Jonathan oversees a dynamic organization which supports businesses and communities in the North Branch, Addison, and Kennedy industrial corridors. He has successfully led programs designed to improve businesses and expand opportunities.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, he previously lived in Philadelphia, but is thrilled to call Chicago his home. He holds a Bachelor of History and a Master of City Planning degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He currently resides in the East Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago along with his wife, Kate, and their dog, Orson.
Steve joined North Branch Works as Director of Business and Economic Development in June 2020. He brings over thirteen years of experience leading successful advocacy campaigns across multiple policy areas including workforce development, environment, and transportation.
His focus areas include business outreach, member recruitment, communications, and economic development. Steve is excited to build partnerships and advance an environment along the North Branch where businesses can thrive, expand, and create family-sustaining jobs. Steve is an avid cyclist and enjoys neighborhood greenways and trails.
He has a Master of Arts from the University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration and lives in Logan Square with his wife, Crispina.
Misty joined North Branch Works as a computer skills trainee in January 2011. Upon successful completion of four Microsoft Office certification classes, she was hired on under a transitional jobs program, which later developed into a permanent full time position. She has proved a vital part of the Workforce Development side of NBW.
She currently manages the Small Accessible Repairs for Seniors Program (SARFS) and assists with the Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Program (BACP). Some of Misty’s administration responsibilities include marketing, intake, assessment and site visits to enroll seniors into the SARFS Program. She also plays a supportive role in field coordination, payroll and the vouchering processes of the program. Misty is an alumni of the LEEDers for Training group.
Reggie has over seventeen years of construction experience, including concrete, carpentry, tiling, flooring, rehab, plumbing, and drywall repair and installation.
A graduate of several of NBW’s and Delta Institute’s training programs, including BPI BA and Installer certification training, he has developed expertise in steel framing and accessibility ramp building. Over the course of his eleven years with NBW, he has proved to be an exceptional building mechanic as well as an expert shop and tool maintenance professional.
North Branch Works is thrilled to welcome Mitchell Trachtenberg to our staff for a summer internship.
Mitchell is a graduate student at the University of Illinois Chicago pursuing a master’s in urban planning and policy. This summer, he will conduct business outreach, connecting local businesses with our organization and helping them access available loans and grant programs. Mitchell will also work on communications, member recruitment, and event planning.
Prior to beginning his master’s program, Mitchell had a lengthy career in sales and client relations. He earned his bachelor’s degree in international studies at Indiana University, and studied abroad in Chile.
Outside of work, Mitchell is interested in transportation planning, map-making, Chicago history, and has a keen interest in the development and history of our city’s bridges. He is also an avid White Sox fan.
