WeTalks: WBENC Conference Know Before You Go
June 10 I 11 am to 12:30 pm I Virtual
Join our special edition WeTalks: WBENC Conference Know Before You Go on June 10 to prepare for the 2026 WBENC National Conference! Hear directly from our experienced WBEs and this year’s Host Committee members, Maryann Pagano and Katy Voight-Nobis, who have successfully navigated the conference. They will share real tips on how to plan your schedule, move through the Expo, and approach key moments with intention.
You’ll also hear directly from our corporate partners on the best ways to approach and engage with them during the conference. Walk in with a game plan—and even a few familiar faces—so you can use your time effectively as valuable insights are shared and new relationships begin to take shape.
During this session, you will:
1. Meet your peers (virtually) and hear from them about why attending the conference matters.
2. Learn from seasoned Conference Attendees to learn how to best prepare for the Conference.
3. Learn the best way to connect with WBEC Staff during the conference
You will also gain a better understanding of WBENC Conference programming and show up to the Conference feeling informed and prepared. Don’t miss this opportunity—sign up now and set yourself up for success at the WBENC National Conference.
Register Now
Maryann Pagano is the CEO and Co-Founder of BlackHawk Data, a rapidly scaling, woman-owned technology solutions provider. With more than two decades of leadership experience, Maryann drives the company’s strategic vision, revenue growth, and partner ecosystem. Since co-founding BlackHawk Data in 2018, Maryann has led the organization from startup to a nationally recognized IT solutions provider with more than 55 employees, multiple office locations, and continued year-over-year growth.
Maryann has been honored as U.S. SBA Female Entrepreneur of the Year, Most Powerful Women of the Channel, WPO/JPMC Top 50 Fastest Growing Female-Led Organizations and an EY Winning Woman.
With 20 years at API Source, Katy Voight-Nobis has built her career helping brands create authentic, lasting connections through meaningful branded merchandise programs. As a daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, Katy leads with purpose and heart, bringing a people-first approach to every client and partnership. She believes branded merchandise is far more than giveaways or swag—it’s a tangible brand experience that creates emotion, strengthens loyalty, and becomes part of someone’s story. Katy is proud of the impact API Source makes by supporting employees, uplifting communities, and delivering memorable solutions for clients.

