Join us in welcoming back CARW member, Kathryn Berger from Kathryn Berger Consulting. Read more about Kathryn below –
Name: Kathryn Berger
Title: Owner, Consultant
Email: kathryn.berger.kb@gmail.com
Phone:414.865.9431
Kathryn Berger is a team-oriented leader with deep expertise in economic and community development, real estate finance, and program management. She brings a strategic and collaborative approach to advancing community-centered solutions, with a strong track record of building cross-sector partnerships. A skilled facilitator, Kathryn excels at navigating diverse stakeholder interests and fostering inclusive engagement. She currently serves on several boards including WWBIC, Forward Community Investments, and the Milwaukee Real Estate Initiative, and has been recognized for her leadership with honors such as the Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and Women of Influence awards.
Q) What do you enjoy most about Commercial Real Estate?
A) What I enjoy most about Commercial Real Estate is the opportunity to directly shape the future of communities and businesses. As an economic development professional, it’s incredibly rewarding to drive through the region and see projects come to life—projects that I’ve had a role in making happen. It’s that tangible sense of accomplishment and pride that comes from knowing the work we do helps build stronger, more vibrant communities.
Q) What is the best piece of advice you have received?
A) The best piece of advice I’ve received is: ‘You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room.’ This advice highlighted to me the importance of learning from others and being open to new perspectives. It reinforced that collaboration is key—no one person has all the answers, and by asking thoughtful questions and listening, you can tap into the collective knowledge of a team to find the best solutions.
Q) What is your favorite quote?
A) As an economic development professional, I’ve always been inspired by the idea that “You can do well by doing good.” This principle, often attributed to Benjamin Franklin, perfectly captures the opportunity we have in economic development and CRE to achieve financial success while making a positive and lasting impact on communities and businesses. By focusing on thoughtful growth and development, we can create opportunities that are both profitable and beneficial for everyone involved.
Q) Where did you grow up?
A) I grew up in Milwaukee and have called it home for most of my life—aside from a ten-year stretch when I lived elsewhere. Milwaukee has shaped so much of who I am, both personally and professionally. It’s a city with incredible resilience, culture, and a sense of community, and I’m proud to contribute to its growth and development through my work.
Q) What do you hope to get out of your membership with CARW?
A) As an economic developer, I’ve always been involved in commercial real estate from the perspective of fostering community and economic growth. Through my membership, I hope to serve as a resource for other members on economic and community development matters, offering insights and support wherever possible. Additionally, I’m interested in hearing diverse perspectives on public policies that impact growth, development, and investment in Wisconsin communities. I see CARW as a space for collaboration, learning, and contributing to collective success.