In 2020, Caz Muske took on the role of airport manager at Clintonville (WI) Municipal Airport (CLI), stepping into the world of aviation with an eagerness to learn. She was fortunate to have the mentorship of Mike McCord, Clintonville’s long-time Public Works Director and a beloved community figure, who shared his expertise and passion for the airport. Mike, with his deep appreciation for CLI and extensive knowledge of public works, helped Caz understand not only the logistics but also the airport’s historical significance.
Mike introduced Caz to CLI’s storied past, tracing back to the demand from executives of the Four-Wheel Drive Auto Company (now Seagrave-FWD). Their need for reliable air travel led to the founding of Wisconsin Central Airlines, which later became part of Delta Airlines, marking CLI as its birthplace. However, Mike was also aware of the gradual decline in activity at CLI and encouraged Caz to consider forming a local EAA Chapter as a way to reignite community involvement and aviation interest in Clintonville.
In 2021, inspired by Mike’s vision, Caz began the journey of establishing an EAA Chapter at CLI. Like many small communities, Clintonville faces challenges in volunteer recruitment and sustaining momentum for new initiatives. After researching successful multi-municipality EAA Chapters, Caz realized that partnerships might be essential for success. She reached out to Colin Isom, the airport manager at Shawano Municipal Airport and Seaplane Base (EZS), who understood the difficulties of building a local chapter and was eager to collaborate.
With the support of EAA, Caz and Colin began reaching out to nearby airports and EAA Chapters, seeking guidance and sharing ideas. This partnership marked a new chapter for CLI, driven by a shared mission to strengthen community ties, preserve aviation history, and inspire future pilots.
In the summer of 2024, Mathieu Labs reached out to Caz to help promote a hamburger social for his local EAA chapter. During their conversation, they discussed the intricacies of running a successful chapter. With Mathieu’s experience in revitalizing his own chapter—from growing membership and establishing a lasting legacy—he was able to offer valuable insights. He was also preparing to leave his current chapter to pursue new aviation goals, making this a timely opportunity to assist.
During a meeting with Caz and Colin, they mentioned they still needed to fill key roles, including President, Treasurer, and Secretary, to officially launch their chapter. Mathieu offered to take on the role of Young Eagles Coordinator, as inspiring the next generation of youth remains one of his greatest passions. However, after a month passed and no one had stepped forward to take on the role of President, he and his wife, Lauren, decided to step up and take on the responsibility.
With their combined experience in various EAA chapter roles across Illinois and Wisconsin, and their volunteering at AirVenture, they knew this would be a rewarding next step. Within a couple of months, they completed the setup with EAA and hosted an open house that brought together over 50 people from neighboring communities, all sharing a passion for launching this new EAA chapter. The chapter was officially established with EAA on November 18, 2024 with the following leadership team: President/Young Eagles Coordinator – Mathieu Labs, Vice President – Fran West, Treasurer – Daniel Connelly, and Secretary – Lauren Labs.
Starting in January 2025, EAA Chapter 1710 will meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., rotating between CLI and EZS airports. You’re welcome to come and enjoy a great time! Contact: EAAChapter1710@gmail.com, (715) 250-0220 (Caz Muske), or on Facebook at EAA Chapter 1710.