ACG Detroit | Connections that Count: Unlocking the Power of Networking

Amy Smith is a Corporate/M&A attorney and the Practice Lead for Corporate, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Emerging Growth at Wolfson Bolton Kochis, a boutique business law firm in Troy that focuses on delivering big-firm quality with boutique-firm attention.  She helps business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs navigate M&A and financing transactions.  She has been recognized as a “Rising Star” by Michigan Super Lawyers and listed in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch for several years.  Amy is also a past president of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Bar Association and a former partner at one of Michigan’s largest law firms. 

Amy earned her J.D., cum laude, from Wayne State University Law School, where she was Production Editor of the Wayne Law Review.  She also holds an M.A. in Teaching Secondary Math, summa cum laude, from Oakland University and a B.A., cum laude, from the University of Southern California.

Joseph Alam is Managing Director of Mid-States Advisors. He leads the firm as a boutique financial advisory and investment banking firm.

Born into an entrepreneurial family, Joseph grew up in the transaction business and developed a deep appreciation for the journey of privately held companies. Drawing on experience from both sides of the table, ownership and advisory, allows him to effectively work with founders and multigenerational businesses alike, always seeking the best outcome for owners and their employees.  This includes a keen focus on locating lenders, buyers, and acquisition targets who fit culturally with his clients. 

With experience in many industries including manufacturing, distribution, automotive, medical, contracting & trades, and many more, Joseph has facilitated successful closings for numerous middle market businesses. 

Kristine Kerns is Director of Middle Market and Business Banking for Comerica Bank. Kerns was named Director in October 2022. In her current role, she leads these divisions for the Bank’s Michigan market by providing Midwest based companies with an array of credit and non-credit financial products and services. She and her teams pride themselves on delivering premier solutions and service, emphasizing long term relationships focused on helping clients succeed. 

In total, she manages approximately $4 billion in deposit and loan commitments. 

The 31-year Comerica veteran began her career in the banking center networks, and progressed through her career holding positions of increasing authority in commercial lending and retail since joining the bank in 1993. 

Kerns’ efforts contribute to Comerica’s Commercial Banking division that features the highest concentration of commercial and industrial loans among the top 25 U.S. financial holding companies (as of March 31, 2025). 

Kern’s engagements in community and professional organizations include United Way of Southeast Michigan, Inforum Michigan, Association for Corporate Growth Detroit, Women in Manufacturing, Detroit Economic Club, and the Detroit Athletic Club. 

She additionally serves on the Board and Development committee for Big Brothers Big Sisters of SE Michigan, an Advisor for Career Spring, and a Healing Hearts Society Member with Ele’s Place Ann Arbor, which strives to ensure that no child in Michigan grieves alone. 

Kerns earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan University majoring in finance and accounting.

Brad Ekonen is the Commercial Lines Marketing Coordinator at Korotkin Insurance Group, where he specializes in delivering best-in-class insurance solutions for both small businesses and middle market companies. With four years of experience in the commercial insurance industry, Brad brings a strong understanding of risk management, carrier relationships, and strategic placement to every client interaction.

Based in Metro Detroit, Brad is actively involved in the community. He serves on the board of the Risk Management Association (RMA) and the Detroit Economic Club Young Leaders, where he contributes to initiatives that support economic growth and professional development across the region.

Brad is passionate about helping businesses protect their operations and networking in the local community.