A diverse group of accomplished and renowned experts in various industries were recently announced as keynote speakers for the third-annual Nevada Economic Development Conference (NVEDC), taking place on Sept. 11-13 at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Presented by the UNLV Center for Business & Economic Research, the University of Nevada at Reno College of Business and Western Nevada Development District, the conference aims to “build a stronger Nevada in a global economy” by bringing together attendees from economic developers to elected and appointed officials, business owners, utilities, banks, educators, manufacturers, mining industry professionals, transportation representatives, agribusiness and all of those interested in connecting with Nevada’s economic development network.
Recently announced speakers at this year’s event include:
Jim Carroll, Futurist and Author
With a 20-year track record in providing direct, independent guidance to a large, diverse global client base, combined with a previous professional financial background, including 12 years with the world’s largest professional services firm, Jim Carroll is recognized worldwide as a “thought leader” and authority on global trends, rapid business model change, business model disruption in a period of economic uncertainty and the necessity for fast paced innovation.
Brett Kelsey, McAfee Vice President & Chief Technology Strategist for the Americas
A well-respected executive in the information security field with a successful career spanning more than 25 years, Brett Kelsey is renowned for his exceptional ability to conceptualize, develop and implement technology strategies for government and private sector clients across industries. Overseeing security in development practices, research in critical infrastructure assurance, electronic discovery, physical security and Internet security research, Kelsey served as Chief Security Officer in multiple government departments and financial organizations.
Len Jessup, President of UNLV
Len Jessup joined UNLV as its 10th president in January 2015. An accomplished leader in higher education, Jessup brings experience as a university professor, administrator, entrepreneur and fundraiser, leading UNLV to become a high-performing, community-engaged Tier One research university.
Kim Lear, Founder and Content Director of Inlay Insights
Kim Lear is at the forefront of cutting-edge research to uncover cultural shifts that revolutionize how organizations engage employees and consumers. A speaker, writer, strategist and researcher who explores how emerging trends impact the future of our workforce and marketplace, Lear is known for her ability to use a mix of data, storytelling, humor and actionable takeaways to discuss the trends that most impact the bottom line of organizations.
“The Nevada Economic Development Conference brings together some of the best minds in industry and government to share best practices for diversifying our state economy,” says Barbra Coffee, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Henderson. “Conference attendees will have the opportunity to gain insight into how they can help further job growth and entrepreneurial innovation necessary for Nevada to continue competing in a global economy.”
In addition to hearing from speakers, NVEDC attendees will have the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look into the innovative companies and organizations surrounding Nevada’s reemerging economy as they go on tours of the Henderson Booze District, Tech Talent, Brownfields Bloom into Community Success, Nevada Energy: Apex Industrial and Generation Tour and History of Las Vegas Tourism.
Registrants are encouraged to purchase early bird tickets online, priced at $150 before July 12 for the two-day event and include lunch. Tickets are priced at $175 after July 12. A one day pass is also available for $100.
Sponsorships are also available for the event by contacting Sheryl Gonzales at 775-883-7333 x2000, sgonzales@wndd.org.
Scheduled to be held at UNLV’s Student Union, NVEDC will offer a forum for a broad section of professionals to explore and share ideas, programs, services and products that will help shape and strengthen Nevada’s changing economy. The opening sessions, off-site tours, breakout sessions, and keynote speakers create a multi-track conference focused on the state and strength in a global landscape, aiming to build capacity, increase efficiency and promote innovation to proactively respond to Nevada’s rapidly changing economic environment.
To learn more about NVEDC, visit nvedc.com.
