Prior to becoming an independent consultant, Jenny Riggenbach was the Director of Workforce for Incourage – a Wisconsin organization that is nationally recognized as an innovative place-based philanthropy working to realizing a simple, yet bold vision of a community that works well for all.
Early in her career, Jenny spent 11 years as a child and youth work practitioner. She translated her experience and pride in skilled low-wage jobs to workforce research, advocacy and program leadership. Over the past 15 years, Jenny has worked to bridge gaps between businesses, workers, public systems, and philanthropy to create opportunities for Wisconsin communities. She was instrumental in developing Incourage’s Workforce Strategy and partnership with the National Fund for Workforce Solutions. These efforts are advancing good job strategies that generate a competitive advantage for employers and opportunities for workers. Jenny earned a bachelor’s degree in Community Engagement and Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She serves on the Workforce Matters Steering Committee and a local economic development board. Jenny engages with creative networks committed to furthering strong and vibrant Wisconsin communities that are welcoming to all. Jenny and her husband Michael Zell balance the joy of raising three boys with their love for their community and passion for their work.
Jenny Riggenbach is a member of the Job Quality Fellowship Class of 2017-18. To learn more about the Job Quality Fellows, visit as.pn/jobquality.
The Job Quality Fellowship is part of the Economic Opportunity Fellows Network, a network of leadership and fellowship programs run by the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program. Within this Network, EOP connects national and local leaders from across sectors — nonprofit, government, business, philanthropy, academia, and more — to advance policies and practices with the potential to help low- and moderate-income Americans thrive in today’s economy. Learn more at as.pn/eofn.
Bio updated September 2017.
