This story appears in the November issue of Utah Business. Subscribe.
Photos from this event can be found here.
In a rapidly evolving economic landscape, young entrepreneurs and professionals are poised to redefine business in Utah. Our state’s up-and-coming talent is pushing boundaries and challenging conventions while guiding us toward a future of business that is more inclusive, socially responsible and technologically advanced. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!
JUDGES | 2024
Wendy Andrade | Branch Manager | Zions Bank | /in/wendy-andrade-35a016230
Braxton Savage | Senior Manager, Transaction Advisory Services | Tanner LLC | /in/braxton-savage
Savannah Beth Withers Taylor | Assistant Editor | Utah Business | /in/savannahbethwitherstaylor
Will Terry | Political Manager & Development Specialist | Equality Utah | /in/will-terry-5b96b1156
Noah Beery, 28
Senior Director & Head, Corporate Development | Platform Accounting Group
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
I started my career in leverage finance at a large investment bank, and my peers and I were set on a career in private equity. One week into my two-year analyst program, on-cycle private equity recruiting started for my next job. I was underprepared and ended up not getting a job. Striking out gave me time to think about where I wanted to take my career. Fortunately, my mentor was apprised of my situation and offered me the opportunity to join Platform instead of going the traditional route. Had I been successful in what I thought I wanted to do out of the gate, I never would have ended up where I am now.
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
Helping people who have spent their entire careers building a firm figure out a path toward retirement or continued growth and seeing their team and clients thrive with our organization. I get to be involved from the very beginning and help guide them through the process to closing. We often form strong bonds through the exploration and negotiation process, and arriving at the finish line together with strong rapport tells me I’ve done a good job.
Tanner Bengtzen, 26
Distribution Channel Manager | ProdataKey (PDK)
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
I would say that I am proud of my personal desire to learn, develop and take on new challenges. This has led to an amazing opportunity. When I joined PDK, I worked in the warehouse, where I packed and shipped boxes. I quickly accepted other roles within the organization, ultimately leading to my current role. I now manage the entire resell channel of our company. It feels rewarding to contribute to the growth of PDK, which has been recognized for the past nine years in the Utah 100. I am proud to be a part of something great!
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
I find fulfillment in turning strategic partnerships into working friendships. At the end of the day, we are all human and should not be defined by the company we work for. Rather, I take joy in getting to know people for who they are while also growing our companies together in mutually beneficial ways.
Mark Brown, 29
VP, Finance & Ops | &Collar
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
In 10 years I hope to be grilling on a Traeger once a week (I don’t currently own one and don’t know how to grill.), to have franchised and be working at Utah’s first Just Salad location (I’ve applied once a year for the last four years and have never heard back.), and be teaching at Utah Valley University in some capacity (Go Wolverines!).
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
I spent a large part of my early 20s trying to put myself in a box by acting more formal, mature and professional than I actually was so I could get what I thought was my dream job. When I got the job, I quickly realized it was a terrible fit. It was too formal, mature and professional for me. If you have the chance to put yourself in an environment where you can be yourself and bet on yourself, then make the jump.
Eva Lopez Chavez, 28
Salt Lake City Councilmember | Salt Lake City Council
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
To quote Buckminster Fuller, “Call me trimtab.†This statement fully encompasses the pride I carry in knowing that I, like the trimtab that creates low-pressure changes to the physics of buoyancy that carry sailboats through rough waters, can create systems that overcome the most challenging of obstacles. In layman’s terms, I am most satisfied with my ability to create pivotal change in areas of policy and government where we often find friction.
Who inspires you? Why?
I’m inspired by David Ibarra, a local business owner and tech entrepreneur. He is humble and someone who works for the betterment of our city.
Holly Ross Davis, 29
Founder & CEO | Mauve Jewelry Co.
Who inspires you? Why?
I am so inspired by the women in the Utah business community! I feel so lucky to have started Mauve in a state with such incredible female entrepreneurs. When I was first starting out at local pop-up markets, I was so impressed to see how many women were pursuing their passions by starting a business. It has motivated me to dream bigger and not put limits on what I can achieve!
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
I was so nervous when I started Mauve Jewelry Co. because I didn’t know enough about starting a business. I spent a lot of time feeling stressed about doing things the “right way.†A lot of young professionals feel the same way, and I wish I could tell everyone not to overthink it! As cliche as it sounds, you really do learn as you go.
Patrik Drean, 29
VP, Engineering | JobNimbus
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
The most pivotal experience of my life was serving a church mission in Mexico for two years. This is for two reasons. First, I realized my purpose. Since I’m only on Earth for a short period of time, I want to make the most of it and help others to the best of my ability. Second, I learned how to develop habits and systems for my life. This skill is how I make incremental gains and can consistently progress forward, even on the hard days.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
A sprinkle of proactiveness goes a long way. Don’t be the type of person who’s reactively going through life. Instead, take extreme ownership in whatever you pursue.
Kaitlyn Eaton, 28
Sr. Implementation Specialist | Big-D Construction
Pacific Southwest Region Director | National Association of Women in Construction
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
One of my proudest career achievements is successfully making the transition from HR to technology at Big-D Construction. After starting my career in human resources, I took on the challenge of shifting to IT nearly three years ago. I now manage technology discovery and implementation. Learning an entirely new field requires dedication, resilience and a commitment to continuous learning. Today, I’m proud of the professional growth this change has brought me and how it has enhanced my ability to contribute to my company’s future.
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
A pivotal moment in my journey was when I became involved with the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). I didn’t expect it to shape my career so profoundly, but it ended up being a turning point. It all started when I attended a NAWIC event and volunteered to redesign their website — a task I had never tackled before. That one challenge opened the door to countless opportunities for growth.
Bailey Garcia, 25
Branch Service Manager | Zions Bank
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
As someone who was born to teen parents, my pivotal moment came at a very young age. Through observing the sacrifices my parents made for me and my siblings, as well as witnessing the financial and emotional hardships that came with raising a family so young, I was determined that those circumstances did not have to define my future. Each small victory I have landed along the way continues to build my confidence and remind me of my sense of purpose.
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
The most fulfilling part of my work is having the opportunity to assist individuals and businesses in reaching their financial goals. Whether it is helping someone secure a mortgage, expand a business or open a simple checking account, I find it very gratifying to be a part of the journey and help them navigate their financial futures.
Mei Headley, 27
Principal | Mercato Partners
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
I’m most proud of the contributions I’ve made at Mercato, where I’ve had the opportunity to help drive our growth and success. As the youngest principal in the firm’s history, I’ve had the opportunity to represent Mercato on six post-Series B boards, actively shaping the direction of our portfolio companies. I’ve also driven 25 percent of our top-of-funnel deal sourcing and played a key role in expanding our footprint in the Midwest — a crucial market for the firm’s current and future growth.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Focus on building meaningful alliances, both inside and outside your workplace. In college, you’re taught to network, but it’s rarely emphasized how important it is to go beyond surface-level interactions. True connections come from investing in people and being open to both giving and receiving support.
Ben Jackson, 28
Director, Logistics | Beehive Meals
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
The most fulfilling aspect of my role has been witnessing the tangible results of hard work and the remarkable growth of Beehive Meals. I’ve had the privilege of being part of the company since its early days and have watched it expand by an astounding 20,000 percent in the last four years. Being involved in this journey has been incredibly fulfilling, and it’s exciting to see how effort continues to drive the company forward, impacting both our team and the communities we serve.
Who inspires you? Why?
My dad has always been a major inspiration in my life. He’s shown me the true value of hard work and the importance of integrity in everything we do. Through his example, I’ve learned what it means to be dedicated, honest and resilient. He’s not just a role model in his actions but also in the kind of person I aspire to be every day. His influence has shaped my character and continues to guide me in both my personal and professional life.
Colleen King, 24
Engineering Lead & Lead Accessibility Engineer | Skill Struck
Who inspires you? Why?
My parents. They immigrated to America from the Philippines with four of my siblings, starting with very little. They worked hard and sacrificed so much to provide for our family, and I will always be so grateful for that. While juggling their own business and having seven children, they still managed to establish themselves as solid members of the community in my hometown. Throughout their journey, they have met the world with love, courage and resilience.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Extend grace and compassion to yourself. Allow yourself to fail and grow. I’ve had moments where I’ve wrestled with perfectionism or felt like an imposter. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being your own harsh critic! There were times when those thoughts held me back from trying something new, recognizing my accomplishments or asking for help. Prioritize progress over perfection. There will always be something new to learn. When we’re kind and fair to ourselves, we can celebrate our progress and give ourselves the space to thrive.
Desange Kuenihira, 23
Founder & Executive Director | unDEfeated
/in/desange-kuenihira-undefeated
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
I am most proud of my work with unDEfeated. We have made significant strides in transforming the lives of vulnerable youth and single mothers in Uganda. Through our educational programs, we have empowered hundreds of underprivileged students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and break free from the cycle of poverty.
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
When I was in the refugee camp in Uganda, amid the challenges and hardships, I had a profound realization that education was my only path to a better future. I remember the day I first held a book in my hands, feeling a sense of possibility I had never known before. This moment ignited a fierce determination in me to pursue my education and seek opportunities despite the obstacles. I also encountered compassionate individuals who believed in me, inspiring me to pay that kindness forward. This realization and support motivated me to establish unDEfeated, where I could empower other women and girls facing similar struggles.
Kason Larsen, 26
CEO | Errand
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
Marrying Claire! Before that, I was going to go to medical school. After we were married, she showed me where my passions truly were and challenged me to go after them with her.
Who inspires you? Why?
Cameron Hanes. His work ethic and motto, “Nobody cares, work harder,†is something I think about daily.
Ashley Merrill, 23
Founder & CEO | House of Foils
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
I am most proud of the strong community of hair stylists I have built through House of Foils. This network is not only passionate about our products but also deeply committed to supporting each other in growing their businesses and achieving success.
Who inspires you? Why?
I’m inspired by women entrepreneurs, particularly McKenzie Bauer. She is encouraging, motivating and determined, consistently pushing herself and others to succeed. McKenzie has personally helped me grow in my own journey as a woman in business.
Grace Peterson, 29
Partner, Retail & Mixed-Use | Landmark Property & Development
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
I love how much my job connects me to my local community. Everyone interacts with the retail world on a daily basis, and providing vibrant retail environments can make a huge difference in how residents experience the world they live in.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
My father taught me that if you don’t know the answer to something, it is perfectly OK to say, “I don’t know, but let me find out.†People will respect you a million times more if you don’t pretend like you know everything.
Wyatt Peterson, 26
Owner | Chill Werx Airbnb Cleaners
What is the most fulfilling part of the work you do?
Nothing feels as good as getting a good review for another business. When Airbnb owners send me screenshots of good reviews mentioning the cleanliness of their rentals, it warms my heart. There are very few places people can turn to for consistency of service, so to succeed at offering that dependability brings me great pride.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
I hope to have one well-made business that lets me take home eight figures a year and engage in philanthropy at least 20 hours a week. I plan to have a team of 50 employees who don’t just work for a living but are inspired by a cause bigger than themselves. I plan to have a global mastermind of like-minded business leaders who contribute to the greater good of humanity.
Bailey Rivera-Wymes, 24
Special Project Manager | The Center for Economic Opportunity & Belonging
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
I am most proud of the community I have created through my work. Specifically, I have had the opportunity to establish the Young Professionals Network with Claudia Loayza, which has been a space to build capacity, learn skills and create community. I believe the relationships formed and skills learned because of this space are vital to the development of the upcoming generation of leaders.
What was a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today?
The biggest moment for me was when I started reconnecting with my culture and understanding my identity as a second-generation Mexican and Chicana. I grew up disconnected from this part of my identity. I went on a journey of reconnecting with my culture and redefining my identity, part of which meant finding community with other Latinos and ways to elevate their voices.
Kristina Schiffman, 22
Founder & CEO | UV Sense
Who inspires you? Why?
My grandfather, a Type-1 diabetic, and my grandmother used to travel across the world to visit our family every year. One time, before my grandparents flew back to their country, my mom and I bought as many disposable glucose monitoring systems as we could. I remember asking my mom why we were buying so many, to which she responded that my grandfather wouldn’t have access to the technology at home, and hopefully, he could last for a while with what we’d bought him. I was so frustrated that such seemingly simple technology — consumer-grade medical devices — were extremely hard to come by for anyone outside of a certain demographic. It really drives home the notion that people most in need of medical technologies are frequently the ones who struggle most to get them.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
It’s daunting to be in your 20s and pursue a passion, but it’s daunting at any age. People will give you a million reasons not to pursue an interest, but let those be their reasons, not yours. And remember, there’s only one person who needs to believe in your vision — you!
Ciriac Alvarez Valle, 29
Senior Policy Analyst | Voices for Utah Children
What are you most proud of in your career thus far?
While I value the policies and legislation I’ve contributed to, my greatest achievements have been building lasting community power and conducting my work with integrity and compassion. Over the past six years, I’ve worked to establish and maintain a children’s healthcare coalition and an immigrant rights coalition that will continue long after I leave. Members in each coalition have driven meaningful change, elevated pressing issues, and fostered a strong sense of community and trust.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope to be serving in a leadership position where I can continue finding opportunities to create policy solutions that make Utah a better place for all of our kids and families. I also hope to continue intertwining my passions for law, policy, faith, advocacy and community empowerment throughout my career.
Dylan White, 28
Associate, Advisory & Transaction Services | CBRE
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
In the next decade, I hope to have established myself as a leading expert in commercial real estate by cultivating a network of meaningful relationships across the industry. I envision myself having built a reputation based on expertise, trustworthiness and an understanding of the market. I hope to stay ahead of market trends and capitalize on new opportunities that include traditional office properties and other emerging asset classes. Most importantly, I hope to continue growing both professionally and personally.
What advice do you have for other young professionals?
Be patient and surround yourself with the right people. Identify mentors early on who are willing to invest time and energy into your professional development. Ensure your career goals are aligned with those of your colleagues and mentors. Surrounding yourself with positive, constructive people will help you recognize the value in others, contributing to your own success in your career and personal life. Once you’ve found influential role models, approach your career with patience.