Local Business Owner Urges Others Not to Delay their Dreams; Community Accelerates Success
Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Amanda Voss, Founder of Yavapai Exploration and Science (YES!), to find out what makes her enjoy being a part of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and how it benefits her business.
PWM: How long have you been a member of the Prescott Chamber, and what do you enjoy most about being part of this organization?
Amanda: YES! joined the Prescott Chamber in January, but I have attended events since March 2024. Coffee Connects are my favorite for meaningful, small-group networking and real conversations.
PWM: In your experience, how does the Prescott Chamber differ from other local groups?
Amanda: The Chamber stands out with diverse events like Coffee Connects, Chamber Spotlight, and APS Community Pulse—each offers unique networking and insight into local businesses and their leaders.
PWM: Tell us about what brought you to Prescott and your employment role.
Amanda: My family moved to Prescott from Columbus, Ohio in 2020 after a summer vacation. I’m now Founder and Executive Director of Yavapai Exploration and Science (YES!).
PWM: Do you hold any other positions within the Chamber, such as Ambassador, Board Member, or Staff?
Amanda: I don’t hold any additional positions within the Chamber yet! I am always open to new ways to engage in the community!
PWM: Do you have any kids, significant others, fur babies, or family members in the area?
Amanda: I live in Prescott with my husband Nathan, my eight-year-old daughter Riley, and our tuxedo cat Pretzel.
PWM: Are you involved in the community? If so, what initiatives or projects are you currently involved in that aim to uplift our community?
Amanda: Community collaboration drives YES! We partner with local nonprofits to create hands-on learning for families and always seek new ways to strengthen and connect our community.
PWM: What inspired you to start your business, and how has that inspiration evolved?
Amanda: After teaching locally and engaging with families and educators, I founded YES! to provide hands-on STEAM programs and work toward establishing a science center, enriching educational opportunities for children across Yavapai County.
PWM: How do you balance the demands of running a business with personal life, especially in the context of societal expectations?
Amanda: YES! is for the kids, especially my daughter Riley, who’s always exploring at events. My husband Nathan supports me by helping with setups and celebrating our YES! progress.
PWM: What do you wish you had known when first starting your business, and what advice do you have for women considering launching their own local business?
Amanda: Ask questions, don’t wait—start now. Learning from your community accelerates your success despite obstacles.
PWM: Is there a common misconception about women in business that you would like to address?
Amanda: Women in business aren’t just nurturers—they’re innovative leaders driving community-focused, strategic change in education and beyond.
Learn more about Yavapai Exploration and Science at www.yes-az.org or by emailing amandavoss@yes-az.org.