Doug Schacht, department chair of Entrepreneurship Studies & Venture Center at Fox Valley Technical College will serve as the center’s new leader, replacing director Amy Pietsch who retired from the college in late 2024.
For the past 12 years, Schacht has guided students in entrepreneurship and small business management. Before that, he gained extensive experience in the real estate and construction industries.
While continuing his teaching duties, Schact will lead the Venture Center with an eye toward expanding its reach, by guiding the E-Seed entrepreneurship training program and the Innovation Accelerator for Veterans.
“We want to positively impact business start-up and creation in the communities we serve within the Fox Valley Technical College district,” Schacht said.
A key goal for Schacht is to build a stronger community for alumni. He plans to expand resources, including workshops and networking opportunities, so small business owners can continue to connect, learn and support each other long after completing a Venture Center or FVTC program.
