World Trade Center Denver Appointed New CEO
Stephanie Garnica has been named the new CEO of the World Trade Center Denver, succeeding long-time leader Karen Gerwitz.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you believe regional business centers effectively help local companies compete in international markets?
The World Trade Center Denver has appointed Stephanie Garnica as its new CEO. She takes over the role following the departure of Karen Gerwitz, who led the organization for 16 years.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a significant transition for the Denver business organization. Garnica brings experience from her time at the Denver Economic Development & Opportunity office and her previous role at the World Trade Center Denver.
Karen Gerwitz led the organization for 16 years prior to her departure. Garnica previously served in the Peace Corps in Nicaragua for 2.5 years.
The players
Stephanie Garnica
She is the newly appointed CEO of the World Trade Center Denver and formerly served as a director for Denver Economic Development & Opportunity.
Karen Gerwitz
She is the outgoing CEO of the World Trade Center Denver who stepped down after a 16-year tenure leading the organization.
The details
Stephanie Garnica currently serves as the director of business attraction, global engagement, innovation and entrepreneurship at Denver Economic Development & Opportunity. She holds a bachelor's degree in international marketing from the University of Colorado Boulder and a master's degree in international business from the University of Colorado Denver.
Timeline
The appointment of Stephanie Garnica was announced on September 21, 2026.
Garnica will be introduced to members at the Annual Gathering on October 6, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition concludes the 16-year tenure of Karen Gerwitz at the helm of the organization. The move positions Garnica to lead the World Trade Center Denver amid shifting regional economic priorities in the competitive Colorado business climate.
Local business partners and members can expect potential changes in engagement strategy as new leadership takes charge. Stakeholders will have their first opportunity to engage with the new CEO during the upcoming Annual Gathering.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions often serve as a catalyst for organizations to re-evaluate their regional outreach and global engagement strategies. Members should prepare for new networking opportunities as the organization shifts toward a new executive vision.
What happens next
Stephanie Garnica will be formally introduced to members and partners at the organization's Annual Gathering on October 6, 2026, at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Further reading
For more updates on local executive shifts, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ColoradoBiz.
Live Poll
Do you believe regional business centers effectively help local companies compete in international markets?
