Built on Partnership, Proven Through Results

Advanced Association Management was founded in 2010 by Kathi and Rod Schildt, with a clear vision: associations flourish when they have dedicated partners who genuinely understand their mission and prioritize member service.

What started as a commitment to excellence in their tiny home office grew into filling our renovated historic building in Milford, Nebraska, with a team of 11 trusted staff facilitating strategic partnerships that serve associations from Nebraska to the Caribbean. Today, AAM manages over $ 11 million in association assets across more than 25 diverse portfolios, demonstrating that true partnership fosters lasting success.

Our Growth Journey:

  • 2010: Founded by Kathi and Rod Schildt with partnership-first philosophy

  • 2012: Historic building renovation completed in downtown Milford

  • 2015: Strategic acquisition of another AMC, expanding client base and expertise

  • 2018: Launched RAAM Marketing subsidiary for exclusive client benefit

  • 2019: National and international expansion with Caribbean and multi-state clients

  • 2021: 100% client retention through COVID with innovative digital conference services

  • 2025: 25+ associations, 11 professional staff, $11.48M+ under management

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Our Team

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    Kathi Schildt

    Owner & President - Founded 2010

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    Kathi founded AAM in 2010 with over 30 years of association management experience and earned both Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Management from Doane University. Her extensive background in trade association and office management provided the foundation for building AAM's partnership-first philosophy.

    As AAM's President, Kathi's top priority for all clients is member service excellence, and she specializes in board facilitation and strategic guidance. She loves AAM's ability to leverage knowledge and growth from one association to benefit others, creating a collaborative network that strengthens all client partnerships. Under her leadership, AAM has grown to manage $11+ million in assets across 25+ diverse portfolios.

    Kathi co-owns AAM with her husband Rod, and they live on their family dairy farm in Pleasant Dale. They enjoy their four children, five grandchildren, and "tons of grand-dogs." In their free time, Kathi and Rod love traveling in their RV and spending quality time with their three grandchildren.

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    Rod Schildt

    Co-Founder & Operations - Founded 2010

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    Rod co-founded AAM alongside Kathi in 2010, bringing his degree in agriculture from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and hands-on operational expertise. Although his full-time role is managing the 145-year-old family dairy operation in Pleasant Dale, Rod plays a crucial role in AAM's physical operations and infrastructure development.

    Rod personally renovated the majority of AAM's historic building in fall 2012 and headed the Phase II expansion project in January 2021, ensuring clients have access to state-of-the-art facilities. His attention to detail and commitment to quality infrastructure means AAM's operations run seamlessly, and he often lends a helping hand at client conferences when needed.

    When Rod isn't feeding cows, planting, harvesting, or renovating the office, you can find him onsite at conferences supporting AAM clients. Rod and Kathi live on their 145-year-old family dairy operation and love traveling and enjoying time with their grandchildren. children and grandchildren.

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    Taylor Moore

    Senior Account Executive - Joined 2017

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    Taylor graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with emphasis in Sport & Event Management, where she was a dedicated four-year member of the Women's Basketball team. Her professional foundation was built through roles at Crete Carrier Corporation and Argus Event Staffing, where she developed expertise in logistics, coordination, and client relations.

    As Senior Account Executive and Leadership Team member since 2017, Taylor brings strategic thinking and hands-on execution to complex client services, excelling at board governance and member services for associations with thousands to tens of thousands of members. She has assisted in securing over $5 million in grant funding and participates in managing business operations, team structure, and comprehensive client acquisition processes. Taylor's athletic background brings teamwork, goal-oriented thinking, and the ability to perform under pressure to association management.

    Her diverse skill set encompasses graphic design, event and meeting support, and marketing, allowing her to provide comprehensive solutions for client needs. Taylor's sports management background combined with her operational expertise makes her uniquely qualified to handle complex projects while maintaining clear communication and achieving measurable outcomes.

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    Kylie Schildt

    Director of Marketing - Joined in 2013

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    Kylie graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and minor in Management, where she was an active member of Alpha Omicron Pi and Delta Sigma Pi. Her comprehensive marketing and management education provided the perfect foundation for her dual role in marketing strategy and account management.

    As Director of Marketing and Senior Leadership Team member since 2013, Kylie strategically develops integrated marketing strategies for nonprofit clients while co-founding RAAM Marketing subsidiary to expand AAM's service offerings. She has assisted in securing over $5 million in grant funding, led the award-winning transformation of TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival, and hosts keynotes nationwide helping small businesses grow through accessible marketing strategies. Kylie participates in managing business operations, team structure, and comprehensive client acquisition processes.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Kylie co-founded the Milford Childhood Learning Center, earning Volunteer of the Year in 2023 from Seward County Chamber & Development Partnership. She lives in Milford with her husband J.R. and their three children, balancing her passion for community development with family life.

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    Courtney Fegter

    Senior Account Executive - Joined 2022

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    Courtney graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney with a Bachelor's in Recreation & Park Management with emphasis in Travel & Tourism/Sports Management, where she was a dedicated track team member competing in pole vault. She brings seven years of diverse experience in Sports Tourism and College Sports roles across Nebraska, Texas, and Kansas City.

    As Senior Account Executive and Leadership Team member since 2022, Courtney specializes in onboarding new clients and organizational restructuring, excelling at transforming complex client situations into streamlined operations with her "never afraid of a challenge" approach. She participates in managing business operations, team structure, and comprehensive client acquisition processes. Her background in event management and client relations equips her to handle high-pressure situations and deliver exceptional results.

    Courtney is a major foodie who enjoys exploring new restaurants and cuisines. She loves spending quality time with her nieces and nephews, golfing, playing sand volleyball, and traveling to discover new destinations.

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    Cassandra Dinges

    Account Executive - Joined in 2024

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    Cassandra brings an extensive 20-year background in insurance and account management, with professional designations including LOMA ACS and ALMI. Her expertise in client relationship management, team training, and benefits administration has equipped her with the skills to navigate complex organizational structures and deliver exceptional results for nonprofit organizations.

    Since joining AAM in 2023, Cassandra has leveraged her 15 years of specialized experience in managing benefit plans, enrollment platforms, and stakeholder communications to help associations streamline their operations and achieve strategic missions. Her technical foundation in account reconciliation, data management, and precision communication across multiple departments enables her to develop innovative solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Cassandra's mastery of intricate data systems and proven track record in client service delivery make her invaluable for managing complex associations.

    Cassandra resides in Milford, Nebraska, with her husband and twin children on their acreage, where she enjoys taking walks and attending her children's activities. She and her husband are active community supporters of their local volunteer fire department, where her husband serves as chief; this experience proves particularly valuable when working with AAM's firefighter association clients.

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    Renae Littrell

    Account Executive - Joined 2025

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    Renae brings over 20 years of experience in educational leadership, program development, and strategic planning, with a Master's in Educational Leadership and Management from Lamar University. Her extensive background includes overseeing multi-departmental projects, coordinating university-wide retention efforts, managing budgets, and serving as liaison to executive teams and committees.

    Since joining AAM in 2025, Renae has brought her expertise in managing complex initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and event execution to the association management field. Her calm, professional demeanor and proactive mindset, combined with her ability to anticipate challenges and manage competing priorities, make her invaluable for providing exceptional client service. Renae is known for her systematic approach to project management and data-driven insights, and is passionate about supporting mission-driven organizations.

    Renae lives in Crete, Nebraska, with her husband, Josh, and their three sons, including their oldest, who is a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and two still at home, DJ and Max. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and eating good food, traveling, watching her sons participate in sports, and exploring all things related to health and wellness.

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    Sheila Hoadley

    Finance Director - Joined 2024

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    Sheila brings a strong background in accounting and financial management to her role as AAM's Financial Manager. Her expertise ensures precise financial operations and maintains the accuracy and transparency that association boards depend on for confident decision-making.

    Since joining AAM in 2018, Sheila has managed day-to-day financial administration for all client associations, coordinated with external CPAs for audits and tax preparation, and maintained audit-ready books with transparent reporting. Her meticulous approach to financial stewardship and systematic record-keeping provides the financial foundation that enables associations to focus on their missions. Sheila's dedication to accuracy ensures that every financial detail is thoroughly reviewed and properly documented.

    Outside of work, Sheila cherishes spending time with her family and enjoys adventurous weekends jeepin’ with her husband and friends, exploring Nebraska's outdoor opportunities. Her appreciation for adventure and exploration brings positive energy to both her professional responsibilities and personal pursuits.

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    Kelsey Burkhardt

    Senior Account Coordinator - Joined 2021

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    Kelsey grew up in Milford, Nebraska, and graduated from the College of Hair Design in 2012. Her extensive experience managing and overseeing salon operations for eight years equipped her with exceptional customer service skills and a systematic approach to client management.

    Since joining AAM in 2021, Kelsey has become an expert at the GrowthZone management system and works closely with senior team members to direct coordination efforts and meet critical project timelines. Her exceptional attention to detail and meticulous cross-checking ensure that even the most minor details are thoroughly reviewed and accurately executed. Kelsey's organizational skills, reliability, and proactive problem-solving make her an essential asset to AAM's operational success.

    In her free time, you can find Kelsey camping, golfing, traveling, and enjoying quality time with her two beloved Yorkies, Zoey and Bentley. Her love for outdoor adventures and furry companions brings a warm, approachable energy to her professional interactions with association members.

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    Faythe Gerner

    Account Coordinator - Joined 2025

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    Faythe is a native of Seward, Nebraska, who brings exceptional attention to detail and outstanding member service skills to every client interaction. Her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Southeast Community College, combined with her background as a Site Supervisor and Family Advocate at Blue Valley Community Action Head Start, provided an excellent foundation in relationship building and meticulous attention to detail.

    Since joining AAM in 2025, Faythe's systematic approach ensures nothing falls through the cracks, while her friendly demeanor makes every member feel valued and well-served. Her experience in compliance, documentation, and family engagement translates perfectly to association member services. Faythe's genuine care for member experience and commitment to excellence exemplify AAM's service philosophy in every interaction.

    Faythe has three children and is known around the office for her love of Disney World, bringing that same enthusiasm for creating magical experiences and attention to detail to her association work. Her passion for making every interaction special ensures that association members receive the exceptional service that builds lasting loyalty.

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    Jamie Oborny

    Account Coordinator - Joined 2022

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    Jamie graduated from Southeast Community College in Lincoln and brings over 17 years of experience in association management as a creative and collaborative meetings and events specialist. Her extensive background provides valuable knowledge of association operations, member services, and event coordination processes.

    Since joining AAM in 2020, Jamie has supported client accounts through essential administrative functions, event coordination, and member communications under the guidance of senior team members. Her familiarity with association structures and membership services contributes significantly to AAM's comprehensive client support capabilities. Jamie's experience with nonprofit operations and member engagement processes makes her an invaluable resource for coordinating complex association activities.

    Jamie enjoys spending time with her husband, Troy, their seven children, and numerous grandchildren, bringing the same caring attention to her large family that she provides to association members and events. Her experience managing a bustling household translates perfectly to coordinating multiple association projects and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

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    Kathryn Holling

    Marketing Coordinator - Joined 2024

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    Kathryn graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Bachelor's degree in Advertising and Public Relations, along with a minor in Business Administration. Her educational background in marketing and communications provides a strong foundation for creating compelling marketing materials and coordinating promotional campaigns.

    Since joining AAM in 2024, Kathryn has supported comprehensive marketing initiatives for nonprofit clients through graphic design, marketing strategy, and account management assistance. Her diverse skill set enables her to create compelling marketing materials, coordinate communications campaigns, and maintain consistent brand messaging across all client touchpoints. Kathryn's creative skills and marketing expertise help associations connect with members in meaningful and engaging ways.

    Outside of work, Kathryn enjoys spending time outdoors, especially going on walks with her dog, Val. Her appreciation for outdoor activities and active lifestyle brings positive energy and fresh perspective to both her professional marketing work and personal relationships.

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Our Facilities

While many AMCs operate virtually, AAM provides the professional infrastructure your association deserves. Our team answers phones 8 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday, ensuring your members always reach a real person who knows your organization.

Complete Event Management Resources:

  • In-house A/V support and technical expertise

  • Company event vehicle for seamless logistics

  • Professional conference room for board meetings

  • Central US location minimizes travel costs for multi-state associations

  • Dedicated headquarters and mailing address for your association

  • Complimentary boardroom and kitchen use for client meetings

  • State-of-the-art technology and communications systems