The Next Wave
An Exclusive Workshop & Mentorship Program for Women of San Luis Obispo County
Fall session is underway!
September 23 – December 9, 2025
Your Mentors:
Tyler Skinner
CVO & Founder of Connected Communities and Women Making Waves
A dynamic, multi-passionate entrepreneur with a deep commitment to fostering community collaborations that drive social and cultural transformation.
Paula Mathias Fryer
Senior Director, SLO Partners and Author of Speak Up
Published author, leader, and thinker dedicated to building inclusive pathways to success and making bold ideas happen through collaboration.
Kristi Jones
High Performance Coach
Business owner, speaker, high-performance coach, and lifelong believer in bold dreams and big action. Helps ambitious professionals become unstoppable, ditch self-doubt, break through barriers, and create a life where success and fulfillment go hand in hand.
Jean Steel
Author, Teacher, Founder of “Happy People Win/Resilient People Thrive”
Offers her happiness and resilience solutions and workplace well-being talks nationwide, at conferences, and for organizations, including healthcare, agriculture, government, and maternal/child health.
Jennifer Idler
Principal, Chief Development Officer, Idler’s Home
Leads strategic sales, marketing, and team development for Idler’s Home. Passionate about community service, leadership, and advancing a 70-year family business on California’s Central Coast.
Jessika Preston
Senior Director of Acquisitions and Asset Management, Integrity Community Solutions
With deep expertise in real estate and manufacturing, Jessika drives acquisitions, operations, and asset management with a focus on revitalizing communities. Known for her collaborative, direct leadership, she blends resilience, adaptability, and trust to create long-term value.
Ericka Scott
Strategic Advisor, Founder of Book a COO, Creator of Strategic Plan Nowᵀᴹ Framework
With over 20 years of experience leading business operations and executive strategy, Ericka meets women where they are and helps them build what’s next—with strategy, systems, and soul.
Angela Cisneros
Owner, Graduate Gemologist, Angela Cisneros Jewelry Concierge
Graduate Gemologist, jewelry concierge, and trusted guide helping clients celebrate life’s most meaningful moments through timeless, personalized jewelry.
Empowering Your Career Growth Through
Community, Mentorship, and Purpose
The Next Wave is an exclusive career mentorship and workshop program designed specifically for women of San Luis Obispo County who seek support in navigating their careers.
Over the course of three months, you’ll engage in hands-on workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and curated social events—building the skills, support system, and confidence needed to take charge of your career and personal growth.
Built for Women Navigating What’s Next
Whether you’re exploring new roles, setting goals, or making important career and life decisions, this program provides the guidance, structure, and support to help you thrive.
The Next Wave offers a supportive, structured experience to help you:
- Strengthen your voice and confidence
- Build a network of inspiring, like-minded women
- Connect with seasoned mentors in a variety of industries
- Reflect on your goals—and create a plan to reach them
- Feel empowered to grow in your career and personal well-being
What You’ll Experience
Interactive Career Workshops
Engaging weekly sessions led by professionals and facilitators, focused on workplace skills, communication, wellness, and goal-setting.
Small Group Conversations
Peer discussions that encourage reflection, growth, and support in navigating real-life career decisions.
Networking and Social Events
Connect with other participants and local leaders through casual, community-based events designed for relationship building.
One-on-One Mentorship
Get matched with a mentor who understands your journey and can offer personalized guidance—in person or remotely.
Personal Growth Planning
Develop an action plan for your next steps—professionally and personally.
Agenda
Kickoff Celebration
Date: Tuesday, September 23
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Location: Region Event Center, 858 Monterey St, Downtown SLO
This kickoff celebration will bring together mentors, mentees, and community leaders for an evening of connection, inspiration, and opportunity.
What to Expect:
- A dynamic panel of speakers featuring Jennifer Idler, from Idler’s Home, Naomi Nielsen, founder of Native Trails, and Paula Mathias Fryer, Author and Senior Director of SLO Partners. They’ll each share their individual journeys, experiences, and leadership wisdom—offering powerful perspectives on courage, growth, and mentorship.
- A chance to meet your cohort—building connections with fellow mentees and mentors as we set the tone for the program ahead.
- Heavy appetizers provided by Luna Red to enjoy throughout the evening.
In-person Sessions:
Dates: Tuesdays on October 7, October 21, November 4, November 18
Time: 5:30 – 7:00PM
Location: 3350 Education Blvd. San Luis Obispo
Zoom Sessions:
Dates: Tuesdays on September 30, October 14, October 28, December 2
Time: 5:30 – 7:00PM
End of Cohort Dinner
Date: Tuesday, December 9
Time: 5:30 – 7:00PM
Location: SLO location to be announced
What You’ll Walk Away With
Direction
Defined goals, actionable steps, and a clear career roadmap
Growth
Strengthened communication, decision-making, and leadership habits
Insight
Deeper understanding of your strengths and how to use them
Belonging
A lifelong community of mentors, peers, and allies
Supported by the Local Community
Our proven program curriculum is designed by Women Making Waves and has been supported by respected community partners like RRM Design Group, Rick Engineering, and Farm Supply Company.
“I’m a big believer that it takes a village,
and we live in a really incredible village here on the Central Coast.”
Cara M. Crye
Former President/CEO, Farm Supply Company
You’re Invited
Whether you’re just starting out or building toward your next big goal, The Next Wave is your opportunity to gain clarity, community, and confidence.
Join the interest to be notified when new sessions are announced.