2026 Distinguished Alumni
Aaron Starks
AA, Political Science and Government, 2013
President & CEO, 47G
Aaron Starks credits his success to the people and opportunities that shaped his path. As a first-generation student, he found confidence and community at SLCC, where affordability and flexibility allowed him to succeed.
While at the college, he served as student body president and helped establish a scholarship for single parents. He later led the Utah Student Association, working with state and national leaders.
Now President and CEO of 47G, Aaron brings together industry, government, and community partners to advance innovation in aerospace, defense, and energy. His leadership has helped position Utah as a national leader in emerging aviation technologies.
Fernanda Böhme Birkeland
AAS, Fashion Design, 2004
Co-Founder, Böhme
Fernanda Böhme Birkeland's journey is rooted in resilience, creativity, and determination. After immigrating from Brazil as a child, she helped support her family while developing a passion for fashion, teaching herself to sew and design.
She chose SLCC's Fashion Institute for its affordability and hands-on learning, where she found mentorship and industry-connected faculty. In 2006, she co-founded Böhme with her sister, helping grow the company into a multi-state retail brand with a strong online presence.
Recognized as one of the top women-run businesses on the Inc. 500 list, Böhme reflects Fernanda’s entrepreneurial spirit. Her advice: embrace challenges and view failure as an opportunity to grow.