Future Forward Summit and Expo offers community networking opportunities
Workshops on economic development, workforce resources, tourism impact, and city planning and zoning were just some of the resources made available at this year's event. The Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce President, Michelle Rotellini says this provides an opportunity for community members to collaborate on solutions for intricate issues.'Economic development is very complex,' Rotellini tells 59News. 'There are a lot of different issues, and so today some of those issues are being unpacked and we're learning how we can come together as a community and move forward.'
Another important opportunity presented by Future Forward each year is that of networking, with community members being given a platform to express their ideas in a collaborative setting.'Future Forward I think is just a wonderful thing to where we can all come together and kind of brainstorm our ideas of what to do for the community,' says Michelle Wilson, president of small business, Suddenly Spotless – one of many organizations to be showcased for the event.
Local business celebrates anniversary with BRCCC ribbon cutting
City of Beckley Parks and Recreation Director, Leslie Baker notes the significance of the sessions in keeping the community up to date on current happenings. 'It's so important for the networking opportunities that are available, the sessions that they have to find out what's new and trending in our world,' she says.
The Chamber of Commerce concluded the 2025 Future Forward session one Wednesday evening with the hope of attendees leaving more strongly informed, inspired, and connected.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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