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Elevate+ Women’s Summit:
Climbing Together
For women in international trade, designed to inspire, connect, and equip
Friday, November 14, 2025 | 12 PM – 5 PM | Cleveland, Ohio
We reach the highest heights by climbing together!
Join Star USA on Friday, November 14, 2025, for the inaugural Elevate+ Summit. This half-day event near Cleveland, Ohio is for women shaping the future of trade compliance, supply chain logistics, and global business.
Whether you’re building your career, running your own export venture, or mentoring the next generation, this event offers a unique space to learn, grow, and thrive together.
Why Attend the Elevate+ Summit?
As one of the few dedicated events for women in international trade, the Elevate+ Summit blends professional insight with community support. You can expect:
- Actionable Knowledge: Explore strategies in compliance, logistics, and global trade growth.
- Mentorship & Networking: Build connections that last beyond the summit.
- Inspiring Stories: Hear from women leaders driving impact across the trade industry.
Who Attends?
- Young professionals in trade compliance, supply chain, or logistics
- Emerging leaders building their network and expertise
- Trade professionals eager to connect, learn, and share experiences
- Mentors, speakers, and industry leaders eager to support the next generation
Elevate+ Summit Agenda & Speakers
Professional Headshots & Lunch
Join us at 12 p.m. for a complimentary professional headshot, delicious lunch, & networking with new friends before the speakers begin!
Thriving as a Woman in International Trade Panel
Peggy Easton | LCB, founder of Star USA
Linda Caro | former import compliance manager
The Master Key: Unlocking Career Opportunities Through Education
Mariah Hauser | MBA, CGBP, International Trade Specialist, Ohio SBDC Export Assistance Network at Youngstown State University
The Unexpected Ladder: Climbing Higher Through Job Transitions
Emily Salopeck | Global Business Operations Senior Analyst, The Ohio State University
The Hidden Lever: Elevating Your Career Through Personal Branding
Jackie Bebenroth | Principal & Brand Advisor, Muse
The Human Compass: Navigating International Business Through Mentorship
Larissa Harris | International Trade Specialist, U.S. Department of Commerce
Behind the Scenes in Brewing: A Private Tour of Fat Head’s Brewery
The Details
Location: Fat Head’s Brewery, Beer Hall & Restaurant
17450 Engle Lake Dr, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
Less than 10 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and 25 minutes from Downtown Cleveland!
Your $25 ticket includes access to all sessions, networking opportunities, a professional headshot, food selections, a drink ticket, a swag bag, and post-event resources.
Register by October 31st to secure your spot!
Elevate+ is Proudly Sponsored By
Questions About the Elevate+
Summit? We Have Answers!
Elevate+ is designed for women at every stage of their global trade career, from early-career professionals in compliance, logistics, and supply chain, to mentors and leaders who want to give back.
Most will be in business casual, but the real dress code is confidence. Wear what makes you feel authentic and comfortable — just be sure to have closed-toe shoes for one activity.
Most importantly, an open mind. We’ll cover a diverse range of topics. Feel free to bring your laptop or notebook for taking notes and business cards (physical or digital) to share with others.
Major cities within five hours of driving:
- Cincinnati, OH
- Columbus, OH
- Toledo, OH
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Detroit, MI
- Morgantown, WV
- Indianapolis, IN
If traveling by plane, the summit location is less than 10 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
This is a five-hour summit on November 14, 2025, featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, roundtable conversations, and a private tour of Fat Heads Brewery. After the formal sessions, we’ll migrate to the bar/restaurant area for additional networking time for those interested.
Your ticket covers access to all sessions, networking opportunities, food selections, a drink ticket, a swag bag, and post-event resources designed to help you continue growing beyond the summit. We’ll also have a professional photographer on site to capture free headshots for all attendees.
This summit is designed specifically for women in international trade. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive space where women can speak openly about their experiences and challenges in the industry.
We’d love to connect with organizations committed to advancing women in global trade. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Reach out to Melissa Merkle at mmerkle@starusa.org.
This summit is accredited for 1.5 LCB/CCS/MCS CE credit.
Reach Industry Decision Makers & Future Influencers and Talent
Partner with us to support women advancing in global trade. Sponsorship packages include brand visibility, direct engagement with attendees, and the chance to align your organization with the future of trade leadership.
Interested in sponsoring the Elevate+ Summit?
Contact Melissa Merkle at mmerkle@starusa.org.