2025 Alaska Young Professionals Summit

ROOT&RISE APRIL 10 - 12

ANCHORAGE

‘25 KEYNOTE EMMA BROYLES pioneer | advocate | role model

1st Miss America from Alaska

CONFERENCE OUTLINE FRIDAY, APRIL 11 EGAN CENTER

9:30 am - 10:00 am Welcome + Breakfast 10:00 am - 10:30 am Networking 10:45 am - 11:30 am Breakout Sessions 11:30 am - 12:00 pm Visit with Vendors 12:00 pm - 12:45 pm Breakout Sessions 12:45 pm - 2:00 pm Lunch + Presentation 2:15 pm - 3:00 pm Breakout Sessions 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm Visit with Vendors 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Keynote Reception + Awards + Prizes

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 49TH STATE BREWING 10:00 am - 10:30 am Networking Brunch 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Panel Presentation

Corporate Events

Private Bookings Monthly Ticketed Events

Locally Owned Locally Grown

thebridge.company

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Workshop 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm Closing Remarks

THURSDAY, APRIL 10 - GREEN CONNECTION 6:00-8:00 PM ..................................................NETWORKING RECEPTION Join us at the Summit’s Networking Reception to seed your network, enjoy fun activities for prize giveaways, and meet Emma Broyles, setting the stage to rise together! Don’t miss this chance to connect and grow!

FRIDAY, APRIL 11 - EGAN CENTER 9:30-10:00AM ..............................WELCOME & BREAKFAST (ARTEAGA) Calvin Chang, YPG Vice Chair; Kathleen McArdle, President/CEO, Anchorage Chamber of Commerce; Rebecca A. Windt Pearson, Municipal Manager, Municipality of Anchorage

10:00-10:30 AM .............................................NETWORKING (ARTEAGA) Start your Summit with inspiring leaders and a delicious breakfast, then cultivate connections with fellow attendees to build your network and find your “Summit buddies” for the day’s sessions.

10:45-11:30 AM ...........................BREAKOUT SESSIONS (SUMMIT HALL) (RM 1) THE SCIENCE OF PRODUCTIVITY: OPTIMIZE YOUR BRAIN FOR SUCCESS

Jamie Lytton, DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant, Neurovision We all know that managing stress, eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep are important for a healthy lifestyle—but how do we actually make those things happen to perform at our best? In this interactive and practical lecture, we’ll explore science-backed strategies to turn these habits into reality and boost your productivity. Get ready to uncover lifestyle changes that can help you optimize your brain and set you up for success!

(RM 2) CULTIVATING SUCCESS: HOW THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR CAN SUPPORT YOUR GROWTH

Demetria Veasy, Assistant Director, Department of Labor & Workforce Development/Division of Employment & Training Services This session will provide information on how the Department of Labor can support you as a professional. We administer state and federal grants to provide training, support services, job search and relocation assistance to ensure workers have the occupational credentials needed for a good job that pays well. We also have programs that can support your business if you’re an entrepreneur.

(RM 3) GROWTH THROUGH GIVING EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK

Cara Fox, Owner & Principal Consultant, ZenFox Solutions, LLC Giving feedback has often been noted as one of the most difficult tasks of a manager, or anyone for that matter, especially honest feedback.

When it comes to constructive feedback, we often sugar coat the news to preserve feelings, ego, or relationships. Positive feedback is often glossed over or not given because we undervalue its importance, get too busy, or simply think our opinion is not worth sharing. Alternatively, people miss opportunities to help someone grow, build trust and respect, or make someone’s day, simply because they don’t know how to give feedback properly, and instead, it falls flat. In this session, you’ll learn a model of feedback that takes the emotion and fear out of the process and will have you giving useful, actionable feedback every time, in any situation.

11:30 AM-12:00 PM ........................VISIT WITH VENDORS (LAPEROUSE)

12:00-12:45 PM .........................BREAKOUT SESSIONS (SUMMIT HALL) (RM 1) BUILDING STRONG ROOTS: RETENTION STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

Dave Valdez, COO, Alaska Wealth Advisors In today’s competitive job market, retaining top talent is more critical than ever. This session provides actionable strategies for boosting employee engagement, fostering professional development, and creating a workplace where employees thrive. Attendees will learn practical techniques for improving communication, providing meaningful feedback, creating growth opportunities, and building a positive company culture that attracts and retains top performers. This session is designed for all levels of experience, from entry-level managers to seasoned executives.

(RM 2) ROOT, SERVE, RISE: BUILDING A THRIVING COMMUNITY THROUGH VOLUNTEERISM

Brook Pigg, Wish & Community Advancement Manager, Make-A-Wish Alaska & Washington Learn about the benefits of volunteering and how giving your time and skills can improve your mental health, help build new relationships, and contribute to a stronger, more connected community. Attendees will also learn practical ways to get involved, from determining what volunteer opportunity best suits you to identifying local volunteer opportunities to engage in, and how volunteering can be a pathway to personal growth, career development, and a sense of purpose. The session aims to inspire individuals to take action and make a meaningful impact in their neighborhoods.

(RM 3) RISE ABOVE DISCRIMINATION: EMPOWERING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WITH CIVIL RIGHTS KNOWLEDGE

Rob Corbisier, Alaska State Commission for Human Rights As a Young Professional, you may have questions about the civil rights protections and laws enforced in Alaska. What accommodations am I owed? What should I do if a service animal walks into my business? How does new case law affect my legal obligations? This presentation will answer these questions and more! Bring with you any and all questions you may have about the civil rights laws of Alaska!

12:45-2:00 PM ...........................LUNCH + PRESENTATION (ARTEAGA) EFFECTIVE NEGOTIATION

Julie Wrigley, Assoc. Professor of Real Estate, UAA College of Business and Public Policy; Kori Callison, Head of Business Graduate Programs, Professor, UAA Giving honest feedback can be tough—it’s often softened to avoid hurt feelings or skipped altogether. This session introduces a simple model to help you deliver clear, actionable feedback without fear or emotion, helping others grow and building trust.

2:15-3:00 PM..............................BREAKOUT SESSIONS (SUMMIT HALL) (RM 1) FINANCIAL CULTIVATION: NURTURING YOUR WEALTH FOR LONG-TERM PROSPERITY

Abby Miller, Financial Wellness Program Manager, Cook Inlet Lending Center In today’s fast-paced world, achieving financial stability and independence is key to long-term success and peace of mind.

This session, tailored specifically for young professionals, will provide actionable steps to build a strong financial foundation and navigate the challenges of managing money early in your career.

(RM 2) ENTREPRENEURSHIP: HOW STARTUPS CAN CONTRIBUTE TO ALASKA’S ECONOMIC FUTURE

Ben Kellie, Co-Founder & CEO, Applied Atomics, Inc. The session will provide a serial entrepreneur’s (Founder of the Launch Company and Applied Atomics) perspectives on development in Alaska.

Will include ideas of what we can do in the state, including new and emerging industries and examples. The session aims to appeal to young professionals on how they can get involved and take the reins.

(RM 3) ROOTED IN AI, RISING TO OPPORTUNITY: WORKING AND LIVING IN THE AGE OF AI Kyle Easterly, CEO, PromptLab Corporation A practical exploration of how artificial intelligence is reshaping our professional landscape. Through live demonstrations and real-world examples, Kyle Easterly will guide attendees through the evolution of generative AI, from its foundations to cutting-edge applications in the workplace. The session includes hands-on AI tool demonstrations, best practices for responsible AI implementation, and exclusive previews of emerging AI technologies. Attendees will gain actionable insights into leveraging AI tools while maintaining human oversight and ethical considerations.

DEDICATED. RELIABLE. BUILT TO SERVE.

3:00-3:30 PM ...................................VISIT WITH VENDORS (LAPEROUSE) 4:00-5:00 PM ..................................... KEYNOTE RECEPTION (ARTEAGA) THE POWER IN INDIVIDUALITY

Emma Broyles, Miss America 2022 In today’s rapidly evolving job market, diversity, individuality, and authenticity are not only valued, but essential. There is profound power in embracing personal uniqueness - giving rise to a diversified and dynamic workplace, capable of producing success while fostering inclusivity. There is beauty in imperfection, and traits and characteristics that were once deemed “flawed”, can be advantageous, if properly employed.

5:00-6:00 PM .......................................AWARD CEREMONY (ARTEAGA)

SATURDAY, APRIL 12 - 49TH STATE BREWING 10:00-10:30 AM .............................................. BRUNCH + NETWORKING 10:30-12:30 PM .....................................................PANEL PRESENTATION ALASKA’S ECONOMY: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Mark Begich, President/CEO, Northern Compass Group; Taylor Holhouser, CoFounder, Seamark; Rebecca Logan, GM, Alaska Support Industry Alliance; Sarah Oates Harlow, President & CEO, Alaska CHARR; Donovan Rusollieno, Outreach Director, REAP; Brock Wilson, Research Assistant Professor, ISER A comprehensive overview of Alaska’s current economic landscape, with expert insights into key industries such as natural resources, hospitality, fishing, and renewable energy. Panelists will explore challenges, trends, and opportunities shaping Alaska’s economy, while addressing critical topics like government policy, entrepreneurship, and the role of young professionals in driving future growth.

12:45-1:45 PM ........................................................................WORKSHOP ALASKA’S ECONOMIC STORY - CONNECTING THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

Attendees work in groups to develop a visual representation of Alaska’s economic history, present state, and potential future. The groups can focus on specific sectors or the economy as a whole. Panelists are available for questions.

1:45-2:00 PM ............................................................CLOSING REMARKS

TOTEMARITIME.COM

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS JOEY BARRANCO, OWNER, MARY’S ROSE VIDEO

Joey Barranco is an Alaska-based filmmaker and video producer specializing in corporate storytelling, documentary filmmaking, and high-end commercial production. As the owner of Mary’s Rose Video, he has built a reputation for crafting compelling visual narratives that capture the essence of Alaska’s people, businesses, and landscapes. In December 2024, Joey earned his degree in Communications from the University of Alaska Anchorage while simultaneously running his video production business full-time. Balancing both roles required strong time management, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to his craft—skills that now define his approach to filmmaking and client collaboration. His ability to juggle academic and business responsibilities has shaped him into a highly efficient and disciplined professional. With over five years of experience, Joey has produced a wide range of high-quality content, from talking head interviews and event recaps to broadcast commercials and long-form documentaries. His experience filming in villages across every region of Alaska has given him a deep understanding of the logistical and creative challenges of working in remote environments. He thrives in fast-paced, unpredictable settings and knows how to pivot quickly when needed. Whether working in urban centers or remote communities, Joey ensures every production is well-executed and visually compelling. Beyond his technical expertise, Joey’s strengths lie in client communication, talent coordination, and strategic storytelling, ensuring each project meets the highest professional standards while staying on time and within budget. His strong leadership and problem-solving abilities make him an asset to any production, helping teams bring their creative visions to life. Joey’s work spans industries, from corporate and nonprofit organizations to tourism and education, bringing stories to life that engage audiences and leave a lasting impact. He is passionate about storytelling and believes in the power of film to inspire, educate, and connect people, making every project an opportunity to create something meaningful.

NATHAN BENTLEY, OWNER AND EXECUTIVE CHEF, ALTURA BISTRO

Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska; Nathan Bentley is an Alaskan through and through. Since childhood, annual family traditions of hunting and fishing have guided his career to represent the Last Frontier. Spending time with his parents in the kitchen as a child, he knew this was what he always wanted to do.

Nathan started his culinary schooling at King Tech High School in Anchorage. He then moved on to attend the Culinary Arts program at the University of Alaska Anchorage where he transferred for his final semester to Apicius International School of Hospitality in Florence, Italy.

Following culinary school he began to work for Restaurants Unlimited, Inc. where he rose to the Executive Chef position at the young age of 24. While working for RUI, he honed his craft and gained knowledge of running not just a kitchen, but restaurants as a whole.

In July of 2019, Nate ventured off on his own and opened Altura Bistro: a contemporary American restaurant focusing on elevating comfort food. The vision was to enhance the culinary scene in Alaska; from sourcing the highest quality ingredients to operating a scratch kitchen. Since then, he has been nominated for James Beard Best Chef: Pacific and Northwest in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The restaurant has also been recognized by Wine Spectator, with an Award of Excellence in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

ELIZABETH FREEMAN, FOUNDER, NUNA, LLC

Since moving to Alaska in 2016, Elizabeth has built a dynamic career in the mining industry, gaining experience in both production and exploration before advancing to Executive Senior Geologist at Yukuskokon Professional Services. Her passion for resource education led her to a role as a STEM Educator for Alaska Resource Education (ARE), where she taught students statewide and successfully launched a workforce development pilot program after securing $50,000 in grant funding.

Driven to expand her technical expertise, Elizabeth is actively pursuing a Master’s in Applied Geosciences at the University of Alaska Anchorage, with the goal of returning to the industry as a project geologist. Beyond her professional work, she serves as a National Representative for Women in Mining Alaska, Parliamentarian for the National Association of Black Geoscientists, and Board of Directors at the Petroleum Club of Anchorage. Lastly, she’s a dedicated mentor who has actively been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska since 2018.

In 2024, Elizabeth founded NUNA LLC, a social media management company helping oil, gas, and mining companies modernize their outreach while preserving industry values. Through NUNA, she has successfully bridged traditional resource industries with innovative digital storytelling.

At GCI, we pride ourselves on a remote first culture. By prioritizing support for remote work, we’re fostering a healthy work life balance for our employees beyond the work place. Interested in building a rewarding career and a better future for Alaskans? Visit gci.com/careers.

ALASKA’S MOST ADVANCED NETWORK 800.800.4800 // EOE/D/V

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR FINALISTS AMANDA ALLARD, DIGITAL MARKETING PROJECT MANAGER, MSI COMMUNICATIONS

Amanda Allard is a Digital Marketing Project Manager at MSI Communications, Anchorage’s largest full-service marketing agency. There, Amanda occupies a dual role managing multiple projects concurrently for some of the state’s largest employers, working closely with their multi-specialized team to communicate with precisely targeted audiences across virtually all new-media channels. She specializes in the digital realm, utilizing her expertise in programmatic and search engine techniques, targeted ad buys, data analytics, and other strategies to create, manage, and analyze effective campaigns with budgets large and small. These campaigns frequently include display, social media, SEM, display, and video marketing tactics. By understanding the analytics of how an ad is performing, Amanda is able to quickly reallocate resources to better target the most effective strategies Born and raised in Anchorage, she holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Marketing from the University of Alaska, Anchorage, where she was an undergraduate researcher, Honors Scholar, and two-time Tom Case Leadership Fellow. She obtained a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Leading in Business Settings from Creighton University. Amanda serves as co-chair for the Identity Health Clinic working to continue to provide access to the only gender-affirming clinic in the state. She also sits on boards of directors for Women’s Power League of Alaska, American Marketing Association, Alaska, and the UAA College of Business & Public Policy Dean’s Advisory Board. She also volunteers as a big sister in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska SYNC program, focused on building life skills in young adults transitioning to independent living.

KRYSTEN DEMIENTIEFF, PARTNER + CEO, BRILLIANT MEDIA STRATEGIES

Krysten is a Partner and Chief Executive Officer at Brilliant. Krysten and her team of account executives are the primary points of contact for their clients.

In addition to providing strategy, including media placement, Krysten’s expertise includes Alaska Native issues, government relations and issues management.

Krysten is the grease and glue that keeps the agency running smoothly and the team working together seamlessly, including with other organizations. Her dedication to and focus on each client’s unique needs and goals is why Brilliant is an award-winning agency.

Krysten previously worked as a legislative aide in the Alaska State Legislature. She was a key member of the Stand for Alaska (2018) ballot measure campaign and was Communications Manager for the OneALASKA (2020) ballot measure campaign.

Krysten holds a B.S. from Stanford University in science, technology and society with a concentration in innovation, technology and organizations.

Krysten is Gwich’in and Koyukon Athabascan and her family is from Beaver, Ruby and Fairbanks. She serves as Chair of the Alaska Native Professionals Association.

CELESTE EARLEY, CFRE, PHILANTHROPY OFFICER, THE ALASKA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

• Employers can expand

Celeste Earley is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) with over 10 years of experience serving Alaska’s nonprofit sector.

Born elsewhere but raised under the midnight sun, she is proud to call Alaska home. A graduate of the Anchorage School District and a UAA Alumna with a BA in History and a minor in Women’s Studies, Celeste is passionate about using her education to understand and address social issues.

Celeste’s career spans multiple sectors, including roles at a local art gallery, the Anchorage Museum, and Catholic Social Services. Now, as the Philanthropy Officer for The Alaska Community Foundation, she works to foster a love of philanthropy and build a more inclusive, giving community. Celeste brings her experience of running events, big and small, along with grassroots fundraising to achieve lasting relationships with donors and community partners. She is honored to work for an organization that is committed to connecting communities across Alaska with shared values and causes that matter.

Beyond her professional role, Celeste is actively involved in the Association of Fundraising Professionals Alaska Chapter, serving as President-Elect. Last November, she organized the Alaska Philanthropy Day Conference and Awards Luncheon, uniting community leaders to celebrate and elevate philanthropy in Alaska. She also spearheaded the successful campaign to have the Anchorage Assembly recognize November 15 as Philanthropy Day, highlighting the importance of local philanthropy.

Celeste enjoys running on Anchorage’s scenic trails, volunteering, and spending quality time with her family and friends. A fitness lover, she completed her first marathon in 2024 and is now focused on training for the Lava Man Triathlon in 2026. Whether it’s pushing herself in the next race or working toward meaningful social impact, Celeste is driven by a deep passion for making a positive difference in her community and hopes to inspire others to do the same.

All Summit attendees are entered to win two round-trip tickets to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies! #AlaskaCarelines

WIN

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Visit Frankie Dashiell at the Alaska 529 booth for details.

ONE PLAN, MANY PATHS. 1-888-425-2752 | Alaska529plan.com *Certain restrictions apply; visit Alaska529plan.com/DashToSave for terms and conditions.

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2024/25 EXECUTIVE BOARD Chair: Logan Burt

AK Promo Co

Vice Chair: Calvin Chang 49th State Angel Fund

Communications Chair: Vlad Finko

Alaska Wealth Advisors

Secretary: Sarah Lanners

Green Connection

Community Service Chair: Chris Loudon IMA

Membership Chair: Amanda Ashton GCI

Ex-Officio: Tana Skye Nevada The Bridge Co.

Summit Liaison: Tosha Swan Pereira

Anchorage Chamber

Events Chair: Audrey Scott

Focus Home Lending

Alaska is our Business.

Award-Winning Magazine + Website

www.akbizmag.com

The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in Alaska, and 5-Star Accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Founded in 1915 by local business leaders, the Chamber today is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) member-driven business organization representing nearly 800 companies and a regional workforce of approximately 50,000.

For over 100 years, we have served as a resource where our members can gain business knowledge, insight, and strength as business professionals. anchoragechamber.org

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SUMMIT SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS:

SILVER SPONSORS:

LUNCH SPONSORS:

NETWORKING RECEPTION SPONSORS:

PLUS! EXHIBITORS: COFFEE BREAK SPONSORS:

• • •

AWARD SPONSOR:

• •

SUPPORTING PROGRAM SPONSORS:

• • •

Alaska Housing Finance Corp.

American Cancer Society American Red Cross of Alaska Anchorage School Business Partnership Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska Covenant House Credit Union 1 DVR Alaska Dept. of Labor and Workforce Dev.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Dave & Buster’s Inc. Janco Peak 2 Peak Photo Emporium PMI Alaska Premera thread UAA Alumni Assoc. & Career Services United Way of Alaska Velocity YWCA Alaska

LAURA DEAN

Certified Military Financial Advisor® Laura Dean is a CMFA® in Alaska, a special designation highlighting her expertise in military benefits and financial strategies for service members, veterans, and their families

Why Choose to Work with Laura, CMFA®?

Air Force Veteran Benefits Analysis and Planning Transitioning from Service Strategies

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation 972-393-7393 214-972-0172 laura.dean@ampf.com The Certified Military Financial Advisors program is not affiliated or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense, or any other federal or state government program. For the most current rules, regulations and laws regarding benefits offered through the federal government or Department of Defense, please consult with their websites or contact the appropriate offices directly.

The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

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