Age: 35
Marketing & Brand Manager, Appleton International Airport
Hollie Foley began working for ATW as a marketing specialist in May 2020, a time when travel had essentially come to a halt. But things have turned around since then and the airport has seen rapid growth.
Foley, who started her current role in January 2025, helped announce and launch three new flight destinations and welcome a new airline within a matter of months (and right before maternity leave).
“It was exciting to see it all come to life,” she says, “and a great example of what strong teamwork can accomplish.”
Airport Director Abe Weber has been a key mentor for Foley, who says Weber challenges her to think outside the box.
“Some of the best ideas and opportunities come when you’re willing to try something new, even if it feels a little uncomfortable at first,” says Foley, who is currently pursuing an MBA at UW-Parkside.
Biggest fail: Earlier in my career, I learned the importance of addressing challenging issues head-on instead of avoiding them because they were difficult. Often the toughest things are the most important to tackle. I’ve learned that staying focused on the right priorities and communicating openly helps build trust and keeps everyone moving forward together.
Biggest break: The opportunity to support the incredible growth we have experienced at Appleton Airport through our marketing efforts. At the same time, I’ve had the chance to help share the story and momentum around our concourse expansion, which has been really exciting to be a part of. Being involved in that journey and helping showcase the airport’s growth to our community has been a very rewarding experience.
Can’t live without: Change. I like trying new things and keeping life interesting. Whether that’s traveling somewhere new with my husband or family or taking on a new challenge at work, I enjoy having variety and opportunities to experience something different. Trying and seeing new things gives me new perspective, and I enjoy taking those learnings and applying them in different areas of my life.
Click here to learn more about our 40 Under 40 event.
