HERMISTON, Ore.-The Hermiston Chamber of Commerce held its second annual speed networking luncheon for local businesses on February 18.
“This is one of my favorite events and it’s the second one,” Val Hoxie, Executive Director of the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce, said in greeting attendees before explaining the benefits of chamber membership and going over upcoming events. “It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
New and established businesses, nonprofits and service organizations ranging from boat rentals to employment services, the American Legion and more were represented at the luncheon from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hermiston Community Center.
Attendees held informal one-on-one conversations, each lasting about two minutes in a sort of “speed dating” format, before moving to the next business or service for another conversation.
Phil Sepulveda, who is opening a new boat rental business called DamBoats soon, attended the event to make valuable connections as he launches his business.
“This event is a fantastic opportunity to gather with local businesses and network,” said Sepulveda, who plans to offer half and full-day pontoon boat rentals between Boardman and Juniper when his business opens in April.
The speed networking format was designed to allow business owners and representatives to quickly make connections by sharing what they do, while identifying potential areas of collaboration that could be followed up on in the future.
First Coast Security, an organization that provides security for data centers and is looking for more employees also attended the networking event.
“Growth in the data center environment is wild right now,” said Spencer Savage, Regional Director with First Coast. “We’re trying to scale at the same rate to provide adequate unarmed security.”
For Savage, events like the speed networking luncheon are an opportunity to get the word out to the community about security jobs available at regional data centers.
“We’re going to need about 500 more employees about two months from now,” said Savage.
Following several rounds of speed networking, attendees were invited to stay for a luncheon catered by the local USA Subs, and to continue cultivating newfound business connections.
More information about the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce and member businesses is available online.
