Pipeline AZ names Amber Smith as its new CEO
Pipeline AZ, a statewide nonprofit organization powering a career-ready talent pipeline for Arizona’s economy, has announced Amber Smith as its new Chief Executive Officer. An advocate for equitable and accessible workforce development solutions, Smith will expand Pipeline AZ’s impact throughout Arizona and work collaboratively with the organization’s education, business and community partners to make career readiness resources available to all Arizonans.
Smith formerly served as the Chief Strategy Officer of Futures, Inc., the technology workforce solution provider that powers Pipeline AZ’s public platform. Under Smith’s predecessor, Mary Foote, Pipeline AZ exponentially grew its reach connecting job seekers and students to career pathways in emerging Arizona industries. The platform grew to over 160k users and over 8,000 employers, connecting Arizona community college and university program options to all Arizona k-12 public schools using the platform in classrooms. Now, Smith will guide Pipeline AZ to strengthen its existing partnerships and expand the work with industry, underserved populations, and K-12 students statewide.
“Empowering people with career awareness and readiness allows them to find a career they’re passionate about and helps them attain a higher quality of life. At the community-level, equitable access to these resources reduces poverty and fills in-demand roles with talented people in companies and organizations that drive Arizona’s economy,” said Smith. “Pipeline AZ offers the infrastructure that enables this, and I look forward to working with our education, business and community partners to multiply our impact.”
In her previous position at Futures Inc., Smith designed and implemented strategies that reduced barriers to career readiness. Smith has also been active in Tucson’s business community, serving as President and CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber and the CEO of the Metropolitan Pima Alliance. She holds volunteer positions as Chair-Elect for the Pima Foundation, a board member on Higher Ground and she is a member of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council.
“The need for strong workforce development strategies in Arizona has never been greater, underscoring the importance of a collaborative approach to building up our talent pipeline that meets industry needs,” said Dean Duncan, Interim Board President of Pipeline AZ. “Amber’s collaborative leadership style, deep understanding of workforce ecosystems, and passion for driving positive change in the community will ensure Pipeline AZ is well-positioned to drive career exploration.”
Rose Law Group welcomes accomplished zoning attorney Jon Gillespie
Rose Law Group, the most innovative law firm in Arizona and the largest founded by a woman in the state’s history, announced the expansion of their land use and real estate practice with the addition of accomplished zoning attorney Jon Gillespie. As an experienced land use attorney, Jon will ensure that Rose Law Group maintains their reputation as a premier real estate law firm.
With experience handling various issues related to land use and real estate matters including development impact fees, building permits, easements, title matters, real estate transactions, design review, variances, use permits and rezoning cases, Jon brings invaluable experience to the Rose Law Group team.
“We are so excited to welcome Jon to the firm,” said Jordan Rose, Rose Law Group Founder and President. “Jon’s talents are rare to see in one person – he is great at a hearing but also has an eye for detail and solves complicated problems. I am personally thrilled to have the opportunity to work with someone so gifted.”
Jon graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance from Brigham Young University in 2014 and returned to the desert to complete his J.D. at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law in 2017. While completing law school, Jon was dedicated to serving the community earning him the Highest Pro Bono Distinction upon graduation.
“I am thrilled to become part of the Rose Law Group team,” said Jon. “I look forward to contributing my passion, experience and dedication to the ongoing success of the firm, our clients and the community.”
Rose Law Group adds planner and project manager Amber Knapp
Rose Law Group, which doubles as Arizona’s most innovative legal practice and the largest law firm founded by a woman in state history, welcomes planner and project manager Amber Knapp to its esteemed land development solutions group.
Amber brings a wealth of knowledge and deep understanding overseeing complex planning in the areas of rezoning, general and comprehensive plan amendments, real estate land use due diligence, variances, use permits, design review, site plan review, public outreach, consensus building, code updates, text amendments, public sector planning, public meetings and presentations. She is also adept at using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools.
“Amber’s unique skill-set and notable urban planning experience is invaluable, contributing to the acclaimed services we provide to our clients,” said Jordan Rose, Rose Law Group Founder and President. “Her enthusiasm for her work is unparalleled – she is a welcome addition to our firm’s distinguished land development team.”
In her previous role as an urban planner at a land planning and entitlement firm, Amber focused her efforts on representing the private development interests of all categories on land use issues and entitlements. She is also considerably passionate in aiming for public participation and community outreach efforts
“I am thrilled to join Rose Law Group and to work alongside the highly-regarded group of attorneys. The depth of experience and quality of clientele is unmatched. I look forward to leveraging the talents and wisdom of these top-tier practitioners,” said Amber Knapp, planner and project manager.
Rose Law Group welcomes senior litigation attorney Alyssa Illsley
Rose Law Group, which doubles as Arizona’s most innovative legal practice and the largest law firm founded by a woman in state history, has added Senior Litigation attorney Alyssa Illsley to its growing firm. Alyssa’s addition to the firm’s dynamic litigation department will expand Rose Law Group’s already notable repertoire.
As a seasoned leg al professional, Alyssa brings a wealth of experience to her civil and business litigation practice, which includes professional liability claims litigation, hospitality litigation, alcohol liability litigation and real estate litigation.
Well-known for her tenacious approach to her practice, Alyssa possesses invaluable experience in strategically navigating claims to get the most-desired result – a testament to her dedication to delivering unparalleled legal service and client-focused solutions.
“We are extremely proud to share that Alyssa has joined our esteemed firm,” said Jordan Rose, Rose Law Group Founder and President. “Alyssa brings an impressive background that perfectly aligns with our commitment to provide unmatched legal services centered around our clients’ needs. Her commitment to excellence and client advocacy epitomizes the core values that define Rose Law Group.”
Prior to joining Rose Law Group, Alyssa has served clients for nearly a decade with diverse civil litigation needs including dram shop and liquor liability, bar and hospitality issues, all aspects of civil complaints, negligent security, vicarious liability, wrongful death, government liability, medical malpractice defense, professional liability, premises liability and construction defect claims.
“I am honored and excited to join Rose Law Group, a distinguished legal firm known for its commitment to excellence and client-centric strategy,” said Alyssa Illsley, senior litigation attorney. “I look forward to contributing my skills and experience to a team that shares my passion for delivering top-notch legal services and achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.”
Rose Law Group welcomes attorney Henry Hardy
Arizona’s most innovative law firm and largest law firm founded by a woman in state history, Rose Law Group, is expanding. As one of the state’s leading real estate law firms, they announced Henry Hardy, an attorney specializing in real estate and land use and zoning law, has joined their growing team.
With experience in urban planning and GIS mapping, Hardy brings a wealth of knowledge to the firm. His background offers the law firm a unique perspective for navigating legal complexities relative to property and legal regulations.
“We are thrilled to have Henry join the team,” said Jordan Rose, Rose Law Group Founder and President. “As a progressive and forward-thinking law firm, we seek talented professionals who we are confident will further enhance our ability to deliver outstanding results. Henry’s dedication to his practice aligns with our commitment to providing exceptional legal solutions.”
Hardy graduated from the University of Denver – Sturm College of Law with his J.D. in 2023 and passed the State Bar of Arizona soon after. As the newest member to the Rose Law Group team, Hardy is eager to contribute to the continued success of the Scottsdale-based law firm.
“I am extremely excited to join the state’s most innovative and prestigious law firm,” said Hardy. “I am confident that my education combined with my experience, will allow me to contribute to the incredible work the firm does for their clients.”
JHKM hires litigator Tyler Schwenke
Jennings Haug Keleher McLeod (JHKM) announced that Tyler Schwenke has joined the firm’s litigation team in Arizona. His practice focuses on representing plaintiffs and defendants in personal injury, insurance defense and medical malpractice litigation matters.
He is experienced in handling civil and criminal litigation matters on behalf of clients in Arizona. Tyler received his certification from the State Bar of Arizona College of Trial Advocacy in 2023. Prior to joining JHKM he achieved numerous favorable results in civil, felony and misdemeanor cases.
In addition to his legal practice, Tyler is active with Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Mock Trial Team, serving as a head coach since 2016. Tyler is a member of the State Bar of Arizona and has been recognized by Southwest Super Lawyers as a Rising Star for the past two consecutive years.
His educational background has provided him with a unique perspective and approach to the cases in which he is involved. Prior to graduating from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, Tyler earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona in molecular and cellular biology, with a minor in philosophy.
Modigent announces regional presidents across key markets
Modigent, a leader in infrastructure, technology and energy solutions, has announced the appointment of four Regional Presidents as part of a strategy to evolve Modigent’s operating model to better support its current geographical footprint while planning for tomorrow’s growth.
These leaders have decades of strategic leadership experience and will work closely with local operation teams to grow and develop its people and businesses in each region.
The Regional Presidents are:
- Frank Doyle, South Central Region: Doyle is an experienced leader with a proven record in the mechanical industry across the globe. His experience encompasses general management, operations management, sales, facility management and manufacturing. Frank’s professional journey includes notable roles at York, Johnson Controls and Nortek Air Solutions, displaying his depth in the field. A strong information technology professional, he is a former student of Greenhill’s College.
- Kyle Levengood, Southwest Region: Levengood’s robust career trajectory includes the last five years at Pueblo Mechanical, serving as President of Pueblo since May 2023, preceded by a role as Vice President of Installation. Before joining Pueblo, he was President of Kirlin Florida. He is a graduate of the University of South Florida, and his dual role at Pueblo and Modigent highlights the strategic importance of this rapidly growing region.
- Jim Rist, West Region: Rist brings more than two decades of strategic business development experience and technical acumen to Modigent, having honed his skills at industry leaders such as Johnson Controls, Siemens and MCS. His appointment will significantly influence Modigent’s growth trajectory in the Western United States. His educational background includes a master’s degree in finance and an MBA from the University of Colorado, Denver.
- Chris Schulken, Southeast Region: Schulken brings a wealth of experience to this role, including his time as Vice President of Integrations at Modigent. Before Modigent, Schulken held significant roles at CoolSys, Johnson Controls, York International and Carrier Corporation, which highlights his expertise in HVAC, management and leadership. He holds an BEEE in Electrical Engineering from the State University of New York Maritime College and an MBA from the George Washington University School of Business.
The Regional Presidents report to Modigent’s Chief Operating Officer, Scott Meeker, ensuring a cohesive approach to achieving the company’s strategic goals. Each leader brings a unique blend of expertise and insights, enhancing Modigent’s presence and operational efficiency in their respective markets.
Meeker commented on this team: “These leaders are critical to our vision. Their roles are pivotal in ensuring consistent and high-quality service across all regions, in line with our mission to serve our people, our customers and communities effectively. They will ensure that we continue to align services and improve quality, safety and culture across all locations and all operating companies.”
About Az Business Leaders: AZ Business Leaders is an annual business-to-business publication that combines the who’s who of Arizona business community with their valuable leadership advice and knowledge. The magazine is published by AZ Big Media. To learn more about Az Business Leaders, contact Sheri Brown, director of sales.
