Business Address: 110 E. Lake St., Lake Mills, WI 53551
Phone: 920-674-3411
Email: alitscher@saga-ee.com
Website: www.saga-ee.com
Birthplace: Waupun
Board Membership:
- Wisconsin DNR Small Business Environmental Council/vice chair
- ACEC Small Business Executive Council
- ACEC DNR Committee
- Lake Mills Rotary Club/president, 2012-2013/treasurer, 2008-2010
- Lake Mills Rotary Foundation/at-large member
- Lake Mills Wallace Park Playground Committee/chair
- 2002-2004: Public Works Board member, City of Lake Mills
- 2004-2006: UCC First Congregational Church/moderator
- 2006-2007: Watertown Tennis Association/board member
Organizations:
- Aggregate Producers of Wisconsin
- American Council of Engineering Companies
- Midwest Food Processors Association
- Printing Industries of Wisconsin
- Rotary International
- Water Environment Federation
- Wisconsin Women Environmental Professionals
Education: B.S. in chemistry, Beloit College
How long have you been with Saga Environmental, and what is your day-to-day role in the organization, Amy?
We founded Saga Environmental and Engineering, Inc. in 2010, but our firm was established as a division of a larger firm that was in existence since 1989. My day-to-day role at Saga Environmental and Engineering, Inc. is president and principal environmental scientist.
Who has influenced your career the most, and in what way?
My younger brother, John Litscher of Lincoln Financial/The Capital Group, a previous In Business 40 Under 40 recipient. The influence was not in the technical aspect of my profession, but showing that a Litscher can take a risk and successfully start a business and prosper. The high energy and excitement he puts into his profession amazes me. He is successful not only because he is a natural salesperson, due to his jovial and enthusiastic personality, but also because he has a quest for professional education that never seems to cease.
John’s done quite well. Following his example, what’s been a career high point for you?
To date, taking a leadership position and learning the day-to-day business aspect of running a small firm. My proudest career achievement is working with my other business partners, starting and navigating the first years of business ownership. Not only has it been successful, but we have grown our clientele base over 50%. I have learned to wear a variety of hats.
That’s an art that will serve you in business, certainly.
I am glad I could work on that skill prior to business ownership through motherhood!
What’s a favorite part of your day at work?
Of my professional tasks, my favorite is the same as it was 10 years ago – the one-on-one interaction with clients.
Beyond profit success for your business, what is a long-range goal that you’d like to achieve in the industry?
To help governments – local and international – develop and modify regulations so that the environment is continually protected and improved but businesses are not overburdened with red tape and meaningless paperwork. In addition, our firm is a certified federal and state small disadvantaged business. I hope to help grow it so that we “graduate” from all of those categories.
We like to get a feel for the person behind the title, so we devote some questions to personal history. In high school, what fields were you interested in entering?
Medical and/or science.
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Your very first paycheck: From where, how much, and what did you do with it?
Lake Mills Public Library, about $200, and I put it in the bank.
What do you do, beyond your workday, that brings you happiness or relaxation?
In addition to everyday tasks, I enjoy singing in multiple choirs, playing tennis, and researching family genealogy. And I love to make people laugh.
Do you have a favorite travel destination?
Walt Disney World. From the moment I arrive, I am transported into a different, always happy, world.
Do you read for pleasure, and can you recall the title of a recently read book?
No reading for pleasure. A recent title of a book: LEGO Star Wars: The Visual Dictionary for young boys.
You mentioned motherhood earlier, so would that book have involved a boy child?
The greatest blessing and source of happiness is my son.
In the reading that you do – in the genre of children’s books, if you like – is there a favorite character, someone who speaks to your mind, heart, or soul?
Princess Tiana from ThePrincess and The Frog. She is a driven, hardworking leader, but knows what is truly important.
You’ve well described that character! Now, can you do as well when the character to describe is you? Can you come up with three words that best describe Amy Litscher to close the profile?
Faithful, reliable, and fun.
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