Joel Nilsestuen

Joel Nilsestuen is an experienced professional currently serving as the Assistant Deputy Secretary at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation since January 2019, focusing on government relations, communications, and stakeholder engagement. Prior to this role, Nilsestuen was the Government and Community Outreach Coordinator at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where relationship-building with government officials and community leaders was a priority. Nilsestuen has also held prominent positions such as Vice Chair at the Ralph K. Morris Foundation, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Workforce Development Association, and Legislative Director for the Wisconsin State Senate. Nilsestuen earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Government from St. Olaf College between 1996 and 2000.