Kertscher Named President, GM at Road America
The Road America racecourse in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, announced on Jan. 8 that it was promoting Michael Kertscher to president and general manager. Kertscher will replace current president and general manager, George Bruggenthies, who will transition into a senior consulting position for Elkhart Lake’s Road America Inc.
“I am honored and humbled to accept this new role and build upon the momentum this exceptional group of people have established,” Kertscher said. “Road America is a revered facility and through George’s leadership it has grown and evolved into the premiere road course in North America. Our staff has tremendous passion for enhancing the fan experience and we will continue fueling that passion while showcasing incredible events and experiences at America’s National Park of Speed.”
Kertscher, who joined Road America in 2007, began as programs manager overseeing the development of its group adventure programs. He also worked on many successful motorcycle and driving school programs. Kertscher was promoted to director of business development in 2014 and vice president of business development in 2017.
In that role he took on the added responsibility of overseeing track rentals and hospitality functions. His work for the track also included driving partnership developments to support Road America’s core event management initiatives. As part of an overall transition process, Kertscher became senior vice president last year and began overseeing all operations of the facility under the guidance and direction of Bruggenthies.
“Mike has worked tirelessly to become one of the top professionals in our industry,” Bruggenthies said, “His contributions extend well beyond directing our programs and business development units. His vision, perspective and work ethic have allowed him to earn a senior leadership position as part of an overall leadership team that has us well positioned for the future.”
Bruggenthies has accepted a new position as senior consultant, taking a leadership role in sponsorship relations and facility development at Elkhart Lake’s Road America Inc. Bruggenthies has been with Road America, for more than 20 years, both as a leader and as a vintage racer. Under his stewardship, the track has seen massive infrastructure improvements, with new buildings, new track features and safety improvements. Track profits are reinvested and fans see many major improvements annually. In this way, Road America continues to prosper as America’s National Park of Speed.
Road America season passes and 2019 event tickets are now available. Reservations are also being accepted for Road America’s new onsite cabins that will allow fans to stay and play at America’s National Park of Speed. To purchase passes or tickets-”or to reserve cabins or learn about upcoming events at Road America–visit Road America online at roadamerica.com or call 800-365-7223.
