Ignite Women in Business Conference 2025
03/04/25 • 8AM - 4PM CST
Scott Conference Center - Omaha, NE
Bet on Yourself! Join us for a power-packed event designed to empower and support women in business by providing resources and tools that help you advocate for yourself in your life and in business!
Enjoy a day full of fabulous speakers, inspiring content and the ability to network with like-minded professionals. The conference will feature top female leaders sharing their insights and strategies for success and the final event of the day brings a negotiation workshop. Ignite your life and your career – register now!
register now
Network and Learn from Leaders in the Industry!
At Ignite Women in Business, we are dedicated to empowering women to thrive in the business world. We provide a platform for connection, collaboration, and mentorship, helping women entrepreneurs break barriers and achieve their goals. Conference attendees will benefit from the following:
Network
Network with like-minded women, and build lasting partnerships to help you succeed in life and business.
Empower
Gain valuable insights, and build a strong network of supportive peers. to help you reach new heights!
Celebrate
Celebrate women of all backgrounds by sharing unique perspectives and experiences.
Grow
Learn from industry leaders and participate in interactive workshops designed to push your boundaries.
Speakers
2025 Speakers and Panelists
Cara Kirsch
Ignite Women in Business Founder
Cara Kirsch is a seasoned employee benefits expert with over 20 years of experience. She specializes in helping employers create valuable benefit programs that align with their budget. Professionally, she leads business development and consulting, focusing on provider networks, cost-effective care strategies, and self-funded plans. Cara is also deeply committed to her community, serving on boards, mentoring women in insurance, and producing podcasts that empower individuals. She enjoys spending time with her family, including her new grandson, and pursuing outdoor activities.
Emma Fox
THE Anti-BUCA Activist & Serial Entrepreneur
Born and raised in the Southwest of England, Emma arrived in the United States as an 18 year old in search of purpose. She quickly climbed the corporate ladder in the insurance industry, becoming a recognized leader and advocate for industry reform. After leaving the corporate world, she founded a successful consulting firm and multiple advocacy organizations. Driven by a passion for improving healthcare, Emma is dedicated to making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all.
Katie Wichman Zulkoski
Lobbyist, Government Relations Strategist
Katie is an attorney specializing in lobbying and government affairs. Katie started Zulkoski Weber in 2015, offering a client-focused, solutions-oriented, professional conduit for businesses and associations to interact with elected officials and public policy leaders. Over the last 10 years, Katie has created successful legislative strategies for Fortune 50 businesses, national non-profits, and Midwest-grown industries. Outside the firm, Katie dedicates much of her time to public service on state-wide, non-profit boards.
Quinn Texmo
Community, Citizenship and Diversity Advocate
Quinn Texmo is fiercely passionate about advancing women in the working world. She is the Community & Citizenship Manager for Turner Construction Company and also serves as Diversity Advocate. She’s been in the construction industry in Omaha for 17 years. Quinn currently serves as President of the La Vista Community Foundation, and is on the Women’s Fund Board of Directors as well as Leadership Nebraska Alumni Advisory Council. She is a past president for both CREW Omaha and SMPS Nebraska, past leadership team member for Women’s Fund Circles, a graduate of Leadership Nebraska, and a past MBJ 40 under 40 winner.
Lisa Lackovic
Architectural Representative
Lisa grew up in the masonry industry and has 40 years’ experience promoting brick and mortar to architects, landscape designers, and contractors in Omaha. She developed a groundbreaking landscape contractor contest called “The Ultimate Backyard Challenge” that changed the game in hardscape in the Omaha market. Lisa founded and trademarked Divas of the Dirt TM, a networking organization for women in hardscape. She often refers to herself as “The Brick Chick” and serves as a resource to the construction community for all things masonry.
Holly Kovy
Large Group Market Leader
Holly is a seasoned healthcare industry professional with a strong background in account management and leadership. After a successful career at a national carrier, she joined Blue Cross Blue Shield Nebraska in 2015. Over the years, she has held various roles, including Major Account Executive and Manager of the Major Accounts team. Currently, as the Large Group Market Segment Leader, she oversees employer groups with over 150 employees. Holly’s strategic approach, coupled with her deep understanding of market dynamics and customer needs, has led to significant growth in the market segment. She is committed to mentoring and fostering a culture of transparency and continuous learning.
Candi Jones
Chief Executive Officer | Girls Inc
Breckyn Moore
Business Student, UNL
Breckyn is a Business Management major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, graduating in Spring 2025 with a strong academic foundation and a 3.605 GPA. Passionate about organizational efficiency and relationship-building, Breckyn excels in both professional and volunteer roles that require adaptability, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. As an Ignite panelist, Breckyn is excited to represent the next generation of women in business!
Partners
Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Your generous contributions have made it possible to create an exceptional event that empowers women and fosters professional growth. We are grateful for your partnership!
Podcast
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Get In Touch
Do you have questions about the conference or interested in becoming a sponsor? Submit your contact information and a member of our team will be in touch!