Florida Tech’s weVENTURE Women’s Business Center will celebrate its 20th anniversary by honoring over 60 nominees at its annual Women Who Rock Awards on Wednesday, March 18. The event, held at the Hilton Rialto in Melbourne, will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a networking reception following the ceremony. Doors open at 4 p.m. The awards recognize women who have made significant contributions to Brevard County’s business and community landscape.
The event, presented by W+J Construction, is part of the center’s annual Women’s History Month celebration. More than 60 nominations were submitted by community members, and all will be acknowledged during the ceremony. Kathryn Rudloff, weVENTURE’s executive director, said the event has been a platform for highlighting women who drive economic and social progress in the region since 2007. “We’ve been proud to organize this community event for nearly two decades,” Rudloff said. “It’s a way to celebrate the hard work and dedication of women who make our community stronger.”
The Women Who Rock Awards aim to spotlight female leaders across industries, from entrepreneurship to nonprofit work. This year’s finalists were announced in February, but all nominees will be recognized regardless of final standings. The awards have grown over the years, with attendance and participation increasing each year. Local businesses and organizations have supported the event, which has become a staple in Brevard’s calendar for celebrating women’s achievements.
The event will feature a networking reception after the ceremony, providing attendees with opportunities to connect with other professionals and community leaders. Rudloff emphasized the importance of the gathering as both a celebration and a chance to foster collaboration. “This is about recognizing women’s contributions and ensuring their voices are heard,” she said. The 20th anniversary marks a milestone for the center, which has helped launch numerous women-led businesses in the region over the past two decades.