West Michigan stands at a pivotal intersection of digital expansion and resource management. As data center development accelerates across the state, the region must navigate a complex balancing act between technological innovation and infrastructure constraints. While these facilities offer the potential for significant tax revenue, tech-sector maturation, and other economic benefits, they pose challenges to the energy grid, water resources, and local land-use policies. This Power Breakfast conversation for business leaders features an analysis from key stakeholders on the real-world implications of these "digital powerhouses." The discussion will evaluate the economic ROI of data centers, providing a comprehensive view of how this industry will reshape the West Michigan landscape.
Cascade Hills Country Club
Attire: Business casual, collared shirt required for men, per CHCC.
HERE'S WHAT'S SCHEDULED
Speakers
Take a look at our speakers scheduled for this event

Randy Thelen

Jacob Kulhanek

Natalie Mitchell

Lauren Snyder

Dan Watts

Dan Wells
7:30am
8:15am
8:10am
8:30am
9:15am
9:30am
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
Welcome Remarks
Keynote Speaker Presentation
Randy Thelen, President & CEO, The Right Place Inc.
Panel Discussion
Moderated by Andy Balaskovitz, Managing Editor, Crain’s Grand Rapids Business
- Daniel Watts, CEO, US Signal
- Lauren Snyder, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer and Growth Officer, Consumers Energy
- Jacob Kulhanek, Senior Vice President & Operations Leader, The Christman Company
- Natalie Mitchell, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Campus Development, Switch
- Dan Wells, Community Development Director, Gaines Township
Networking
Event Concludes
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNER



