Empower Yampa Valley

Empower Yampa Valley, presented by the Steamboat Springs Chamber and Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation, is a progressive workplace conference designed to help organizations foster connection, resilience, and long-term success. The annual conference brings together business owners, managers, employees, and community leaders to explore the strategies that drive meaningful relationships, both internally and externally. Through a combination of inspiring keynote sessions and hands-on workshops, this conference provides tools and insights that participants can put into action, whether they’re leading teams, shaping culture, or driving brand impact.

At its core, Empower Yampa Valley recognizes that:

People & Culture efforts strengthen relationships within an organization - between teams, leaders, and employees.
Marketing & Visibility strategies build trust and connection beyond the organization - with customers, audiences, and communities.
When businesses invest in both, they create strong, connected workplaces where people thrive and brands grow.

2025 Session Summaries & Speaker Bios

2025 Agenda

2025 Highlights

Empower Yampa Valley 2025 brought together over 100 professionals committed to building more inclusive, effective, and future-ready workplaces. Through insightful keynotes and targeted workshops, attendees gained actionable tools to improve culture, support employee well-being, and drive strategic branding. The day was filled with connection, learning, and momentum toward workplace progress.

KEYNOTE OVERVIEWS

Kris Boesch, CEO of Choose People, spoke about building a strong workplace culture and shared practical ways to create it. Attendees worked in groups to experience what a positive culture feels like and walked away with tools to apply in their own teams.

* Use this handout to spark ideas and improve team dynamics

Brittney Wilburn, Executive Director of The Health Partnership, wrapped up the day with resources and advice on supporting mental health at work. She highlighted the value of psychological safety, empathy, and real connection, offering tips to help employees who may be struggling.

* Find free and confidential resources on The Health Partnership’s website.

HR WORKSHOPS TAKEAWAYS

Consistency is critical – A great employee experience builds trust, performance, and team cohesion.
Tailored benefits matter – Different generations in the workforce have different needs; successful leaders know how to adapt.
Inclusive workplaces are stronger – Embracing neurodiversity and mental health support creates psychologically safe, high-functioning teams.
Culture is built, not assumed – Leaders must actively design and model the kind of environment they want to cultivate.

MARKETING WORKSHOPS TAKEAWAYS

Use your brand story to differentiate your organization – Combine strategy and creativity to craft a narrative that resonates.
A good brand matters – Building a brand is about more than the visuals - it's the tone, message, and experience at every touchpoint.
Data drives success – Understanding and applying marketing analytics empowers businesses to grow intentionally and effectively.

Platinum Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please email Cecilia Morter.

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