Blue Mountain SBDC

How do your colleagues describe you?

Nothing happens in the business community without Jeff knowing about it. He is the guy to go to when you have an idea for a new business or need help with your existing business.

Why do you do what you do?

Being a former small business owner, I know the importance of entrepreneurs in our community. Having a successful small businesses is the foundation for the community to grow and prosper. It brings family wage jobs and is a great example of the (grow from within theory) of economic development.

Bio:

Jeff owned a local retail clothing store in Baker City for 18 years. Having lived in the area since 1989, he’s able to refer his clients to various contacts. Jeff holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Lewis Clark State College and an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration from Idaho State University.

He advises clients on startups, business planning, expansion, finance, social media and networking.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Karen has been a successful business owner with her spouse for 30 years. She excels at the administrative and financial side of self-employment. She has worked in banking and as a bookkeeper for many different businesses and nonprofits over the course of her career. As support staff, she brings her organizational skills, QuickBooks and bookkeeping knowledge, and excellent customer service to the Blue Mountain SBDC team.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Amy began her undergraduate education at the University of Oregon and after a couple of years, decided to head back to the dry side of the state where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at Eastern Oregon University. Amy’s passion for real estate led her to obtain her real estate license to assist folks with their real estate needs, while also taking on leadership roles in both the professional and service communities serving Eastern Oregon. Amy shares her knowledge, first-hand experience, and network connections throughout many spheres to help educate and empower her clients to achieve their goals.

How do your colleagues describe you?

My colleagues describe me as a dedicated, resourceful, compassionate community leader. I am known for my collaborative spirit, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to empowering others through connection, mentorship, and action.

Why do you do what you do?

I am a lifelong learner, always seeking opportunities to upskill. I am a customer-obsessed innovator who gets excited about delivering value to members, customers, employees, and stakeholders.

Bio:

Laura Torres is a seasoned business adviser dedicated to empowering communities through economic development and strategic programming. With over 15 years of experience, Laura leads initiatives that foster workforce engagement and drive economic advancement. Her diverse background includes recruiting, business consulting, program outreach, and talent development. As a proud military caregiver to her Marine Corps Veteran husband, Laura is passionate about advocating for veteran entrepreneurship and workforce solutions.

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Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Johlona spent eight years in the Army before leaving to raise her two boys. While the kids were young, she owned a home-based daycare in Montana. The business outgrew the home and turned into a facility with employees. Johlona also owned a homeschooling/tutoring business in Maryland that rented space from a local church. Johlona has a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Phoenix.

Johlona’s experiences with owning various businesses gives her first-hand knowledge of operating under different business structures. She is a good resource for financial planning, reporting, and record keeping. She has experience with both rural and metropolitan markets, and understands the unique challenges of small town business.

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Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Stephanie has Midwest roots and deep experience in Pacific Northwest entrepreneurship. She founded, grew, and sold a Bend, Oregon business in 2019 and now helps small business owners improve operations, leadership, and customer experience. Known for her practical, hands-on approach, she specializes in untangling operational challenges, improving efficiency, and building strong workplace culture.

Stephanie brings creativity, resourcefulness, and a problem-solving mindset to every project. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, biking, skiing, and rafting with her husband Adam and their dogs, Sara and Finnie.

How do your colleagues describe you?

Why do you do what you do?

Bio:

Samantha’s work experience has involved working one on one with people and assisting them in their goals. She enjoys the rapport that happens when working with people and the relationship building that happens in the process. Samantha runs her own small business and looks forward to using what she’s learned as a small business owner to help other small businesses.