Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood (KIN) has announced the addition of Michael Kopper, CEO and founder of Centrisys, to its Board of Directors. Kopper is recognized for his expertise in dewatering and centrifuge technology, as well as his leadership in wastewater treatment and biosolids innovation.

“Michael combines exceptional technical expertise with a proven ability to solve real-world challenges,” said Kelly Armstrong, President of KIN. “His insights will strengthen our work across KIN’s four focus areas: the Kenosha Innovation Center, Startups, Real Estate Development, and Upskilling. He understands how innovation translates into thriving companies, companies create jobs, and opportunities for individuals multiply.”

Throughout his career, Kopper has focused on developing high-performance systems aimed at improving efficiency and reliability in water and resource recovery sectors. His work has contributed to advancements in biosolids treatment and circular economy models that seek to reduce environmental impact while benefiting utilities and the public.

“Innovation matters most when it improves life for people and the environment,” Kopper said. “KIN is building the right platform to connect industry, educators, entrepreneurs, and neighbors. I am honored to support a vision that turns practical ingenuity into economic opportunity and community benefit.”

The KIN Board provides strategic direction for the Kenosha Innovation Center (KIC) as well as a 107-acre redevelopment project designed to bring together entrepreneurs, learners, and industry partners along the Chicago–Milwaukee corridor. Kopper will advise on forming industry partnerships, creating workforce pathways, and promoting applied innovation in alignment with regional goals related to advanced manufacturing, biohealth initiatives, and sustainable infrastructure.

Additional information about KIN can be found at https://innovatekin.org/.

The Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood aims to redevelop a former industrial site into an area that supports innovation, education opportunities, economic growth initiatives inclusive of startups, established businesses, research institutions, and civic amenities—all intended to foster connections among people and ideas.