Miner Entrepreneurship Talks

1: Patrick Gabaldon – Gabaldon Art

February 10, 2:00–3:00 PM
Union East – Cactus Flower 102C

Meet Patrick Gabaldon, a local artist, attorney, and passionate community advocate. Born and raised in El Paso, Patrick fell in love with art at a young age and now channels his creativity into vibrant depictions of the desert’s beauty and resilience. He’s a proud graduate of UTEP and St. Mary’s School of Law.

Patrick works full-time as a Public Defender at the El Paso County Courthouse, representing and fighting for the people of his community. Together with his wife, he integrates charitable giving into his mission, using art as a force for good.

What to Expect:

• Explore how Patrick blends creativity, service, and entrepreneurship through both his art and legal career
• Gain insights on building a personal brand rooted in authenticity and social impact
• Engage in a meaningful, student-driven Q&A with a leader dedicated to community and expression

Be part of this powerful conversation and discover how passion can fuel purpose!

2: Behind the Brew Panel

February 25, 2:00–3:00 PM
Union East – Cactus Flower 102C

Join us for the second session of Miner Entrepreneurship Talks! An engaging panel conversation featuring local coffee entrepreneurs who turned passion into purpose. Meet Ramon Parada, owner of Glia's Coffee; Zoraida (Zoe) Dobard, co-founder of The Hive Java Lounge; and Steven Svoboda, owner of 2Ten Coffee Roasters. Together, they’ll share their entrepreneurial journeys, lessons learned, and what it really takes to build and sustain a business in the coffee industry.

What to Expect:

• Real stories behind launching and growing local coffee businesses
• Insights into the industry, challenges, and opportunities
• Honest advice on entrepreneurship, resilience, and community impact
• An interactive Q&A where students can ask about their paths and experiences

Come sip on inspiration and learn from entrepreneurs brewing success right here in our community!

3: Start Smart EP Panel

March 10, 2:00–3:00 PM
Union East – Cactus Flower 102C

Join us for the last session of Miner Entrepreneurship Talks! A resource-focused panel designed to connect students and aspiring entrepreneurs with the support systems available in the El Paso region. Hear directly from Laura Butler, Executive Director and CEO of Pioneers21; Mirella Tamayo, Assistant Director at the City of El Paso Economic and International Development; and business owner of One Stop Shop; and Dante Acosta, District Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Together, they’ll break down the tools, programs, and guidance available for starting, growing, and sustaining a business locally.

What to Expect:

• Learn about key resources, funding, and support services for entrepreneurs
• Understand how local and federal organizations help businesses at every stage
• Gain clarity on where to start and who to contact when launching a venture
• Participate in a student-driven Q&A with leaders shaping the El Paso business ecosystem

Discover how the right resources can turn your business idea into reality, right here in El Paso!