A Friend of Business

Longtime Chamber volunteer and incoming Board Chair

Tanja Goering is prepared to work hard for your business.

When it comes to Chamber advocates, Tanja Goering might just be one of the biggest. Having volunteered with the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce in a number of capacities, she brings with her a deep understanding and appreciation for the organization as she stepped into the role of Chamber board chair in September 2023.

Originally from LeCenter, Minn., Goering graduated from the College of St. Benedict and has remained in Central Minnesota. She spent the majority of her career focusing on management operations and business development, primarily in the transportation and staffing industries. She is currently the community engagement chair with Celebrate Minnesota. Her journey with the Chamber originated from a desire to be more involved in the business community. “I was looking for opportunities to meet new people, learn more about area businesses, and also volunteer to make a difference,” Goering said. The Chamber checked all those boxes.

Goering has since served as the chair of the business development council twice, the chair of the government affairs division, served on the government affairs advisory board, scholarship selection committee, and the 150th anniversary committee, been a Top Hat Ambassador, is a 2015-2016 leadership graduate, and is now serving her second term on the Chamber’s board of directors.

Goering recognizes the mutually beneficial side of volunteering with the Chamber, as it has allowed her to grow her skill set and her professional network. “The most rewarding part for me is developing new relationships that have grown into friendships,” Goering said.

As Goering steps into her role as board chair, she has outlined several priorities. “I’d like to continue to forge partnerships in a way that generates positive outcomes for the community at large while leveraging the breadth of resources,” Goering said. She believes that if we work together to share resources, the community at large while leveraging the breadth of resources.” we can have a greater impact on the community. Business advocacy through government affairs has always been a passion for Goering. “We want to keep our environment competitive and attractive for new business,” she said. She hopes to be a voice of business when it comes to long-term impacts of legislation on small business. “We are better when we collaborate instead of using labels,” Goering said. “Leave the label at the door and focus on coming up with solutions.”

With Goering’s background in staffing, she also has a passion for workforce development, recruitment and retention. She is excited to partner with the Chamber’s existing efforts to continue to grow its reach.

Goering is also prepared to be flexible depending on the business climate. “Some of the growing economic uncertainty could present a challenge in the year to come,” Goering said. She is ready to help the Chamber pivot and adapt to those concerns should businesses need assistance. “I’m very passionate about the Chamber and the people,” Goering said. “It’s an honor and a privilege to volunteer with such a diverse group of business leaders in the community.”