The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated Mesa County’s business community on Feb. 27 during its Annual Banquet, Business at Great Depths, held at the Grand Junction Convention Center.
The event brought together business owners, community leaders, and stakeholders from across Western Colorado to recognize the resilience and leadership of local businesses. The Chamber’s annual awards highlight individuals and organizations whose efforts strengthen the region’s economic future through a competitive nomination process reviewed by past award recipients.
Brigitte Sundermann of CMU Tech received the Citizen of the Year award for her work connecting education with industry needs and expanding workforce pathways in Western Colorado. The Chamber said Sundermann was chosen for her ability to unite partners around shared goals that benefit both employers and students. Her background in engineering and commitment to hands-on learning have helped create opportunities for others in the region.
High Country Beverage was named Large Business of the Year for its economic investment, workplace culture, and community partnerships. Founded in 1996 and led by CEO Dave Nichols and President Steve Nichols, the company has grown into a major regional employer while supporting nonprofit organizations through an employee-directed giving program. High Country Beverage is preparing to open an expanded facility as part of its ongoing investment in Western Colorado.
Maid2Impress received Small Business of the Year honors for growing from a startup into a regional cleaning services provider while maintaining strong community involvement. The company supports fundraising efforts, youth sports sponsorships, and programs like Community Hospital’s gas and lodging assistance for oncology patients.
Nick Gumpert of The UPS Store was recognized as Young Professional of the Year for his leadership within Grand Junction’s business community. A native of Grand Junction and alumnus of Colorado Mesa University, Gumpert mentors youth through Fire FC and Grand Junction Soccer Club while encouraging innovation among peers through his work at The UPS Store and teaching at CMU Tech.
The Chamber said these honorees exemplify how local businesses contribute not only to economic growth but also to building stronger communities.
