The Progress Paradigm
Welcome to the 4th Annual Business Summit!
The Rockford region’s identity has always been rooted in creating things: machines, components, businesses, and communities. The Progress Paradigm simply extends that tradition forward. Progress is not a slogan, it is the outcome of systems that are intentionally designed, collaboratively maintained, and continuously improved. Which is why Rockford’s defining principle may be its simplest one:
Rockford does not chase progress. Rockford engineers it.
The 2026 Rockford University Business Summit brings together regional leaders, employers, and innovators to explore the ideas, strategies, and partnerships, shaping what comes next for our economy. This year’s focus is on “The Progress Paradigm” and will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Join us from 7:45 am – 3:00 p.m. in the Burpee Student Center at Rockford University.
In the spirit of collaboration, this year Rockford University is partnering with the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce to focus on Economic Development for the region as an integral part of the Business Summit.
The registration fee for this event includes breakfast and lunch. A Networking Expo will provide an opportunity for B2B connections, networking, and informal conversations. Interested organizations can reserve and pay for an 8-ft table during registration. All tables will be in the same area. Organizations can set up their displays before 8 am or between 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.
Venue & Parking Information
Burpee Student Center (Building 2 on the Campus Map).
Best location to park is Parking Lot A (Across the street from Burpee.)
Agenda
2026 Business Summit Agenda
7:45 a.m.: Check-in, Breakfast, and Networking
8:15 a.m.: Welcome note & Remarks
8:25 a.m.: Rockford University Update
8:40 a.m.: Keynote Panel Discussion on “The Progress Paradigm”
10:00 a.m.: Remarks by Mayor Thomas McNamara
10:15 a.m.: Direct to breakouts/BREAK
10:30 a.m.: Breakout sessions
11:15 a.m.: Networking EXPO
12:00 p.m.: Lunch & Business Development Keynote
12:45 p.m.: Future of Utilities
1:30 p.m.: Future of Logistics/Trade
2:00 p.m.: Economic Development Panel Discussion
Featured Presenters
Kika Young, President and Shareholder, Forest City Gear
Kika Young is President of Forest City Gear, a third-generation, family-owned manufacturer based in Roscoe, Illinois. She leads with a focus on precision, innovation, and culture, serving industries from aerospace to robotics. Kika holds an MBA from Rockford University and is passionate about workforce development and customer partnerships.
Sam Kirker, CEO, SJK Enterprises
Sam Kirker is the founder and CEO of SJK Enterprises, a Rockford-based eCommerce company focused on scaling brands profitably on Amazon and Walmart. He builds lean, systems driven operations and is the creator of the Flow Management System, a no-code app platform that connects purchasing, inventory, and fulfillment to improve visibility, efficiency, and margins.
Martesha Brown, Market President, Midland States Bank
Martesha Brown is Market President for Midland States Bank and an MBA graduate of Rockford University. She has served on 13+ community impact boards, including Region 1 Planning Council and the Illinois Trust Board, and was elected to the Rockford Park District Board. She has earned honors including Forty Under 40, YWCA Woman of Achievement, and GRCC Community Hero.
Thomas McNamara, Mayor, Rockford, IL
Before becoming Rockford’s mayor, Tom McNamara valued his roles as husband and father. As mayor, he has focused on reducing crime, enhancing police technology and training, strengthening neighborhoods and schools, promoting economic development, lowering property taxes, and appointing diverse, fiscally responsible leaders committed to using taxpayer funds effectively.
Matthew Simpson, 815 Capital & Think Big!
Matt Simpson is a father, entrepreneur, and Development Strategist based in Rockford, Illinois. He earned a Master’s of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University, and has 15 years of experience working in economic development and neighborhood-level community development, as well as city and state government leadership/public administration.
Julie Bosma, President & CEO, United Way of Rock River Valley
Julie has 37 years’ experience in the nonprofit sector and desires to see the community work together for the good of everyone. She has her BA from Valparaiso University and her Master’s in Public Administration from NIU. Julie is a Midwest girl and returned to Rockford in 1989 and proud to call it her home. She began her tenure with United Way June 2021.
Breakout Sessions
Business Summit attendees can choose to attend any of the following breakout sessions.
Progress Paradigm:
The Future Workforce [Student Panel]
Internships and work experiences are a time-tested way to develop and engage the future workforce. In this session, listen to and interact with Rockford University students on their internship experiences and work-based learning.
Facilitated by:
Rockford University Students
Progress Paradigm:
Master Class – Conflict Transformation
Conflict is a natural part of life—but it doesn’t have to be destructive. This program explores how conflict can become a driver for growth. You’ll learn the essentials of Conflict Transformation, a practical approach used in peacebuilding, to uncover root causes and bridge differences. Build skills to handle real-life challenges, strengthen how you show up, and turn conflict into positive change.
Facilitated by:
Angela Schmidt, PhD
Progress Paradigm:
Master Class – Operational Excellence Meets Human-Centered Culture
This session helps leaders see operational excellence not as efficiency at the expense of people, but as systems intentionally designed so people can do their best work. Participants explore how clarity, trust, and human-centered design improve outcomes across higher education, industry, and nonprofits.
Facilitated by: Amy McIntyre, Rockford Park District
