Third Annual Power Eastern Oregon Summit is Wednesday, August 28

The economic climate, technological advances, and increased need for community resources have shifted dramatically in the last few years. And these issues impact everyone. Regional developers, industry leaders, healthcare experts, and community leaders work daily to plan for and manage the challenges to ensure they are able to support their communities, from small rural towns to larger metropolitan centers.

To support the vital work of our partners, Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC) will host the third annual Power Eastern Oregon Business Summit on Wednesday, August 28. This year, the summit will focus on the leading industries and developers of the region as they explore innovative approaches and solutions to issues facing Eastern Oregon.

Attendees can expect a dynamic forum for exploring the challenges and opportunities facing Eastern Oregon with a focus on driving growth and innovation. The day will offer insightful break-out sessions, networking opportunities, and a collaborative learning environment to help us work together to power the future of Eastern Oregon.

Agenda

The summit will be hosted at the stunning White Barn Estate in La Grande, beginning with optional networking in the morning. Enjoy coffee and pastries, bucket truck rides, and meet other attendees before the day starts. The rest of the day will be filled with speakers, breakout sessions, and even more networking opportunities.

See the full agenda here.

Speakers

This year’s speakers bring a wide range of knowledge and insight to help attendees learn more about the state of the rural economy, how to build healthy communities, and how to leverage artificial intelligence for innovation. 

Sam Kem, Senior Economic Research Analyst responsible for managing and developing economic research for the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (CFC), will discuss the current state of the rural economy.

Chris Haas, Meridian Cooperative’s Chief Executive Officer with a proven record of operational excellence, financial stewardship, risk management, customer service, leadership, and innovation, will share insight on Everyday Application of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation.

The Ford Family Foundation’s Kasi Allen, Director of Learning and Knowledge Management, Sarah Pytalski, Learning Officer –  Policy and Communications, and Mandy Elder, Learning Officer – Research and Communications, will host a panel discussion to share data and insights about building healthy communities.

Join us for networking activities including the robotic ANYmal from ANYbotics showing off robotic solutions for businesses and Baker Technical Institute demonstrating their innovative approach training and workforce development. 

Read speaker bios and more information here.

Register Now!

OTEC looks forward to seeing you at this year’s Power Eastern Oregon Business Summit. We’re grateful for the support and partnership of the White Barn Estate, National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation, the Ford Family Foundation, Island City Market’s Urban Vine, and Meridian Cooperative.

Contact us today for more information on the Summit, or register for the Power Eastern Oregon Business Summit here.