Navigating Success: Small Businesses Engaging with Utilities at #ACELing2023

August 18, 2023

Click Here to download digital PDF b ooklet

SCHEDULE | TOPICS | REGISTRATION | SPEAKERS

Join us for an informative session on how small businesses can successfully engage with utilities companies. Discover the strategies and opportunities available to establish valuable partnerships and secure contracts in this sector. Learn about the procurement process, supplier diversity initiatives, and key considerations when navigating utility industry regulations. Industry experts will share insights, practical tips, and success stories to empower small businesses to thrive in this lucrative market. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable knowledge and network with utilities professionals. Whether you offer products or services, this event will equip you with the tools to unlock growth and collaboration with utilities companies


Patricia Crenshaw (Moderator) is the President and CEO of Pacific Southwest Minority Development Council. She has more than 20 years of experience in public/external affairs, fund development, public relations, brand management, media relations, and strategic partnerships development for varied sectors. Patricia specializes in data-driven, science/technology-heavy programs in nonprofits, healthcare/medical research recruiting, business operations and project management. Patricia is a founding member of the Black Philanthropy Initiative and African American Giving and Empowerment Circle.


Erika Castro is the Supplier Diversity Program Manager at Salt River Project (SRP), and carries out Supplier Diversity strategies by connecting diverse businesses to purchasing teams. She is a member of the Hablamos SRP ERG and has been its Chair the past 4 years. Erika is a member of the Chandler Cultural Foundation Board, Public Policy Committee Member for the Chandler Chamber and member of the Community Superintendent Council for Kyrene School District. An alumna of Valley Leadership, Hispanic Leadership Institute, Erika was  recognized on the Women of Chandler list.


Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation and is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest Gas in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs and Public Affairs teams. Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. 


Sibia Manzanarez is the Supplier Diversity Program Manager at APS. She was born in Sinaloa, Mexico and has called Arizona her home since childhood. As APS’s Supplier Diversity Program Manager, Sibia brings extensive experience in community engagement and currently serves as the Program Chair of the Pacific Southwest Minority Supplier Development Council and Vice Chair of the Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center. Sibia earned a Supply Chain Management degree from Arizona State University and an MBA from Grand Canyon University.


For more information about the event, please email registration@ACELeaders.org

Click here ->> Registration

ACEL Member Early Bird Rate Before 7/22/2022 Early Bird Rate Before 7/22/2022 General Registration After 7/22/2022
WELCOME RECEPTION: (Fri, 08/19, 5:00-8:00pm | Keynote Speaker: TBD) $30.00 $35.00 $45.00
Conference GALA: (Sat., 08/20, 5:00-8:30pm | Keynote Speaker: TBD) $150.00 $175.00 $225.00
DAY PASS: Friday Conference (Fri., 08/19) Access to 12 Workshops/Seminars, Lunch & Reception $285.00 $325.00 $425.00
DAY PASS: Sat. Conference (Sat., 08/20) Access to 12 Workshops/Seminars & Lunch & Conference Gala $335.00 $375.00 $475.00
ALL-INCLUSIVE PASS: Best Deal!** (Friday, August 19 - Saturday, August, 20)   Full Access to Reception, Conference and Gala Event $399.00 $499.00 $599.00
Diversity Career Expo (Friday, August 19 - Saturday, August, 20) Register for our career expo. to meet with many inclusive companies in Arizona Free Free Free

Group Discounts are Available , please contact us for more information.

All conference registrations must be purchased online with a credit or debit card. Once you purchase your ticket you will receive a confirmation from registration@ACELeaders.org. Your registration will be confirmed by an email sent to the same address after we receive your payment. Please ensure that your email address is correct when registering.

Attire: Business professional/Semi-formal.
All purchases are non-refundable . All payments must receive by 4 p.m. on August 17, 2022 to guarantee your seat.

Attending our ‪#‎ACELing2023 Conference, but need a hotel ?

We have you covered when you reserve a room with Sheraton Phoenix Downtown .

We have locked in that special pricing at $179/night!! This link will be available until August 5th, 2023. Make sure to book your room today!!!

Use this direct link provided by Sheraton Phoenix Downtown

MAKING RESERVATIONS
A dedicated website is now available for ALL attendees to book hotel rooms online. Reservations can be made using the link below.

Room Reservations Link : – https://book.passkey.com/e/50583492

Or call  +1  602-262-2500 and mention ACEL Conference special pricing.

Click here to become a member today!

For more information, please contact registration@ACELeaders.org

ACEL’s mission is to be the proving ground for Asian American & Pacific Islander Professionals, forging leaders of tomorrow through professional development, cultural awareness, community service and mentorship. To learn more about our member benefits or if you would like to join the ACEL family, you can visit http://ACELeaders.org

 

 

share this

Related Articles

Related Articles

By ACEL National July 14, 2025
SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | ReGISTRATION August 14–15, 2025 | The Westin Tempe | Tempe, Arizona Theme: Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World Join us for the 2025 ACELing In Leadership Conference , a national leadership summit uniting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across the country. Hosted by Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) , this two-day conference offers a powerful platform to explore leadership through a modern, multicultural lens—rooted in purpose, driven by connection, and responsive to a world in flux. This year’s theme, “Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World,” highlights the critical role leaders play in closing cultural, generational, and economic gaps across business, government, and community sectors. Attendees will experience: 20+ high-impact workshops and panels led by C-suite executives, innovators, and civic leaders Business & Community Expo spotlighting inclusive employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit partners, and resource providers National Diversity Career Expo featuring top-tier employers committed to equity and opportunity Welcome Reception designed for authentic connections and networking across industries Leadership Awards Gala, celebrating national changemakers who are shaping the future of AAPI communities Whether you're an emerging professional, seasoned executive, or community advocate, this national gathering equips you to lead with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of mission. Please see attached program from last year
By ACEL National July 14, 2025
SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | ReGISTRATION August 14–15, 2025 | The Westin Tempe | Tempe, Arizona Theme: Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World Join us for the 2025 ACELing In Leadership Conference , a national leadership conference uniting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across the country. Hosted by Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) , this two-day conference offers a powerful platform to explore leadership through a modern, multicultural lens—rooted in purpose, driven by connection, and responsive to a world in flux. This year’s theme, “Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World,” highlights the critical role leaders play in closing cultural, generational, and economic gaps across business, government, and community sectors. Attendees will experience: 20+ high-impact workshops and panels led by C-suite executives, innovators, and civic leaders Business & Community Expo spotlighting inclusive employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit partners, and resource providers National Diversity Career Expo featuring top-tier employers committed to equity and opportunity Welcome Reception designed for authentic connections and networking across industries Leadership Awards Gala, celebrating national changemakers who are shaping the future of AAPI communities Whether you're an emerging professional, seasoned executive, or community advocate, this national gathering equips you to lead with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of mission. Please see attached program from last year
By ACEL National June 21, 2025
SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | ReGISTRATION August 14–15, 2025 | The Westin Tempe | Tempe, Arizona Theme: Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World  Join us for the 2025 ACELing In Leadership Conference , a national leadership summit uniting Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across the country. Hosted by Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) , this two-day conference offers a powerful platform to explore leadership through a modern, multicultural lens—rooted in purpose, driven by connection, and responsive to a world in flux. This year’s theme, “Bridging the Divide: Leading with Purpose in a Changing World,” highlights the critical role leaders play in closing cultural, generational, and economic gaps across business, government, and community sectors. Attendees will experience: 20+ high-impact workshops and panels led by C-suite executives, innovators, and civic leaders Business & Community Expo spotlighting inclusive employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit partners, and resource providers National Diversity Career Expo featuring top-tier employers committed to equity and opportunity Welcome Reception designed for authentic connections and networking across industries Leadership Awards Gala , celebrating national changemakers who are shaping the future of AAPI communities Whether you're an emerging professional, seasoned executive, or community advocate, this national gathering equips you to lead with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of mission. Please see attached program from last year MEET OUR SPEAKERS:
ALL ARTICLES