KALAMAZOO –  Jill Bland and Carla Winchester of Southwest Michigan First have been named Finalists in the categories of Female Executive of the Year and Female Innovator of the Year, respectively, in the Stevie Awards for Women in Business.

On November 18, they will each ultimately be recognized as Gold, Silver or Bronze Stevie Award winners in the program.

The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, employees and the companies they run – worldwide. The Stevie Awards have been hailed as the world’s premier business awards.

More than 1,500 entries were submitted this year for consideration in more than 90 categories. A Finalist for Female Executive of the Year, Jill has served on the Southwest Michigan First team since 1997. She leads the organization’s Jobs Team efforts in attracting and retaining companies to the Southwest Michigan Region. A Finalist for Female Innovator of the Year, Carla joined Southwest Michigan First in 2013 and leads the organization’s consulting practice, Consultant Connect, which services clients across the United States and in Canada. Jill and Carla’s leadership in economic development at Southwest Michigan First lifts up local businesses and international clients, operating under the organization’s belief that the greatest force for change is a job.

“Our team is incredibly proud of Jill and Carla. These two leaders make a great impact on our organization and region every minute of every day,” said Ron Kitchens, president and chief executive officer of Southwest Michigan First. “We are thrilled to cheer them on at the Stevie Awards for Women in Business on Friday, November 18.”

For more information about Southwest Michigan First, please visit us at www.southwestmichiganfirst.com