For its latest episode of Elevating The Conversation, the Journal sat down with Alicia Barbieri, co-president of Goodale & Barbieri, to discuss the commercial real estate market.

2026 has been a year of building for architect Tyler Kavanaugh, who has been promoted to associate at Spokane-based ALSC Architects PS and named president of the American Institute of Architects Spokane chapter for 2027.

Kevin Williams stepped into his new role as CEO of the Spokane Workforce Council in May. Williams joined the Spokane Workforce Council in 2022 and has been in the workforce development field for a decade.

For its latest episode of Elevating The Conversation, the Journal sat down with Wally Jacobson, executive director of the Panhandle Area Council and the interim executive director of the Coeur d’Alene Economic Development Corp., to discuss North Idaho economic activity.

Laura Galloway began her new role as dean of Whitworth University’s School of Business on July 1 after relocating to Spokane from San Diego, where she previously worked for University of Massachusetts Global, a California-based online institution, most recently as associate vice chancellor for institutional curriculum, assessment, and academic policy.

Jessica “Jessie” Laughery joined Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce as president and CEO on May 11, replacing Lance Beck, who took a new job at Greater Spokane Incorporated.

For its latest episode of Elevating The Conversation, the Journal sat down with Mike Marzetta, president of Altek Inc. and co-founder of Minds-i Inc., to discuss manufacturing and innovation.

Jim DeWalt retired in May, concluding a 23-year run as president and CEO of Spokane-based Associated Industries.

For its latest episode of Elevating The Conversation, the Journal sat down with Ryan Herzog, an economics professor at Gonzaga University, for its Mid-Year Economic Outlook.