Idaho Economic Outlook Symposium

Keynote Speaker Robert Spendlove

Senior Economist, Zions Bank

Idaho's Economic Frontier: Opportunities and Challenges Ahead

Idaho is at a crossroad of economic forces. We continue to enjoy growth, but how do we manage for the future and ensure long term success? Robert will dig into the changing economic environment of the United States and our region, with insights into how we can benefit in times of uncertainty.

In his position at Zions Bank, Robert monitors and reports on economic indicators and public policy developments for the bank. Founded in 1873, Zions Bank is a division of Zions Bancorporation, which is one of the nation’s premier financial services companies and operates under seven separately managed and distinct brands throughout much of the western United States.

Robert's research interests are primarily in the areas of macroeconomics, demographics, financial markets and public policy. He frequently advises and briefs policymakers, as well as business and civic groups throughout the western United States. He is also regularly called on to give expert analysis in the media, through print, radio, and television. He is known for his insightful and understandable approach to explaining economic trends.

Iris Buder

Associate Dean, MHA Program Director and Associate Professor of Economics, Idaho State University

Dr. Iris Buder teaches undergraduate courses in the economics of health care, labor economics, microeconomics, econometrics, mathematics for economics, and economic issues. Her research interests in the area of health economics include analyzing the economic costs of diseases, conducting cost-effectiveness analyses for public health interventions, and researching health disparities. Her research interests in the area of labor economics include labor market disparities, occupational prestige, and wage disparities. She currently serves as a board member for Health West Community Center.

Karl Geisler

Associate Professor of Economics, Idaho State University

Dr. Karl Geisler received his Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, Reno. As a regional economist his research primarily examines how economic activities spillover between jurisdictions, such as how casinos impact employment in host and adjacent counties. 

MiaCate Kennedy

Chief Executive Officer, Bannock Development Corporation

MiaCate Kennedy I is the CEO of Bannock Development Corporation. With over 15 years of experience in the field, MiaCate has a proven track record of driving growth and profitability in both established and startup companies, economic development, growth, and technology.

MiaCate is a lifelong learner and stays up-to-date on the latest developments in the technology industry; she is working on a dual masters, Economic Development Certification (CEcD), CEH, and quantum physics. She is passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex business problems and has a deep understanding of emerging trends and technologies in relation to economic development.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, MiaCate is also actively involved in the community. She serves on the board of several organizations and is a strong supporter of community programs that strengthen the vitality of families and businesses.

Nikole Layton

Clinical Assistant Professor of Management and Director of Bengal Solutions, Idaho State University

Nikole received her undergraduate degree in Sales and Psychology from Weber State University. She then furthered her education by earning dual Master's degrees in Business Administration and Healthcare Administration at Idaho State University. Currently, Nikole is a dedicated PhD Candidate in Business Administration at Oklahoma State University, specializing in strategic management while maintaining a keen interest in finance, healthcare, and marketing. Her current research focuses on organizational agility and its impact on competitive advantage in varying degrees of turbulent environments.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Nikole brings a wealth of practical experience to her role. She has worked as a healthcare administrator, business consultant, bookkeeper, and HR manager. She currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Management and the Director of Bengal Solutions at the College of Business. As the Director of Bengal Solutions, Nikole leads a team of 10 graduate assistant students in providing business consulting services to local small businesses and government organizations. Nikole finds great satisfaction in the interactive aspects of her role, fostering growth and innovation in her students and the companies she collaborates with.

Patrick Pinheiro

Vice President of Risk Management, Idaho Central Credit Union

Patrick Pinheiro is Vice President of Risk Management at Idaho Central Credit Union, where he leads risk-related activities and provides strategic oversight. He brings nearly a decade of experience from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, where he worked as an Internal Consultant and Senior Business Consultant, advising senior management on risk governance and strategy. Prior to that, Patrick held roles at Zions Bancorporation as a Senior Business Analyst and Corporate Auditor and worked as a Risk Consultant at Deloitte, where he advised Fortune 500 companies and government institutions on risk and compliance. Patrick holds an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, a BS in Finance, and a BA in Economics from Brigham Young University. He also has technical degrees in Telecommunications and Electronics, along with certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Scrum Product Owner® (CSPO®).

Fred Parrish

University Business Officer for ISU Athletics, Office of Research, and College of Science and Engineering, Idaho State University

Steve Russ

Manufacturing Specialist / Consultant, TechHelp

Steve, a long-time Idaho resident, began his career as a U.S. Marine Corps aviation technician specializing in armament and avionics for rotary-wing aircraft. Following an honorable discharge, he worked as a federal technician on UH-60 and AH-64 airframes before attending Boise State University, where he earned a BS in Materials Science and Engineering. He then joined QTI Sensing Solutions as a ceramics engineer, developing high-precision temperature sensors.

Initially starting as an intern, Steve quickly advanced to R&D, focusing on cost-effective ceramic materials and gaining full lifecycle product experience. After QTI was acquired by CTS Corporation in 2019, Steve became an engineering manager, leading teams in production and new product development. He is also certified as an AS9100D auditor and holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB).

Ann Swanson

Region V Director, Small Business Development Center

Ann Swanson is the Director of the Region V Small Business Development Center at the ISU College of Business. In this position since 2015, Ann is responsible for helping local businesses grow and improve their bottom lines. SBDC services are free and include business plans, capital formation, marketing plans, employee hiring, and buying / selling a business.

Ann began working in web communications in 2000. Her career includes web development and marketing director at Portneuf Regional Medical Center; marketing director at Idaho State University College of Business, and owning her own small business. She has two Master’s Degrees from the University of Southern California and has been a marketing professor at Idaho State University. Ann joined the Idaho SBDC in 2011.