MARCH 9TH @ JESSUP UNIVERSITY
Igniting the Next Generation of Placer County Leaders
Torch Forum unites the region’s rising young professionals for a half-day dedicated to growth, connection, and inspiration. This signature event focuses on developing the skills, confidence, and community awareness needed to shape the next generation of Placer County’s leaders. By sponsoring Torch Forum, your business demonstrates a clear commitment to leadership development and workforce sustainability — investing in the future of our region’s economy while positioning your brand as a champion of young talent.
Meet Your 2026 Keynote Speakers
Adrian Guerrero | Assistant Vice President, Union Pacific
Join Adrian Guerrero as he shares insights on leadership at scale, navigating complex organizations, and making high-stakes decisions that shape communities and long-term outcomes. Drawing from his experience across both the public and private sectors, Adrian will discuss his leadership journey, lessons learned along the way, and what it takes to lead teams through complexity, accountability, and change.
Currently an Assistant Vice President at Union Pacific, Adrian helps lead one of the nation’s most critical transportation organizations. Previously, he held senior leadership roles with the Chicago Department of Aviation, the City of Chicago, and the Chicago Park District, where he guided large-scale operations and infrastructure initiatives—experience that continues to inform his leadership approach today.
Kim Menzel | Senior Vice President & Area Manager, Kaiser Permanente – Roseville
Join Kim Menzel as she shares practical insights on growing a meaningful career within a large organization while navigating life’s competing demands. Drawing from her leadership experience at Kaiser Permanente, Kim will explore how emerging leaders can develop authentic leadership styles, seek out impactful mentorship, and confidently step into mentoring others.
Kim will speak candidly about balancing professional growth with personal responsibilities, lessons learned throughout her leadership journey, and what she wishes she had known earlier in her career. Her session is designed to leave young professionals feeling encouraged, equipped, and empowered with tools they can apply immediately as they navigate what’s next.
Torch Forum Schedule Overview
Get a glimpse into your event schedule of the 2026 Ignite Torch Forum.
11:50pm
Check-in
12:00pm
Networking & Lunch
Time to get ready for the day! Grab lunch, meet some fellow young professionals.
12:30pm
Matching Mentors
Government & Economic Development
Krista Bernasconi
City of Roseville – Mayor
Wayne Wiley
City of Roseville – Economic Development
Construction, Food & Retail
Devin Davis
Sierra View Construction
Luke Noland
Fourscore Coffee
Taryn Grows
Uncle Charlie's Firehouse & Brew
Business & Professional Services
Justin Curry
Edward Jones Investments
Chelsea Carbahal
CMC Strategies
Eric McIntosh
WiZiX Technology Group
Johnny Perez
One Punch Cards / Frequency Coworking
1:30pm
Welcome from LC Chair - Alex Becerra
1:45pm
Keynote Speaker - Adrian Guerrero
2:15pm
Break
2:20pm
Level Up Panel
Meredith Adams
Damon Pridgeon
3:05pm
Break
3:15pm
Keynote Speaker - Kim Menzel
3:45 PM
Closing Remarks/ Post-Networking
Sponsorships!
By sponsoring Torch Forum, your business demonstrates a clear commitment to leadership development and workforce sustainability — investing in the future of our region’s economy while positioning your brand as a champion of young talent.
