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The new partnership combines Third Bridge’s world leading library of expert interviews with Portrait’s AI-driven research tools, streamlining how institutional investors blend qualitative insight with quantitative analysis.

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Portrait Analytics, the leading personalized AI-powered investment research platform, today announced a strategic partnership with Third Bridge, a leading global expert network and investment research provider. Embedding Third Bridge’s unparalleled library of high-quality expert interviews directly into the Portrait platform will create a one-stop research environment for institutional investors.

This collaboration addresses a growing need in public market investing: combining state-of-the-art AI capabilities with powerful qualitative insights from trusted experts. Instead of switching between siloed tools or stitching together AI workflows manually, investors can now leverage AI to seamlessly surface real-time expert perspectives at the moment they’re discovering, researching, and monitoring an investment thesis.

“Investors are excited by AI’s potential to add leverage to the research process, but are struggling to integrate this technology with critical data sources,” said David Plon, CEO and co-founder of Portrait Analytics. “Integrating Third Bridge’s extensive library of expert insights and company intelligence into our leading AI platform is a major step towards helping our users fully unlock the value of this research for creative idea generation and thesis development.”

This partnership benefits institutional investors, particularly hedge funds and asset managers who rely on expert interviews as part of their research process. Third Bridge subscribers on the Portrait platform can now instantly leverage the collective insights from thousands of experts through Portrait’s deep research workflows. For instance, an analyst researching GLP-1s can now leverage Portrait to analyze thousands of expert conversations about downstream impacts on medical devices, food companies, and insurers, uncovering non-obvious investment opportunities.

“Portrait’s platform is the perfect environment to unlock even more value from our trusted library of expert insights,” said Mike Grubert, Managing Director at Third Bridge, “This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing the world’s decision makers with access to the high-quality insights they need, whenever and wherever they need them. Together, we’re giving our mutual clients a faster, smarter way to conduct due diligence and develop differentiated insight into investment opportunities.”

ABOUT PORTRAIT ANALYTICS:

Portrait Analytics is a personalized AI-powered investment research platform that supports critical public market workflows across idea generation, context-building, and thesis monitoring. Built by former buy-side analysts, Portrait is headquartered in New York with a presence across the U.S. and Europe. Learn more at https://www.portraitanalytics.ai.

ABOUT THIRD BRIDGE:

Third Bridge is a global investment research business, providing investors and business leaders with access to the unique expert insights they need to accelerate and improve their decision-making. Founded in 2007, it has 1,500+ employees who serve the world’s top private equity funds, hedge funds, mutual funds, and management consulting firms. Learn more at: www.thirdbridge.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Gill, MAG PR at lauren@mooringadvisorygroup.com.

SOURCE: Portrait Analytics

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Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet to Enable Throttleable, Restartable Missile Systems for Enhanced A2/AD Penetration

COCOA, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Vaya Space announces it has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase II in the amount of $1,236,406 focused on the development of the Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet, a throttleable and restartable hypersonic missile propulsion system, to address the most pressing challenges in the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018, which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded, and now on July 9, 2025, Vaya Space will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

“This Phase II award represents a significant advancement in hypersonic propulsion and a strong vote of confidence in Vaya’s hybrid technology. Our Hybrid-Fueled Ramjet introduces a new class of adaptable missile propulsion; combining throttleability, restart capability, and mission-tailorable thrust to meet the dynamic demands of modern defense. We’re proud to help shape the future of strategic capability for the United States,” stated Vaya Space Chief Executive Officer Kevin Lowdermilk.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense or the U.S. government.

About Vaya Space

Vaya Space is a privately owned company based on the Space Coast and leveraging patented Vortex-Hybrid engine technology to disrupt both the Space and Defense markets. Visit VayaSpace.com for more information.

About AFRL

The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.

About AFWERX

As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 320 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit afwerx.com.

SOURCE: Vaya Space

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BOZEMAN, MT / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Rivers are Life, a network of River Heroes who are invested in the protection of rivers around the world, today announced a partnership with Wildrye Distilling, a celebrated Montana-based craft distillery, to release “The Confluence Collection” – a limited-edition series of four unique whiskeys inspired by the iconic rivers of Montana.

Crafted with care and purpose, The Confluence Collection features:

• The Jeff: A rye whiskey finished in port casks, echoing the heritage of the Jefferson.

• The Maddy: A bold, free-spirited wheated bourbon as untamed as the Madison.

• The Gally: Rye barrel, Montana single malt capturing the power of the Gallatin.

• The Mo: A blend of all three, celebrating the confluence and creation of the Missouri.

Each bottle pays tribute to one of four vital Montana Rivers – the Jefferson, Madison, Gallatin, and Missouri – all of which play a key role in supporting the state’s ecosystem, agriculture, local communities, culture, and beyond.

A portion of proceeds from all sales will benefit Montana-based river protection group, Upper Missouri Waterkeeper, to protect fishable, swimmable, drinkable water throughout the 25,000 sq. miles of Montana’s Upper Missouri River Basin. They accomplish this mission by actively engaging with citizens, stakeholders and decision makers, utilizing water-quality monitoring and best-available science and, when necessary to protect waterways and communities, insisting on compliance with the law. Upper Missouri Waterkeeper believes healthy, clean waterways go hand-in-hand with strong communities and therefore focus both on stopping pollution and on sustainable, long-term solutions to issues threatening Southwest and West-Central Montana.

“Through this collaboration, we’re raising a glass not just to great whiskey, but to the rivers that shape our lives and landscapes,” said Katie Horning, Vice President of Marketing at Rivers are Life. “Partnering with Wildrye lets us celebrate Montana’s waterways in a bold, flavorful way, all while giving back to the rivers that inspire us.”

“Partnering with Rivers are Life on The Confluence Collection has been a natural fit,” said Sten Anderson, Co-Founder of Wildrye Distilling. “Montana’s rivers fuel our way of life-and our craft. We’re proud to help protect these waters so future generations can explore, enjoy, and raise a glass to them too.”

A limited run of The Confluence Collection will be packaged as a complete set in a sustainably crafted custom case by Woodchuck USA. With each box sold, a tree is planted in parts of the world with the biggest need for reforestation – a fitting tribute to the partnership’s mission to protect our planet.

We’ll be hosting a release party for the Confluence Collection at Wildrye Distilling on Wednesday, July 30th from 6pm-8pm. Stop by to learn more about the partnership, enter to win incredible raffle prizes, enjoy some amazing live music, hand-crafted cocktails, and food from neighboring restaurants.

The Confluence Collection will be available for purchase through www.wildryedistilling.com in early August. For more information about Rivers are Life, visit riversarelife.com and download the Rivers are Life app. Learn more about Upper Missouri Waterkeeper at www.uppermissouriwaterkeeper.org. Learn more about Wildrye Distilling at www.wildryedistilling.com.

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Contact Information

Katie Horning
VP of Marketing, Rivers are Life
khorning@riversarelife.com
989-491-1019

SOURCE: Rivers are Life

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

CEO, adjunct professor and educational leader, Dr. Belinda Reyes, was honored at the 2025 commencement ceremony.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / American College of Education® (ACE) selected Dr. Belinda Reyes – CEO, author, adjunct professor and educational leader – as its 2025 Alumni Achievement Award recipient. A first-generation college graduate and second language learner, Dr. Reyes’ career of nearly 30 years has included transformational initiatives for dual language and VPK-12 education.

In a speech delivered at ACE’s 2025 annual commencement ceremony, Dr. Reyes shared, “It’s with deep humility and immense gratitude that I stand before you, not just as a doctoral graduate, but as living proof that the vision of American College of Education to serve, lead and achieve is not only noble, it’s transformative … I’m part of a new generation of scholar-practitioners because ACE met me where life demanded I be – present as a mother, wife and leader.”

In her previous role as assistant superintendent, Dr. Reyes made history as the first former second language learner from her hometown school district to return and serve in a Cabinet-level position on the Superintendent Leadership Team.

Among many outstanding contributions throughout her career, Dr. Reyes notably led her district’s response to the displacement of nearly 3,000 non-English speakers following Hurricane Maria in 2018, securing support and implementing targeted strategies that resulted in a 93% graduation rate for affected students. Her doctoral research at ACE examined the impact of dual language education in closing achievement gaps between English Language Learners and their monolingual peers. It was published in the peer-reviewed Journal of English Learner Education and recognized at numerous conferences.

“We’re incredibly proud of Dr. Reyes and her influential career,” ACE President and CEO Geordie Hyland said. “The annual Alumni Achievement Award is an opportunity to recognize and highlight an ACE graduate who has not only accomplished earning a degree but has elevated what they’ve learned into meaningful contributions and positive change in society.”

Dr. Reyes is ACE’s 13^th annual recipient.

About American College of Education

American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, fully online private college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, healthcare and nursing. Headquartered in Indianapolis, ACE offers more than 60 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master’s or bachelor’s degree, along with graduate-level certificate programs.

SOURCE: American College of Education

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Insurance professionals are learning how to mitigate weather-related property damage and help high-risk communities prepare for natural disasters.

OVERLAND PARK, KS / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Summer is peak season for naturally occurring catastrophes like hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires. In high-risk states like Florida and California, it’s crucial for individuals and businesses alike to make sure they are properly insured to protect against these disasters.

A.D. Banker prepares aspiring insurance agents with comprehensive Pre-Licensing and Continuing Education courses. These programs not only provide entry-level education to new professionals but also offer specialized courses that help build a solid foundation. The goal is to pass this expertise on to all their current and future policyholders.

Take flood insurance, for example – often misunderstood as being included in a homeowners policy when it is specifically excluded. Agents trained by A.D. Banker learn to explain what standalone policies are actually available and the importance of recently updated flood zones, which may have moved existing customers into higher-risk categories. This is an opportunity to educate consumers, review existing coverages to reduce risk, and offer cost-saving advice.

With evolving environmental conditions and ongoing policy changes, agents need to stay up-to-date about industry policy option updates and be transparent with customers about what is and is not covered. Standard insurance policies often include complex exclusions and limitations – for example, determining whether damage sustained by a natural disaster was made worse by homeowner neglect or failure to maintain the property. By staying transparent and knowledgeable, agents can simplify these complexities and build trusted relationships with their clients.

“Obtaining and maintaining insurance in disaster-prone areas has become more costly, but that doesn’t mean someone should risk going without it, especially when some insurance policies will help cover the cost of temporary housing and extra expenses during repairs to a damaged residence,” said Pam Reihs, National Insurance Expert for A.D. Banker. “The sheer increase in the number of natural disasters is reason why we need more properly-educated agents, and that’s where A.D. Bankers comes in to help insurance professionals be successful by recommending adequate coverage to their customer who need it. They can easily become the superhero for their community.”

For information on becoming a licensed insurance professional, or just growing insurance industry expertise, visit ADBanker.com.

About A.D. Banker
For over 46 years, students have turned to A.D. Banker & Company for the knowledge they need to pass insurance and FINRA licensing exams, and continue their insurance education. The high quality learning design produces outstanding results, and our knowledgeable customer care team provides friendly, responsive support to make the roads to licensing and career advancement easier. Learn more at ADBanker.com. A.D. Banker is part of the Career Certified family of educators. Learn more at CareerCertified.com.

Media Contact:
Career Certified Press
Press@CareerCertified.com
720.822.5314

SOURCE: A.D. Banker

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Transferable skills around structure, service, and public trust create a natural fit for Federal professionals seeking stability, more flexibility, and income, without the need for another degree.

DENVER, CO / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / For those who have spent their career in public service and are now seeking more freedom, financial control, purpose, or simply rethinking job security, The CE Shop is sharing a step-by-step guide to put those federal skills to work in a new career.

With four in-demand career paths — real estate agent, home inspector, mortgage loan officer, or real estate property appraiser — federal and public servant professionals already have aligned skills that support goals, schedule, and values applicable to the real estate industry. Federal professionals bring strengths like compliance, communication, organization, and negotiation. These skills translate directly into real estate, especially in client-facing, contract-driven roles. Add in the ability to set working hours and control income, the path in real estate can feel both familiar and full of possibility. The best part is that these careers offer income from $88,000 to $165,000 annually — check out the stats here.

Get all the intel on why Federal professionals are a perfect fit for a role in the real estate industry and when visiting here, visitors also get the option of downloading a FREE step-by-step ebook created just for Federal professionals on why and how to make the career switch.

The Free Ebook, “From Federal Service to Career Freedom: Your Guide to Real Estate” from The CE Shop helps Federal professionals minimize the risk new career seekers face when leaping to a new career or finding success in a second or third career path.

While real estate roles require licensing, the pre-licensing costs are affordable, can be completed in weeks not years, and testing the waters is risk-free. If Federal professionals are curious about the real estate career that will fit them best, the Career Navigator Tool takes only 2 minutes and is free to try, as are the free trials offered for each of the different types of education provided by The CE Shop.

About The CE Shop

The CE Shop is the leading provider of real estate education with online mortgage, real estate, home inspection, appraisal, and professional development courses available throughout the United States. The CE Shop produces quality education for professionals across the nation, whether they’re veterans in their industry or looking to launch a new career. We believe the right education can truly make a difference. Visit TheCEShop.com to learn more.

Media Contact:

The CE Shop Press
Press@TheCEShop.com
720.822.5314

SOURCE: The CE Shop LLC

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Leveraging Northway Biotech’s 20+ years of CDMO expertise, Diorasis Therapeutics is advancing AAV gene therapy for glaucoma treatment

VILNIUS, LT / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / Diorasis Therapeutics (“DTx”), a preclinical-stage biotechnology company developing gene therapies for ophthalmic diseases, has entered into a strategic partnership with Northway Biotech (“NBT”), a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), to establish a scalable cGMP production process for DTx’s lead AAV-based gene therapy candidate for open angle glaucoma.

As part of the collaboration, Northway Biotech will leverage its 20 years of experience in biologics manufacturing to develop a robust, compliant process for pre-clinical and clinical material production. The partnership includes AAV process development, analytical method development and qualification, pre-clinical manufacturing as well as clinical manufacturing of cGMP drug substance and drug product for anticipated clinical trials.

Diorasis Therapeutics is focused on developing disease-modifying gene therapies in glaucoma with the goal of delivering extremely long-lasting efficacy from a single in-office dosing. Its lead program in open angle glaucoma is expected to enter clinical development following the completion of toxicology studies and regulatory submissions.

Remis Bistras, CEO of Diorasis Therapeutics, stated: “Partnering with Northway Biotech is a critical milestone as we advance our lead gene therapy candidate toward the clinic. Our mission is to transform glaucoma care with a single, long-lasting treatment that addresses the root cause of elevated intraocular pressure in open angle glaucoma. Many patients face continued vision loss leading to irreversible blindness despite existing daily eye drops or surgery. We aim to change that trajectory by offering a durable, gene-independent solution that preserves vision and improves quality of life”.

Prof. Vladas Algirdas Bumelis, CEO and Chairman of Northway Biotech, emphasized the shared commitment to high-quality execution and innovation: “We are very proud to support Diorasis Therapeutics in advancing their promising gene therapy program. Our dedicated team brings long-standing experience in cGMP manufacturing of complex biologics, and we are focused on delivering a reliable, scalable process to help ensure a confident and efficient transition into clinical trials. This partnership built with DTx on mutual trust and honest communication allows us to move forward with clarity and make the right decisions together at every step.”

About Diorasis Therapeutics

Diorasis Therapeutics is a late preclinical-stage biotech company pioneering gene therapies for ophthalmic diseases targeting intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering for glaucoma and neuroprotection. Its lead candidate DT003 targets the dysfunctional outflow of aqueous humor in glaucoma through a single, in office injection that enhances the eye’s natural drainage system. By restoring physiological function at the source, DTx aims to deliver a long-term, gene-independent solution for lowering IOP in both juvenile and adult open-angle glaucoma patients. DT003 delivers directly to trabecular meshwork cells (via a single intracameral injection) a modified tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) gene, which is a master regulator for matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that continuously remodel the outflow tissues). This approach is designed to restore physiological outflow of the aqueous humor by removing pathologically accumulated extracellular matrix material in the aqueous outflow system, thus reversing the root cause of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma. In preclinical models of open angle glaucoma, including mice and sheep, DT003 demonstrated durable IOP reduction to normal levels.

Unlike gene therapies that target specific mutations, DT003 provides a gene-independent approach, taking advantage of gene therapy biofactory ultra-long duration characteristics, making it potentially applicable to a broad spectrum of patients with open-angle glaucoma – including both adult and juvenile forms of the disease.

For more information, visit: www.diorasistherapeutics.com

About Northway Biotech

Northway Biotech is a leading CDMO specializing in protein-based biologics and gene therapies, offering comprehensive, end-to-end development and manufacturing services. With deep expertise in cell line development, process optimization, and cGMP manufacturing, the company supports programs from early development through to commercial production. Northway Biotech delivers robust gene therapy capabilities, including plasmid DNA manufacturing, viral vector production, and fill-and-finish services, supported by BSL-2 and BSL-3 infrastructure. The company also offers viral clearance studies to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of biologics and advanced therapies. Founded in 2004, the privately held company operates state-of-the-art facilities in Lithuania and the United States, delivering high-quality, compliant solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.

For further information, visit www.northwaybiotech.com.

Northway Biotech Contact:

Prof. Vladas Algirdas Bumelis
CEO and Chairman of the Board

Diorasis Contact:

Remis Bistras
CEO

Contact Information

Vladas Bumelis
CEO and Chairman of the Board
vladas.bumelis@northwaybiotech.com

SOURCE: Northway Biotech

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

TAMPA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / July 29, 2025 / The explosive popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® has transformed obesity care and created an unexpected cosmetic challenge. Rapid fat loss can leave patients with loose, sagging skin on the face, arms, abdomen, and thighs. In response, Dr. Meegan Gruber, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Gruber Plastic Surgery, is witnessing a dramatic uptick in requests for what social media now calls the “Ozempic makeover.”

A New Cosmetic Reality for GLP-1 Users

Clinic data show a 40 percent year-over-year increase in consultations for tummy tucks, arm lifts, and comprehensive liposuction among patients who have lost significant weight through semaglutide therapy. Nationally, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports a 50 percent surge in fat-grafting procedures to combat “Ozempic face,” underscoring the magnitude of the trend.

“GLP-1 drugs help people shed pounds fast, but skin elasticity can’t keep up,” Dr. Gruber explained. “Patients feel healthier yet suddenly confront excess skin that diet and exercise can’t fix. Our goal is to complete the transformation safely and restore confidence.”

Awake Plastic Surgery: Safety and Convenience

Most post-weight-loss body-contouring operations at Gruber Plastic Surgery are performed with the clinic’s trademark awake-surgery protocol, tumescent local anesthesia without IV sedation.

“Because the patient remains conscious, we avoid airway manipulation and the risks of delayed-gastric emptying that accompany general anesthesia,” Dr. Gruber said. “That means GLP-1 users usually do not need to stop their medication, whereas traditional surgery requires a six-week pause to protect against aspiration.”

Dr. Gruber emphasizes realistic expectations: topical creams and injectables offer modest improvement, but substantial skin redundancy typically requires surgical excision. During in-depth consultations, patients receive guidance on timing surgery, usually three to six months after weight stabilizes, and on maintaining high-protein nutrition and strength training to support healing.

One recent patient, a 42-year-old mother who lost 85 pounds on semaglutide, described the emotional impact: “I was thrilled about my weight loss but discouraged by the extra skin on my arms and stomach. Dr. Gruber’s awake tummy tuck and awake arm lift let me finish what the medication started. I feel like myself again.”

Looking Ahead

Industry forecasts and clinic inquiries alike suggest that GLP-1 medications will continue driving demand for both surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic solutions. Dr. Gruber plans to expand regenerative offerings such as platelet-rich plasma and radio-frequency skin tightening to complement surgical care.

About Gruber Plastic Surgery

Gruber Plastic Surgery, located in Tampa, FL, is led by Dr. Meegan Gruber, Ph.D., board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for her pioneering work in awake plastic surgery. Dr. Gruber, also the star of “Awake Surgery,” which you can stream today on TLC GO, HBO MAX, Hulu, Discovery+, and other streaming platforms, integrates advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to deliver safe, comfortable, and natural-looking results with minimized recovery time. Specializing in awake surgeries, the clinic offers a range of state-of-the-art procedures. Dr. Gruber is committed to innovation and education, ensuring precision and safety in every treatment, while enhancing patient confidence through individualized care and surgical expertise.

SOURCE: Gruber Plastic Surgery

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QXO and Expo Contratista Unite to Launch Roofero-Con: The Premier Roofing Conference for Hispanic Contractors

IRVING, TEXAS / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / Expo Contratista today announced that QXO, Inc. will participate as an exhibitor at Expo Contratista 2025, the largest national Hispanic construction trade show in the United States, to be held October 24-25 at the Irving Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.

Expo Contratista, produced in collaboration with the National Hispanic Contractors Association (NAHICA), serves as a pivotal platform for brands seeking to connect with the fastest-growing and most influential demographic in the construction industry. With 61% of Texas’ construction workforce identifying as Hispanic and over $800 billion in annual revenue generated by Hispanic-owned businesses nationwide, Expo Contratista is a critical hub for market engagement and relationship building.

“QXO’s participation in Expo Contratista 2025 reflects our commitment to serving Hispanic contractors and construction professionals who continue to drive innovation in our industry,” said Bernal Fernandez, head of Hispanic marketing for QXO. “This event is a great opportunity for us to learn directly from the Hispanic contractor community, and build long-term partnerships that help us better serve our valued customers.

As part of its presence at Expo Contratista, QXO will demonstrate its ability to help Hispanic contractors to save time, be more efficient and stay organized. QXO is committed to developing practical tools and technologies that enable contractors to grow their business by winning and completing more construction projects across Texas and the U.S.

Expo Contratista is expected to attract thousands of contractors, general contractors, and industry leaders, featuring over 250 exhibitors and a dynamic lineup of competitions, live product demonstrations and the prestigious HISPANHICA Awards recognizing Hispanic excellence in the construction sector.

For more information on Expo Contratista 2025, visit www.expcontratista.com

About Expo Contratista

Expo Contratista stands as the nation’s leading Hispanic construction trade show, dedicated to connecting contractors and construction workers. With a mission to empower the Hispanic market with the knowledge to network and grow businesses in the roofing industry, Expo Contratista continues to be a catalyst for diversity, collaboration, and innovation.

Media Contact

Sergio Terreros
CEO
gm@expocontratista.com
832-650-0001

SOURCE: Expo Contratista

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

TAMPA, FLORIDA / ACCESS Newswire / July 28, 2025 / Engage fi, a national consulting firm guiding financial institutions through transformative growth and technological advancement, announces the launch of its Executive Affiliate Program. The initiative will infuse the financial services industry with experienced leadership and timely insights.

Bridging Generations of Leadership

In a climate of accelerating innovation and disruption in banking and leadership, the voice of experience is critical. Participants of the program will serve as strategic advisors to Engage fi’s clients, drawing on their widespread experience to address contemporary financial challenges. As the industry undergoes significant change, the program aims to apply their insights to help institutions navigate new complexities.

The Executive Affiliates

Candidates were hand-selected for their demonstrated accomplishments, forward-thinking outlook, and alignment with Engage fi’s focus on purposeful innovation. The inaugural list includes:

• Cathy Pace, former CEO of Allegacy Federal Credit Union

• Gene Pelham, former CEO of Rogue Credit Union

• John Cassidy, former CEO of Sierra Central Credit Union

“Each of our Executive Affiliates embodies a legacy of leadership that continues to inspire,” said Andres Pasantes, President & COO of Engage fi. “They are not only advisors but also catalysts for growth, cultural strength, and visionary thinking across the financial ecosystem.”

Mirroring Pasantes’ enthusiasm, John Cassidy had this to say. “I was motivated to partner with Engage fi to support its mission to become the most dynamic technology partner for financial institutions in the U.S. I’ve seen too many well-intentioned tech initiatives fall short and I’m excited to help create a more productive and satisfying experience.”

A Platform for Impact

At its core, the Executive Affiliate Program elevates influential industry voices. It serves as a platform for:

• Sharing practical leadership insights

• Publishing thought leadership

• Advising future financial leaders

• Promoting values-driven organizational culture

• Monitoring industry trends

• Supporting philanthropy and community mentorship

Engage fi stands out by delivering these insights at scale, turning experience into tangible value for clients.

Cathy Pace commented, “In the ecosystem of financial services, this program can create transformative outcomes by drawing on best practices by experienced leaders that foster collaborative innovation, boost reach and efficiency, and enable knowledge sharing… all amplifying results across the industry.”

Empowering the Next Generation

Through direct advisory, collaborative workshops, and curated leadership content, the Executive Affiliates will guide tomorrow’s change-makers in strategic thinking, organizational culture, values-based leadership, and sustainable innovation and transformation.

“When someone retires it doesn’t mean they no longer have valuable insights,” said Gene Pelham. “The experience gained from a career of turning challenges into opportunities can provide valuable context to critical strategic decisions leaders must make; it is my desire to serve the leaders of the future.”

About Engage fi

With over 1,500 successful projects completed, Engage fi employs 85 consultants, advising banks and credit unions to make informed decisions surrounding vendor relationships and technology solutions. Founded in 2014, the company has negotiated over $3 billion in savings and incentives for its clients.

Contact Information

Shannon Crandall
Director of Marketing
shannon.crandall@engagefi.com
480-686-4253

SOURCE: Engage fi

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire