Our Team/Nuestro Equipo

Founding Executive Director: Dr. Nelson Soler - PhD, MBA, MS, EDFP, Enrolled Agent, QuickBooks Pro

Dr. Nelson Soler is a renowned Milwaukee-based entrepreneur, educator, and community advocate. Born into a mixed-race family in Puerto Rico and raised in poverty, he has built his life mission around empowering others to pursue their entrepreneurial and professional dreams through culturally relevant strategies and inclusive leadership.

A visionary leader, Dr. Soler has founded five organizations—two for-profit and three nonprofit—dedicated to entrepreneurship, workforce development, and equitable economic growth. His impact spans nationally, having supported the formation of more than 6,200 enterprises across Wisconsin and providing culturally tailored technical assistance to diverse entrepreneurial communities throughout the United States.

In 2017, he founded the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin, where he currently serves as President & CEO. Under his leadership, the Chamber has emerged as a regional powerhouse in microlending and capacity building, distributing over $2.1 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance to vulnerable businesses. Today, the organization serves over 400 enterprises annually, supports job creation and retention, and delivers more than 960 hours of training to over 500 entrepreneurs.

Dr. Soler’s academic credentials are extensive. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering and Economics from the State University of New York at Buffalo; a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in International Business and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee; and a Ph.D. in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service from Cardinal Stritch University. He is also a certified Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP), an Enrolled Agent (EA) licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor.

His exceptional leadership and community impact have earned him numerous accolades, including the U.S. Small Business Administration Wisconsin Award (2007), Region 4 Chamber Executive of the Year from the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (2009), UMOS Hispanic Man of the Year (2011), and the Community Business Development Award from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (2018).

In 2025, Dr. Soler was named a Wisconsin Titan 100, recognizing him as one of the state’s most accomplished CEOs and C-level executives for his visionary leadership, innovation, and influence.

Through his unwavering commitment to equity, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, Dr. Nelson Soler continues to serve as a catalyst for inclusive economic development—uplifting underserved communities and advancing prosperity across the nation.

Empowerment Director: Marlene Andrade

Marlene immigrated to the United States at the age of 16, overcoming the challenges of adapting to a new culture and learning a second language. Her journey inspired a lifelong commitment to serving the Spanish-speaking community, using her bilingual skills to help others navigate the barriers she once faced.

With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, Marlene has led and supported programs focused on housing stability, rental assistance, food access, and homelessness prevention. She is passionate about connecting underserved individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive.

Marlene has completed numerous professional trainings, including DCF Civil Rights Compliance, Basic Life Support (CPR and AED), ServSafe Food Handler, HIPAA Basics, Harm Reduction, SAMHSA HHRC (Serious Mental Illness and Homelessness), and the Wisconsin Child Welfare Professional Development System. These certifications demonstrate her dedication to providing service with empathy, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.

Outside of work, Marlene is dedicated to animal welfare and often rescues and cares for stray animals. She also co-founded a family baking business, "Postres y Comida Mary," with her mother. Her work and life are guided by the values passed down from her grandmother: lead with kindness, listen with empathy, and treat others as you wish to be treated.

Marlene continues to be a compassionate advocate and community leader, uplifting voices that too often go unheard.

marlene@latinoentrepreneurialnetwork.org

414-233-0773

Empowerment Coordinator: Joell Aguirre Monge

Joell is a dedicated senior at St. Augustine Preparatory Academy, preparing to begin their next chapter as an Electrical Engineering major at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Born and raised in Milwaukee, Joell holds a deep connection to their community and takes pride in their local roots. Throughout high school, they have built a well-rounded foundation, balancing academic excellence with athletic achievement and community involvement.

A passionate and disciplined athlete, Joell has participated in soccer, track and field, and mixed martial arts. These experiences have helped develop their teamwork, perseverance, and mental resilience—qualities that will support their success in both college and career.

Beyond athletics, Joell is committed to giving back. For the past two years, they have volunteered at Our Lady of Guadalupe/St. Patrick’s, contributing to various community outreach efforts. This commitment to service reflects their core values of compassion, empathy, and leadership through action.

While Joell is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering, they remain curious and open to exploring a range of future career paths that align with their evolving interests and strengths. Grounded in hard work, service, and personal growth, Joell is well-positioned to thrive as they embark on their journey at UWM and beyond.

Joell@latinoentrepreneurialnetwork.org