Behind the Business: Catalyst Exhibits
Some of Kenosha County’s most fascinating success stories are happening behind doors many residents pass every day – and many people are surprised to learn about the incredible companies operating right here in Kenosha County.
Behind the Business offers an inside look at the unique companies, talented people, and innovative work that help make our community thrive.
June 2026: Catalyst Exhibits
1. Can you provide a brief overview of your company, including what you do and what sets you apart?
Catalyst Exhibits is a full-service trade show and event marketing partner headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin. We design, fabricate, and manage custom exhibits and branded environments – bringing strategy, design, project management, fabrication, logistics, storage, and installation together as one integrated team. That “all-under-one-roof” approach means faster timelines, tighter quality control, and less stress for marketing teams managing high-visibility events.
What sets us apart is a design-led, outcomes-driven mindset paired with in-house execution: we don’t just build booths, we translate complex brand stories into bold, immersive experiences that support measurable goals like engagement and lead generation. With deep experience supporting complex builds (including integrated technology and AudioVisual), we deliver with precision and proactive communication from concept through show close.
Catalyst also builds, fabricates, and installs custom environments for commercial and retail businesses – bringing the same in-house craftsmanship beyond the trade show floor. From branded interiors to permanent installations, we deliver end-to-end execution with tight quality control and reliable timelines.
2. What does your company manufacture or the services you provide contribute to, and how do they impact your customers or industry?
Our work helps companies show up powerfully wherever their customers gather: on trade show floors, at conferences, and in other branded environments. We create exhibit programs that make it easier for teams to launch products, demonstrate complex solutions, and build stronger relationships through face-to-face experiences.
For customers, the impact is practical and immediate: a smoother event process (planning, logistics, and on-site execution handled by a dedicated partner), a brand presence that stands out, and exhibits designed to support business outcomes like higher-quality conversations and lead capture.
For the industry, our in-house model raises the bar on speed, craftsmanship, and reliability - reducing the risk that comes with outsourcing and handoffs. Whether a client needs a custom-build, a scalable solution, or full program management, our goal is the same: optimize every show investment for impact.
3. How would you describe your company culture and what makes it a great place to work?
Our culture is built on collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. Because our teams work side-by-side across design, fabrication, graphics, project management, and on-site services, we solve problems quickly and keep work moving – without the delays and disconnects that come from outsourcing.
People here take pride in craftsmanship and accountability, and we value clear communication and teamwork at every stage of a project. It’s a fast-paced environment where ideas are welcomed, details matter, and everyone can see the real-world results of their work when an exhibit goes live.
We also believe great client experiences start with a strong internal culture – one that supports growth, respects diverse perspectives, and encourages each person to contribute their best.
4. What types of career opportunities are available at your company, and what qualities do you look for in new hires?
Catalyst offers career paths across a wide range of disciplines: from industrial and graphic design to project management, fabrication and skilled trades (metal, wood, paint, graphics), logistics and warehouse operations, installation and on-site services, and corporate roles that support clients and growth.
We look for people who take pride in quality, communicate clearly, and enjoy collaborating across teams. Because our projects are deadline-driven and highly visible, strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and a customer-first mindset are essential. We value candidates who can balance creativity with execution, stay organized under pressure, and take ownership of their work, from early planning through final delivery on the show floor.
5. How does your company engage with or give back to the Kenosha County community?
As a proud Kenosha-based company, we aim to be an active partner in the community, not just an employer. We support local organizations and initiatives, including engagement with KABA and community-focused events that bring local businesses together. We also contribute through sponsorships and partnerships connected to the exhibit and event industry, including support for causes that help families and children in need. Beyond financial support, we give back by showing up: participating in community events, helping promote Kenosha as a place to build a career, and investing in the people and facilities that keep jobs and expertise growing locally.
6. What is something people might be surprised to learn about your company?
Many people are surprised by the scale and reach of what happens here in Kenosha. From our headquarters, we support exhibiting programs across North America and beyond, completing thousands of event projects each year across hundreds of shows and dozens of cities.
They’re also often surprised by how much is truly handled in-house - design, fabrication, graphics, storage, and logistics - so we can move quickly and maintain consistent quality. Finally, people don’t always realize how award-winning this work is: over the years Catalyst has earned extensive recognition for design, innovation, and exhibit excellence across the trade show and event marketing industry.
7. What excites you most about your company’s future in Kenosha County?
We’re excited about continuing to grow in Kenosha while strengthening the capabilities that make us a trusted partner to brands nationwide. As the demand for immersive, experience-driven marketing continues to rise, we’re investing in our people, processes, and facilities so we can scale without compromising craftsmanship or service.
We’re also energized by the momentum we’ve built as a company, earning industry recognition and expanding the scope and complexity of projects we deliver, while keeping our headquarters and core manufacturing base right here in Kenosha.
For us, the future is about creating more high-quality careers locally, continuing to be a strong community partner, and bringing more national and global business to Kenosha through the work we do every day.