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Food and Beverage Manufacturing: Development Council Event
Thursday, August 8, 2024 (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM) (MDT)
Description
Join us as we hear from industry experts about food and beverage manufacturing innovations. This special event will be held at the CSU SPUR Campus and includes a tour of the Terra Building after the panel.
Panelists:
- Gila Kaplan - Co-Founder and Owner, Dar Chocolate
- Liz Palmer - Director of Operations, Allegro Coffee
- Mike Bernier - Director of Sustainability, Swire Coca-Cola
- Michael Gabel - Director, CSU Food Innovation Center
Gila Kaplan - DAR Co-founder
Gila started out her professional career as an illustrator and graphic designer. For many years she worked in editorial illustrations for all major newspapers and magazines. Following the birth of her daughter Alma, she slowly but surely turned into a movement geek. A seasoned 5 Rhythms dancer, she also just earned her degree as a Certified Movement Analyst from the Laban-Bartenieff Movement Institute. When her path connected to cacao and chocolate, she incorporated her talent and experience in graphic design into the business.
Gila is currently the Brand Manager, responsible for the visual identity, design, and marketing for the company.
Liz Palmer - Director of Manufacturing, Whole Foods Market
Liz Palmer is the Director of Manufacturing at Whole Foods Market. After earning her degree in Industrial Engineering, she has grown her career in food and beverage manufacturing at Nestle-Purina, Molson Coors and most recently at Whole Foods Market - Allegro Coffee Division. She is known for her strategic manufacturing leadership and breaking down barriers. Her aim is to promote diversity and creativity in long-term initiatives to ensure that each team member’s voice is heard. As a member of Women in Manufacturing and Society of Women Engineer’s mentor, she promotes the next generation of women in STEM.
Mike Bernier - Director of Sustainability, Swire Coca-Cola, USA
Michael Bernier is the Director of Sustainability for Swire Coca-Cola, USA, based in Draper, Utah. Since 2008, he has spearheaded the company's corporate sustainability initiatives. His key responsibilities include overseeing the company’s water stewardship program, climate commitments, and waste and packaging programs. Additionally, he serves on the board of the Colorado Circular Action Alliance. Under his leadership, Swire Coca-Cola, USA has emerged as a leader in sustainable development. Mr. Bernier holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Utah and brings 22 years of professional experience in operations management across the food, beverage, and dairy industries.
Michael Gabel - Director, CSU Food Innovation Center
4777 National Western Drive
Denver, CO 80216 United States
This event will be held at the Spur Campus in the Terra Building. A tour will be given after the panel discussion.
The event will include a light, networking coffee and continental breakfast starting at 10:00 am.