Technology can be a boon to your business, but navigating how to integrate it can pose challenges and raise questions. Speakers at the annual Ignite Conference, including Erik Kulvinskas, Michayla Gilbert, Bru Swing, Olivia Billings, PJ Burns, Ryan Landis and Adelita Duryea will discuss key technological tools, ranging from websites and social media to QuickBooks online and cybersecurity.

At 8:30 a.m., Kulvinskas will lead “The Website Wrecking Ball: How to Avoid Demolishing Your Online Presence.” Kulvinskas will share practical tips for building a strong, user-friendly and search-optimized online presence to help businesses avoid pitfalls and search engine optimization missteps.

Kulvinskas is the founder and digital strategy director for Big Shifter. He has over 25 years of experience in website creation, content management strategy, analytics and digital marketing. He’s launched ‘dot coms’ before they were called ‘dot coms’; owned his own company; raced mountain bikes competitively; directed several software teams; and successfully launched countless websites. He has a talent for explaining technical concepts to people who could care less about the jargon of the day.

At 9:45 a.m., Gilbert, Swing and Billings will lead “Seamless Switch: Navigating Your Move from QuickBooks Desktop to Online.” This session provides a clear roadmap for a smooth and efficient transition to Quick Books Online. Attendees will learn what they need to know before they switch, how to navigate date migration and what to expect in the new software.

Billings, Swing and Gilbert all work at Harker Mellinger CPA’s, LLC.

Born and raised in Sheridan, Billings has always had a passion for empowering those in her community. After graduating from the University of Wyoming with degrees in accounting, finance and management, she began her career in public accounting at Harker Mellinger where she works closely with small businesses. She is dedicated to helping clients understand their finances to maximize growth.

Originally from Worland and now a dedicated Sheridan resident, Swing has consistently served the local small business community. Swing plays a vital role within Harker Mellinger, leading trainings for new staff and serving as a key resource for complex accounting matters. He is committed to helping both new and existing small businesses in the Sheridan area achieve their financial goals.

Gilbert has almost six years of experience working with small businesses in the Sheridan area. She graduated from Weber State University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and obtained her CPA license in 2023. Michayla is also a graduate of the Leadership Sheridan County program. Since beginning her career in public accounting, she has played a key role in helping small businesses to thrive. She finds great satisfaction in helping new ventures grow into sustainable, successful operations.

At 11 a.m., Burns will lead “Busting Cybersecurity Myths: Four Easy Steps to Protect Your Small Business.” Burns will debunk commonly held myths about small businesses and cybersecurity and provide some simple safeguards against cyber attacks that cost little or no money.

Burns, with the Wyoming Small Business Development Center, is a Wyoming native and is passionate about helping small businesses succeed. She has spent the majority of her career advising and advocating for small businesses in her roles at chambers of commerce and economic development organizations. She has a background in marketing, human resources, strategic planning, leadership and organizational management. She and her family enjoy the many outdoor recreational opportunities that living in Wyoming provides.

At 1:45 p.m., Landis will lead “Smart Solutions: Leveraging AI for Daily Operations in Nonprofits and Small Business.” This session will explore practical applications of artificial intelligence in the daily operations of nonprofits and small businesses. Attendees will learn how to leverage artificial intelligence to enhance productivity, make data-driven decisions and achieve greater impact with limited resources.

With nearly two decades of experience in non-profit organizations and higher education, Landis currently serves as the director of operations at The Hub on Smith, where he focuses on operational excellence, leadership development and fostering meaningful community connections. Previously, he has served in diverse roles at the Ucross Foundation, Whitney Center for the Arts at Sheridan College and Mississippi State University.

At 3 p.m., Duryea will lead “Social Media Done Right: The Actionable Guide for Business Owners.” This practical no-fluff course is designed to help business owners cut through the noise and implement real results driven strategies immediately. Attendees will walk away with a clear action plan to optimize your social media, increase engagement and drive more business without feeling overwhelmed.

Duryea has been carrying a passion for marketing and digital design since her first career in graphic design began in 2018. Duryea founded Sprout & Scale Marketing in September 2022. Since that time, Sprout & Scale has grown into a full marketing and branding agency, working with more than 65 brands and collaborating with some of the finest businesses in Wyoming.

The 2025 Ignite Conference will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Sheridan College. For more information on these sessions and 15 others, visit https://sheridanwyomingchamber.org/2025-ignite-conference/.

Registration costs $175 for chamber members and $210 for non-chamber members. Additional registrations from the same company will receive a $10 discount per registration. Your registration includes five breakout sessions, morning and breaktime refreshments, lunch and bonus keynote and wrap-up sessions.

For any questions, contact the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce at 307-672-2485 or email info@sheridanwyomingchamber.org.