Mario Medrano, Enterprise Strategy Consultant, American Express
What company do you work for, and why did you want to get involved with VYP?
I work as an Enterprise Strategy Consultant at American Express, tasked with nurturing relationships with some of our biggest enterprise clients. I got involved with VYP because I believe Phoenix’s future depends on the people who choose to stay and invest in it, not just professionally, but personally. I wanted to be part of a community that takes that seriously.
Why would you recommend that other young professionals in the Valley get involved with VYP and the Chamber?
This is one of the best places to build authentic relationships with leaders across industries while growing professionally. The connections you make here extend far beyond networking, they become opportunities to serve, collaborate, and lead. I’ve found a genuine place of belonging with the incredible people who make up VYP.
How do you see young professionals influencing the future of Phoenix?
Phoenix is still being written, which is rare for a city this size. Most major metros are already finished. Their identity is set. Ours isn’t. Young professionals get to decide what this region becomes, not just inherit it. I think the biggest influence we’ll have is in how intentionally we connect the dots between sectors that don’t usually talk to each other: business, culture, conservation, community, so that growth here means something deeper than just bigger.
What favorite activities, places, and restaurants would you recommend in Phoenix?
First Fridays at Phoenix Art Museum are free, fun, and lively, and you can never go wrong with a golden hour at DBG. I’m also a big fan of trying locally owned restaurants! (Right now, steak and eggs from Valentine is a brunch favorite.) Phoenix has one of the most exciting food scenes in the country right now.
What experiences and perspectives do you bring to the board that you hope will be valuable to the Valley Young Professionals group?
I bring a background that spans enterprise strategy at American Express, nonprofit leadership, and donor relationships across Phoenix’s cultural institutions. What connects all of it is a genuine instinct for bridging; bringing together people, organizations, and ideas that don’t always find each other naturally. I think VYP’s biggest opportunity is extending beyond traditional networking into something more intentional, and I want to help build that.
How can we engage young professionals to become more involved with the Chamber?
Meet people where they are. Create opportunities that are approachable, purposeful, and relationship-driven. When young professionals feel welcomed and see a clear path to making an impact, they’ll keep coming back. I promise.
What are the most significant challenges or opportunities for young professionals?
The rapid pace of change can be challenging, but it’s also an incredible opportunity. My first director at Amex introduced me to the “I win or I learn” mindset, and the young professionals of Arizona embody it. Building strong relationships, staying adaptable, and remaining curious will be some of the greatest advantages for the next generation of leaders.
Fun Fact
I was bitten by a meerkat on my birthday trip to Tokyo this past February and had to get an emergency tetanus shot; this will forever be part of my two truths and a lie.
Jesus Rendon-Silva, Policy Analyst, EPCOR
What company do you work for, and why did you want to get involved with VYP?
I work for EPCOR, Arizona’s largest private regulated utility, where we provide clean water and safe, reliable energy to the communities we serve. As an up-and-coming professional, Valley Young Professionals events were some of the first Chamber events I attended, and they always felt welcoming and approachable. Through both my personal involvement and EPCOR’S engagement with the Chamber, I’ve seen the incredible people and impact behind the organization, and I wanted to be part of that while giving back to a community that has been so welcoming to me.
Why would you recommend that other young professionals in the Valley get involved with VYP and the Chamber?
I would recommend VYP because it creates opportunities for young professionals to grow both personally and professionally. Whether it’s networking events, behind-the-scenes tours, or leadership development opportunities, you always leave having learned something new and met someone new. Whether you’re an extrovert, introvert, or somewhere in between, there’s a place for you.
How do you see young professionals influencing the future of Phoenix?
Young professionals are the future leaders of Phoenix, and many of us are already helping shape our communities, workplaces, and industries. Whether we were born and raised here or chose to make Phoenix our home, we care deeply about the city’s continued growth and success. We all want to leave Phoenix better than we found it and contribute to its long-term future.
What favorite activities, places, and restaurants would you recommend in Phoenix?
Arizona has some of the best Mexican food around (I firmly believe better than Texas and CA) and Taco Boys is always one of my go-to recommendations. One of the things I love most about Phoenix is how quickly you can go from downtown to some of the Valley’s beautiful mountain trails and scenic viewpoints. The desert landscape, history, and outdoor experiences make Phoenix a truly unique place to explore.
What experiences and perspectives do you bring to the board that you hope will be valuable to the Valley Young Professionals group?
As the son of immigrants and a first-generation college graduate from Arizona State University, I bring a perspective rooted in perseverance, opportunity, and helping others find their voice in spaces where they may not always feel comfortable. Professionally, I bring experience in government relations and the utility industry, particularly around water policy, and I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned. Most importantly, I try to bring an optimistic, glass-half-full approach and help create opportunities for others to grow.
How can we engage young professionals to become more involved with the Chamber?
I think we can engage more young professionals by partnering with organizations and groups we may not traditionally connect with, especially colleges, universities, and emerging professional networks. As a recent graduate myself, I know there’s a large group of people entering the workforce who are looking for ways to build connections and grow professionally. Creating events around topics that may be unfamiliar but impactful can also help attract new audiences and spark interest.
What are the most significant challenges or opportunities for young professionals?
One of the biggest challenges for many young professionals is simply feeling comfortable in professional spaces and confident enough to start conversations and build relationships. Networking can feel intimidating, especially when you’re new to an organization or industry. Creating welcoming environments where people feel included and encouraged to connect can make all the difference. Sometimes people just need a push!
Natalie Vittitow, Area Sales Manager, Hyatt Place Phoenix Downtown
What company do you work for, and why did you want to get involved with VYP?
I work for Pacific Hospitality Group as a Group Sales Manager, where I help organizations and businesses find the perfect space to bring people together. Whether it’s reserving 10 or more guest rooms per night, planning a conference, securing meeting space, or hosting a private dining event, I’m the go-to resource for our hotels in Downtown Phoenix and Tempe. I love being able to build relationships, create memorable experiences, and showcase everything our hotels have to offer.
Why would you recommend that other young professionals in the Valley get involved with VYP and the Chamber?
The connections. Hands down. Networking can sometimes feel intimidating, but VYP creates an environment where people genuinely want to get to know each other and help each other succeed. Beyond that, the Chamber gives you access to incredible leaders, professional development opportunities, and a chance to be involved in conversations that are shaping the future of our city.
How do you see young professionals influencing the future of Phoenix?
Phoenix is growing so quickly, and I think that’s an exciting opportunity for young professionals. We bring fresh ideas, different perspectives, and a willingness to collaborate across industries. Whether it’s supporting local businesses, driving innovation, or volunteering in our communities, we have the chance to make a real impact. I think our generation is helping build a Phoenix that’s more connected and ready for what’s up next.
What favorite activities, places, and restaurants would you recommend in Phoenix?
One of my favorite things about Phoenix is that there’s always something to do. When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me meeting friends for happy hour, taking a spin class, or getting out for a hike before it gets too hot. During the summer, I love spending time by the pool and doing my best not to burn. For food, The Henry and Fa-me are two of my favorite spots, I recommend them to everyone. I also love spending time exploring Downtown Phoenix and Downtown Tempe. Both have such a great energy, with amazing local restaurants, unique businesses, and plenty of events happening throughout the year.
What experiences and perspectives do you bring to the board that you hope will be valuable to the Valley Young Professionals group?
Working in hospitality has taught me that relationships are everything. My job is all about bringing people together, creating memorable experiences, and finding ways to add value. I naturally enjoy connecting people, organizing events, and building partnerships, and I hope to bring that same energy to VYP. I want to help create opportunities where members walk away feeling like they met someone new, learned something valuable, or found a way to get more involved in our community.
How can we engage young professionals to become more involved with the Chamber?
I think people are looking for authentic connections and experiences that fit into their busy lives. The more we create events that are welcoming, fun, and purposeful, the more people will want to come back. It’s also important to show that getting involved isn’t just about attending networking events; it’s about finding mentors, building friendships, growing your career, and making a difference in the community. When people see that value, they’ll want to stay engaged.
What are the most significant challenges or opportunities for young professionals?
I think one of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to grow your career while balancing everything else life throws at you. It can also be hard to build meaningful connections in such a fast-paced world. At the same time, I think there are incredible opportunities, especially here in Phoenix. Our city is growing, new industries are thriving, and there are so many ways for young professionals to step into leadership roles earlier than ever before. It’s an exciting time to build a career here, and I think organizations like VYP help make those opportunities even more accessible.
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Interested in becoming a member of Valley Young Professionals?
If your employer is a member, opt into the monthly VYP newsletter here to receive news and updates on events.
If your employer is not a Chamber member, you can become a member of the VYP program for $150 per year. Complete the membership application and send to Carly Kastner at ckastner@phoenixchamber.com or fax to 602.321.4946.
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