31st ANNUAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
ENERGY IN IDAHO - APRIL 21-23, 2024 @ SUN VALLEY RESORT
LEARN ALONGSIDE CHAMBER MEMBERS & COMMUNITY THOUGHT-LEADERS
The Boise Metro Chamber welcomes Idaho's top CEOs, elected officials, esteemed local leaders, and members of the business community to our 31st Annual Leadership Conference at the Sun Valley Resort during April 21-23, 2024. Each year, the conference focuses on the current landscape and potential solutions for matters impacting our state. This year’s agenda will explore “Energy in Idaho” through thought provoking sessions and engaging panel discussions. Reserve your opportunity to gain exclusive insights, cultivate invaluable connections, and participate in the transformative two and a half-day experience by registering today. For agenda with speaker bios and headshots continue reading. |
2024 LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE AGENDA
@ SUN VALLEY INN
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2024
3–7 PM | CHECK-IN & REGISTRATION:
Limelight B Promenade
6 PM | HOSTED WELCOME RECEPTION
Sponsored By Sun Valley Resort
7:30 PM | DINNER ON YOUR OWN
3–7 PM | CHECK-IN & REGISTRATION:
Limelight B Promenade
6 PM | HOSTED WELCOME RECEPTION
Sponsored By Sun Valley Resort
7:30 PM | DINNER ON YOUR OWN
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
DUCHIN LOUNGE (208) 622-2145
This legendary lounge inside the Sun Valley Lodge serves up cocktails, regional craft beers on tap, and an extensive wine list. Now you can also duck in for a quick bite from our lounge menu.
ENOTECA (208) 928-6280
Enoteca opened its doors in December of 2012 & caught on quick with its grand, wood-fired oven, its made-to-order hand-tossed pizzas, & its open kitchen, where the chefs prepare Italian influenced dishes such as Wild Boar Ragu & fresh house-made pasta courtesy Mason Family Provisions.
GRETCHEN'S (208) 622-2144
Adjacent to the Sun Valley Lodge lobby, Gretchen’s restaurant welcomes you with a relaxing indoor/ outdoor feel with easy access for terrace dining during the summer. Enjoy lunch and full bar service. Sun Valley’s own Gretchen Fraser is the restaurant’s namesake, the first American to win an Alpine Olympic Gold Medal.
GRILL AT KNOB HILL (208) 726-8004
Distinctively Northwest cuisine, with a variety of American and European classics, makes for anticipated highlights such as Idaho Ruby Red Rainbow Trout, prime steaks, local lamb, and wild game. Experience a Rocky Mountain influenced menu featuring the highest quality meats, poultry, and seafood available.
KETCHUM GRILL (208) 726-4660
Located in the historic Ed Williams House built in 1885, on the corner of East Avenue and Fifth Street, The Grill receives continued accolades, including being selected one of the “eight best Ski town restaurants” by Snow Country Magazine with “food rivaling Manhattan’s best”.
KONDITOREI (208) 622-2235
The Austrian-inspired Konditorei warms you by the fire with fresh-baked pastries, locally roasted, fair trade and organic coffees, and the kind of Old World hot cocoa that’s equal parts steamed milk and melted dark chocolate. And if you’re seeking something beyond continental café fare, Konditorei offers classic dishes to bring you to an alpine state of mind in the chalet-inspired dining room.
THE LOUNGE (LIMELIGHT HOTEL) (208) 726-0863
Our culinary team brings a distinctive flair to a menu centered on creative, seasonal dishes. Start off with a dish of elk carpaccio, order one of the many gourmet pizzas, or simply dive into a roasted beet salad with oranges, hazelnuts and goat cheese. After a day on the mountain, you’ll be relieved that an excellent dinner is so close at hand.
THE PIONEER SALOON (208) 726-3139
The Pioneer Saloon, renowned for perfectly aged, tender and flavorful beef, is typical of an earlier Idaho where ore wagons rattled down Main Street and business was done with a handshake and a drink. Natural woods, mounted game, and period firearms help recreate an authentic saloon atmosphere.
THE SAWTOOTH CLUB (208) 726-5233
Always busy with a great mix of locals and visitors, The Sawtooth Club offers a unique blend of American steakhouse classics, fresh seafood, wild game, unique pasta dishes and much more. Many entrees are cooked over the live, mesquite-wood fire, and all are prepared with a singular creative flair.
SMOKY MOUNTAIN PIZZERIA & GRILL (208) 622-5625
Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill has been celebrating rustic, handcrafted food since it’s opening in 1992. With a casual and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere Smoky’s has been a memorable place to gather for our local communities.
This legendary lounge inside the Sun Valley Lodge serves up cocktails, regional craft beers on tap, and an extensive wine list. Now you can also duck in for a quick bite from our lounge menu.
ENOTECA (208) 928-6280
Enoteca opened its doors in December of 2012 & caught on quick with its grand, wood-fired oven, its made-to-order hand-tossed pizzas, & its open kitchen, where the chefs prepare Italian influenced dishes such as Wild Boar Ragu & fresh house-made pasta courtesy Mason Family Provisions.
GRETCHEN'S (208) 622-2144
Adjacent to the Sun Valley Lodge lobby, Gretchen’s restaurant welcomes you with a relaxing indoor/ outdoor feel with easy access for terrace dining during the summer. Enjoy lunch and full bar service. Sun Valley’s own Gretchen Fraser is the restaurant’s namesake, the first American to win an Alpine Olympic Gold Medal.
GRILL AT KNOB HILL (208) 726-8004
Distinctively Northwest cuisine, with a variety of American and European classics, makes for anticipated highlights such as Idaho Ruby Red Rainbow Trout, prime steaks, local lamb, and wild game. Experience a Rocky Mountain influenced menu featuring the highest quality meats, poultry, and seafood available.
KETCHUM GRILL (208) 726-4660
Located in the historic Ed Williams House built in 1885, on the corner of East Avenue and Fifth Street, The Grill receives continued accolades, including being selected one of the “eight best Ski town restaurants” by Snow Country Magazine with “food rivaling Manhattan’s best”.
KONDITOREI (208) 622-2235
The Austrian-inspired Konditorei warms you by the fire with fresh-baked pastries, locally roasted, fair trade and organic coffees, and the kind of Old World hot cocoa that’s equal parts steamed milk and melted dark chocolate. And if you’re seeking something beyond continental café fare, Konditorei offers classic dishes to bring you to an alpine state of mind in the chalet-inspired dining room.
THE LOUNGE (LIMELIGHT HOTEL) (208) 726-0863
Our culinary team brings a distinctive flair to a menu centered on creative, seasonal dishes. Start off with a dish of elk carpaccio, order one of the many gourmet pizzas, or simply dive into a roasted beet salad with oranges, hazelnuts and goat cheese. After a day on the mountain, you’ll be relieved that an excellent dinner is so close at hand.
THE PIONEER SALOON (208) 726-3139
The Pioneer Saloon, renowned for perfectly aged, tender and flavorful beef, is typical of an earlier Idaho where ore wagons rattled down Main Street and business was done with a handshake and a drink. Natural woods, mounted game, and period firearms help recreate an authentic saloon atmosphere.
THE SAWTOOTH CLUB (208) 726-5233
Always busy with a great mix of locals and visitors, The Sawtooth Club offers a unique blend of American steakhouse classics, fresh seafood, wild game, unique pasta dishes and much more. Many entrees are cooked over the live, mesquite-wood fire, and all are prepared with a singular creative flair.
SMOKY MOUNTAIN PIZZERIA & GRILL (208) 622-5625
Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill has been celebrating rustic, handcrafted food since it’s opening in 1992. With a casual and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere Smoky’s has been a memorable place to gather for our local communities.
MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2024
8 AM | REGISTRATION OPENS
Promenade Sun Valley Inn
8 AM | NETWORKING CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Continental Room
9 AM | OPENING SESSION & KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Limelight Room, Salon B
Opening Remarks
8 AM | REGISTRATION OPENS
Promenade Sun Valley Inn
8 AM | NETWORKING CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Continental Room
9 AM | OPENING SESSION & KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Limelight Room, Salon B
Opening Remarks
dan price - CHAIR OF THE BOARD (BMC) AND COMMUNITY BANKING PRESIDENT, MOUNTAIN WEST BANK
Dan Price has spent the past 39 years in the financial services industry focused on people, culture, and communities. The last 23 years of that time was at Mountain West Bank and currently he serves as Community Banking President.
He’s been acted in various integral roles with in the Boise Metro Chamber including Board Treasurer, Member of the Board Executive Committee, Board of Advisors member, and active member on the Financial Services Committee. He has a deep commitment to the Treasure Valley and also serves as the following community leadership positions:
His past community leadership positions included:
A graduate from Caldwell High School and the College of Idaho, Dan Price also undertook professional development at the Pacific Coast Banking School, Graduate School of Banking at Madison, and the Academy of Professional Banking at Louisiana State University. Additionally, Price is a proud graduate of the Boise Metro Chamber’s Leadership Boise Program and received recognition as one of the Idaho Business Review’s Excellence in Finance honorees. Rooted in the Treasure Valley, Price has a deep connection to the region and enjoys travel and spending time with friends and family, including his two young grandsons. |
9:15 AM | THE FUTURE OF ENERGY
ADAM RICHINS - SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, IDAHO POWER
Adam J. Richins was named Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Idaho Power in October 2019. Prior to that, Richins served as Vice President of Customer Operations and Business Development. In this role, he oversaw teams dedicated to customer satisfaction and supporting the company’s brand. Since joining Idaho Power in 2011, Richins previously held the positions of General Manager of Customer Operations Engineering and Construction and Senior Counsel.
Before joining Idaho Power, Richins worked as an engineer and project manager on large construction projects and as an attorney at Stoel Rives, where he litigated complex business disputes and negotiated multi-million-dollar commercial transactions. Richins also clerked for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (Honorable Stephen S. Trott) and worked as an engineer on large construction projects, including airports and schools. Richins holds two Bachelor of Science degrees, one in mathematics from the University of Puget Sound and a second in civil engineering from Columbia University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He earned his law degree from the University of Washington with high honors. Richins graduated from Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program in 2016. Richins serves on the boards for the Saint Alphonsus Health System, Boise School Foundation, IDA-West Energy, the Boise Chamber of Commerce, the Bishop Kelly Foundation, and the Pacific Northwest Conference Committee. |
10 AM | NETWORKING BREAK
10:30 AM | GENERAL SESSION PANEL: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND GRID RESILIENCY
Limelight Room
10:30 AM | GENERAL SESSION PANEL: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AND GRID RESILIENCY
Limelight Room
MODERATor: MAYOR DEBBIE KLING - CITY OF NAMPA
Photo Coming Soon!
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REPRESENTATIVE BRITT RAYBOULD - DISTRICT 34
BRAD RICHY - DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Brad Richy is the Director of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. As the Director, he is responsible for Idaho’s emergency preparedness and response planning in support of the Idaho Homeland Security and Emergency Management Strategies. He serves as the Homeland Security Advisor and principal Emergency Management Advisor to the Governor and The Adjutant General. As the Governor’s Authorized Representative Brad acts as the single point of contact for all federal, regional, and state emergency management activities. Brad also serves as the State Administrative Agent overseeing implementation and compliance of all eligible Department of Homeland Security sponsored grants. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management has five offices around the state and is staffed with 40 full-time personnel. Brad serves on multiple national level working groups.
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RICH STOVER - DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
Richard Stover is the Administrator of the Idaho Governor’s Office of Energy and Mineral Resources. Prior to his appointment to OEMR, Stover provided legal counsel to a broad range of Idaho citizens, businesses, and public entities as a partner with Boise law firm Eberle, Berlin, Kading, Turnbow & McKlveen, Senior Counsel for Government Relations at Boise State University, and Assistant City Attorney for the City of Boise. Stover also served as natural resource policy staff for Idaho Governors Phil Batt and Dirk Kempthorne and a judicial extern for U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge. Stover holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Idaho and a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Idaho.
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11:15 AM | PANEL: EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
MODERATOR: ADAM RICHINS - SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, IDAHO POWER
Adam J. Richins was named Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Idaho Power in October 2019. Prior to that, Richins served as Vice President of Customer Operations and Business Development. In this role, he oversaw teams dedicated to customer satisfaction and supporting the company’s brand. Since joining Idaho Power in 2011, Richins previously held the positions of General Manager of Customer Operations Engineering and Construction and Senior Counsel.
Before joining Idaho Power, Richins worked as an engineer and project manager on large construction projects and as an attorney at Stoel Rives, where he litigated complex business disputes and negotiated multi-million-dollar commercial transactions. Richins also clerked for the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (Honorable Stephen S. Trott) and worked as an engineer on large construction projects, including airports and schools. Richins holds two Bachelor of Science degrees, one in mathematics from the University of Puget Sound and a second in civil engineering from Columbia University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He earned his law degree from the University of Washington with high honors. Richins graduated from Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program in 2016. Richins serves on the boards for the Saint Alphonsus Health System, Boise School Foundation, IDA-West Energy, the Boise Chamber of Commerce, the Bishop Kelly Foundation, and the Pacific Northwest Conference Committee. |
PETER ANEWALT - CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, JOULE CASE INC
Joule Case provides power wherever it is needed. As COO, Peter Anewalt focuses on ensuring the successful development and delivery of our patented battery-based power solutions to customers such as the US Dept of Defense. He also has a passion for sustainability and renewable energy, which makes Joule Case a great fit for him.
A technology and startup junkie, Pete has held leadership and executive roles with numerous companies over the course of his professional career, and has a proven history of helping technology companies to grow and be successful. Prior to joining Joule Case in 2019, he served as SVP of Customer Success at Balihoo, a Boise-based software company, and VP Global Services for Unica (acquired by IBM). Pete holds a degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia. Although not a native of Idaho, Pete has found his forever home in Boise and lives there with his wife and 2 children. |
JARED MCKEE - EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, CLĒNERA
Coming soon!
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DR. JOHN WAGNER - LABORATORY DIRECTOR, IDAHO NATIONAL LABORATORY
Dr. John C. Wagner is the director of Idaho National Laboratory and president of Battelle Energy Alliance LLC. He is responsible for management and integration of a large, multipurpose laboratory that has a mission focused on nuclear energy, national and homeland security, and energy and environment science and technology.
Wagner began serving as INL director in 2020. Wagner initially joined INL as chief scientist at the Materials and Fuels Complex in 2016 and served as associate laboratory director for Nuclear Science and Technology beginning in 2017. Prior to INL, he worked nearly 17 years at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he held several research and leadership roles in reactor and fuel cycle technologies. Wagner earned a bachelor’s in nuclear engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 1992, and master’s and doctorate degrees from the Pennsylvania State University in 1994 and 1997, respectively. |
12 PM | NETWORKING BREAK
12:15 PM | LUNCH SESSION
Continental Room
12:15 PM | LUNCH SESSION
Continental Room
SCOTT GATZEMEIER - CORPORATE VICE PRESIDENT, FRONT END US EXPANSION, MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC.
Scott Gatzemeier is Corporate Vice President of Front End US Expansion at Micron Technology. Scott has more than 25 years of experience across probe, fab engineering, operations, and technology development. Scott has been working on US expansion initiatives for the past year and is responsible for Micron’s Boise and New York manufacturing expansion projects.
Scott started his career at Micron in 1997 as an intern of the DRAM Probe Engineering team. After being converted to full time, he held positions of increasing responsibilities in the probe engineering team. In 2006, he joined IM Flash to help with the startup leading several teams over time including Probe Engineering, Product Integration Engineering, Quality Engineering, and eventually becoming the Fab Director. Scott moved back to Micron as Sr. Director, Manufacturing Development Engineering and subsequently became the Vice President of Research & Development Operations where the team delivered strong results and improvement in cycle time, quality, and cost reductions. In his previous role as Vice President of Yield Technology and Data Science, the team developed the data infrastructure and solutions for Technology Development and Front End manufacturing as well as developing and executing the roadmap for defection inspection and yield enhancement. Scott holds a master’s in information and data science from UC Berkeley School of Information and a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from University of North Dakota where he graduated with distinction. A holder of 17 U.S. patents in fields of DRAM and NAND technologies, he also earned an MBA business degree from National Technology University. In his spare time, Scott enjoys spending time with his family and enjoying the outdoors hiking, snowboarding, running, and biking. |
1:30 PM | NETWORKING BREAK
1:45 PM | GENERAL SESSION PANEL: HISTORY OF THE INL – PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE
Limelight Room
1:45 PM | GENERAL SESSION PANEL: HISTORY OF THE INL – PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE
Limelight Room
MODERATOR: DR. JOHN WAGNER - LABORATORY DIRECTOR, IDAHO NATIONAL LABORATORY
Dr. John C. Wagner is the director of Idaho National Laboratory and president of Battelle Energy Alliance LLC. He is responsible for management and integration of a large, multipurpose laboratory that has a mission focused on nuclear energy, national and homeland security, and energy and environment science and technology.
Wagner began serving as INL director in 2020. Wagner initially joined INL as chief scientist at the Materials and Fuels Complex in 2016 and served as associate laboratory director for Nuclear Science and Technology beginning in 2017. Prior to INL, he worked nearly 17 years at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he held several research and leadership roles in reactor and fuel cycle technologies. Wagner earned a bachelor’s in nuclear engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 1992, and master’s and doctorate degrees from the Pennsylvania State University in 1994 and 1997, respectively. |
GOVERNOR C.L. “BUTCH” OTTER
C.L. "Butch" Otter, served as the 32nd Governor of Idaho from 2007 to 2019. Born on May 3, 1942, in Caldwell, Idaho, Otter began his political career in the Idaho State House of Representatives in 1973. He later served as Lieutenant Governor from 1987 to 2001 before representing Idaho's 1st congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2001 to 2007. Known for his conservative values and advocacy for states' rights, Otter focused on issues such as education, economic development, and natural resource management during his tenure as governor. After leaving office, Otter remains active in Idaho politics and continues to be involved in public service initiatives.
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GOVERNOR BRAD LITTLE
The people of Idaho elected Brad Little to be their Governor in November of 2018 and reelected him in November of 2022. He has served as Idaho’s 33rd Governor since January 7, 2019.
Governor Little is an Emmett native who was raised on his family’s sheep and cattle ranching operation. He graduated from the University of Idaho in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness, and has worked in the ranching industry for his entire professional life. In 1978, Brad had good fortune and married Teresa Soulen of Weiser. Teresa and Brad are the proud parents of two sons who have wonderful wives – Adam and Angela, and David and Kelsey. They have six beautiful grandchildren. Governor Little has a heart for public service. He first served in public office in 2001 when he was selected to fill a Senate vacancy. He was then elected to four consecutive terms to the Idaho Senate. During his service as a Senator, Brad was elected by his Republican peers during his first full term to serve in Party leadership as Majority Caucus Chair. He then served as Idaho’s 37th Lt. Governor starting on January 6, 2009. Governor Little is committed to making decisions through one lens: the lens of ensuring Idaho’s children and grandchildren have the best opportunities to stay in Idaho and for the ones who have left to choose to return. His time as Governor has been marked by historic investments in education and infrastructure and unprecedented tax relief. Governor Little has advocated his whole life for limited government, and Idaho achieved the title “least regulated state” during his first term. He works to ensure the lightest possible hand of government in the lives of Idaho’s citizens, and he seeks to build the public’s confidence in state government. |
SENATOR JAMES E. RISCH
Jim Risch, currently serving a third term as Idaho's 28th Senator, holds a longstanding commitment to public service and a passion for good government. Known for "pragmatic decision-making," Risch is what his peers call a "no-nonsense, get-the-job-done leader" with more than four decades of experience in elected office. He has been recognized by the National Journal as the “Most Conservative” Senator in the United States Senate.
Risch brings his pragmatic, results-focused approach to governance to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where he serves as ranking member for the 117th Congress. As the lead Republican on the committee, Risch is focused on protecting the security and interests of the American people, in addition to continuing to advance U.S. prosperity and leadership in the world. He is confronting many issues that hit home across Idaho, like advancing the interests of Idaho citizens and businesses in international trade and investment, promoting Idaho exports, guarding Idaho interests in the Columbia River Treaty talks, supporting human rights, and confronting the problem of sex trafficking. During the 115th Congress, Risch served as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship where he successfully passed several initiatives to improve cybersecurity resources for small businesses, cut red tape and reduce regulations, and improve small business access to capital. He remains committed to working for Idaho’s small businesses as a senior member of the committee during the 117th Congress. Risch also represents Idaho’s interests on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, giving Idaho a voice in legislation that dramatically shapes the West, and he serves on the Select Committee on Intelligence and the Select Committee on Ethics. During his service as Idaho's 31st governor, Risch lowered property taxes by 20 percent providing much-needed tax relief to Idaho taxpayers, while setting aside $100 million in a rainy day fund for schools. He also designed a plan to manage Idaho's roadless areas and supervised the adoption of a rule that effectively prohibits the construction of traditional mercury-releasing pulverized coal power plants. Both measures earned Risch bipartisan acclaim for his pragmatic approach to natural resource issues and land management. As governor, Risch also accomplished a number of initiatives to create a streamlined and effective government. He transformed Idaho's executive office by opening regional offices throughout the state, enhancing communication and responsiveness to Idahoans. Risch also succeeded in a major reorganization of Idaho's Department of Health and Welfare that allowed for more efficient administration and cost savings. As a twice-elected lieutenant governor, Risch earned a reputation as an advocate for smart economic development. He continues to work with businesses—new and old alike—to ensure continued prosperity for the people and places of Idaho. Senator Risch began his career in public service at the age of 27, when he was elected to two terms as Ada County prosecuting attorney. Following his tenure as president of the Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association, he served 11 elected terms in the Idaho State Senate. His time as senator was highlighted by his quick election to the leadership positions of majority leader and Senate president pro tempore, serving in the top two positions of Senate leadership for 19 of his 22 years. Senator Risch earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from the University of Idaho, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Idaho, College of Law. He served on Law Review and the College of Law Advisory Committee at the University of Idaho and has taught criminal law at Boise State University. He was a small business owner, a rancher/farmer, and a senior partner in the Risch Goss Insinger Gustavel Law firm at the time of his election to the U.S. Senate. Senator Risch and his wife Vicki have been married for more than 50 years. Their commitment to Idaho and their work together earned them the distinction of being selected as Idaho's Healthy Marriage Ambassadors in 2007. They have three married sons and nine grandchildren. They live on a ranch outside of Boise and maintain an apartment in Washington, D.C. |
2:30 PM | PANEL: CORPORATE RENEWABLE ENERGY GOALS
MODERATOR: HART GILCHRIST - VICE PRESIDENT OF SAFETY, PROCESS IMPROVEMENT & OPERATIONS SYSTEMS, INTERMOUNTAIN GAS AND BOISE VALLEY ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP (BVEP) BOARD CHAIR
Hart Gilchrist is the Vice President of Safety, Process Improvement and Operations Systems for the MDU Utilities Group. He is responsible for all safety and training, pipeline safety management system (SMS), quality management system (QMS) and operations technology for the MDU Utilities Group, which serves over 1 million customers across 8 states. He has been with the company since 1994.
Hart earned his bachelor’s degrees in finance and marketing from the University of Idaho in 1994 and an MBA from Boise State University in 2002. Hart is active in his community as well and currently serves on the Gas Technology Institute Operations Technology Committee Board of Directors, the Boise Chamber of Commerce board, the Boise State University College of Business and Economics advisory board and Visit Boise board. |
BYRON CRAWFORD - POWER BD LEAD – NORTHWEST, HDR
Byron Crawford is a strategic renewables leader that has been a key contributor to three innovative
management teams. He has over 10 years of experience leading multi-disciplinary teams in renewable asset development and PPA origination. He has been involved in core renewable activities including, market demand assessments, project siting, project diligence, project budgeting, investment and divestiture analysis, permitting management, project level financial modeling, portfolio Key Performance Indicators (KPI) development, and interconnection evaluation (project level, queue level). Byron has over 10 years of experience with regional and national clean energy/decarbonization policy analysis and over 15 years of financial analysis, budget development, and KPI reporting experience. |
ELIZABETH ELROY - VP OF GLOBAL EHS & SUSTAINABILITY, MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC.
Elizabeth Elroy, (Beth), is the vice president of Global EHS and Sustainability, leading a worldwide team responsible for developing and implementing our EHS and Sustainability strategies.
Beth joined Micron as an environmental engineer and has served in a wide range of roles including Environmental Manager, Engineering and Construction Manager, and Senior Director of Facilities. Beth is a strong advocate for Micron’s DEI initiatives and has mentored several women through the years. She volunteers many hours to our STEM programs and is the Executive Sponsor for Micron’s Capable employee resource group. External to Micron, she serves on the Idaho Board of Directors for the Department of Environmental Quality and is active in numerous outdoor activities. Beth holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the College of Idaho and a master’s degree in Engineering from Idaho State University. |
3:30 PM | ADJOURN (AFTERNOON BREAK)
6 PM | RECEPTION CONTINENTAL ROOM
7 PM | DINNER SESSION
Continental Room
Remarks
6 PM | RECEPTION CONTINENTAL ROOM
7 PM | DINNER SESSION
Continental Room
Remarks
MAYOR LAUREN MCLEAN - CITY OF BOISE
Mayor Lauren McLean was sworn in on January 7, 2020. She is the 56th mayor of Boise and the first woman elected to that position in the city’s 150-year history. She is passionate about public service, leading boldly with the community at the forefront of every decision.
McLean’s service to the people of Boise began as a volunteer in 2001. She led the historic Boise Foothills Open Space Levy campaign and, along with hundreds of other dedicated people, secured protection of thousands of acres in the foothills for future generations. As Mayor, she leads the fight against climate change, setting ambitious goals to secure an environmentally and economically resilient future for Boise. Her vision is to create a city that is truly for everyone – including economic opportunity for everyone in Boise. She has focused on supporting homegrown innovation and a thriving business environment through investments in education, housing, transportation, climate innovation, and arts and culture to build a strong, inclusive economy. Mayor McLean currently serves on the Board of Governors at the Andrus Center at Boise State University. She earned a Master of Public Administration from Boise State University as the first Carl Burke Fellow. Before becoming a Bronco, McLean graduated with honors from Notre Dame. She is an avid trail runner, outdoorswoman, and reader. She and her family love to explore Idaho's beautiful backcountry by foot or by ski. |
Idaho Trivia
PHIL MCGRANE - SECRETARY OF STATE
Phil McGrane is a 4th generation Idahoan who loves this great state. His happy, honest approach to public service earned him the opportunity to serve as Idaho’s 28th Secretary of State. Over his career, Phil has definitively earned the title of an “Elections Junkie.” His career began in Ada County as an Elections Specialist, where he trained poll workers and counted chads, when we still voted on punch cards. As chief deputy and Ada County Clerk, he enjoyed sharing elections insights and analytics aimed at making elections and government more accessible and transparent. Phil’s various efforts in public service have been recognized and celebrated by TIME, Best Places to Work in Idaho, Accomplished Under 40, TEDxBoise, Fast Company, and even Food & Wine magazine, which featured his “food truck” voting concept.
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BOBBI-JO MEULEMAN - BOISE METRO CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO
Bobbi-Jo Meuleman assumed leadership of the Boise Metro Chamber as CEO and President on October 2, 2023. The role includes overseeing the organization’s tourism division, Visit Boise, and economic development division, Boise Valley Economic Partnership. She was selected for her extensive experience with governmental affairs and economic development as well her passion for promoting, supporting, and advocating for Treasure Valley businesses.
Meuleman’s career in government was founded in Washington, D.C. while working for Congressman Denny Rehberg (R-MT) and Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT). From 2009 to 2016, she served in the Office of Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, as a scheduler and then as his Deputy Chief of Staff. In 2016, she pursed a position managing department staff and operations as the Chief Operating Officer of the Idaho Department of Commerce. Meuleman was soon promoted to Director and had the opportunity to lead economic development efforts for the Gem State. Additionally, she fostered methods to assist communities, citizens, businesses, and visitors. Prior to becoming the CEO and President of the Boise Metro Chamber, Meuleman was working as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Brad Little. She conducted governmental affairs with Idaho’s federal, state, county, city, and tribal partners. Over the course of her career, Meuleman has earned the several distinctions, including: • 2022 Associated General Contractors’ President’s Cup Award • 2020 Women’s and Children’s Alliance TWIN Award • 2018 Idaho Economic Development President’s Award • 2017 Idaho Business Review’s Accomplished Under 40 Meuleman received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Montana in Political Science with an emphasis in Human Resource Management. She lives in Boise with her husband Patrick and their sons, Wyatt (10) and Wayne (8) and their dog Pete. |
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024
9 AM | BREAKFAST SESSION CONTINENTAL ROOM
9:15 AM | PANEL: ENERGY WORKFORCE AND TRAINING
Limelight Room
9:15 AM | PANEL: ENERGY WORKFORCE AND TRAINING
Limelight Room
MODERATOR: JENNIFER SWINDELL - CEO AND MANAGING EDITOR, IDAHO EDUCATION NEWS
Jennifer Swindell founded Idaho Education News in 2013 and now serves as the CEO and managing editor for the award-winning online news organization. Jennifer has worked in the Idaho media market for 35 years. She spent 20 years at the Idaho Statesman in a variety of roles, including writer, columnist, sports editor and news editor. Before launching Idaho Education News, Jennifer served as a public information officer for Idaho schools and as a communication director at Boise State University.
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SENATOR JANIE WARD-ENGELKING - DISTRICT 18
Janie Ward-Engelking is a native Idahoan. She grew up with four brothers on a small farm in Idaho. After graduating from high school, she attended Whittier College, received her Bachelor of Science degree from Idaho State University, and her master’s degree from Boise State University. Janie was a classroom teacher for 33 years, a former state representative and is currently the state senator from District 18. She currently serves on the Joint Finance Appropriation Committee, Commerce & Human Resources, Education Committees, and is Minority Caucus Chair. As a strong advocate for children and education, Janie has served on the Governor’s Task Force for K-12 Education, Governor’s Task Force for Higher Education and the Public School Funding Formula Interim Committee. She and her husband, Kay Frank Engelking, continue to work in their community to ensure their children and grandchildren can enjoy the quality of life we have all come to expect.
She has won the following awards:
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GORDON JONES - PRESIDENT, COLLEGE OF WESTERN IDAHO
Gordon Jones is the President of the College of Western Idaho (CWI), Idaho’s largest comprehensive community college serving over 30,000 students from across the Treasure Valley and the State of Idaho. CWI’s primary focus is delivering affordable, high-quality, and accessible education. President Jones is passionate about promoting affordable higher education that translates to enhanced employment and life opportunities for all students.
Prior to CWI, Jones served as the founding Dean of the College of Innovation + Design at Boise State University from 2015-2021. From 2010-2015, Jones worked at Harvard University, serving from 2011 as the Evans Family Foundation Managing Director of the Harvard Innovation Lab. He started his education career as a high school math teacher in rural Arizona. His higher education career has focused on innovating and maximizing the value proposition of public higher education in serving students and communities. President Jones received his Masters of Business Administration degree from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from Brown University. |
DR. SUZANNA LONG - DEAN, COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO
Suzie Long brings a wealth of experience in academic leadership, industry collaboration, successful research, external funding and strategic management to the University of Idaho College of Engineering. She began serving as dean of the college in summer 2022. Under her leadership, the College of Engineering has increased enrollment, research expenditures, rankings, launched four federally funded large-scale engineering research centers and partnered on two U.S. Economic Development Administration Tech Hub proposals.
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DR. MARLENE TROMP - PRESIDENT, BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY
Dr. Marlene Tromp is President of Boise State University. She brought Boise State University into the UPWARDS partnership at the G7 Summit and oversaw the launch of the Microelectronics Education and Research (MER) Institute to prepare a broad array of students for work in the semiconductor industry. She brought Boise State onto the U.S. Council on Competitiveness . She launched the Institute for Pervasive Cybersecurity , partnering across industry, government, and higher education. She supported enormous growth in the health sciences, graduated more students in education, and increased interdisciplinary thought-leadership through cutting-edge programs like the School of the Environment and School of Computing.
Her commitment to student access inspired her to develop an endowment for the Presidential True Blue Scholarship to reduce the barrier of financial need. She spearheaded the Community Impact Program , bringing education directly to rural students. She made Boise State a founding member of REP4 , a national effort to engage students themselves in redesigning higher education to work better for them. She deepened Boise State’s community engagement and scholarly inquiry through the creation of a President’s Professor of Public Scholarship and Engagement, engaging faculty in dialogue with the broader community, as well as the pathbreaking Institute for Advancing American Values , bringing people from different perspectives together to learn from one another. She serves on the NCAA Division I Board of Directors and serves on the Northwest Commission for Colleges and Universities . She has spent the majority of her administrative career at AAU institutions. She served as the campus provost and executive vice chancellor at the University of California at Santa Cruz, where she oversaw one of the most outstanding faculties on the continent. She also served as a dean and vice provost at Arizona State University, named the most innovative in the nation six years in a row. She is a dedicated scholar and author of several books and many articles on Victorian literature and culture and its relationship to our current cultural moment. |
MODERATor: MEGAN RONK - DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & INNOVATION, IDAHO POWER
Megan Ronk has served as Economic Development and Innovation Director for Idaho Power in 2018, where she is charged with engagement with commercial and industrial customers to meet their energy needs, and supporting the local communities that Idaho Power serves. Prior to joining Idaho Power, Ronk enjoyed a 16-year career in state government and public policy, most recently serving as the Secretary of Commerce for Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter.
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MAYOR JAROM WAGONER - CITY OF CALDWELL
Mayor Jarom Wagoner grew up in Caldwell, Idaho and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1995, (Go Cougars!). He attended college in Arizona and graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.
Prior to his election as Mayor, Jarom worked as a Planning Consultant, a City Planner for Caldwell, a Transportation Planner for ACHD, and a Planner with Canyon County. He has also served in the State Legislature, the Caldwell City Council and was a small business owner. Mayor Wagoner’s passion has always been to be actively involved in the Caldwell community. From volunteering as a young teenager, to working through the long hot August nights at one of our community service group booths during the Caldwell Night Rodeo, involvement with the community is something he has always enjoyed. Mayor Wagoner enjoys basketball, golf, hunting, and camping. Family is the most important thing to him, aside from his faith. He has been married to his wife Lisa for over 20 years and they have three sons Brycen, Braden, and Bryler. Mayor Wagoner was elected Mayor of Caldwell in November, 2021 and will serve a 4-year term, expiring in 2025. He is excited to continue partnering with the citizens, businesses, local agencies and organizations, and other elected officials, and he cannot wait to get to know the local community and all of the city employees better. He purposes to be a listening ear to all as we continue to move Caldwell forward together. Great things are in store for Caldwell! |
MIKE ADLER - FOUNDER AND CEO, ADLER INDUSTRIAL
Adler Industrial, LLC is a real estate management and development company established in 2019 and based in Boise, Idaho. With over 26 years of experience, their team’s focus is managing, developing, constructing, and investing in Class “A” industrial properties in the Treasure Valley. Adler Industrial has acquired and developed over 4 million square feet of real estate, along with over 1,000 acres of land earmarked for future development. The Adler team prides itself on earning the trust and respect of its tenants, as well as brokers and other development firms in the community.
Mike Adler received his degree in Business Administration, with majors in Real Estate and Finance, from the University of Denver. He also holds an MAI designation from the Appraisal Institute and a CPM designation from the Institute of Real Estate Management. He is an active member of the Idaho chapter of the Urban Land Institute, BOMA, and NAIOP. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Boise Valley Economic Partnership and the Warner Center Association. |
SEAN KEITHLY - DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF BOISE
Sean Keithly is the Director of Economic Development for the City of Boise. He brings over 20 years of experience in economic development, planning, and business development in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. In his role within the City of Boise Mayor's Office, he takes a collaborative approach to leadership and community partnerships, with the goal of creating and sustaining economic opportunity for everyone. From helping existing businesses grow and thrive to supporting entrepreneurship and attracting new investment to Boise, Sean’s focus is to ensure that Boise continues to develop in a vibrant, sustainable, and authentic way. Sean is proud to serve on several Boise area boards, including the Boise Valley Economic Partnership, the Downtown Boise Association, Trailhead, and the Boise Bicycle Project.
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11:30 AM | CLOSING GENERAL SESSION
Limelight Room
12:15 PM | CLOSING COMMENTS & RAFFLE
Limelight Room
12:15 PM | CLOSING COMMENTS & RAFFLE
BOBBI-JO MEULEMAN - BOISE METRO CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO
Bobbi-Jo Meuleman assumed leadership of the Boise Metro Chamber as CEO and President on October 2, 2023. The role includes overseeing the organization’s tourism division, Visit Boise, and economic development division, Boise Valley Economic Partnership. She was selected for her extensive experience with governmental affairs and economic development as well her passion for promoting, supporting, and advocating for Treasure Valley businesses.
Meuleman’s career in government was founded in Washington, D.C. while working for Congressman Denny Rehberg (R-MT) and Senator Conrad Burns (R-MT). From 2009 to 2016, she served in the Office of Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, as a scheduler and then as his Deputy Chief of Staff. In 2016, she pursed a position managing department staff and operations as the Chief Operating Officer of the Idaho Department of Commerce. Meuleman was soon promoted to Director and had the opportunity to lead economic development efforts for the Gem State. Additionally, she fostered methods to assist communities, citizens, businesses, and visitors. Prior to becoming the CEO and President of the Boise Metro Chamber, Meuleman was working as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Brad Little. She conducted governmental affairs with Idaho’s federal, state, county, city, and tribal partners. Over the course of her career, Meuleman has earned the several distinctions, including: • 2022 Associated General Contractors’ President’s Cup Award • 2020 Women’s and Children’s Alliance TWIN Award • 2018 Idaho Economic Development President’s Award • 2017 Idaho Business Review’s Accomplished Under 40 Meuleman received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Montana in Political Science with an emphasis in Human Resource Management. She lives in Boise with her husband Patrick and their sons, Wyatt (10) and Wayne (8) and their dog Pete. |
12:20 PM | ADJOURNMENT
LEARN ALONGSIDE CHAMBER MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY THOUGHT-LEADERS
Past bOISE mETRO cHAMBER leadership conference themes
- 2023 - "Trains, Planes, and Automobiles: Mobility in Idaho"
- 2022 - “Leading For Growth: Solutions Through Regional Partnerships”
- 2021 - “All Things Real Estate: Residential, Commercial, and Industrial”
- 2020 - No event due to COVID pandemic
- 2019 - “New Localism - Our Future is in Our Hands”
- 2018 - “25 Years of Progress as We Look to the Future: Growth Is Not a Dirty Word”
- 2017 - “The Mobility Mosaic: Putting the Pieces Together to Move People”
- 2016 - “From the Field to the Table - Growing the Food and Beverage Industry in the Boise Valley"
- 2015 - “Telling Our Story: Selling Boise and our Region”
- 2014 - “From Aerospace to Zinfandel: The Economic Power of the Travel Industry”
- 2013 - “Building Livable Cities in the Boise Valley”
- 2012 - “Energy to Power Our Future Economy”
- 2011 - “Visioning Major Community Projects for Economic Development”
- 2010 - “Innovation in Action: New Jobs for Our New Economy”
- 2009 - “Improving Treasure Valley’s Economic Future: What We Need to Do!”
- 2008 - “Mobilizing Business Advocacy for Infrastructure, Energy, and Education/Workforce”
- 2007 - “Planned Communities, Transportation, and Land Use Planning: Are We on a Collision Course?”
- 2006 - “The Power of Choice; Charting Our Economic, Education and Environment Futures”
- 2005 - “Growth and Regional Governance in the Treasure Valley; Envision the Possibilities”
- 2004 - “Developing Regional Public Policy: 10 Years of Progress and Challenges for the Future”
- 2003 - “Quality Growth for the Treasure Valley: Developing a Blueprint for the Future”
- 2002 - “Responsible Growth for Treasure Valley’s Future”
- 2001 - “2001: A Community Odyssey; the Future of the Treasure Valley”
- 2000 - “Regional Cooperation for Workforce and Economic Development”
- 1999 - “Integrating Economic and Workforce Development Programs for Regional Vitality”
- 1998 - “Developing an Internationally Competitive Workforce for the Treasure Valley”
- 1997 - “Shaping the Transportation Vision for Treasure Valley”
- 1996 - “Structure and Implementation for Funding Infrastructure”
- 1995 - “Regional Cooperation on Common Issues and the Funding of Infrastructure”
- 1994 - “Developing Public Policy: Your Participation in Community Decision-Making”