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We are Passionate About Serving
Economic Developers.

We're building communities through economic development by curating profitable relationships between development professionals and location consultants.

Our Philosophy

Consultant Connect bridges the gap between leading economic developers and location consultants, providing a platform to gain transparent feedback, invaluable insight, and lasting business relationships.

Where It All Began

The concept grew out of the need seen first-hand, by its founder, Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Southwest Michigan First, how economic developers and site selectors can find themselves on opposite sides of the road and how money can be easily spent without results. With its roots in local economic development, this team knows what works – and what doesn’t.

Our Team

Carla Sones

President

Site Consultant Relations, Visionary

Read Carla's Bio
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Cynthia McMullin

Events Director

Community Consultant, Curator

Read Cynthia's Bio
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Nick Riashi

Investor Relations Expert

Collaborations + Partnerships

Read Nick's Bio
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Stephanie Van

Project Manager

Events + Logistics

Read Stephanie's Bio
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Ambrei Riojas

Creative Manager

Graphic Designer, Visual Storyteller

Linkedin
Read Ambrei's Bio
Contact Our Team

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Consultant Connect | All rights reserved. | crafted by kzoom

  • 269.207.4982
  • nick@consultantconnect.org
  • PO Box 50664 Kalamazoo, MI 49005

Carla Sones

President

Carla, the President of Consultant Connect, guides the team in establishing connections and partnerships between economic development professionals and site location consultants. Carla is dedicated to keeping the team connected to the nation’s most active and diverse network of site consultants, ensuring the right consultants are matched with each project. Additionally, she supports organizational and professional development through leadership training, strategy, and coaching. With a background spanning over 10 years in leading community mobilization projects focused on health equity, Carla has channeled her passion for creating meaningful job opportunities into developing impactful events and training modules for economic developers. She is a Certified Gallup Strengths Coach and holds a Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University. Outside of work, Carla enjoys family time with her husband and five children, participating in sports activities, indulging in reading and puzzles, and fueling her soul with a passion for travel.

Cynthia McMullin

Events Director

Cynthia is the chief event curator and visionary at Consultant Connect. Her role involves designing unique experiences that facilitate relationship-building between economic developers and site selectors. Cynthia also provides consultation to communities and economic development agencies, assisting them in creating events that highlight regional assets and tell their unique stories. She constantly has her pulse on the latest trends and has a knack for adding that special touch that will leave everyone talking. Prior to joining Consultant Connect, Cynthia managed events in the hospitality industry at a private club in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Her experience ranged from organizing weddings to wine tastings. She also worked at Colleagues International, planning events for an international professional development agency, covering everything from fundraising to training programs for international professionals visiting Southwest Michigan. Cynthia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations & Communications from Western Michigan University. Outside of work, Cynthia enjoys Northern Michigan lake-life with her husband. She likes trying new culinary recipes, reading, puzzling, watching documentaries, and cheering at her niece and nephews’ sporting events.

Nick Riashi

Investor Relations Expert

Nick focuses on Investor Engagement for the Consultant Connect team. He channels his days into understanding clients’ needs for site consultants and their role in attracting businesses to local communities. With a robust portfolio of 40+ events annually, Nick is consistently on the ground, engaging with clients to discern optimal partnerships. Joining Consultant Connect in 2016, Nick brings a wealth of experience from his time at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. There, he specialized in securing sponsorships and driving ticket sales for the university’s athletic department. Nick’s career has always been centered on fostering connections and aiding clients in problem-solving. Nick holds a B.A. in Sales and Business Marketing from Western Michigan University. A devoted father to Weston, Paisley, and Beckham, Nick immerses himself in “Dadventures” when not at work—whether it’s exploring the beach, enjoying a round of golf, or visiting parks. Beyond family, Nick is a fervent advocate for an active lifestyle. From golf and tennis to traveling and cooking, he makes the most of his free time. His love for sports also transcends his professional life, mirroring his genuine appreciation for clients and consultants within the Consultant Connect family.

Stephanie Van

Project Manager

Stephanie serves as Consultant Connect’s project manager, where she plays a pivotal role in the success of all C2’s events and logistics. With over 10 years of experience in office administration and client services, Stephanie brings a wealth of expertise to her position. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI, she has a comprehensive background that complements her practical skills. In her capacity as a project manager, Stephanie is dedicated to ensuring the seamless execution of Consultant Connect events. Her responsibilities encompass organization of event details, communication with clients, coordination with vendors, and management of team roles. She adeptly manages schedules, oversees logistical arrangements, and maintains a keen eye for detail, guaranteeing that all facets of events unfold seamlessly. Outside of work, Stephanie finds joy in reading, game nights with friends, and cooking with her husband. In addition, Stephanie is a creative entrepreneur as the founder of BKH Candle Co.

Ambrei Riojas

Creative Manager

Ambrei oversees all facets of Consultant Connect’s marketing, design, and material needs. She maintains Consultant Connect’s branding and visual identity while telling the C2 story through social media, event materials, and marketing collateral. Ambrei’s expertise lies in art and design, shaped by her experience as an art museum intern and art researcher during college. Before joining Consultant Connect, she also held roles in marketing and sales. A graduate of Hope College in Holland, MI, Ambrei brings academic excellence to her role. Outside of work, she enjoys shared activities with her husband, including cooking, hiking, traveling, and ballroom dancing. Her creative pursuits extend to painting, drawing, sewing, and baking.