Building Utah

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Hilton Salt Lake City Center, in the heart of downtown just minutes from the Salt Palace Convention Center, Temple Square, and City Creek Center, is a great destination to experience what makes Salt Lake special. Director of Sales and Marketing, Melissa Allen, joins us with more. Melissa Allen: Hilton Salt Lake City Center features 19 distinctive suites, including a themed Cabin Suite that captures the beauty and spirit of Utah. Our rooftop hosts four active beehives, symbolizing teamwork, dedication, and community values that define our team. Guests and meeting planners can take advantage of over 32-thousand square feet of flexible event space, a fully equipped fitness center with Peloton bikes, and a relaxing indoor pool, making our property the perfect downtown destination. Our on-property restaurant, Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops, has earned multiple honors, including the Diner’s Choice and Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence six consecutive years, featurin

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Utah’s economy is deeply connected to the global marketplace — with more than 430 thousand jobs tied to international trade. But success in the global economy takes more than strong products. It takes strategy, speed, and insight. That’s where World Trade Center Utah comes in. As a private nonprofit, they help companies navigate global challenges, manage risk, and pursue smart international growth. Here to share more is Tiffeny Yen-Louie, World Trade Center Utah’s chief marketing officer. Tiffany Yen-Louie: Utah companies are built to lead — and World Trade Center Utah helps them grow globally with confidence. Markets shift, tariffs rise, and trade rules evolve. Our job is to help companies stay ahead — with strategies to strengthen supply chains, navigate disruption, and attract investment. That includes our Foreign-Trade Zone program, which helps importers and manufacturers defer or reduce duties on the goods they bring in — this frees up cash to reinvest loca

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. BioMérieux is a global leader in in-vitro diagnostics, headquartered in Salt Lake City, where it continues to advance patient care and set global standards in diagnostics. Meghan Kuehn, who leads operations in Salt Lake City, joins us for more. Meghan Kuehn: Here in Utah, bioMérieux’s teams are leading the way in advancing innovation and public health across the state, across the nation, and around the world. BioMérieux’s products are used in more than 160 countries to identify infectious disease, and detect contamination in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. We’re proud to call Salt Lake City our North American Headquarters, where thirty-six hundred team members across six facilities bring their talent to work every day. R&D, manufacturing, and support teams work together to develop and make diagnostic solutions that identify the source of infectious disease, providing valuable information to health care professionals treating patients. As Utah’s

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. EyeCare4Kids makes sure children in underserved communities get the vision care they need. Through screenings, mobile clinics, and outreach programs, they help kids see clearly, learn confidently, and enjoy every day to the fullest. CEO, Maggie Cline, joins us with more. Maggie Cline: At EyeCare4Kids, our mission is simple: to make sure every child has access to professional eye care and the glasses they need to clearly see their world every day. Since 2001, we’ve provided more than 500,000 vision care services including vision screenings, eye exams, and corrective eyewear, to underserved children and adults in the Southwest United States and Africa. In Utah, we work with fourteen school districts, maintain two permanent clinics, and send our mobile vision clinic to homeless shelters, refugee centers, Native American reservations, schools, and rural areas, reaching children where they are and removing barriers to care. Because vision doesn’t wait, neither do we.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For seventy years, Les Olson IT has been helping Utah businesses thrive with reliable technology solutions and expert IT support, strengthening communities and empowering growth across the state. Owner and Chief Business Development Officer, Troy Olson, joins us with more. Troy Olson: Les Olson IT has long been Utah’s trusted office technology partner. What began with Les Olson himself has grown into a mission that still guides us today: helping businesses succeed through reliable technology and exceptional service. Our values are rooted in integrity, family, and community. As Les believed, strong relationships and genuine care are the foundation of lasting partnerships. That’s why we put people first — our employees, our customers, and the communities we serve. Printers and copiers have long been a part of our story, and for over a decade we’ve also delivered the IT services and support businesses rely on. Today, our solutions include burglar alarms, digital dis

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Farm Bureau Financial Services helps people prepare for life’s what-ifs. They provide insurance and financial planning that gives families and business owners peace of mind, confidence for the future, and the right support. Farm Bureau Financial Services Agent, Felicia Wright, joins us with more. Felicia Wright: At your local Farm Bureau Financial Services office, I understand that protecting what matters most isn’t just about insurance, it's about having the right strategy. I’m here to help you safeguard your family, home, business, and goals. Whether it’s through auto, home, life, business coverage or even investments, we’ll create a plan that fits your unique needs. I believe in building relationships, not just policies. That means taking the time to listen, understand, and be there when it counts. Wherever life takes you, we’ll navigate it together. Because you deserve more than coverage, you deserve confidence and peace of mind. Let’s build a strategy tha

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For 50 years, CRSA has shaped communities across Utah and the Intermountain West — from preserving landmarks to designing modern campuses, civic centers, and religious spaces. With a people-first approach, they create environments that connect people and strengthen community. President Roger Hansen, joins us with more. Roger Hansen: At CRSA, we believe that architecture starts with people and our connection to place. We create environments that elevate the human experience by solving complex design challenges with creativity and clarity. For five decades, our architects, interior designers, and planners have helped communities honor their past while designing for the future. Every project reflects thoughtful and intentional design. Our roots are in historic preservation — revitalizing main streets and restoring the landmarks that shape Utah’s identity. That same respect for heritage now guides our work in civic, higher-education, religious, and commercial project

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Utah has one of the strongest, most diverse economies in the nation, and that didn’t happen by accident. Ryan Starks, Executive Director of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, or EDCUtah, is here to talk about their role in supporting Utah’s economic success. Ryan Starks: EDCUtah is a statewide non-profit organization that catalyzes capital investment and strategic economic opportunities to create quality jobs in Utah. We work with the State of Utah, cities, counties, and Utah businesses to provide growing companies with the resources they need to relocate or expand in Utah. When we were founded nearly 40 years ago, Utah was suffering from brain drain, and EDCUtah was charged with recruiting new companies to diversify Utah’s economy and job opportunities. Each year, our business development team works with just over 100 active corporate expansion projects. This past year, 20 companies decided to expand in or relocate to Utah – with plans to add 3-tho

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. With combined decades of experience, Peterson Rogers Private Wealth helps clients navigate every part of their financial lives. Their disciplined, goal-focused approach has guided people confidently through both booming markets and challenging downturns. Founding Partner, Ben Rogers, joins us with more. Ben Rogers: At Peterson Rogers Private Wealth, we are dedicated to helping clients preserve and grow their wealth across generations, especially during times of market uncertainty. Rooted in the tradition of a true family office, yet distinguished in its approach to wealth management, we offer a bespoke suite of specialized services. This includes but is not limited to complex financial planning, proprietary capital markets research, a public equity strategy refined over decades, and exclusive private market opportunities. Additionally for business owners, we provide specialized exit planning designed to enhance enterprise value and support seamless transitions.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. InclusionPro is a team of passionate professionals dedicated to creating more inclusive workplaces. Through hands-on learning and practical guidance, they show organizations how to build cultures where everyone feels valued and can truly thrive. CEO, Sara Jones, joins us with more. Sara Jones: Companies across Utah are navigating rapid change — and wondering how to keep people engaged while driving growth. Global employee engagement has dropped to just 21 percent, and three out of four managers feel overwhelmed. At InclusionPro, we partner with boards and executive teams — at companies of all sizes — to activate their missions, their people, and their business outcomes. Based on 25 years of experience across business, technology, content, revenue, and law, I’ve learned how to connect the dots between strategy and results. We help leaders build organizations that are human-centered, more inclusive, and more innovative. We are experienced in leading executive

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. YWCA Utah is a nonprofit organization committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, and dignity for all. Through their programs and services, they are fostering a stronger, more connected community. CEO, Liz Owens, joins us with more. Liz Owens: At YWCA Utah, we provide safety, healing, and hope for families rebuilding from violence. Every year, our 24/7 crisis shelter answers thousands of calls and offers more than 70 thousand nights of safety to over 500 survivors. Families find nourishment with more than 75 thousand meals, stability through 36 deeply affordable apartments, and care that begins in early childhood and extends through the teenage years. None of this happens alone. Our partnerships with businesses and community leaders make this work possible. When women and families are safe and supported, our entire economy is stronger. One of the most meaningful ways businesses can get involved right now is through Candy Can

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Silver Pro Solutions is a Utah-based consulting firm helping small businesses run smoother. From payroll and bookkeeping to HR and virtual COO support, they provide practical, done-for-you solutions that save time and help businesses grow. Owner and Business Efficiency Expert, Sariah Bronson, joins us with more. Sariah Bronson: Running a business shouldn’t mean running yourself into the ground. At Silver Pro Solutions, we help small business owners simplify the back end — bookkeeping, payroll, hiring systems, and more — so they can lead with clarity, focus on growth, and build something that lasts. We’re passionate about helping entrepreneurs step into leadership, make a real impact, and create a business that supports the life they truly want. When business owners are supported, they can contribute more to their teams, families, and communities, while driving meaningful growth. Small businesses are doing incredible things in Utah and beyond, and we’re proud to

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. SME Steel Industries, based in West Jordan, provides high-quality structural steel solutions for commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. Their expertise ensures strong, precise, and reliable results for a wide range of construction needs. Vice President of Corporate Strategy, Emily Lockhart, joins us with more. Emily Lockhart: At SME Industries, we do a lot more than work with steel — we help shape the places where Utah comes together. We’re a family of companies built on craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep love for this state. Over the years, we’ve taken on some of the biggest and most complex projects out there, handling everything from large-scale steel fabrication and erection to seismic bracing, ornamental metalwork, and logistics. But for us, it’s not just about the buildings — it’s about the people. Through our partnership with Smith Entertainment Group, we’re helping foster kids in Utah find opportunities, play sports, and ultimately, fin

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The YMCA of Northern Utah helps kids, families, and communities thrive. From after-school care and summer camps to wellness programs and mentorship, they create spaces where everyone can grow, connect, and reach their full potential. CEO, Rich West, joins us with more. Rich West: At the YMCA of Northern Utah, big change often begins with something small. It might be a shy preschooler’s first time in a classroom or a child at camp discovering something new. We focus on providing programs that spark confidence, resilience, and belonging; all essential to healthy communities. And that’s why we’re here for families year-round, with affordable, high-quality Afterschool, Preschool, Summer Day Camps, Overnight Camps and Youth Skiing and Snowboarding programs. The YMCA is for all, regardless of background. Through our Elevating Youth Campaign, we’re expanding and improving programs, so every child has access to safe spaces, caring mentors, and opportunities to learn a

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Neighborhood House plays a vital role in Utah by providing resources and programs that empower families and strengthen communities. From family support services to educational and social initiatives, they help Utahns thrive and build lasting connections statewide. Development and Communications Director, Andrea Arflack, joins us with more. Andrea Arflack: Neighborhood House is a nonprofit with a long-standing legacy of nurturing and educating children while supporting families with aging or disabled adults. Since 1894, we’ve helped hard-working, low-income families maintain stability and self-sufficiency through access to quality, affordable care. We offer nationally accredited toddler, preschool, afterschool, and summer programs for children ages 15 months to 12 years. For adults who need supervised care during the day, our adult day services provide connection, engagement, and peace of mind for their families. All services are offered on a sliding fee scale,

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Kiwanis Club of Salt Lake is a volunteer-led organization that has been serving Salt Lake City for over a century. Focused on changing children’s lives through service projects and community engagement, they are making a real difference. President Terry Hritz, joins us with more. President Terry Hritz: The Salt Lake Kiwanis Club was founded on October 18th, 1918, and it’s been a force for our kids and the community — supporting schools, families, and neighborhood projects. Our signature effort is Terrific Kids. For 38-plus years, we’ve partnered with middle schools across Salt Lake City to recognize students who show growth in character, attendance, and effort. Terrific Kids celebrates progress, not perfection, and it motivates young people to set goals, support classmates, and believe in themselves. Teachers tell us this program boosts morale and reinforces positive behavior, and students beam when their hard work is acknowledged. Our mission is simple — to

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Weber Basin Water Conservancy District provides water to homes, farms, and businesses across five Northern Utah counties. They also focus on conservation and sustainable water management for our communities’ future. CEO and General Manager, Scott Paxman, joins us with more. Scott Paxman: Water is life — and in Northern Utah, the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District is at the heart of it all. The District celebrated its 75th anniversary this year, since it was created on June 26th, 1950. Serving over 700,000 residents across five counties, including Davis, Weber, Morgan, Summit, and a portion of Box Elder, Weber Basin delivers more than 230,000 acre-feet of water annually — supporting homes, farms, and industries. From award-winning drinking water to innovative conservation programs, the District is leading the way in sustainable water management. With state-of-the-art treatment plants, community outreach, and a strong commitment to safety, Weber Basin ens

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. St. Jude, founded by Danny Thomas in 1962, leads the fight against childhood cancer and life-threatening diseases. Turning research breakthroughs into lifesaving treatment for children in the U.S. and worldwide. Senior Area Advisor, Sara Alisuag, joins us with more. Sara Alisuag: At St. Jude, children with the toughest pediatric cases receive world-class care while researchers invest in cutting-edge scientific breakthroughs. Families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food, so they can focus entirely on helping their child heal. Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped raise survival rates for childhood cancer in the U.S., where now 4 out of 5 children survive. While the hospital is based in Memphis, Tennessee, St. Jude supports children worldwide, including right here in Utah. We share our research and findings freely with hospitals and doctors everywhere, including Primary Children’s Hospital and University of Utah Hospitals, so more c

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Placemakr has expanded to downtown Salt Lake City, introducing a new apartment-hotel concept at The Brix Residences. The property combines residential living with hotel-style flexibility for short- and long-term stays. Operations Manager, Scout Starrett, joins us with more. Scout Starrett: Downtown SLC is buzzing... new hotels, new housing, a city that’s fast evolving. What was missing? A place that truly blends home and hospitality. That’s where Placemakr comes in, creating flexible living experiences that work whether you’re here for a night or a year. We’re a national apartment-hotel brand reimagining where life happens. We’ve launched a stunning space in the heart of downtown at Brix Residences — where we manage 95 traditional apartments and 50 apartment-hotel units. It’s a thoughtfully curated place where residents and guests alike feel right at home, complete with local partnerships that unlock exclusive discounts and make it easy to live, work, and play l

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Habitat for Humanity Greater Salt Lake Area helps local families build and buy affordable homes, offering the tools and support they need to achieve lasting stability, while strengthening communities and transforming lives. CEO, Carin Crowe, joins us with more. Carin Crowe: Families and communities truly thrive when housing is safe, stable, and empowering — and that’s exactly what Habitat for Humanity provides. By offering a variety of programs, we address immediate needs while supporting long-term stability for families across Utah. Our Critical Home Repair Program ensures homes remain safe and accessible, while our Service Team for Exterior Projects provides fencing repairs, yard maintenance, and other improvements that keep homes sustainable. Families gain confidence and a sense of ownership by building modest, efficient homes through sweat equity, turning them into empowered homeowners. Habitat Cares supports individuals and families by providing essentials a