Our History

Business Women’s Forum began in 1994 in the Carlisle area. As the event began to grow and pick up steam, the organizers of the event branched out and partnered with the West Shore Chamber in order to give the event more of a regional presence. Today, it is recognized as the largest one-day professional development and tradeshow event in the Central Pennsylvania region.

The Footprint of Business Women’s Forum

In order to understand the magnitude of this event, you must first realize that it encompasses more than nine Central Pennsylvania Chambers of Commerce, including the primary organizers of the event, the Greater Carlisle Area Chamber, and the West Shore Chamber, plus the Gettysburg Adams Area, Mechanicsburg, Shippensburg Area, and York County Chambers of Commerce. With all these Chambers involved, Business Women’s Forum draws attendees from throughout the mid-state.

Past Speakers at the Forum

Since Business Women Forum attendees are business professionals, our goal is to ensure that our speakers address issues of relevance to women in the workplace. Some of our prior keynote speakers include Kimberly K. Schaller, Executive Vice President of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Co., Diann Roffe, Olympic gold and silver medalist; Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels; and Courtney Lynch, author of “Leading from the Front.” Speakers are chosen not only for their professionalism, but also for their abilities to lead and inspire.

In addition, attendees can choose among several workshops for the day. The topics vary in content, but always hone in on ways to be a more effective professional. Past featured workshops have touched upon:

All of the workshops tie in with the theme of leadership in in varying degrees, so as to provide informative sessions for professionals at all levels.