UNO Future of Work Symposium Spotlights Business Mavericks Shaping Tomorrow’s Careers

The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) showcased the entrepreneurial spirit of its College of Business Administration (CBA) students during the fifth annual Future of Work Symposium on Sept. 17, 2025. Themed “The Work Revolution: Redesigning Careers with an Entrepreneurial Approach,” the symposium was led by Dr. Erin Bass, Professor of Management and Executive Director of UNO’s Competencies, Skills, and Workforce Development Hub. The event highlighted how Business Mavericks are driving innovation, launching ventures, and preparing for leadership in a rapidly changing economy.

CBA faculty and alumni played a central role in the breakout sessions. Dr. Brent Clark, Professor of Management, led “From Lab to Launch: How Ideas Become Ventures and the Role of Universities,” highlighting how higher education provides the research, mentorship, and capital connections needed to turn ideas into viable businesses. Dr. Leif Lundmark, Associate Professor of Management, guided participants through “Think Like an Entrepreneur: A Hands-On Framework for Problem Solving,” giving students and professionals tools to approach challenges with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Business Students Leading by Example
While the symposium featured national entrepreneurs and Omaha business leaders, it was CBA students and alumni who stole the spotlight by sharing how classroom experiences and UNO resources are translating into real-world success.

• Alejandra Valdez (CBA alumna) described how she is scaling her cultural meal-prep business while pursuing her vision of a wellness-centered community space.
• CJ Monahan (CBA Scholars Academy graduate) explained how he turned a childhood hobby into Monahan Lawn Care and Property Services, now operating with five crews. “My favorite part is waking up every day knowing I get to chase my own dreams,” Monahan said.
• Sánchez Enterprises (CBA student-led project) is designing financial literacy and entrepreneurship courses for Mexico’s population, providing alternatives to illicit economic activities and strengthening long-term stability.
• Zonelle Skin (CBA student startup) is innovating silk-based wearables and plant-based skincare products for those with eczema and psoriasis—addressing the needs of more than 31 million Americans.

Beyond individual ventures, two flagship CBA programs gave students a platform to demonstrate hands-on entrepreneurial learning:

• The Maverick Investment Program continues to offer students experience in managing a $1.7 million portfolio while building financial literacy and industry connections.
• The Maverick Venture Fund, known as UNO’s “Shark Tank,” empowers students to evaluate startups, make real investment decisions, and understand the startup ecosystem.

Both initiatives are sponsored and housed within the College of Business Administration, underscoring its role as a hub for innovation.

Building the Future of Business
The symposium also featured breakout sessions led by UNO faculty and local entrepreneurs, equipping students with strategies to align careers with their skills, values, and ambitions.

“Entrepreneurship is growing everywhere, and at UNO, we want students to know they don’t have to do it alone,” said Kirk Bramwell, Managing Director of the Maverick Venture Fund. “The connections students make here—whether with local startups, venture funds, or alumni—can open doors for years to come.”

Why It Matters
As careers continue to evolve, the UNO Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Franchising, housed in the College of Business Administration, is preparing Business Mavericks to thrive by fostering innovation, encouraging risk-taking, and building a supportive community. The symposium underscored that the future of work will be defined not only by what students know but also by their ability to innovate, collaborate, and create opportunities.

The Future of Work Symposium reaffirmed that UNO CBA students aren’t waiting for the future—they’re building it.