Leadership
Kitsap’s Economics Day was held at Watson Furniture on December 7, 2018. Clif
McKenzie, CEO of Watson Furniture Group, gave an inspiring presentation of the
guiding principles behind the local manufacturing company. The class had the
privilege of receiving a guided tour of the facility.
Kitsap Transit
Public Information Officer Sanjay Bhatt (LK17) shared the important role
transportation plays in Kitsap’s economy. Kitsap Economic Development Alliance’s
(KEDA) Executive Director John Powers shared the exceptional value of economic
opportunity in Kitsap County, and Executive Director of PSNS & IMF, Rick
Tift (LK00), expanded on the importance of a military and government presence
to maintain Kitsap County’s economic stability.
A panel of local
CEOs in Kitsap County shared their leadership experience and economic insights
with the class. The panel included: Alanna Imbach (LK18), Co-Founder Vibe
Coworks; Clif McKenzie; Larry Nakata, Chairman Town & Country Markets; and Chris
Rieland, CEO Pacific Northwest Title.
Sam Askew CEO of
Port Madison Enterprises (PME) and Jay Mills, Suquamish Elder and Ambassador described
the impact PME and the Tribe have had on the economy over the last several
years including their many commercial activities including the expansion of the
Clearwater Casino Resort.
Alanna Imbach (LK18) shared the start-up culture and entrepreneurial spirit in Kitsap. The day concluded with a group reflection of the Positive Leadership capacity ofAdvocacy facilitated by Dora Summers-Ewing (LK12).
Thank you to our Economics Day sponsors: Advantage Nissan, Port of Bremerton, and Watson Furniture Group.