Jerry Rickett, President and CEO of Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation (KHIC), kicked off a full day of hosting 20 Rogers LEADs Summer Camp participants and their counselors, Amy Ellis and Amber Decker. Hosted by The Center for Rural Development, the program brings high school students from across Eastern Kentucky together to explore entrepreneurship, innovation, and the many resources available to help launch and grow new businesses.
The day was marked by insightful discussions and thoughtful questions from an impressive group of bright, inquisitive students. Joining Rickett in sharing their entrepreneurial experiences were KHIC portfolio partners Rhonda Cornett of Cornett Family Farms, Steve Taylor of EST Tools, Whitney and Josh Howard of Howard Properties, and Jay White of J&K Heavy Haul.
Also contributing their expertise were entrepreneurs and professionals based at The Center and connected to Kentucky Highlands: Rodney Kuhl of the Southeast Kentucky Small Business Development Center, Jennifer Traves Skidmore of Highland Heritage Realty, Christina Mansfield, photographer and drone pilot, and Melissa Finley, CPA. Together, they offered valuable insights and real-world guidance to inspire the next generation of Eastern Kentucky entrepreneurs.