What: Webinar covering the best practices for writing job descriptions, hosted by Associated Employers

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT: 

Participants will learn how to define key responsibilities, qualifications, and performance expectations to support recruitment, performance management, and compliance efforts.

How You Will Benefit:

• Define the purpose of job descriptions

• Identify the key elements of an effective job description

• Gather and organize the necessary information

• Write complete, accurate, and objective job descriptions

• Comply with employment laws

Cost per webinar:

• AE Members - $125

• Prospective Members - $155

Price is for one (1) login. Additional logins are available for $10 each. Registration includes 30-day access to the recorded version.

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download the Fall 2025 training & webinar catalog

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees, and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Free webinar on AI readiness in the workforce, co-hosted by Craton Consulting, the Montana High Tech Business Alliance, and the Montana Jobs Network

When: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10th 

Where: Online via Zoom (link and video recording will be emailed to all registered participants)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

What does it mean to be “AI-ready” in 2025—and are students, faculty, and employers preparing for the new expectations of the workplace?

Join Craton Consulting, the Montana High Tech Business Alliance, and the Montana Jobs Network for a dynamic conversation on how AI is shaping education and careers. 

What you'll experience:

• Keynote by Tom Stergios, Founder of Craton Consulting - exploring how to think about AI, the “speed of trust” and innovation, and how AI is being organized from the national to the local level, including UM’s involvement

• UM Student Voices – hear firsthand perspectives from:

  • Sophia Ericsson, UM College of Business – sharing her AI experience at UM and Deloitte

  • Griffin Edmondson, UM College of Forestry & Conservation – discussing how AI is evolving in science fields

  • Mason Derendinger, UM graduate now at The Whole Group – reflecting on his academic research and current AI-focused work

• Interactive Q&A with panelists

Why attend:

• Learn how UM students are applying AI in classrooms and careers

• Hear what employers wish new grads understood about AI

• Explore key trends shaping Montana’s AI talent pipeline

Perfect for:

• Students & new grads

• Employers hiring early-career talent

• Faculty & career counselors

• Tech and business leaders shaping workforce strategy

Register Here

Download Event Flyer

For questions, contact MHTBA Communications Coordinator Melissa Paulsen at melissa.paulsen[at]mthightech.org.

Keynote Speaker:

What: Launch party for The Alternative Board - Montana

When: 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9th 

Where: The Ranch Club, 8501 Ranch Club Rd, Missoula, MT 59808

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

As a friend, colleague, or trusted business connection of Todd Twete, join a special Circle of Influence gathering to celebrate the launch of his newest venture: The Alternative Board (TAB) - Montana.

This casual, celebratory event is a chance to connect with friends and peers in the community and business world and raise a glass to the journey ahead. Enjoy great conversation, golf course views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Appetizers and a selection of beer and wine will be served. Whether you’ve worked with Todd, shared ideas over coffee, or simply want to show your support, he’d be honored to have you there.

Please RSVP to Todd Twete at ttwete[at]tabmontana.com by Friday, September 5, 2025.

Learn more about The Alternative Board (TAB) - Montana.

What: Career fair for employers and organizations seeking to hire University of Montana students, hosted by the University of Montana Office of Experiential Learning and Career Success

When: 11:00 - 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9th

Where: The University of Montana - The Oval, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Fall Jobs Fest is an excellent event for employers and students to connect about part-time and on-campus employment opportunities, as well as volunteer, internship, research, and other experiential learning opportunities. 

All UM students looking for immediate employment or experiential learning opportunities with flexible schedules are invited to attend. This fair is intended for employers looking to hire current UM Students and that have readily available, open positions at the time of the fair. This is UM’s most casual job fair, intended for students looking for part time jobs while they work towards their degree.

Registration for this fair opens on July 9th, 2025 and closes on August 26th, 2025.

Employers - Register Here

What: Free Employment Law Seminar geared toward business owners, human resource professionals and corporate counsel, hosted by Parsons Behle & Latimer and Big Sky SHRM

When: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9th

Where: Residence Inn Downtown, 125 N. Pattee St., Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Breakfast and lunch are included. Seating is limited.

Three HRCI credits, three SHRM credits and four Montana CLE credits pending.

Register Here

Seminar Agenda

8-8:20: Registration and Breakfast

8:20-8:30: Welcome & Introduction - Attorney Liz Mellem and Big Sky SHRM

8:30-9:30: Session One - Policy Evolution: Changing Your Company’s Policies to Keep Up With Changing Times

Employers may be suffering whiplash. Over the last half-decade, employers have been forced to devise remote-work arrangements only to fight to get employees back in the office. Many employers have, at the same time, implemented diversity measures only to be told those measures may put them at legal risk. With those shifting demands in mind, Mike and Paul will discuss best practices for analyzing and modifying your company’s policies, practices and procedures to ensure they comply with revised regulations, recently released court opinions and trends in the market.

Presenters:

• Michael Judd, Shareholder, Parsons Behle & Latimer

• Paul R. Smith, Shareholder, Parsons Behle & Latimer  

9:30-9:40: Break

9:40-10:40: Session Two - I Have Seen This Movie Before . . . But I Am Not Sure How it Ends This Time  

The second Trump administration has brought swift and significant changes to the employment law landscape, including increased pressure on undocumented workers (and the employers who employ them) and dramatic changes in enforcement priorities, including protections of religion, prosecuting reverse discrimination and pursuing national origin claims based on an individual’s status as an American. Liz and Mark will discuss what we have seen so far and what we may see going forward. 

Presenters:

• Liz M. Mellem, Shareholder, Parsons Behle & Latimer

• Mark D. Tolman, Shareholder, Parsons Behle & Latimer 

10:40-10:50: Break 

10:50-11:50: Session Three - Wage and Hour: Hot Topics and Real-Life Examples of Employers Running Afoul of the Fair Labor Standards Act 

Susan and Leah will review the tricky (and most often mishandled) wage and hour provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act as well as walk through relevant case law with examples of employers who got it wrong so you can get it right.

Presenters:

• Susan Baird Motschiedler, Of Counsel, Parsons Behle & Latimer

• Leah Trahan, Associate, Parsons Behle & Latimer

11:50-12:00: Break

12:00-1:00: Lunch and Ask Us Anything (About Employment Law) Panel

In this session, you can pick the brains of our employment attorneys with your burning employment questions. The topics for this presentation will be audience choice through requests. And the best part? You’ll never receive a bill! You are welcome to ask our panelists questions from prior sessions or about other unrelated employment law matters on your mind. But a little disclaimer: As with our other sessions, this session is not legal advice, so the panelists will assume that all questions are purely hypothetical.

What: In-person networking for Montana High Tech Business Alliance members and guests, sponsored by Jackson Contractor Group

When: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4th

Where: Cranky Sam Public House, 233 West Main Street, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join us for our summer High Tech Happy Hour in Missoula! These informal events bring together startup founders, tech professionals, executives, investors, and community partners from across Montana’s innovation ecosystem. Your first drink is on us. Registration links will be sent via email.

The number of guests per organization is based on MHTBA membership level: 

• $5,000 Platinum (10 guests) 

• $2,500 Gold (8 guests) 

• $1,000 Silver (6 guests) 

• $500 Bronze (4 guests) 

• $250 Industry Professional or $100 Startup (2 guests)

• $100 Remote Professional or $50 Emerging Professional (1 guest)

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

What: Webinar featuring how Verizon’s groundbreaking Center of Enablement (COE) successfully aligned research expertise with CX insights, co-hosted by commonFont and Qualtrics

When: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3rd

Where: Virtual (link will be emailed to all registered participants)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

In today's competitive landscape, true growth stems from a strategic approach to customer experience. Join us for this insightful one-hour webinar, hosted by Qualtrics, where industry leaders from Verizon will reveal how their groundbreaking Center of Enablement (COE) has successfully aligned research expertise with CX insights, orchestrating action and delivering profound cross-functional success.

Hear directly from the teams who have collaborated to break down organizational silos, leveraging their powerful partnership to foster transparency, enable faster decision-making, and significantly enhance customer understanding.

In this session, you'll learn: 

• How Verizon orchestrates action across the organization with clarity.

• How Verizon’s change strategies overcame habits, fear, and fatigue for lasting success.

• How Verizon envisions AI-driven CX transformation.

Register Here

What: Hybrid speaker series featuring conversations with top-tier technology and industry experts, hosted by Scaling Montana

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27th

Where: Hybrid watch parties & virtual - see ticketing options for details

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Scaling MT Speaker Series is a hybrid event featuring conversations with top-tier technology and industry experts to provide strategic insights and technology content for leaders, builders, and tech enthusiasts across Montana. 

This month, Scaling MT is partnering with the Montana Ambassadors for the next installment of the Speaker Series, featuring Kellan Carter. Kellan is a Montana native and University of Montana alum who has become a leading voice in early-stage venture capital as the Founding Partner of FUSE.

FUSE is a Seattle-based venture capital firm investing $1–10 million in early-stage technology companies. FUSE backs founders building intelligent applications in vertical and enterprise software markets.
Join Scaling MT to hear from a Montana native shaping the next generation of venture-backed technologies.

For questions, please contact Jenni Graff at jenni[at]earlystagemt.org

Register Here

Guest Speakers:

What: In-person networking for Montana High Tech Business Alliance members and guests, sponsored by Jackson Contractor Group

When: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26

Where: SHINE Beer Sanctuary + Bottle Shop, 451 East Main Street, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join us for our summer High Tech Happy Hour in Bozeman! These informal events bring together startup founders, tech professionals, executives, investors, and community partners from across Montana’s innovation ecosystem. Your first drink is on us. Registration links will be sent via email.

Guest Speakers:

• Anthony Mitchell, Director of Information Technology, Bridger Photonics

• Drew Currie, Director, Gallatin Valley Robotics Association

The number of guests per organization is based on MHTBA membership level: 

• $5,000 Platinum (10 guests) 

• $2,500 Gold (8 guests) 

• $1,000 Silver (6 guests) 

• $500 Bronze (4 guests) 

• $250 Industry Professional or $100 Startup (2 guests)

• $100 Remote Professional or $50 Emerging Professional (1 guest)

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

What: Monthly member meeting featuring Aimee McQuilkin, founder of Betty’s Divine and co-founder of Divine Trash Vintage, Trash Club, and Clark Fork Yacht Club

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 21st

Where: Goodworks Place, 129 W. Alder St., Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

Betty’s Divine is a locally-owned boutique on the Hip Strip in downtown Missoula, MT that has been a fixture in the Mountain West since 2005.

Learn More

What: Networking social co-hosted by the Montana Photonics and Quantum Alliance (MPQA) and MSU QCORE

When: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20th 

Where: EngineWorks, 2425 Technology Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59718

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Come celebrate quantum innovation in Montana. Learn more about exploring the future of quantum technology, Montana’s leadership in research and innovation, and the launch of QCORE. Connect with industry, academia, and government leaders.

Enjoy appetizers and refreshments while networking at EngineWorks.

Register Here

What: CTO Roundtable on Unlocking Business Value with AI & Data, co-hosted by Cloud Communications Group and the Montana High Tech Business Alliance

When: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20th

Where: Missoula College, 1205 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

AI experimentation is widespread in organizations today, especially as AI tools become embedded in the technology platforms we use every day. But how do we move from potential to real results?

This invite-only executive roundtable brings together senior technology and business leaders for a focused conversation on how forward-looking organizations are using structured data strategies and AI to transform IT from a cost center into a source of measurable value.

Keith Hatley, Chris Moffett, and Mike Stute from Cloud Communications Group, will lead a fast-paced session tracing the evolution of AI’s exponential growth and sharing practical examples of how companies are driving business results. They will highlight:

• How AI is improving decision-making in complex, data-heavy environments

• Examples of AI-driven automation in recurring financial review and compliance

• What executive teams need to understand now to stay ahead of accelerating change

The session includes a 60-minute program, open Q&A, and time to connect with peers over drinks and appetizers.

Who Should Attend:

This event is designed for:

• CTOs, CIOs, and senior technology leaders

• CEOs and executive decision-makers driving digital strategy

• IT leaders navigating data, AI, and security in sectors such as finance, insurance, healthcare, government, education, and utilities

Attendance is limited due to event capacity. Up to 2 guests per company are welcome. Advance registration required. For questions, contact McGregor Cooper at mcgregor[at]cloudcom.net or 406-808-9058.

Agenda:

4:00 PM | Arrival & Hosted Bar
- Check in, grab a name tag, and enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres

4:15 PM | Welcome & Guest Introductions
- Brief welcome from MHTBA and CCG
- Intro prompt: Please share your name, organization, and one sentence about your current focus or role in tech

4:30 PM | CTO Roundtable: Unlocking Business Value with AI & Data
- Presentation by Keith Hatley, Chris Moffett, and Mike Stute, followed by real-world use case discussion and open Q&A

5:30 PM | Networking
- Connect with peers and continue the conversation

Speaker Bios:

About the Sponsor:

Cloud Communications Group (CCG) is an IT consultancy and channel partner delivering cloud, security, and communications solutions. As a vendor-agnostic advisor, CCG advocates for its clients by sourcing and negotiating the right technologies to meet their evolving needs.  The company is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with additional offices in Chicago, Illinois, Montana, and Wyoming.

What: Live online webinar series about cutting-edge innovators presented by the American Computer & Robotics Museum

When: 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19th

Where: Virtual via Zoom (link will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join Dr. Douglas Munch as he shares fascinating insights and nail-biting challenges from his years as an engineer with the Apollo program. Starting with Apollo 11 and ending with Apollo 13, Doug contributed to NASA’s crowning achievement as well as their most famous “successful failure”, and you’ll thrill to his first-hand account of those historic years. Q&A to follow.

Registration: 

• $15 for non-members

• Free for ACRM Members

Register Here

Guest Speaker:

What: Free, one-day professional development training for Montana business and tech educators, hosted by the Montana Office of Public Instruction

When: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8th

Where: Missoula College, 1205 East Broadway Street, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

This training is open to any educator interested in work-based learning, industry connections, and preparing students for high-demand, fulfilling careers.

Renewal Units: Up to 8

Session highlights include:

• Business and Industry Panel + Q&A (hosted by Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Montana Jobs Network)

• Apprenticeships and Industry Credentials (led by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry)

• Dual Enrollment (facilitated by local universities)

• Work-Based Learning Tools and Tracking

• AI and Gamification in the Classroom

Questions? Contact Ethan Igo at  ethan.igo[at]mt.gov.

Register Here

Download Flyer

Agenda Overview
8:00 AM | Registration and Welcome
8:30 AM | Dual Enrollment: Making it Work (Local Universities)
9:30 AM | Break
9:45 AM | Managing & Tracking WBL Experiences (Ben Meyer – AET)
11:45 AM | Lunch Break
12:30 PM | Apprenticeships in the School (MT Dept. of Labor and Industry)
1:00 PM | Business & Industry Panel + Q&A (MHTBA / MJN)
2:00 PM | Break
2:15 PM | Industry-Recognized Credentials (DLI + Ethan Igo)
2:45 PM | Gamifying the Classroom & Using AI (Ethan Igo – OPI)
3:30 PM | Wrap-Up and Resource Sharing

What: Free, one-day professional development training for Montana business and tech educators, hosted by the Montana Office of Public Instruction

When: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Monday, August 4th

Where: C.M. Russell High School, 228 17th Avenue Northwest, Great Falls, MT 59404

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

This training is open to any educator interested in work-based learning, industry connections, and preparing students for high-demand, fulfilling careers.

Renewal Units: Up to 8

Session highlights include:

• Business and Industry Panel + Q&A (hosted by Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Montana Jobs Network)

• Apprenticeships and Industry Credentials (led by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry)

• Dual Enrollment (facilitated by local universities)

• Work-Based Learning Tools and Tracking

• AI and Gamification in the Classroom

Questions? Contact Ethan Igo at  ethan.igo[at]mt.gov.

Register Here

Download Flyer

Agenda Overview
8:00 AM | Registration and Welcome
8:30 AM | Dual Enrollment: Making it Work (Local Universities)
9:30 AM | Break
9:45 AM | Managing & Tracking WBL Experiences (Ben Meyer – AET)
11:45 AM | Lunch Break
12:30 PM | Apprenticeships in the School (MT Dept. of Labor and Industry)
1:00 PM | Business & Industry Panel + Q&A (MHTBA / MJN)
2:00 PM | Break
2:15 PM | Industry-Recognized Credentials (DLI + Ethan Igo)
2:45 PM | Gamifying the Classroom & Using AI (Ethan Igo – OPI)
3:30 PM | Wrap-Up and Resource Sharing

What: Annual summer technology conference put on by Montana Programmers (MTP)

When: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2nd

Where: The Commons, 1794 E Baxter Ln, Bozeman, MT 59718

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Big Sky Dev Con (BSDC) is dedicated to sharing knowledge with the Montana community about software development, tech business, design, and user experience. Organized by Montana Programmers, BSDC is set to reunite the tech community for an epic gathering of innovation, networking, and learning.

This year’s event features 6 hours of lightning-fast presentations—17 talks in total—covering everything from running LLMs on mobile and JSX without React to Rust-powered potato cannons, HTMX 3D games, and teaching Vim at scale. It’s a mix of real-world software, ridiculous side projects, and lessons from the edge of what’s possible in dev, design, and tech business.

Register Here

What: In-person networking for Montana High Tech Business Alliance members and guests, sponsored by Blackfoot Communications

When: 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 31

Where: Bias Brewing, 412 South Main Street, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Save the date for the Montana High Tech Business Alliance’s next High Tech Happy Hour! Join us for networking prior to the Montana Chamber Foundation's Governor's Cup Ace in the Hole BBQ and Golf Tournament. Your first drink is on us. Registration links will be sent via email.

The number of guests per organization is based on MHTBA membership level: 

• $5,000 Platinum (10 guests) 

• $2,500 Gold (8 guests) 

• $1,000 Silver (6 guests) 

• $500 Bronze (4 guests) 

• $250 Industry Professional or $100 Startup (2 guests)

• $100 Remote Professional or $50 Emerging Professional (1 guest)

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

What: Free, one-day professional development training for Montana business and tech educators, hosted by the Montana Office of Public Instruction

When: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 31st

Where: Skyview High School, 1775 High Sierra Boulevard, Billings, MT 59105

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

This training is open to any educator interested in work-based learning, industry connections, and preparing students for high-demand, fulfilling careers.

Renewal Units: Up to 8

Session highlights include:

• Business and Industry Panel + Q&A (hosted by Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Montana Jobs Network)

• Apprenticeships and Industry Credentials (led by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry)

• Dual Enrollment (facilitated by local universities)

• Work-Based Learning Tools and Tracking

• AI and Gamification in the Classroom

Questions? Contact Ethan Igo at  ethan.igo[at]mt.gov.

Register Here

Download Flyer

Agenda Overview
8:00 AM | Registration and Welcome
8:30 AM | Dual Enrollment: Making it Work (Local Universities)
9:30 AM | Break
9:45 AM | Managing & Tracking WBL Experiences (Ben Meyer – AET)
11:45 AM | Lunch Break
12:30 PM | Apprenticeships in the School (MT Dept. of Labor and Industry)
1:00 PM | Business & Industry Panel + Q&A (MHTBA / MJN)
2:00 PM | Break
2:15 PM | Industry-Recognized Credentials (DLI + Ethan Igo)
2:45 PM | Gamifying the Classroom & Using AI (Ethan Igo – OPI)
3:30 PM | Wrap-Up and Resource Sharing

What: Monthly member meeting feat. Jordan Potti, Co-Founder of Adversis

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 17th

Where: Stockman Bank, 321 W. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

Adversis is a cyber risk advisory and professional services firm offering cyber security advisory, compliance readiness assessments, and penetration testing.

Learn More

What: Half-day course on the fundamentals of human resources, hosted by Associated Employers

When:

• Missoula: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 3rd

• Billings: 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15th

Where:

• Missoula: BW Plus Grant Creek Inn, 5280 Grant Creek Rd, Missoula, MT 59808

• Billings: AE Training Room, 124 N 29th St STE 100, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT: 

If you are new to the HR role or if your company is new to having HR processes, this half-day course is for you! Associated Employers will cover the basics of the HR role within the employee life cycle, from recruiting and hiring to performance management and handling issues and complaints.

Who Should Attend: This seminar is geared towards new human resources staff, as well as other management-level individuals who want to strengthen their skills in the functional processes of HR.

How You Will Benefit:

• Gain the knowledge to apply HR best practices to your work world. 

• Use recruiting and onboarding to place and keep your most valuable asset.  

• Use a basic understanding of employment law to monitor compliance.  

• Understand the basics of handling employee complaints and resolving conflicts. 

• Have confidence in your role with HR processes.

Cost:

• AE Member: $160 / Additional Member: $115 

• Non-Member: $195 / Additional Nonmember: $155

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download AE’s Summer Catalog

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees, and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Free public Open House hosted by VACOM Montana Inc.

When: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 12th

Where: VACOM MT Inc, 37 Brick Trail, Lewistown MT 59457

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

After a year of planning, renovation and testing, the first of VACOM’s facilities in Lewistown, Montana is poised to start operations. To celebrate, the company is hosting a free public open house on Saturday, July 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The clean room operation will be open for viewing as part of the public tours at the Open House. Tours will start every half hour. Food and drinks, also free, will be available from the 406 Hot Dog Cart, and kids can enjoy the bounce house and kid’s corner activities.

What: In-person networking for Montana High Tech Business Alliance members and guests, sponsored by Big Sky Economic Development

When: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10

Where: Rock31, 201 North Broadway, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the Alliance’s next High Tech Happy Hour with the Billings Local Chapter, sponsored by Big Sky Economic Development. Your first drink is on us. Afterward, we will walk to Alive After Five (ends at 8 pm) to enjoy live music. Registration links will be sent via email.

The number of guests per organization is based on MHTBA membership level: 

• $5,000 Platinum (10 guests) 

• $2,500 Gold (8 guests) 

• $1,000 Silver (6 guests) 

• $500 Bronze (4 guests) 

• $250 Industry Professional or $100 Startup (2 guests)

• $100 Remote Professional or $50 Emerging Professional (1 guest)

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

What: Hybrid speaker series featuring conversations with top-tier technology and industry experts, hosted by Scaling Montana

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9th

Where: Hybrid watch parties & virtual - see ticketing options for details

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Scaling MT Speaker Series is a hybrid event featuring conversations with top-tier technology and industry experts to provide strategic insights and technology content for leaders, builders, and tech enthusiasts across Montana. 

The journey to scale a business is a high-stakes adventure—whether bootstrapped or venture-backed, every decision counts. How do you grow efficiently, stay resilient, and turn challenges into opportunities?

Join Scaling Montana for “Scaling Smart: Building Resilient Ventures That Thrive in Any Environment” featuring Adam Callinan, co-founder of BottleKeeper and host of the Growth Mavericks podcast, in conversation with Jake Wood, founder and CEO of Groundswell and chairman of Team Rubicon. Together, they’ll talk about what they have endured in building their companies. 

For questions, please contact Jenni Graff at jenni[at]earlystagemt.org

Register Here

Guest Speakers:

What: An evening of exciting tech start-up pitches, drinks, and appetizers with new and veteran angel investors, hosted by Frontier Angels

When: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26th

Where: EngineWorks, 2425 Technology Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59718 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Check out the brand new EngineWorks space and join new and veteran angel investors for an evening of exciting start-up pitches, drinks, and appetizers. Get insights on evaluating start-ups, what drives value creation, and the importance of developing a strong start-up ecosystem to build a stronger Montana. 

Register Here

What: 40th anniversary celebration of LC Staffing

When: 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26th

Where: LC Staffing Headquarters, 620 Treeline Road, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

In 1985, LC Staffing set out to connect people with purpose, and wow, what a ride it’s been! LC Staffing is throwing a bash to celebrate 40 years of recruiting success and want YOU to be at the party. Let’s toast to the recruiters who make the matches, the clients who inspire us, and their employers. Enjoy 80s music, beverages, treats, and a “Flashback to the 80s” memory lane!

Dress Code: Business Casual (with a touch of New Wave)

What: Employment Law seminar for HR managers, hosted by Crowley Fleck PLLP and Associated Employers

When: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25th

Where: AE Training Room, 124 N 29th St STE 100, Billings, MT 59101, and Virtual

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Do you need to obtain a more thorough understanding of the vital responsibility of Human Resources? This class is intended for experienced and new HR professionals, as well as non-HR managers, who need to gain a better understanding of personnel-related issues. 

How You Will Benefit:

• Avoid costly litigation 

• Confidently deal with complex employment law and employee relations issues 

• Develop policies and procedures that do not violate federal statutes 

• Protection from the damaging effects of uneducated employment decisions 

• Gain knowledge and understanding from the legal experts from an area law firm

What You Will Cover:

• How Various Leaves Work in Montana - Vacation/ PTO/Sick Leave 

• Legal Considerations Regarding Employees Working for Montana Employers but Living Out of State 

• ADA/FMLA Basics 

• Layoffs & RIFs and How the WARN Act May Apply to Employers 

• Roundtable & Q&A Discussion Regarding Relevant Montana Legislative and Federal Topics 

Cost:

• AE Member: $195 / Additional Member: $135 

• Non-Member: $275 / Additional Nonmember: $225

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download AE’s Summer Catalog

With a formidable team of approximately 150 attorneys, Crowley Fleck offers a comprehensive range of legal services across multiple practice areas.

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees, and their businesses.

What: Free open house featuring special guest Mark Baer, hosted by the American Computer & Robotics Museum (ACRM)

When: 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24th

Where: American Computer & Robotics Museum, 2023 Stadium Drive, Bozeman, MT, 59715 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the ACRM for an evening at the museum featuring artifacts and experts that shed light on computing’s fascinating past and exciting future.

Special Guest Mark Baer will present on the work of his father, computer gaming pioneer Ralph Baer. Learn about Ralph’s life and legacy and see his Brown Box gaming console in action! Admission is free, so bring a friend and enjoy the evening!

Learn More

What: Workshop on financing options available to small business owners, hosted by the Montana Small Business Development Center

When: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24th

Where: Rock 31 Entrepreneurship Center, 201 N 28th St, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Securing the right funding can be a game-changer for your business! Join the MT SBDC in Billings for an insightful workshop where lenders, SBA representatives, and SBA 504 loan experts will break down the financing options available to small business owners. Learn about the different loan programs, how to navigate the lending process, and what resources can help you secure the capital you need to start or grow your business. 

Whether you're exploring financing for the first time or looking for new opportunities, this workshop will provide the knowledge and connections to move your business forward. 30 spots are available for this workshop, so register today to reserve yours!

Register Here

What: Family-friendly event to connect kids and families with science and technology, hosted by the American Computer & Robotics Museum (ACRM)

When: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21st

Where: American Computer & Robotics Museum, 2023 Stadium Drive, Bozeman, MT, 59715 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the ACRM for this free, family-friendly event right here in the museum! ACRM will connect kids and families with science and technology at hands-on stations around the museum, and celebrate the longest day of the year with solstice-inspired family fun.

There will also be special exhibits and demonstrations throughout the museum to help introduce the foundational concepts and exciting science research happening right here in the Gallatin Valley.

Come to the museum and rub shoulders with an enthusiastic crowd of STEAM learners! Enjoy snacks, DIY kits, and gift shop discounts, too!

Learn More