ABSF Board Candidate: Mike Cleary

Hometown:
Cable, WI

Years of ABSF Membership:
8

Occupation:
Retired

Why are you interested in being a member of the ABSF Board of Directors? 

I was born and raised in Cable and grew up at Telemark, where I worked in the lodge, taught skiing, and led racing programs. I was there when the Birkie began and was deeply influenced by Tony Wise’s entrepreneurial spirit. That experience shaped my path and ultimately led to a successful business career.

Since retiring and returning home, I’ve been actively volunteering on the ABSF Development/Capital Campaign Committee. I’m a product of the outdoor and entrepreneurial spirit that defines this region, and I’m passionate about the Foundation’s mission. I want to give back to the community that shaped me. I’m energized by my current involvement with the Foundation and excited about the opportunity to contribute even more as a member of the Board.

What knowledge and skills do you possess that can benefit the organization?

Building on early experience at Telemark and in our family businesses, I earned a degree in Business Administration and Marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. I went on to start and lead a medical labeling and data collection business in the Minneapolis area. Over 25 years, we grew the company into one of the fastest-growing privately held firms in the U.S. before selling it to a private equity firm in 2020.

I also hold a Mini MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, have served on several advisory boards for both private and public companies, and have been honored with a Lifetime Entrepreneurial Award from the University of St. Thomas and the Kauffman Foundation, as well as the President’s Award from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire Alumni Association.

Through my work with the ABSF Development Committee, I’ve gained valuable insight into the Foundation’s strategic planning, fundraising, and collaboration with Birkie staff. This combination of business expertise, foundation involvement, and deep community roots gives me a unique perspective that I believe can bring value to the ABSF Board.

How do you see yourself helping to fulfill the ABSF vision, mission and values? 

The vision, mission, and values of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation are not just ideals I support—they are principles that have molded who I am. I am a product of this community and deeply committed to advancing the Foundation’s work well into the future.

I’ve been shaped by the rich history of this area and have strong connections within this community. I am engaged in what the Foundation is doing today and am ready to serve as an active driver of its continued success. With the exciting development of Mount Telemark Village and the expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation, my wife Mary and I have found ourselves more involved than ever. We enjoy cross-country skiing, mountain and fat tire biking, and hiking the ski hill—fully living the values the Foundation promotes.

Our personal experience is a testament to the Foundation’s impact. We are inspired by its vision to challenge people to get outside and create lasting memories. Like the ABSF, I am fully committed to helping people of all ages and abilities discover the joy and lifelong benefits of an active, outdoor lifestyle.

If elected to the board, I would champion and facilitate bringing regional ski, bike and other groups to visit and fully experience the growing range of amenities at Mount Telemark Village and across the Birkie trail system. With the incredible infrastructure we now have—from world-class trails to community gathering spaces —we have a unique opportunity to draw in clubs, teams, and recreational groups looking for high-quality outdoor experiences.

This kind of outreach would not only increase year-round trail and amenities use but also introduce new people and the next generation to the lifestyle and values the ABSF promotes—creating both short-term engagement and long-term advocates. By introducing more people of all ages and abilities to the joy of outdoor adventures, we’re not only creating meaningful moments—we’re building a lasting community of advocates who will carry the ABSF vision forward.

As a prospective board member, I bring passion, perspective, and a deep-rooted connection to the mission. I believe strongly in stewarding the Birkie Trail system and amenities, supporting world-class events, and expanding access to the outdoors. I am ready to lead by example and collaborate with others to ensure the Foundation continues to thrive.