Thank you to our presenting partner and summit sponsors!
On behalf of the David Eccles School of Business, thank you for your support of the 2026 Sales Innovation Summit. Your generosity underscores your commitment to the future of sales and the transformative impact this vital industry has on students, businesses, industries, and society as a whole.
As highlighted at this year’s Sales Innovation Summit, the value of specialized sales education continues to grow, shaping the next generation of professionals who will drive innovation and economic growth.
This year we took our commitment to sales a step further by introducing a cutting-edge technology stack directly into the classroom, equipping our future sellers with hands-on experience using AI-powered sales tools. From intelligent prospecting and pipeline management to AI-driven coaching and customer insights, our students are learning to harness the same technologies reshaping the modern sales landscape.
Your support plays a vital role in ensuring our students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation to excel in dynamic sales careers. Together, we are creating opportunities for students to secure impactful roles, contribute meaningfully to their organizations, and strengthen the broader business community.
With immense gratitude,
Rita Schwisow
Rita Schwisow
Assistant Professor, Department of Marketing
David Eccles School of Business
STUDENTS FROM 9 UNIVERSITIES IN ATTENDANCE
30 COMPANIES TABLING AT JOB FAIR
12 BREAKOUT SESSIONS
275+ ATTENDEES
1
SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT | 2026
Fintech For Dummies
Jimmy Stephens
Utah State University Alum
The Professional Beggar: Asking with Confidence, Clarity, and Purpose
Cameron Chatwin
Utah Tech University Alum
Where Passion Meets Profit: Inside the Sports Industry Engine
Jim Olson
University of Utah Alum
Own Your Journey: Turning Ambition Into Action
Joel Brough
Stevens-Henager College Alum
You Are the Product: Selling Yourself & Beyond
Kenneth Scott
University of Utah Alum
Insuring Your Future
Laura Stireman
Exploring Careers in Medical Device Sales
Mark Paul
University of Utah Alum
Your Story Is Your Power: Standing Out Without Experience
Megan Westover
Utah Valley University Alum
Keynote with Shawn Adamson
SVP, Global Enterprise Solutions, Comcast Business
University of Utah Alum
David Eccles School of Business / 7
The sales innovation summit throughout the years has not only allowed me to meet incredible people, but has allowed me to gain a better understanding of what industry I want to go into! The 2026 Sales Innovation Summit gave students the opportunity to meet leaders in various industries. Experiences like this are extremely valuable. They bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world in a way that no textbook ever could. Walking away with genuine connections and a clearer sense of direction is something you simply can’t put a price on. Grateful for the University of Utah for continuing to make this possible, and excited to carry these lessons forward as I take my next step in my career.
Tyler “Buzz” Hodson Marketing, Class of 2026
2026 Sales Club President tylerhodson
The first time I attended, I was freshly a member of the Sales Club. I signed up because I was trying to get more involved at the business school; working full-time and living off campus, I was curious about what was available to me as a student. I was extremely impressed by the eventthe organization, quality of speakers, and quality of education offered. Not only education, but connections. Shaking a speaker’s hand, connecting with them on LinkedIn, and even sending a follow-up message can be career altering. This event made me more excited to get involved with the Sales Club, which ultimately led to my own career pivot and the job I now have, and love. I also stand as the incoming president for Sales Club, and am excited for all we have to offer to students. I have heard nothing but positive things from others who attend- I genuinely think this is a quality event.
Kamryn Ely
Business Administration, Class of 2027
kamryn-ely518
I had an incredible opportunity to be part of the Sales Innovation Summit held by David Eccles School of Business.
As a new member of the executive board, I had the opportunity to work behind the scenes and have a better understanding of how to host seamless and smooth work events. I lead introductions for our guest speakers, kept students engaged and involved in the breakout rooms. This allowed me to grow as a leader, and a student, by improving my public speaking skills, and maintaining engagement among groups.
Joel G. Brough and Megan Westover, MBA were the guest speakers I got to personally work with, they were incredibly insightful in their line of work. My biggest takeaways were if you want something, do not wait for it and get after it. The world does not stop and wait for anyone, but there are no wrong decisions. Life is a series of choices, and those choices will always provide some type of a lesson. It is up to you to decide how you apply that lesson and take action. By taking action and accountability, you will see results and have your own success story.
I want to thank you University of Utah - David Eccles School of Business for hosting this event, bringing in amazing people to talk to and make connections with, as well Kamryn Ely for the guidance and support.
Mackenzie Shimkus
Marketing, Class of 2029 mackenzie-shimkus-a77b57310
The Sales Innovation Summit continues to be one of the highlights of the year, and one of the things that continues to make this event so impactful is the strong partnership we have with our employer community.
This year’s event brought together an outstanding group of 30 employers, ranging from high-growth companies like Brex, Glia, and Redo to globally recognized organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, PepsiCo, and Enterprise Mobility. Together, they provided students with a meaningful look at the many directions a career in sales can take. The range of industries represented—from technology and healthcare to manufacturing, logistics, and entertainment—helped students better understand not only the breadth of opportunities available, but also where they can see themselves thriving.
Many of our partners shared how valuable it is to participate in a recruiting experience dedicated specifically to sales, where they can connect with students who are genuinely interested in and
prepared for these roles. I consistently hear how impressed they are with the caliber of students they meet, specifically noting their professionalism, confidence, experience, and ability to build authentic relationships.
As an annual event, the Sales Innovation Summit has quickly become one that our employer partners look forward to each year. It has grown into one of the premier sales-focused recruiting events in the state and serves as a cornerstone of how we connect students with industry. For many organizations, it has become an essential part of their talent strategy.
I’m proud of the role this event plays in preparing our students for successful careers in sales and in strengthening our business community.
Denise DeCoite Senior Director, U Career Success University of Utah
David Eccles School of Business /
