Pilot Denise Wilson landed in the Coachella Valley in 2006 for a private flying job. A year later she founded Desert Jet.
Jeff Witthuhn: Vision 2018
Owner, Peepa’s.
With years of retail experience, launching his own store was the next logical step for Jeff Witthuhn, who recently opened Peepa’s in Palm Springs.
Danny Zhou: Vision 2018
Owner and founder, Dosooz.
Danny Zhou founded Dosooz in Palm Desert, which designs and manufactures luxurious furniture and finishes.
Dr. Athena Brasfield: 40 Under Forty 2018
President and CEO, Coachella Valley Optometry
Dr. Athena Brasfield founded Coachella Valley Optometry after discovering a void of services in the East Valley community.
Claudio Bravo: 40 Under Forty 2018
Owner/CEO, Bravo Properties
After launching his real estate company in Concepción, Chile, in the 1980s, Claudio Bravo’s father expanded the firm to the Coachella Valley.
Katelyn Empey: 40 Under Forty 2018
Associate Attorney, Slovak Baron Empey Murphy & Pinkney
“People underestimate you” when you’re a young attorney, Katelyn Empey says, but she uses that to her advantage.
Katie Evans: 40 Under Forty 2018
Director of Communications and Conservation, Coachella Valley Water District; Founder and President, Coachella Valley Youth Hockey Foundation
As the Coachella Valley Water District’s youngest-ever director, Katie has navigated through her share of skeptics.
Marcie Graham: 40 Under Forty 2018
Marketing Communications, City of La Quinta.
Marcie Graham fell in love with La Quinta’s serene vibe and made it her mission to share the city’s cachet using a fresh, modern take.
Chelsea Healey: 40 Under Forty 2018
Attorney, Slovak Baron Empey Murphy & Pinkney.
Born and raised in Palm Springs, Chelsea Healey credits her father for ensuring she was invested in the community at a young age.
Christy Gilbert Holstege: 40 Under Forty 2018
Attorney and Palm Springs City Council member.
Christy Gilbert Holstege ran for Palm Springs city council to give her fellow millennials a strong voice in shaping the future.