Prior to joining Blackhawk Bank, Gale was employed by the city of Janesville in the planning and economic sector, since 2002. He served as the Economic and Development Director for seven years and was responsible for the implementation of a comprehensive Economic Development Program. He was an integral part of the city’s industrial development program, business retention and expansion, and downtown revitalization.
Prior to his work in economic development, Gale worked as the city’s building manager, a position that included city planning, code enforcement, and development negotiation and supervision. Gale now utilizes his knowledge and experience at First Mid in the areas of economic development, commercial real estate, multi-family and residential real estate, manufacturing, project entitlements, building projects, and working with municipalities.
Gale holds a Bachelor of Urban Planning degree, with an emphasis on Community Planning, from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design Architecture Art and Planning. Additionally, Gale is among the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and is an Economic Development Finance Professional from the National Development Council (EDFP).
A dedicated volunteer in his community, Gale is a Board Member and the Facilities Committee Chair for the Salvation Army Rock County. He also serves as a Facilities Committee Member for both KANDU and Health Net of Rock County. Gale and his wife, Mandy enjoy raising their two boys – Will and AJ. When he’s not coaching or shuttling the boys to activities, Gale enjoys golfing, traveling, and attending sporting events. An avid baseball enthusiast, Gale has attended games in 28 of the 30 major league baseball markets and has seen games in 38 stadiums!
