Sonja Skerbeck is the owner of Skerbeck Entertainment Group, a sixth-generation family-owned and operated carnival company based in Michigan. Recognized for exceptional performance, Skerbeck Entertainment Group was awarded the prestigious Circle of Excellence by the Outdoor Amusement Business Association. Sonja oversees strategic company development, event bookings, marketing, and regulatory compliance. She initiated the management of human resources and the introduction of H-2B visa workers into the company’s staffing portfolio in 2018. After several successful years utilizing the H-2B program, Skerbeck Entertainment Group “lost” the H-2B visa lottery in 2021. At that time, Sonja prioritized her efforts toward understanding the political changes necessary to secure the crucial labor force. Working with other carnival show owners and business partners from county fairs and festivals, she coordinated efforts to lead a grassroots campaign engaging members of Congress and the Senate in Michigan on H-2B program needs. Sonja is highly motivated to participate in the political processes surrounding H-2B and is committed to working with others to achieve tangible goals for all users of the program. A native of Fennville, Michigan, Sonja graduated from Western Michigan University in 1997 with a degree in Paper Engineering and a minor in Environmental Engineering. Prior to marrying her husband and becoming a showman, Sonja had a successful career in the pulp and paper industry, performing air quality engineering work for some of the largest manufacturing facilities in North America. When not “on the road” with the carnival, her interests include gardening, sailing, and politics. She has served on various boards and committees in her community. Sonja drives a tractor-trailer during the summer months and charters catamarans as time allows in the winter months in the Caribbean. She and her husband are proud to be raising three exceptional children and have their permanent residence in Holland, Michigan.