Brookfield Central Class of 2018

Zach Heckman is a 2018 Lancer graduate whose career focus in Business Analytics was realized through Elmbrook’s LAUNCH program during his high school experience.

Zach’s Elmbrook journey started at Dixon Elementary and Wisconsin Hills Middle School before he continued on to Brookfield Central. During his time at BC, he was actively involved in football, baseball, track and field, National Honor Society, DECA, and the LAUNCH program. Through the program, Heckman participated in the Business Analytics strand, which gave him real-world business experiences with local companies. “Elmbrook prepared me with a great foundation that set me up for continued success at the higher level of education and in a demanding field of work,” reflected Heckman. “I had many great teachers and coaches throughout my time at Elmbrook who played a pivotal role in getting me to where I am today.” He thanked a number of Elmbrook staff for their impact on him, including: Jed Kennedy, Joel Nellis, Scott Nelson, Jeff Bigler, Dr. Bob Hall, Megan Fisher, Marc Stanke, and Brett Gruetzmacher.

Zach graduated from BC in 2018 and continued his education at UW-Madison where he was involved as a Wisconsin Football Equipment Manager and member of the Investment Banking Club. Through this club, he was introduced to various career paths within the finance industry. Zach pursued internships after his sophomore year with a hedge fund based in New York City, and after his junior year with Baird in their investment banking division in Milwaukee. He graduated with a Finance degree in December of 2021 and following the Baird internship, he received a full time offer to join the firm in July 2022.

Today, Zach works dedicatedly in the industry that he began experiencing through the LAUNCH program. “Through talking with people in the industry, I became interested in the mergers and acquisitions space and thought investment banking would align well with my interests,” he stated. “I enjoy the fast-paced nature of the work and my favorite part is the highly knowledgeable people I get to work with.” Heckman continues to grow in his current role each day and looks forward to additional, future opportunities in the finance industry!