For many In Business Madison readers, senior writer Joe Vanden Plas is synonymous with this magazine.
That’s why it’s hard to imagine this place without him, when he takes his well-earned retirement this month.
Over the course of his 22 years here, Vanden Plas has covered some of the biggest business stories in town, from the growth of technology and biotechnology to the departure of Oscar Mayer. He ran the operation as editorial director and shared his perspectives as a blogger (remember “Van Lines”?).
He’s helped identify and profiled key leaders for IB’s awards programs, from the Forty Under 40 set to businesses of the year. And he’s written hundreds of articles — thousands is probably more accurate — about local companies, executives and entrepreneurs.
“Behind every business, especially small family businesses, is a story worth knowing,” Vanden Plas said, when I asked him for his thoughts on his impressive career. “Getting to know these stories has been the highlight for me.”
He said he developed a strong appreciation “for the people who take risks to start and maintain a business, generate wealth and meet a payroll. Those who do it ethically and well deserve our gratitude because without them, consumers have nothing to consume.
“Units of government have no tax base to draw from and provide services to us. Philanthropic organizations have no donor base. And of course, the rest of us have no jobs to fill.”
As is typical, Vanden Plas’ fingerprints are all over our latest issue, and reflect a broad range of topics. He wrote this month’s cover story, digging into the growing prevalence of data centers in our area and the environmental concerns accompanying them.
He interviewed Michael Johnson, the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County, about a new endowment. He connected with our Leadership Insight and Open Mic columnists to lend their perspectives. And he dug into the numbers on prison education programs, a key piece of helping incarcerated folks reenter the workforce.
“For more than two decades, Joe has been the steady heartbeat of our editorial operation. His insight, mentorship and tireless dedication have left an indelible mark on our publication and the Madison business landscape,” said Dave Neill, publisher of In Business Madison. “Since my 2024 arrival to In Business, I quickly learned that Joe was the person who could connect the dots.
“His knowledge of Madison’s business community and our publication’s legacy was invaluable — sharing his wisdom often, in a patient and caring manner.”
All of us are grateful for his many editorial contributions, his generosity and kindness as a colleague, and his willingness to step in and assist with any task. On a personal note, he was a gracious, knowledgeable and helpful guide as I stepped into my role last November.
Vanden Plas will be working up to his very last day in mid-October. He’s contributed to the planning for this month’s In Business Madison Health Care Summit and will file several stories for next month’s issue before shutting down his laptop.
Though we will miss you, Joe, we wish you the best of luck in retirement! We’re cheering for you, and for your beloved Brewers and Packers, which you now have more time for. Enjoy every minute and thank you.
