues will confirm I am ethical, detail oriented, trustworthy, determined, supportive and dedicated to the excellence and growth of the teams I am a part of.
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Northeast Regional Director
Shane Kanneberg is a regenerative farmer and hardworking professional with a passion for
building relationships that move people and organizations forward.
In his role as Northeast Regional Director for the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce,
Shane facilitates opportunities for veteran-friendly organizations to create authentic
relationships with the veteran business community. Shane’s previous experience as a
Communications Director and an Indirect-fire Infantryman engrained his belief that trusting
relationships lead to great teamwork resulting in mission success.
Shane understands the needs of veteran business owners as he is one himself. He and his
wife own and operate Vine and Virtue Farm which focuses on relationships in the community by
providing produce to local shelters, and relationships with the environment by using a
regenerative approach to farming. Shane’s experience starting and running a business allows
him to empathize with other entrepreneurs and guide them to essential resources in the
community. He looks forward to connecting with anyone looking to enhance the veteran
business community.
Lynda Studey - Director of Operation
Proud Members of:
Meet Our Leadership Team
COMING SOON!