Charlie Koenen, once thriving in the computer business, found himself drawn into a different world—the world of bees. Transitioning from tech to agriculture, Koenen has gained a passion for bees and being an advocate for pollinator awareness.

Driven by a quest to change traditional beekeeping methods, Koenen delved into industrial design to reinvent beehives. After nine years of innovation, he unveiled a new design—a horizontal hive—aimed at reducing the hive's weight and disruption to the bees' habitat.

His unique approach to beekeeping extends beyond personal interest. Koenen has placed hives in unconventional locations across Milwaukee, such as nursing homes, schools, and community hubs, challenging the stereotype of beekeeping in urban spaces.