Building Our Future
Agenda
MONDAY, OCTOBER 7TH, PRE SUMMIT:
Join us as we identify who gets to compete for $50,000 in front of our all-star judges at the finals! Be there to cheer on the next generation of entrepreneurs and see innovation in action! | SUU Business Building
Join us for Rural Radio, where Governor Spencer J. Cox addresses the unique challenges facing Utah's rural economies on air. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and be a part of the conversation shaping rural Utah's future. | Old Main, First Floor
Tee off your Summit experience under the starlit sky at the Black Desert Summit Opening Social—an outdoor extravaganza sponsored by Black Desert Resort! Join us in casual attire for an evening filled with outdoor games, live music, RAH Energy mocktails, a photobooth, mini golf, and a fun Plinko game. Whether you're a seasoned Summit pro or just getting into the swing of things, this opening social promises to be a hole lot of fun! | Hunter Alumni Patio and Adams Courtyard
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8TH: BUILDING OUR FUTURE
Please check in at the Auditorium and join us for breakfast in the courtyard!
Stephen Lisonbee | Welcome
Brian Steed | Championing Preservation in Utah's Natural Landscape: Working for a Sustainable Future | Good policy and planning comes from good information. It's fundamental to building our future. The Institute is hosting Idea Exchanges with business leaders in several Utah industries to learn how we can facilitate a sustainable future for Utah and become a best-in-class standard in caring for our land, water, and air. They also work with other government agencies, nonprofits, and Utah State Higher Education institutions on research and policies that help manage Utah’s natural resources
Natalie Randall | In Love. In Utah. | Utah Office of Tourism will share their innovative activations to capture the hearts and minds of new audiences to travel to Utah, while attracting media to share our unique story.
Aaron Starks | The Future of Flight in Utah | Air mobility represents a transformative leap for Utah, positioning the state at the forefront of a new era in transportation. Imagine a future where urban congestion is alleviated, remote communities gain unprecedented connectivity, and emergency response times are dramatically reduced—all thanks to advanced air mobility technologies. Utah’s strategic investments and innovative partnerships are set to revolutionize how we move people and goods, fostering economic growth and enhancing quality of life.
Abby Osborne, Donald Ludlow, Adrian Guerrero | Utah's Logistics Leap: Paving the Way for a New Era of Connectivity | Join us for an exciting exploration of Utah’s transformative logistics strategy, designed to propel the state to the forefront of global trade. Featuring insights from industry leaders, this presentation unveils how Utah is pioneering a new era of logistics and infrastructure innovation.
Mike Schultz | Where Utah Stands on Public Lands | Learn how a historic lawsuit could unlock new possibilities for our state, ensuring that public lands remain in public hands and are managed responsibly for generations to come.
Governor Spencer J. Cox, Jonah Goldberg | The Miracle of America | Join Governor Cox and columnist Jonah Goldberg for a hopeful discussion about the miraculous advancements in human prosperity thanks to democracy and market economies, and what we must do to preserve those political and economic systems.
Discover the diverse flavors of Utah at our Taste of Utah networking break! Local Utah businesses will showcase their culinary delights, offering a unique opportunity to experience the best of Utah’s food scene in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. | Adams Courtyard
Kris Griffith | Rural Utah’s National Asset Propels Rockets into Space & National Defense | This presentation highlights the pivotal role of American Pacific Corporation, a rural Utah-based business located in Cedar City, in the manufacturing of ammonium perchlorate, the primary ingredient in solid rocket motors. These motors are crucial for national defense, enabling our country and allies to maintain security, and are also integral to NASA’s missions to the International Space Station, returning to the Moon, and eventually Mars. The presentation will also highlight their relationship with Northrop Grumman in northern Utah, where many of these rocket motors are manufactured, underscoring the significance of Utah’s contribution to the aerospace and defense industries.
Nathan Lunstad | Getting a Drink in Rural Utah: How Safe Drinking Water Fuels Rural Utah Prosperity | Join Division of Drinking Water Director Nathan Lunstad, PhD, PE for an exciting overview of how the investments being made in rural drinking water planning and infrastructure are creating greater water resilience, along with economic and housing opportunities for these small yet mighty communities.
Ben Hart, Drake Howell, Jen Wakeland | Unlocking Rural Utah’s Potential: Strategic Site Selection, Infrastructure, and Community Impact | Join Jen Wakeland, Strategic Development Director for Beaver County, Drake Howell from BZI, and Ben Hart, Executive Director of the Utah Inland Port Authority, for a brief but insightful discussion on the key factors driving successful development in rural Utah. This session will explore how strategic site selection, infrastructure investment, and strong partnerships are transforming these areas into thriving business hubs. Learn how collaboration with local communities and the Utah Inland Port Authority is paving the way for sustainable growth and long-term success.
Governor Spencer J. Cox, Joel Ferry, Dusty Monks | Utah's Energy Future | Energy exists to meet human needs and unlock human potential, driving societal advancement. Utah's energy policy aims to achieve the state's energy objectives by placing human well-being at its forefront. While Utah's energy needs grow, the Office of Energy Development is working diligently to make sure when Utahn's flip the switch, the lights come on.
Ryan Starks | Rural Opportunity Fund: Utah's Rural Economic Engine | Rural Utah is a priority under the Cox-Henderson Administration. Under this priority the Rural Opportunity Fund was established. The fund is designed to assist rural communities address critical economic development needs. This program places the responsibly and opportunity for economic development decision-marking into the hands of rural county leadership. We will share community success stories financed from the fund.
Brad Bonham | What’s Happening in Utah: The Startup Capital of the World | The Startup State Initiative celebrates, inspires, and empowers Utah entrepreneurs and those who support them. This collaborative initiative supports entrepreneurs throughout the lifecycle of their business and encourages them to start in Utah .Our presentation is an update on what has happened since launch and the future of the program.
Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson | Utah's Voice: Trusting the Great Experiment | George Washington called our country the “last great experiment” for promoting democracy. Today, Utah’s local, regional and state governments exemplify how this great experiment can endure.
Jeremy & Kristin Andrus | Culture: How We Live is How We Lead | Jeremy and Kristin Andrus run two completely different organizations yet trace their success to the same thing: culture. As CEO at Traeger Grills, Jeremy rebooted a toxic culture to turn his company into the undisputed leader of wood-fired grilling. As a community champion, Kristin built a culture in which those who serve must be willing to get their "hands dirty and hearts broken." Join them for a candid discussion about the cultures we inherit, create, and share.
Governor Spencer J. Cox, Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson, Stephen Lisonbee | Rural Awards
Gail Miller, Utah's First Lady Abby Cox | Couch Conversation: A Legacy of Building | Join Utah First Lady Abby Cox for an intimate conversation with Utah Rural Legacy Leader Awardee Gail Miller as they discuss her journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Utah's leading philanthropists and business leaders. Be inspired as you learn about the challenges she overcame, the values that guided her, and the impact she continues to make in the community.
First Lady Abby Cox, Jon Oglesby, Scott Weaver | Show Up & Special Olympics Utah Lunch Announcement | Rev your engines for a high-octane event featuring Supercar Ron, Matt's Off-Road Recovery, and a lineup of dream rides! Your donations will drive support for Special Olympics Utah athletes, helping them stay on campus during the 2025 Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. Shift into gear, snap some photos with the supercars and owners, and help make this experience a win from start to finish!
Supercars For A Cause & Food Truck Roundup Lunch | Join us for an exciting event featuring Supercar Ron, Matt's Off-Road Recovery, and a showcase of incredible supercars, all in support of Special Olympics Utah athletes. Your donations will help cover housing and meals, giving these athletes the chance to stay on campus during the 2025 Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. Snap pictures with the supercars and owners, and help make this experience a win from start to finish! | Supercars will be located on 300 West between the Randall L. Jones Theatre and the SUU Auditorium.
The State Bank Business Challenge features contestants competing for over $50,000 in cash and prizes in front of a panel of all-star judges. Who will win the $5,000 people's choice award? Attend this event and help decide! | SUU Auditorium
Discover the heart of innovation at the Exhibit Hall, where cutting-edge products, inspiring displays, and interactive experiences come together to ignite your passion and drive for the future! You've never seen an exhibit hall like this one! | Hunter Alumni Center, Third Floor, Great Hall
- Natural Resource Management: Ensuring Utah’s Future | Josh Brown, Brian Steed, Kim Shelley. Moderated by Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson | Charles Hunter Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- National rankings consistently identify Utah as one of the best states in the nation for economic opportunity, fiscal stability, infrastructure, education, and the happiness of our residents. Maintaining that quality of life in the face of substantial predicted population growth will require intelligent use of our natural resources to meet our energy needs, maintain clean air, ensure an adequate supply of water, and provide for beloved outdoor recreational opportunities. This panel will explore some of the challenges and opportunities Utah faces as we seek to utilize our natural resources to provide for continued growth while meeting our land, water and air needs.
- Unlocking Rural Utah's Potential: Leveraging Local Talent and Global Partners | Vic Hockett, Kori Ann Edwards, Brendan Mosele. Moderated by Jonathan Freedman | Shooting Star Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join World Trade Center Utah for an insightful panel discussion on maximizing opportunities for rural Utah businesses. Our experts will explore strategies for nurturing local talent and forging global partnerships to drive growth. Learn how to develop skills within your community while also tapping into international resources. This panel will offer practical advice on balancing local workforce development with global collaboration, applicable to businesses expanding at any scale. Discover innovative approaches to invest in your local team, build international networks, and use digital tools to bridge geographical gaps in today's interconnected business world.
- Empowering Growth: Leveraging New Tools and Resources for Economic Development in Utah | Lance Soffe, Daniel Royal, Colette Cox, David Johnson, Ray Graham. Moderated by Jim Grover | Whiting Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join us for an engaging breakout session where we'll delve into the latest tools and resources designed to bolster economic development across the state. This session, presented by the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, will showcase innovative programs and support systems available to Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) and businesses. Learn how to leverage state-of-the-art tools and resources to enhance business growth and success in Utah. Whether you're part of an EDO or a business owner, this session offers valuable insights and practical strategies to drive economic prosperity in your community.
- A Case for Rail | Phillip Hoskins, Jake Harrison, Adrian Guerrero, Shawn Mildrup. Moderated by Danny Stewart | Yankee Meadows Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join us as we bring together leading experts and industry stakeholders to discuss the strategic importance of strengthening our state’s rail network. The panel will focus on how rail enhancements can drive economic development, improve logistics efficiencies, and support the wider economic agenda of rural empowerment in Utah.
- Strong Communities: A Together Utah | Laura Summers, Evan Vickers, David Blodgett, Scott Langford. Moderated by Tracy Gruber | Shooting Star Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join this panel as they talk about what a strong and healthy Utah looks like in our communities. What is happening and what kind of framework is being built to create social connection and maintain a high quality of life.
- Powering Utah Forward | Colin Jack, Ben Serrurier, Curtis Moore. Moderated by Dusty Monks | Whiting Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Meeting the state's energy demand is at the forefront of Utah's future quality of life and economic prosperity. Utah may be the most energy-efficient state in the nation, but it will take action, ingenuity and collaboration to keep it that way. It's critical that when Utahns flip the switch, the lights come on. This breakout session will include the perspective of state leaders and industry experts working to solve the complex challenges surrounding energy in Utah.
- Connecting Utah Through Aerial Transportation | Paul Dameron, Bob Yancey, Brian McCann. Moderated by Chris Metts | Yankee Meadows Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join industry leaders and experts in a dynamic panel discussion exploring the future of aerial transportation in Utah. This session will delve into the transformative potential of advanced air mobility and the challenges of integrating aerial transportation with existing infrastructure. Discover how Utah is positioned to lead the way in innovative, sustainable transportation solutions that can reshape regional connectivity and boost economic growth.
- Planning Utah's Future | Travis Kyhl, Steve Waldrip, Brian Barton, Matt Loo. Moderated by Laura Hansen.
- Utahns are known for collaborative problem-solving and proactive planning. As the state grows and our communities adjust to dynamic forces, leaders are coming together to ensure Utah's continued prosperity. This panel features visionary rural Utah conveners, planners, and builders of the future. Join us to learn about the Utah approach to addressing housing, homelessness, and economic development, and how this work is inspiring national discussions.
Get ready for an unforgettable night at the BZI Dinner Party! Indulge in a delicious dinner, catch an inspiring program, and enjoy live entertainment at the incredible BZI Innovation Park. Plus, we’ve got shuttles from SUU to make it easy! And the best part? It’s all FREE for Fall One Utah Summit ticket holders.
Address: 6522 E 4800 N, Cedar City, UT
*Please note that the BZI Dinner Party will be held at the BZI Innovation Park, an active job site. We recommend wearing appropriate attire, as the building is still under construction—your safety and comfort are our priority! RSVP to the dinner party here.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9TH: BUILDING LEADERS
Calling all early birds! Join us bright and early Wednesday morning at 6:30 AM for a refreshing hike on the Coal Creek Trail. This paved trail is the perfect way to start your day, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. It's a popular spot for birding, running and biking, so lace up your shoes, grab your layers and bring a headlamp or flashlight for this unforgettable experience! We will meet at Canyon Park East Side.
Join us for breakfast in the courtyard!
Stephen Lisonbee | Welcome
J.M. Fabrizi | The Blueprint for Extraordinary Leadership: Key Traits to Lead with Purpose | Discover why it is important for leaders to look both at their own perspective and that of those around them, and how individuals from any background can evolve into impactful leaders within their business, organization, or community.
Nate Walkingshaw & Aaron Starks | Lessons Learned on How to Launch and Grow Your Strategies | Join Nate Walkingshaw, CEO and founder of Torus, as Aaron Starks interviews him about leadership lessons he has learned as a founder who has grown multiple companies including Torus, the next-generation energy company he's building in Utah.
Jeremy Hafen | A Solid Foundation for Leadership | Sand, rock, cement, water and other key ingredients are mixed to create a solid concrete foundation. Individually, they are not strong. But combining the right amount of each crucial component, and allowing time to cure, creates a solid foundation for our homes, schools, roads and other critical structures. Reflecting on his professional journey, Jeremy Hafen, President and CEO of Clyde Companies, will share the key ingredients that create his solid foundation for leadership.
John Curtis | The Art of the No-Lose Deal | Discover strategies for creating win-win outcomes in negotiations and business deals, where both parties walk away with success.
Governor Cox, Lt. Governor Henderson, Stephen Lisonbee, Melynda Thorpe | One Utah Transformational Leadership Awards
Shawn Nelson | Let Me Save You 25 Years | This presentation shares essential insights from Shawn’s entrepreneurial journey. Shawn will focus on the value of continuous learning, finding solutions in any situation, understanding your purpose, and leading with kindness and composure. Gain actionable advice to fast-track your success and personal growth.
Join us for the Books, Brews & Bites Networking Break, featuring a special One Utah Book Club signing with Shawn Nelson, taking place outside on the Hunter Alumni Patio. Be sure to hurry back, because you won't want to miss world champion comedian Jordan Makin—get ready for some laughs!
Jordan Makin | World Champion Comedian | Hurry back to your seats and get ready to laugh until it hurts because Jordan Makin is bringing his unique brand of humor to the Summit stage!
Braydan Shaw | Roots of Resilience: Six Generations of Entrepreneurial Wisdom | A sixth-Generation business owner shares timeless lessons of entrepreneurial resilience from a 148-year-old family enterprise. Braydan revels how courage, adaptability, and commitment to core values have been cornerstones of their success. Learn how embracing innovation while honoring tradition has enabled this legacy to thrive, offering insights for today’s aspiring entrepreneurs.
Nubia Peña | Cultivating a Legacy of Impact through Hope-Centered Leadership | Drawing from close to 20 years of experience serving Utah’s vulnerable populations, through the use of stories, research-based insights and practical strategies, Nubia will highlight the tangible and generational impact we can sow by using Hope as a leadership framework.
Martin Frey | Leading Adventures That Change Lives | Strengthening character, leadership, and well-being by creating transformative outdoor experiences.
Jonah Goldberg | The Case For Gratitude | For all of our problems — and there are many — Americans remain among the luckiest people in all of human history simply because they live in this country at this time. A lack of gratitude for the blessing of liberty, prosperity, and opportunity is at the core of America’s greatest challenges today.
Take a well-deserved break with a delicious barbeque lunch from High Voltage BBQ! Enjoy mouthwatering, slow-smoked meats and savory sides while recharging for the afternoon’s sessions.
Lyndy Butler & the Moonflowers | Hurry back from lunch to enjoy a special musical performance.
Erin & Kim Clark | Activating the Soul, Heart and Mind of Leadership | Explore a new leadership paradigm that integrates the Soul, Heart, and Mind. This father-daughter duo will teach you to inspire meaningful change and lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose in all areas of life.
Loki & Joan Mulholland | Get Back to the Counter | From her participation in the Freedom Rides and the Woolworth sit-ins, Joan Trumpauer Mulholland’s story exemplifies quiet courage and the power of standing up for what you believe in. Hear from Joan and her son Loki about the transformational power of leadership.
Lt. Governor Henderson | Honorary Transformational Awards and FutureReady Utah Certifications
- How to be a Best Place to Work in Rural Utah | Logan Staheli, Megen Ralphs, LaTosha Mayo, Aimee Charlton | Charles Hunter Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Discover what it takes to create a workplace where employees truly love to be. This session draws on the principles from Clint Pulver's book I Love It Here, offering insights into building a positive and engaging work environment. You’ll hear from a business that has successfully implemented these principles, setting a standard for employee satisfaction and retention. Whether you're a leader looking to transform your organization or a team member aiming to improve your workplace culture, this session will provide practical strategies to help your company become a best place to work.
- How to Recover from a Communication Blunder | Faith Jolley, Matt Hargreaves, Nikki Koontz | Shooting Star Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- This session will provide valuable insights into managing and recovering from organizational or professional communication missteps. Learn from Utah's experienced PR pros about best strategies for bouncing back, repairing reputation, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. This session will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to handle communication blunders with confidence and resilience.
- The Changing Future of Rural Utah: What You Don’t Know | Quinn Bennion, Melissa Clark, Meghan McFall. Moderated by Donia Jessop | Yankee Meadows Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Utah's rural landscape is diverse and rapidly evolving, but understanding the nuances of its different regions is crucial for navigating the future. In this session, we will explore three distinct types of rural Utah: classic rural, remote rural, and transitional rural. Each presents unique challenges and opportunities, from preserving traditional lifestyles to addressing economic shifts and infrastructure needs. Join us as we uncover what you may not know about the future of these communities, discussing strategies for growth, sustainability, and resilience in the face of change.
- Get Back to the Counter Extended Conversation | Joan and Loki Mulholland | Charles Hunter Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Join us for an inspiring breakout session centered around Joan Mulholland's memoir, Get Back to the Counter, where we'll explore her courageous role as a leader for social change. This session will delve into the enduring lessons of Mulholland's life, discussing the power of nonviolent protest, the significance of allyship, and how her story resonates in today's societal challenges. Participants will leave with actionable insights and inspiration for advocating for others.
- Activating the Soul, Heart and Mind of Leadership | Erin Clark, Kim Clark, David Moss | Shooting Star Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- In this breakout session, we will explore the transformative insights from Leading Through: Activating the Soul, Heart, and Mind of Leadership. This session delves into the holistic approach to leadership that integrates emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making, and authentic self-awareness. Participants will engage in discussions on how to lead with purpose and navigate complex challenges by aligning leadership practices with your deepest values. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to grow in your leadership journey, this session offers practical strategies for leading with soul, heart, and mind in today's dynamic environments.
- Economic Growth and Collaboration | Chad Thomas, Brennan Brown, Brennan Wood, Brian Preece, Abby Ivory | Yankee Meadows Room, Hunter Alumni Center
- Unlocking the potential for economic growth requires a blend of strategic business expansion, effective capital acquisition, and strong partnerships with economic development entities. In this session, we will explore practical strategies for scaling businesses, securing the necessary funding, and leveraging resources through collaboration with local and regional economic development organizations. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or community developer, this session will provide actionable insights and tools to drive growth and create sustainable economic success.
Speakers
Awards
Sponsors
