By Mary Goldmeer
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Every March, Women’s History Month honors the struggles, achievements and contributions of women throughout American history. Established through a series of presidential proclamations beginning in 1980, the celebration has grown from a local movement in Santa Rosa, California, to a nationally recognized month dedicated to recognizing women’s impact across industries, communities and cultural landscapes.

Women’s contributions to the workforce and business ownership have steadily increased over the years, shaping local economies and redefining industries once dominated by men. According to the Library of Congress, the theme for Women’s History Month 2025 “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations” emphasizes the importance of mentorship, collaboration and leadership.

In the Southwest Valley, female entrepreneurs are putting this theme into action, demonstrating resilience, innovation and community-driven leadership. One of these trailblazers is Laura Hansen, owner of Saddle Mountain Brewing Co. in Goodyear and partner at New Penny Café in Avondale. A lifelong entrepreneur, Hansen’s journey into business ownership is one of persistence, adaptability and passion for her community.

Hansen has built businesses across multiple industries, from photography and floristry to teaching and car rentals. However, it was her venture into the food and beverage industry that cemented her role as a leading businesswoman in the Southwest Valley.

“I’ve been an entrepreneur since I was 9-years-old,"Hansen said. “I bought my first VW Bug and rented it to the guy who lived in my parents’ trailer park.”

Over the years, Hansen said she had done everything: waitressing, cleaning trailers, owning a photography company, even being a teacher.

“Saddle Mountain was a couple’s project that turned into a woman-owned business," she said. “And it’s been awesome."

For Hansen, running a business isn’t just about beer, food or profit margins. She said it’s about the people.

“I love owning this place because of the humans I work with. They make me laugh, they make me smile, and they make work enjoyable," she said. “It’s important to surround yourself with people who make the job worthwhile."

Independent businesses like Saddle Mountain Brewing Co. and New Penny Café play a vital role in shaping the Southwest Valley’s economy and culture. Small businesses foster local job growth, create unique spaces for community engagement and contribute to the overall character of a region.

“We’re not just a restaurant, we’re a small, independent business," Hansen said. “Small businesses make the world go round. They make coming to work fun, and they make the hard times worth tolerating. When you’re able to see the impact of your work firsthand, it’s incredibly rewarding."

For Hansen, community involvement has always been a priority, and she credits much of Saddle Mountain’s success to strong local support. She has been a member of the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce since opening the brewery, and over the years, she has watched the chamber evolve into a key advocate for small businesses in the area.

“The Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce has stepped up its game in recent years," Hansen said. “They’ve been really beneficial, not just for Saddle Mountain, but for New Penny and the community at large. They’re actively involved, and you see more ribbon cuttings, more engagement and real leadership."

The chamber recognizes the importance of supporting female entrepreneurs and fostering an inclusive business environment. Amapola Judd-Shimp, vice president of partnerships at the chamber, said Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the contributions of women across industries while also advocating for greater gender equality.

“Women have played a significant role in shaping the local landscape, driving economic progress and serving as inspirational figures," Judd-Shimp said. “Women’s History Month stands as a pivotal occasion to honor their accomplishments, resilience and leadership."

The chamber’s Empowering Women in Business group was established to create a space where women could connect, collaborate and grow together.

“(Our commitment) lies in fostering an environment where women are empowered to excel in their professional endeavors," Judd-Shimp said. “The chamber remains committed to championing gender diversity, promoting equality, and creating opportunities for women to succeed in the business arena.”

While Hansen has built a successful business, she acknowledges that challenges come with the territory, especially as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

“Have I seen mildly sexist concepts? Sure, maybe more when I was married. More recognition was given to the man on stage while I was doing the work behind the scenes," she said. “At the time, I didn’t really begrudge it. He was the face of the business, and I loved running the operations."

Now, as the sole owner of Saddle Mountain, she sees a shift in how she is perceived.

“I don’t feel like it’s harder being a woman in business. I think I’ve just learned to own my space," she said. “But I also don’t do this alone. We have nearly 60 employees, and I rely on both the men and women in this business. I wouldn’t want to do anything else."

As an experienced business owner, Hansen has advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women looking to make their mark.

“Do it again. Learn lessons. Take risks. Do more," she said. “You only regret the risks you didn’t take. Yes, you’re going to fail, but it’s fun. As long as you go into it thinking, ‘I’m going to do everything I can to be successful,’ you’ll figure it out."

She also stresses the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.

“If you’re starting a business, especially one with employees, make sure those people are the ones you want to work with," she said. “The right people make all the difference."

Women like Hansen are not only shaping the Southwest Valley’s business landscape but also paving the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs. With the support of organizations like the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce and a strong local network, women in business continue to break barriers and redefine success.

As Women’s History Month reminds observers, progress is made by those who take bold steps forward. Whether it’s starting a business, mentoring others or advocating for change. For Hansen, the journey of entrepreneurship is far from over.

“I’ve had the entrepreneurial mindset since I was a kid," she said. “And I wouldn’t want to do anything else."