7 Generation Philosophy of Development – Maleena Deer and Aaron Studebaker with SRPMIC E17
Discover the 7 Generation Philosophy towards development with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Maleena Deer and Aaron Studebaker shared an insightful look into the development model and partnerships on their tribal lands along the 101 corridor.
The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community is home to two distinct tribes, the Akimel O’odham and the Xalychidom Piipaash, more commonly known as Pima and Maricopa. The Community encompasses over 52,600 acres, shares a Scottsdale address and is bordered by the cities of Mesa, Tempe and Fountain Hills.
Discover Salt River is the tourism division for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Tourism helps to promote the Talking Stick Entertainment District, home to Salt River Fields, Talking Stick Resort, Medieval Times, and more.
Maleena Deer is the Tourism Manager for Discover Salt River. With a strong background in sales and communication, Maleena came to the government sector of SRP-MIC from Talking Stick Resort.
She now leads the efforts in chamber of commerce growth and development for both the Discover Salt River and Talking Stick Entertainment District brands.
As a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, she has a passion for carrying on the tradition of hospitality through tourism.
Aaron Studebaker has had the great privilege of working for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community for over 11 years.
As a Project Manager within the Community Development Department, Aaron supports endeavors such as business development, business operations and special projects. He also provides support in tourism marketing for the Talking Stick Entertainment District and Discover Salt River Tourism Office.
Prior to his current role, Aaron held the position as Director of Sales & Marketing at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, an Enterprise of the Community.
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About Your Hosts
Meet JJ Levenske
JJ Levenske is a seasoned construction executive with over 30 years of experience in the commercial and industrial sectors. From pre-construction services to complex quality controls and close-outs, he brings a commitment to delivering the highest levels of professionalism and customer service.
JJ’s dedication to construction has allowed him to become an industry expert which he aims to share with customers and investors alike. JJ does not believe in mediocrity and strives to see the “end at the beginning” for each project, effectuating a higher return on investment for the entire team.
Early on in his career, JJ worked as a cost engineer conducting feasibility estimates, strategic capital estimates, cost planning, and analysis of value engineering for the technology, petrochemical, and food industries. He went on to develop and implement a variety of systems for estimating, scheduling, resource management, and cost tracking while holding Project Manager and Senior Management Positions.
During his tenure, JJ has been involved in $1 billion worth of construction services. A strong entrepreneurial acumen allows him to be the perfect advocate for your facility based business solutions.
Meet Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson is a knowledgeable construction professional with over 40 years of experience. His experience ranges from residential to the commercial and industrial sectors.
Robert began working in the trades immediately out of high school and quickly advanced to Journeyman status. Robert went on to estimating, operations, senior level management and then business development.
Robert is consistently building relationships and networking with those associated with all aspects of development and construction. Robert has become a respected source for prefabricated construction solutions.
Robert enjoys spending time with Pam, his wife of 42 years, their 3 children, and 10 grandchildren.
About Our Sponsors
Bleuwave is a Phoenix-based general contractor with a specialty in land development & site improvement, pre-construction, design build, remodel and renovations, construction management, and post construction.
Bleuwave is passionate about what they do and takes pride in their partner’s success.
When you need it done right the first time, call Bleuwave.
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Tori Contracting’s smaller, cohesive structure results in superior workmanship and economical solutions.
The Tori Contracting team has construction experience acquired by performing highly successful work for hotels and casinos, restaurants, retail stores, healthcare facilities and a wide range of commercial and themed projects.
We provide design assist capabilities from start to finish…from schematic design and development through construction documents with the aid of our full-time AUTOCAD staff.
