Making Sense of Washington: A Practical Guide for Small Business Owners [9/16/2026 9:30 AM]
Washington can feel overwhelming, especially when running a business, and federal decisions are moving fast. In this session, federal government affairs advisor Kerrie Carr Keesee — whose career spans the White House, Congress, and the Department of Defense — breaks down the Five Federal Signals every executive doing business with the government needs to understand. Attendees will leave with a practical framework for cutting through Washington’s noise, identifying what actually affects their business, and knowing when and how to respond.
Kerrie Carr Keesee is a seasoned government affairs and policy professional who has spent more than 15 years navigating the intersection of federal policy, politics, and business. Having served in senior roles within both the Executive and Legislative Branches, she has firsthand experience navigating the complex dynamics that shape decisions in Washington. Her background includes work on major legislative, regulatory, and strategic initiatives, giving her a practical understanding of how policy is developed, debated, and implemented. Drawing on experience across government and industry, she provides clear, accessible insights into federal policy, congressional dynamics, and the broader forces shaping today’s political and business environment.