February 27th & 28th 8:30am
Sevier County Fair Grounds
The Women in Business Annual Conference, hosted by College, is a two-day event designed to empower and inspire. Featuring multiple expert speakers, the conference covers key topics such as business strategies, professionalism, marketing, and tips for managing your own business. Connect, learn, and grow!
Register NowWe invite you to sign up as a sponsor for this event, where you'll have the opportunity to connect with attendees, showcase your brand in a prominent space, and engage with participants.
Both Days: (best value) $150 gets you access to all sessions and includes 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, snacks and special gifts
Day 1: $100, includes Thursday classes, breakfast, lunch, snacks and a gift
Day 2: $70, includes Friday classes, Keynote, breakfast, and a gift
This training qualifies for Custom Fit Training reimbursement when your business pays for the conference which brings your total cost to $75. Apply Here
Attending this conference because you want to start a business or improve your job? Apply for STIT Reimbursement and get 50% back.
Promote your business at the conference!
Showcase your business by providing a giveaway item to be displayed alongside your promotional materials (think business cards, flyers, or even an email sign-up sheet) throughout the conference. You'll have a table space of about 2.5 feet square to set up your display.
Here's the fun part: attendees will receive tickets for a chance to win your giveaway during the Friday lunch drawing!
Want to join in? Simply select the Giveaway option when you register. We'd love to feature your business!
Join us for a fun-filled seminar that explores the customer service philosophy of fishmongers at the World-Famous Pike Place Fish market in Seattle. This interactive training includes an entertaining video highlighting four philosophies that can be used in any business, and not just in a fish market!
About Mark AlgerReady to take control of your business finances, but not sure where to start? "Transform Your Business Through Better Budgeting" is a hands-on workshop designed specifically for business owners who want to build a stronger financial foundation. Stop treating budgeting like a dreaded chore and start using it as your secret weapon for business success. Come discover why a well-planned budget is your most powerful tool for making confident business decisions. Move beyond basic number-crunching to create a customized budget that actually works for your unique business needs and goals. From startup to scaling up, this workshop will give you the knowledge, clarity, and confidence to grow your business. You'll walk away knowing:
With 33% of all work-related injuries being related to poor posture, it's time to rethink our position and transition from being stationary to adding more movement in our workspace. There is a lot of “correct posture” advice out there; how do you know which ones are right? Is sitting really the new smoking? Or is there more to it than kicking over our chairs? Trading one stationary position for another is not the answer. It's less about the position and more about the time spent in the same position. This workshop is for anyone hoping to increase their daily movement and improve their health without sacrificing their productivity. All bodies are welcome here. Are you ready to have a healthier body in your workplace? In this workshop you will learn:
Bring a notebook and fast-writing pen, because you're about to take a marketing strategy crash course that guides you from defining your purpose to executing on a plan in 2 hours. Understand the most important elements you need to define to get qualified leads, including brand strategy principles, integrated marketing questions, and content strategy tactics. Throughout the class, you'll have time to brainstorm how to refine your current marketing strategy or build a strategy from the ground up. Join us to multiply your confidence as a marketer and make 2025 your most successful year yet.
About Catherine BennettUnlock the full potential of your business with the art of human resources. This class is designed specifically for business owners who are eager to enhance their HR skills and create a thriving workplace environment. Dive into the intricacies of the interview process, from crafting the perfect questions to understanding the do's and don'ts that can make or break a hiring decision. We will discuss integrating new employees with effective orientation strategies and the pivotal roles that management and HR play in fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Explore essential topics such as workplace safety, harassment, discrimination, and violence, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle these critical issues with confidence and care. Gain insights into managing employee performance, from providing constructive feedback to encouraging growth and development. Finally, we will talk about navigate the complexities of employee discipline and termination with professionalism and empathy. Join us to transform your HR approach and drive your business towards sustainable success.
About Meghan McFallWith 33% of all work-related injuries being related to poor posture, it's time to rethink our position and transition from being stationary to adding more movement in our workspace. There is a lot of 'correct posture' advice out there; how do you know which ones are right? Is sitting really the new smoking? Or is there more to it than kicking over our chairs? Trading one stationary position for another is not the answer. It's less about the position and more about the time spent in the same position. This workshop is for anyone hoping to increase their daily movement and improve their health without sacrificing their productivity. All bodies are welcome here. Are you ready to have a healthier body in your workplace? In this workshop you will learn:
This 50-minute Conflict Resolution workshop for Women in Business uses the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI) to help participants identify their unique conflict styles. Through guided discussions, a fast conflict assessment, and practical examples, attendees will learn how to effectively collaborate and resolve minor disagreements before they escalate into major conflicts. The session is designed for both personal and professional settings, providing actionable strategies to enhance communication, foster teamwork, and maintain positive relationships in the workplace and at home.
About Lisa LairdBring a notebook and fast-writing pen, because you're about to take a marketing strategy crash course that guides you from defining your purpose to executing on a plan in 2 hours. Understand the most important elements you need to define to get qualified leads, including brand strategy principles, integrated marketing questions, and content strategy tactics. Throughout the class, you'll have time to brainstorm how to refine your current marketing strategy or build a strategy from the ground up. Join us to multiply your confidence as a marketer and make 2025 your most successful year yet.
About Catherine BennettTo secure and keep a grant, you need a clear plan for managing funds and reporting their use, as non-compliance can have serious consequences. This class will help you develop a plan to demonstrate your organization's ability to achieve results. It will cover best practices for tracking spending, preparing financial reports, and meeting funderaising requirements. You will also learn about grant management systems and strategies for sharing financial progress with stakeholders. An engaging Q&A session will clarify concepts and provide practical solutions, making it accessible for those new to grants.
About Talia HansenThere's a quality that sets certain people apart—an undeniable energy that commands
attention and fuels success. It's not just charisma or talent; it's confidence. With it, you can overcome obstacles, take bold action, and unlock the door to your
greatest potential. Without it, even the best-laid plans falter before they begin.
Research shows that confidence often has a stronger correlation to success than competence
itself. But true confidence isn't superficial or fleeting; it's rooted in purpose
and the belief that you are capable of mastering whatever lies ahead. It's a force
that transforms thoughts into action and fear into opportunity.
In this session, we'll demystify confidence, explore self-efficacy, and reveal actionable
steps to cultivate this powerful trait. We'll learn to focus on our circles of influence,
stop arguing for our limitations, and define the purpose that drives us. Confidence
isn't just attainable - it's transformative.
from Utah Microloan Fund, Abby Ivory from R6, Forest Turner from Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, and Jackie Hobson from US Small Business Administration will be on tap to answer all of your business funding questions. Come learn about the opportunities waiting for you.
Have a project or task you've been putting off? Now's your chance to mark it off your list!
Join us for a delightful, honds-on Cupcake Decorating Workshop, where you'll discover the ins and outs of creating stunning cupcakes that are sure to impress! This session is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Christine, of Sugar Bean Bakery Utah, will guide you through some fun techniques, including the perfect buttercream swirl and using edible embellishments. You'll learn how to decorate beautiful cupcakes that capture the essence of edible art. By the end of the workshop, you'll not only take home your beautifully decorated cupcakes but also the confidence and skills to recreate them for your loved ones. Don't miss this opportunity to express your creativity and share the love through the art of cupcake decorating. *$10 fee payable by cash or Venmo to Christine at event
About Christine PinderIn a world that can feel gray or mundane, join me to learn how to put some sparkle in your life through the power of art! Paint a disco ball with me and learn about channeling your inner disco ball energy. After all, a disco ball is simply hundreds of pieces of broken glass put together to make a magic ball of light. I take you step by step through the painting process and you will leave with satisfaction of the painting you've created! *$10 fee payable by cash or Venmo to Kate at event
About Kate TannerHave a great idea, project, or program that needs funding? This class helps you break it down and write about it clearly, whether you're seeking funding from donors or grants. You'll learn how to explain your idea, write the main parts of a proposal, make a budget, and gather needed documents. A Q&A session will follow to help with any specific questions.
About Talia HansenIn today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses must adapt to stay ahead of the competition. "Marketing 4.0: Embracing AI for Competitive Advantage" is a class designed to equip business professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to harness the power of artificial intelligence in their marketing strategies. This session will explore the transformative impact of AI on marketing, from data-driven decision-making to personalized customer experiences. Participants will learn how AI can enhance customer segmentation, optimize content creation, and improve campaign performance. Through real-world examples, attendees will gain insights into successful AI implementations. The class will also address common challenges when integrating AI into marketing practices. By the end of the session, participants will have a clear understanding of how to leverage AI technologies to gain a competitive edge and drive business growth. Whether you're a marketing professional, business owner, or entrepreneur, this class will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the future of marketing with confidence.
About Meghan McFallIn today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses must adapt to stay ahead of the competition. "Marketing 4.0: Embracing AI for Competitive Advantage" is a class designed to equip business professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to harness the power of artificial intelligence in their marketing strategies. This session will explore the transformative impact of AI on marketing, from data-driven decision-making to personalized customer experiences. Participants will learn how AI can enhance customer segmentation, optimize content creation, and improve campaign performance. Through real-world examples, attendees will gain insights into successful AI implementations. The class will also address common challenges when integrating AI into marketing practices. By the end of the session, participants will have a clear understanding of how to leverage AI technologies to gain a competitive edge and drive business growth. Whether you're a marketing professional, business owner, or entrepreneur, this class will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the future of marketing with confidence.
About Amanda TullisWomen emerge as leaders in every industry, and our presence in the workforce, office, and boardroom is growing. However, many of us feel that to be heard, we have to adopt the leadership style of the men with whom we compete. What does it mean to lead as a woman -- as yourself? How can you show technical skill and leadership acumen without compromising your nature? Our session will explore habits that undermine your natural authority, and effective technical, tactical, and transformational leadership beliefs, skills, and strategies to help you lead confidently LIKE YOU.
About Aimee DiBrienzaReady to connect, learn, and grow?
Abby Ivory is a seasoned Economic Development Coordinator with over two decades of fostering
economic growth and community development. Her expertise spans various aspects of
economic planning including small business development, government relations, affordable
housing, as well as chamber of commerce mentorship.
Abby is deeply committed to her community, regularly volunteering for local non-profits
and participating in civic organizations. She believes in the power of community engagement
and works tirelessly to ensure that economic development benefits all residents. In
her current role, Abby serves on the board of the Rural Utah Chamber Coalition, where
she advocates for rural chambers and communities, develops strategic initiatives to
drive meaningful economic progress, supports rural innovation, and works to create
lasting prosperity for rural Utah residents.
Aimee DiBrienza is a Utah native, and a self-proclaimed Swamp Angel from Emery County. She is an alumni of Southern Utah University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a Utah Secondary Teaching Certificate. She also holds a Master of Education from Westminster College, with an emphasis in administration. She is in her 27th year of service in education, and her third year with SUU's Community and Workforce Development department as the Director of Adult and Workforce Education. In this role, Aimee builds certificate programs, pathways, and training across a wide variety of industries and works with industry partners to upskill the workforce for current and emerging needs. She is the Director of FutureReady Utah Business Leaders Academy, and travels across eleven counties to deliver business leadership training to support sustainable economic and community growth. Aimee excels in problem solving, aligning steps with vision, and people work, and considers community one of her strongest driving values.
Amanda Tullis is the President and CEO of Lead to Action. Passionate about empowering others and
making a meaningful impact, Amanda is deeply committed to community service and leadership.
With expertise in leadership development, public relations, marketing, conflict resolution,
team building, and professional speaking, she inspires individuals and organizations
to achieve excellence.
As a business consultant, Amanda equips entrepreneurs, business owners, and employees
with the strategic tools to navigate today's dynamic business landscape. From creating
comprehensive strategies to accessing funding, leveraging financials, and leading
effective teams, she provides tailored solutions for success.
When she's not leading, strategizing, or consulting, Amanda powers through her dynamic
roles running on protein powder, dry shampoo, and a touch of sarcasm to keep life
interesting.
Camille Pendleton- After completing an MBA from Utah State University, Camille was a consultant with the Connecticut-based Avraham Y. Goldratt Institute. There she helped many industries and types of business improve using the Theory of Constraints. She later became the Vice President of Manufacturing at Bal Seal Engineering, Inc. in California where she guided the fulfillment end of the company's growth to $25 million. Currently a SBDC Regional Director, she mentors business owners and helps them be successful.
Catherine Bennett is the Managing Director of Marketing at iMpact Utah, a manufacturing consulting and training company held accountable by government agencies to make a positive impact in manufacturing businesses, from revenue growth to process improvement. She hosts the Making Utah podcast, which creates a platform for Utah manufacturing voices. She has a master's degree in professional communication and 12+ years of marketing leadership experience. Before her role at iMpact, Catherine founded Backpack Marketing, a fractional marketing agency that helped startups and small businesses scale.
Christine Pinder is the owner of Sugar Bean Bakery Utah, in Richfield, UT. The first Richfield @HomeBakery-Christine is a passionate baker who believes that good food brings people together. Baking in Sevier County since 2009, Christine believes in useing the best ingrediants for the best product. Christine firmly believes Children are our future Teaching the yourth how to bake has been a huge part of her journey. She partnered with 4-H in 2013, offering a Baking Club to the youth, teaching them how to bake delicious treats from scratch. In 2023, she joined YLA and began teaching the Future Bakers Class and Future Chef's Class for the Homeschool Organization. For fun, she offers a monthly Cupcake Decorating Workshops, and new this year - Cookie Decorating Workshops. Sugar Bean Bakery Utah is a 3 time winner of The Best fo the Best, and in 2023, Christine was awarded Business Woman of the Year.
Holly Sweeten is serving in her fifth year as the Director of Outreach in the Office of Congressman Burgess Owens, in the U.S. House of Representatives. She works out of his Utah office and is deeply honored as a 7th generation Utahn, to keep serving and paying it forward, for the betterment of the next 7generations.She takes great care to create bridges of friendship and understanding among constituents and to seek for solutions for the many issues that burden Utah citizens and that deprive them of the ability to fully live out their American dream. Whether seeking for policy or regulatory improvements, if Holly can't provide the optimal help she knows someone who can. As a recent candidate for the Utah State House, she believes deeply in ensuring Utahns have the most constitutionally sound policies to provide the most free and prosperous environment for families to thrive. She also currently serves in several capacities for both International and State Non-Profits as an Executive Board member and volunteer in the areas of Women's empowerment, Veterans issues, those experiencing homelessness, and Afghan refugee services.She studied at the University of Utah and Utah Valley University, where she took a huge gap after her freshman year to serve a mission, get married, raise her children, help run a family business and then returned to earn her Bachelors in Sociology and a two-year Certificate in National Security Studies. She and her husband Rod have a combined family of 9 children, 6 sons, 3 daughters and 7 grandchildren. Holly enjoys teaching Constitution classes through Patriot Academy, loves the outdoors, especially in beautiful Utah, loves working out, enjoys interior design and golfing with her husband and children. For all the many ways in which Holly chooses to fill her life with purpose, spending time with her family is the very best. As Holly has the honor of meeting so many great women along her journey who are striving to live with purpose and intention and who want it ALL – she gives this advice;YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL- JUST NOT ALL AT ONCE!! BE PATIENT WITH LIFE AND KNOW IT WILL UNFOLD WITH BLESSINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES ONE STEP AT A TIME.
Jackie Hobson has a career in both supporting small businesses and bring a serial entrepreneur. Currently she works for the US Small Business Administration as an Outreach and Marketing Specialist where she supports entrepreneurs and the small business support organizations who provide tools and guidance to help small businesses thrive. In past roles Jackie has worked for the Small Business Development Center and was the Director for the Veteran Business Resource Center where she consulted over 300 individuals providing support from ideation to exit strategy. She has owned multiple businesses herself, including becoming a franchisor of a specialty gift shop where she oversaw her store as well as multiple franchisees. She stays up to date with current entrepreneur experiences as she helps her husband run a business in Southern Utah. Outside of her professional life, Jackie is a mother of five who is an outdoor enthusiast. She loves hiking, camping, paddle boarding, and boating. She is an advocate for small businesses, with a soft spot for veterans and women. She strives to help others find happiness through balancing successful careers with fulfilling personal and family lives.
Janette Wagner helps businesses thrive! As Assistant Director of the SBDC and Custom Fit Field Rep, she provides expert consulting and training at Snow College Richfield, serving the six-county region. She also leads the Women in Business program, including an annual conference. Raised across Idaho, Colorado, and Utah, Janette holds a BS in General Education with an emphasis in political economy. She's certified in Microsoft Office, Google Project Management, QuickBooks, Cybersecurity, and remote work strategies. A business owner for 20+ years, Janette understands the challenges entrepreneurs face. She's a problem-solver, leadership coach, and efficiency expert. When she's not helping businesses grow, she's spending time with her husband, five kids, and five grandkids—likely on a pickleball court, in a book, or trying a new dish!
Jenna Draper, a Monroe, Utah native, built her career on a strong educational foundation from South Sevier High School and Snow College, later earning a BS in Human Resource Management from Utah State University. Her expertise led her to manage HR departments across the Wasatch Front, ultimately serving as the Director of Operations for a large orthopedic practice in Brunswick, Maine. Upon returning to her hometown, Jenna shifted her focus to economic development and now serves as the Associate Vice President of Regional Project Area Development for the Southeast Region of the Utah Inland Port Authority. Her dedication to fostering growth and development reflects her commitment to supporting communities and driving regional success.
Kate Tanner- As a lover of all things colorful, happy, and bright, Kate is a successful artist, paint night instructor, muralist, and mama! She enjoys teaching, creating a magical home full of light and love, and sharing her optimism with others. She runs her business through social media — MADE BY KATE on both instagram and facebook, and hosts regular paint nights at the local bar.
Lara Beckstrand, PAS, is a posture restoration therapist, functional movement teacher, and small business owner. She started out as a posture client when she lost all function of her right leg. Through her journey to heal her own body she fell in love with the field and now is a passionate posture therapist helping and empowering people to get out of pain and restore proper function to their body. Nature has a design and, with a little know-how and some basic posture skills, everyone can live with a body that moves better and feels better. When Lara is not working she can be found hanging out with her children and grandchildren or scrambling the red rocks of southern Utah. Or better yet, both at the same time.
Lisa Jane Laird is an experienced professional specializing in conflict resolution, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness. With a strong background in coaching and training, she empowers individuals and teams to enhance their communication skills and resolve conflicts constructively. As a sought-after facilitator, Lisa brings practical strategies to both personal and professional settings, helping participants build stronger relationships and navigate challenges with confidence. Her expertise includes leveraging tools like the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument, Gallup Strengths, and Stanford's Design Your Life to promote collaboration and create harmonious work environments. Lisa is committed to supporting the growth and success of women in business, with a focus on fostering resilience and effective problem-solving. She is the director of the Snow College Career Center.
Mallory Corry brings a decade of dynamic experience in economic development and marketing, spiced
with multiple certifications in social media marketing and business consulting. Her
work is a thrilling blend of expertise and passion, where she's not just developing
markets but also communities.
A dedicated mom to one, she channels her love for adventure into her work. Her infectious
enthusiasm has not only spearheaded successful campaigns but also fostered a culture
of creativity and engagement, making every project an exciting journey towards innovation
and impact.
Mark Alger's first job was counting worms for his family's wholesale fishing supply business
in Enterprise, Utah. He has used the lessons he learned while counting worms throughout
his career and shares those lessons in his trainings and with businesses throughout
Central Utah. Today Mark's customers count on his business, Ensign Staffing, to help
them connect with the right employees at the right time to be productive and profitable.
Mark is passionate about helping rural businesses succeed. He served as the President
of the Richfield Area Chamber and currently serves on the Sevier County Economic Development
Council. He's developed and delivered customer service programs for managers and continues
to stay focused on wowing customers as a business owner.
Meghan McFall is a seasoned business leader and educator with over 22 years of experience across industries like e-commerce, restaurants, and wealth management. Her dedication to education and community development has seen her collaborate with institutions such as Salt Lake Community College and Utah State University. Meghan is also a prominent speaker at business conferences. She founded ashTEC, a consulting firm focused on business, economic, and workforce development, particularly in rural areas. The firm is known for its multilingual services and personalized support for individuals, startups, and corporations. Meghan's "boots on the ground" approach ensures tailored solutions through one-on-one meetings and hands-on training, emphasizing client satisfaction and community impact.
René Barlow is a wife, mom of 4, business owner, and has used a budget since she was 16. She taught piano lessons for 10 years, volunteers at school and church, and understands what it takes to manage it all. Her love of numbers led her to bookkeeping, and now she uses her natural teaching skills and down-to-earth personality to help small business owners gain confidence and clarity. Think of it as learning from a trusted friend who happens to love spreadsheets! She specializes in helping you understand your business finances so you feel empowered to grow. Knowing your numbers isn't just about tax season - it's the foundation to help you make informed decisions and set your business up for long-term success. Her motto says it all: "Let me do what I love, so you can spend more time doing what you love - growing your business with confidence!"
Stacee McIff became the 18th President of Snow College in 2023. Previously, she served as interim president; led the college's technical education initiatives as Vice President of Technical Education and Workforce Engagement; and served as Associate Provost, Business Department Chair, and faculty member since 2006. In her roles, Stacee has championed collaboration, innovation, student engagement, and academic excellence. Beyond Snow College, Stacee has volunteered as national board chair of Future Business Leaders of America, Inc., and served on the SUU National Alumni Council, Leavitt Center for Politics and Public Service Board, New Horizons Crisis Center Board of Directors, and as president of the Sevier County Republican Women. Stacee holds a bachelor's degree in business education from Southern Utah University, a master's degree from Utah State University in business information systems, and a post-graduate certificate in community college leadership from Old Dominion University. Stacee and her husband, Mark, have two daughters and live in Richfield. Ingrained with a passion for serving rural communities, Stacee was born and raised in Panguitch, Utah, which is still just about her favorite place in the world.
Talia Hansen is the founder of Latigic LLC. She is thrilled to be able to pursue her passion of bringing business, grant writing, and creative services to underserved communities, with an emphasis on advocacy for women and rural areas. She has acquired a reputation as an instructor who can explain business, branding, marketing, and financial concepts to empower business and nonprofit owners to make informed decisions. Talia's business offers services and courses on these topics regularly for a nationwide audience. Her assignments include being a guest instructor for business programs, conference breakout sessions, and, most recently, a new role as the Economic Development Manager for San Juan County, Utah.
Tonia Lewis has worked for the Snow College Career Center as an Administrative Assistant for 7 months, and at Snow College previously for 6 years in the library. Tonia enjoys helping students with their job search, career exploration, reviewing resumes, preparing for job interviews, and assists Lisa Laird at job fairs and many other administrative tasks. Sharing her passions for over 20 years Tonia is the Sole Proprietor of, Soar Creative Services helping small businesses with website design, graphic design, commercial photography and marketing. Tonia is also an Archivist for the non-profit Sevier County Archives and Heritage Services, gathering, preserving and sharing the history of Sevier County through their website. Leisure time incudes chasing Hot Air Balloons at festivals in Utah and the surrounding states, as Crew Chief for her husband who pilots the balloons for Czech It Out Balloons LLC.
