Salt Lake Chamber

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Speaking on Business: Avalanche Studios Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Every great business has a story – one that connects, inspires and moves people to action. And bringing those stories to life is what Avalanche Studios does best. President Dave Lindsay joins us with more. Dave Lindsay: When a business tries to sell a product, attract new customers, train their staff, or recruit employees, they’re really just telling a story. At Avalanche Studios, we use the power of video to help businesses make those stories unforgettable. We create commercials, branding videos, marketing materials and other content for websites, training and events. And we take care of the entire process, from script to screen. We develop the concept, write the script, hire actors, scout locations and film cinematic visuals. Then we bring it all together with expert editing, sound design, music, graphics, effects and narration to create compelling content. For over 25 years, many companies have trusted us to tell their stories – Companies like Comcast, Instructure, Taqueria 27, UDOT, Telarus, Savage and the Salt Lake Airport. Our team of creative professionals and storytellers at Avalanche Studios have been helping businesses grow, by telling their stories. So, what’s your story? We’ll help you tell it. Derek Miller: Great stories don’t just entertain — they make an impact. And with the right visuals, your business’s story can do the same. To learn more about what Avalanche Studios can do for you, visit their website, avalanche-studios.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 4/10/25

Speaking on Business: Rio Tinto Kennecott Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Copper makes the technological world go round. Few produce more of it than Rio Tinto Kennecott. A staple of Utah life for decades, the mine has also made a major impact on Utah’s business world. Managing Director Nate Foster tells us more. Nate Foster: For 122 years, Rio Tinto Kennecott has been a cornerstone of Utah life, providing generations of Utahns with fulfilling careers while striving to be good corporate citizens through responsible environmental measures. As one of the nation’s top copper producers, our work powers essential technologies such as electrical wiring, cell phones, computers, electric vehicles and more. As a critical resource, copper plays a key role in shaping our economic future, making our mission even more vital to the prosperity of Utah and the U.S. We also have a deep commitment to safety at our operations and being good neighbors in our beautiful community. We donate water to the Great Salt Lake annually, and are advancing sustainability efforts, with our use of renewable diesel, Battery Electric Vehicles and solar panels. Through innovation and responsible mining, we’re shaping a sustainable future while continuing to support the industries that rely on copper every day. Derek Miller: With all its many uses, copper is an essential part of our daily lives, and a vital component to our future. Rio Tinto Kennecott and Utah not only share a rich history but a very bright future as well. Learn more at RioTinto.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 4/4/25

Speaking on Business: Project Connection Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller Speaking on Business. Project Connection, a local nonprofit, was founded on the belief that connection is essential for mental health. They provide mental health services that improve well-being and foster resilience. Director of Development and Community Engagement, Jennifer Holmberg, joins us with more about their efforts. Jennifer Holmberg: Did you know that the number of young adults in Utah experiencing poor mental health has more than doubled in the last decade? According to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, Utah ranks 11th for mental disorders, 3rd for serious mental illnesses and 4th for adults with serious thoughts of suicide. Project Connection is addressing this critical crisis by improving access to quality mental health care and offering innovative, community-based support services in Salt Lake County. We believe that connection builds resilience, and together, we can make a real, lasting difference in mental health for our community and beyond. With support from donations, grants and community partnerships, we’re able to offer these essential services to everyone. To learn more about our services or how you can join our network of businesses, groups and individuals creating points of connection in our community, visit ProjectConnection.co. Derek Miller: Project Connection is making a tangible impact on individuals' lives by fostering healing through connection. Their trauma-informed, evidence-based approach provides trusted therapy, wellness support and social prescribing, empowering individuals to overcome challenges and thrive together. I’m Derek Miller with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 4/3/25

Speaking on Business: Mountainland Technical College Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. A strong workforce starts with the right training, and Mountainland Technical College has been equipping students with that foundation since 1989. With hands-on learning and industry-aligned programs, MTECH prepares students to excel in high-demand careers. College President, Clay Christensen, joins us with more. Clay Christensen: At Mountainland Technical College, we don’t just train students — we build Utah’s workforce. As a proud partner of the Salt Lake Chamber, we share a commitment to strengthening Utah’s economy by equipping students with the skills employers need most. Our graduates don’t just fill positions - they fuel business growth. Each MTECH graduate generates an average of 265,000 dollars per year in economic output, and for every tax dollar invested in an MTECH student, the state receives a 142 dollar return in economic activity – year after year. Our industry-driven curriculum, employer partnerships and hands-on training ensure that MTECH graduates step into the workforce confident, capable and ready to make an impact. Not only that, MTECH is one of the most affordable higher education options in Utah, with 99 percent of our students graduating debt-free. Good for students. Good for business. Good for Utah. Learn more about how MTECH can strengthen your workforce at MTEC.EDU. Derek Miller: Mountainland Technical College is shaping Utah’s future. By focusing on hands-on experience and industry needs, they’re helping students launch careers while strengthening businesses and the economy. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 4/2/25

Speaking on Business: Consulate General of Canada - Sylvain Fabi Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For over 150 years, Canada has had no closer friend and ally than the United States. At home and abroad, we work together to make our citizens' lives safer and more prosperous. Consul General, Sylvain Fabi, joins us with more. Sylvain Fabi: The Consulate General, based in Denver, is responsible for strengthening Canada’s ties with Utah and the Mountain West Region. Our Trade team works with Canadian companies to help them successfully enter the Utah market with their product or service, and with Utah companies looking to invest in Canada. We have several industry priority sectors – including energy, clean technology, aerospace, information technology, and agriculture – where we work with our Canadian businesses to understand the local market and find partners, opportunities, and potential clients. Canada and Utah share a mutually beneficial trading relationship, with the Beehive State exporting 1.5 billion dollars in goods and nearly 700 million dollars in services to Canada last year. Your top exports to Canada include equipment, machinery, minerals, and metals. Our office is interested in hearing from you about potential investments or partnership opportunities for Canadian companies. Please reach out to us, we’re here to help! Derek Miller: Canada is one of Utah’s top trading partners, supporting more than 80,000 jobs statewide. Nearly 4,000 Utahns work for Canadian-owned businesses, further strengthening our economic ties. To learn more, visit connect2canada.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 3/31/25

Speaking on Business: Lloyd Architects Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For 25 years, Lloyd Architects has been creating sustainable homes and buildings across Utah, from Bear Lake to St. George. Their projects, ranging from private residences to public spaces, focus on simplicity and thoughtful design. Founding Partner, Warren Lloyd, joins us with more. Warren Lloyd: Utah isn’t just a pretty great state — it’s home. Our growing communities thrive in the beauty of our mountains, canyons, and valleys, and at Lloyd Architects, we’re committed to designing spaces that enhance how people live and connect. My team and I bring problem-solving and design expertise to energy-efficient housing, including shelter for those emerging from homelessness. We’re proud to be one of the architects of The Other Side Village, creating deeply affordable housing on Salt Lake’s west side. In 2023, I had the honor of leading the American Institute of Architects Custom Residential Architects Network. We welcomed over 200 architects from across the country to Utah to explore resilient communities and sustainable design solutions. Named AIA Utah Firm of the Year, Lloyd Architects continues to push for innovative, affordable housing solutions. As we prepare to welcome the world for the 2034 Olympics, we remain focused on “Building From Here” and shaping Utah’s future. Derek Miller: Lloyd Architects is dedicated to designing spaces that improve communities and enhance their environment. To learn more about their work and approach, visit their website at lloyd-arch.com and see how they can bring your vision to life. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 3/26/25

Speaking on Business: Friends of the Children - Utah Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 2020, Friends of the Children Utah has been breaking cycles of poverty through long-term, one-on-one mentoring. Their professional mentors support children from kindergarten to high school, currently serving 300 individuals, including 62 enrolled youth and their families. Executive Director, Kelsey Lewis, joins us with more. Kelsey Lewis: At Friends - Utah, we know there are no short-term fixes for children living with multiple generational risk factors. Our evidence-based approach breaks cycles of poverty and adversity by moving the mentoring relationship beyond the volunteer realm. We pair children aged four to six with dedicated, full-time paid professional mentors we call “Friends”. Friends build strong, lasting relationships with children facing the biggest challenges, offering consistent, one-on-one support from kindergarten all the way through high school graduation. That’s 12 years, no matter what. Friends help children develop essential life skills, succeed academically and build resilience for the future. We’re new to Utah, but we have 30 years of proven results — our youth go on to graduate from high school, avoid juvenile justice involvement and teen parenting. Every dollar invested in our program returns over 7 dollars in social benefits, from reduced foster care costs to improving lifelong outcomes. Visit friends friendsutah.org and learn how you can help. Derek Miller: Friends of the Children Utah is making a lasting impact by helping youth break free from cycles of poverty and adversity. Their long-term mentorship empowers children and families, creating real change and building a stronger, more resilient community. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 3/25/25

Speaking on Business: Central Utah Water Conservancy District Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. When you fill a glass of water, do you think about where it came from, how far it traveled or what it took to get there? The staff at Central Utah Water Conservancy District does, ensuring clean water for all Utahns. General Manager, Gene Shawcroft, joins us with more. Gene Shawcroft: Water is essential for life, and its availability requires careful planning long before it’s needed in a community. Central Utah Water’s mission is to develop, conserve and deliver clean water to customers across seven counties. We manage more than 180 miles of canals, tunnels and pipelines, treating over 100 million gallons of water daily. Much of our infrastructure is underground, but reservoirs visibly store water for future needs. We are constantly monitoring the environment, preparing for extreme weather scenarios that may impact water supplies. With 62 percent of Utah’s population living in our service area, our commitment is to provide a reliable, safe water supply both now and for future generations. We are dedicated to managing resources sustainably, ensuring communities can rely on us for clean, accessible water. Our priority is to create solutions that will serve the needs of our growing communities for years to come. Derek Miller: The Central Utah Water Conservancy District helps protect groundwater for communities, farms, and businesses. Through education, conservation, and responsible regulation, they ensure a sustainable water supply that supports Utah’s economy and future growth. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 3/24/25

Speaking on Business: Utah Bankers Association Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Founded in 1908, the Utah Bankers Association represents Utah's banking sector. They advocate for their members and offer resources to help banks deliver exceptional services. President and CEO, Howard Headlee, joins us with more. Howard Headlee: Utah is the 5th largest banking state in the country, with over a trillion dollars in assets in state headquartered banks – a stat that may surprise you. Financial services is the largest sector of our state’s economy, driving growth, innovation, and prosperity. Utah’s strong and fair regulatory environment makes this a prime destination for financial institutions, fostering competition, innovation, and economic expansion. Banks do more than hold your money – they fuel economic opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve lives. Yes, your money’s always available when you need it, but in the meantime your banker invests in the community through loans to small businesses, homeownership, and affordable housing. At the end of the day, banks are only as strong as the communities they serve – when Utah thrives, our banks thrive. Our fates are connected, and that’s why the Utah Bankers Association will continue working to ensure a strong and vibrant banking industry in our state. Derek Miller: The Utah Bankers Association is making a real impact in the community through their services and events, promoting financial education and supporting local businesses. Check out what they offer at Utah.bank. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 3/21/25

Salt Lake Chamber: Mountain Valley Recovery Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

This is Derek Miller Speaking on Business. Mountain Valley Recovery is a nine-to-twelve-month program designed to help men overcome addiction. By providing real-world skills and ongoing support, they guide individuals toward lasting recovery, setting them up for a purposeful and successful future. Network and Outreach Specialist, Murdock Sanderson, joins us with more. Murdock Sanderson: At Mountain Valley Recovery, we specialize in assisting those battling with substance abuse and mental health issues to confront their challenges directly and live with integrity. Our long-term approach focuses on trauma-informed therapy, job training, and a strong support system to promote lasting recovery and personal growth. What sets us apart? Our clients gain hands-on experience by working on a full-functioning ranch, learning valuable trade skills, and engaging in equine therapy. We don’t just focus on sobriety — we help men rebuild their lives with purpose, independence, and confidence. Many graduates leave with renewed self-worth, stronger family connections, and stable careers. Local businesses and community members can support our mission by hiring graduates, donating resources, or contributing to programs like beekeeping, greenhouse work, and archery. If you or a loved one needs help, visit MountainValleyRecovery.com or call 435-296-7456. Recovery isn’t just a goal — it’s a lifestyle. Derek Miller: Mountain Valley Recovery offers support to those in our community, helping them improve their lives and reenter the workforce with determination. With their help, people can excel and succeed in whatever they set out to do. I’m Derek Miller with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 4/1/25

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