Lakeland entrepreneur has puzzling passion
Lakeland University student Max Wheeler has turned his passion for puzzles into a business.
Diagnosed with Apraxia at age 3, Wheeler, of Appleton, Wis., found puzzles to be a way to relax and build family connections. Inspired to share his love for puzzles, he launched Platypus Puzzles, which includes custom Lakeland-branded puzzles that make the perfect gift for family, friends and fellow Muskies.
Wheeler, a second-year student in Lakeland’s Life & Career Studies program, is working toward an academic certificate in business and entrepreneurship.
He audited BUS 150: Pathways to Success, Introduction to Business in spring 2024. He impressed the course instructor, Stephanie Hoskins, with his creative product ideas and his marketing pitch for the Green Bay Blizzard. She invited him to participate in an independent study in entrepreneurship this fall, and Platypus Puzzles was born.
Wheeler and his LCS program academic coach, Gabe Ascher, spent the fall developing a business plan, researching production and sourcing supplies and went into production.
Lakeland employees were each gifted a puzzle made by Wheeler at the annual Lakeland Christmas gathering.
The LCS program is an inclusive, postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. The program's mission is to provide an engaging, inclusive and personalized residential collegiate experience that promotes students' academic, social, career and life skills, including preparation for independent and community living and access to meaningful employment.
Wheeler is just one of a growing number of Lakeland students making their mark in the entrepreneurial world, balancing academics while building successful businesses.
Lakeland's limited-edition branded puzzles are the perfect way to celebrate your Muskie pride or give as a thoughtful holiday gift.
The first puzzles are currently being produced with only 20 puzzles guaranteed for delivery in 2024, just in time for the holidays. Additional orders will be fulfilled in 2025 after winter break.
Profits from puzzle sales support the Lakeland University Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, helping to drive new opportunities for students and the community.
Order yours today – supplies are limited! Limited Edition Puzzles – Musko's Campus Shop
