Fuel the Future Event Inspires New Ideas
Posted on Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Fuel the Future Event at Racers Station
Written by Contributing Columnist Jenna Stump
Students and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered for a full day focused on innovation, business ideas, and learning from experienced professionals. Throughout the event, several panel discussions took place, giving attendees the opportunity to hear from UNOH Alumni and local business leaders about the realities of starting and growing a company.
The speakers discussed how many businesses begin by recognizing a need and having the courage to take a risk, even when the timing is not perfect. They also spoke honestly about the challenges of the first year, which often involves long hours, financial pressure, and learning many new skills. Despite these difficulties, the panelists emphasized that passion, flexibility, and persistence are key to building a successful business.
The highlight of the event was the student business competition, where five teams presented their ideas. Projects included a racetrack consulting firm, a podcast, a youth motorsports safety initiative, a livestock illness prevention tool and a skincare product. Each team demonstrated creativity and determination as they shared their plans and vision.
Personally, this was an exciting and unique opportunity. As I listened to the panel speak about their business journey and what it involved, it motivated me to have the same attitude in every area of my life. To see a need and act on it, to take responsibility, to take risks— these are all important aspects of living a fulfilled life. As someone who is interested in marketing and business, this was more than just a time to document an event. This was a rare opportunity to talk to successful business founders and gain wisdom from what they have learned through their years of entrepreneurship.
College students just beginning their journey in business like Katherine Haas were excited about the unique opportunity to be a part of the competition and become noticed. “[We want] to put ourselves out there for content and get our names out there and teach an audience.” Panelists like Tearra Dotson, founder of Helping Other People Succeed (HOPS) encouraged students to, “Just keep going, [the] first year is like what did I just get myself into? It’s either in you or it’s not.”
At the end of the day, this event was insightful and encouraging for all who attended- from the most experienced businessperson to the least experienced high school student. This was a wonderful event for the community, which I hope to see continue for years to come.
Category: Campus & Community
Keywords: Alumni, Student Pitch Competition, Fuel the Future
