Western Colorado Economic Summit

Programming begins promptly at 8:00 AM with Opening Remarks presented by Curtis Englehart, Executive Director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, as he sets the stage for this year’s conference and shares GJEP’s 2024 Economic Impact.

Join us for an insightful panel discussion with esteemed leaders representing Mesa County, Grand Junction, Mesa County School District 51, and Colorado Mesa University, converging to discuss the shared future of our community. During this session, we will dive into key updates on economic development in their respective regions, areas of collaboration, and strategies for success. 

Featuring: Todd Hollenbeck (Mesa County) , Mike Bennett (City of Grand Junction), President John Marshall (Colorado Mesa University), and Dr. Brian Hill (School District 51)

Moderated by: Curtis Englehart (Grand Junction Economic Partnership)

Join us for an exclusive panel discussion featuring top site selectors who will share their insights on our region’s strengths, key advantages for business attraction, and areas of opportunity for growth and improvement after participating in GJEP’s Inaugural Site Selector Familiarization Tour. Gain valuable perspectives on what makes a community stand out in the competitive world of site selection and hear their recommendations on how we can position ourselves for future investment and economic success. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the decision-makers who help shape the future of business location and expansion.

Featuring: Christopher Lloyd (McGuire Woods Consulting), Savannah Jermance (Ryan), Jeff Pappas (Newmark), and Sabrina Champagne (Strategic Location Services).

Moderated by: Brad McCloud, Xcel Energy

Access to affordable housing is a critical issue in Mesa County, impacting economic growth, community stability, and quality of life. This session brings together experts and local leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding housing in our region. This panel will explore the rising cost of housing and the role of policy in development.

Join us for an insightful conversation on innovative solutions, policy considerations, and collaborative efforts to ensure housing accessibility for members of our community. 

Featuring: Laurel Cole (Habitat for Humanity), Dan Caris (City of Fruita), Kevin Bray (Bray Real Estate), Abe Herman (City of Grand Junction)

Moderated by: Candace Carnahan (Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce)

Back by popular demand, Dr. Nathan Perry, Professor of Economics at Colorado Mesa University, shares an update on Mesa County’s key economic indicators, including unemployment, labor force participation, sales tax, and more. 

Mesa County’s future relies on the strength of its water resources, agricultural industry, and technological resilience. This dynamic panel discussion will explore key initiatives shaping our region’s sustainability and security. Experts will discuss innovative water initiatives ensuring long-term resource management, the Resilient & Adaptive Cyber Protection of Industrial Control Devices & Systems (RAPIDS) program safeguarding critical infrastructure, and the role of agriculture in our community’s future. 

Featuring: Andy Mueller (Colorado River District), Michael Potter (A&M Consulting for RAPIDS), Bobbie Daniel (Mesa County Commissioner)

Moderated by: Jay Seaton (Grand Junction Daily Sentinel)

This breakout panel discussion explores the future of mobility in Mesa County. Experts from Grand Junction Rural Airport (GJT), and the City of Grand Junction will share updates on infrastructure, connectivity, and statewide initiatives. At the same time, local business leaders discuss the impact of transportation on workforce and economic growth.  

Featuring: Angela Padalecki (Grand Junction Regional Airport), Trent Prall (City of Grand Junction), Andrew Golike (CoorsTek)

Moderated By: Megan Fiedler (Intermountain Health)

Join cybersecurity expert Kurtis Minder for an interactive session on best practices to protect your business from cyber threats. Learn how to safeguard sensitive data, recognize potential risks, and implement proactive strategies to enhance your company’s cybersecurity posture.

Colorado’s creative industries are powerful economic drivers, from film festivals and public art to digital media and placemaking. This session will explore how businesses, developers, and economic leaders can tap into the creative economy to attract talent, boost tourism, and enhance communities.

Join industry experts to discuss the latest creative economy trends—including the impact of media, workforce development initiatives, and the intersection of the arts and business attraction. With significant opportunities on the horizon, including new legislation supporting film festivals and the upcoming Colorado Creative Industries Conference in Grand Junction, this is the perfect time to explore how creativity fuels success.

Featuring: Arielle Brachfeld (Colorado Office of Economic Development), Dave Goe (Downtown Grand Junction), Jeannine Purser (City of Fruita)

Moderated by: Kayla Bowers (Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce)

A globally recognized leader in the outdoor industry and within public policy, Luis Benitez will share inspiring tales of Everest exhibitions and overcoming adversity as he discusses leadership, resilience, economic development, and the role of outdoor recreation in community prosperity.