From small startup ventures to building a thriving manufacturing powerhouse in the Utah Valley, Shannan Busby of KeyStone Co-Pack Manufacturing shares her entrepreneurial journey with UVU students during the Reed and Christine Halladay Executive Lecture Series.
Based in Pleasant Grove, Utah, Shannan Busby’s company, KeyStone Co-Pack Manufacturing, specializes in turnkey nutritional product manufacturing for a variety of brands and currently supports a workforce of approximately 85 full-time employees, along with 60 to 120 temporary employees depending on production demands.
From an early age, Shannan demonstrated a natural inclination toward entrepreneurship. She described her journey as learning “one business at a time,” beginning with small ventures alongside her sister. These ranged from advertising services and vending machines to an ice cream store, purses, shaved ice, tutoring, and mediation. Each experience contributed to her understanding of business fundamentals and reinforced that entrepreneurship was not just a career path, but a core part of who she is.
A major theme throughout Shannan’s remarks was the importance of choosing the right business partners. Drawing from personal experience, she emphasized that partnerships can either strengthen or undermine a business, making trust and alignment essential. Alongside her husband, Kevin, with whom she has built both a family and business life, she has navigated significant challenges. Together, they have raised four children and now enjoy time with their five grandchildren, all while sustaining a long-term vision for growth and success.
Shannan spoke candidly about the adversity she and her husband faced throughout their entrepreneurial journey. Rather than allowing setbacks to define their path, they remained focused on future opportunities, consistently holding onto their goals with optimism and resilience. This mindset, she explained, was critical in overcoming obstacles and continuing to move forward.
As her career evolved, Shannan adopted a mindset centered on action and adaptability. She encouraged students to “go with your gut and take opportunities,” especially when facing uncertainty. Early in one’s career, she noted, it is important to “wear lots of hats” to gain a broad understanding of business operations. Over time, however, success depends on the ability to delegate effectively and empower others.
Shannan also spoke openly about the role her Christian faith has played in her life. She credited her beliefs with helping her navigate hardships, failures, and moments of doubt. Her faith provided a foundation of strength and perspective that allowed her to remain grounded and resilient throughout her journey.
The Woodbury School of Business extends its sincere thanks to Shannan Busby for sharing her story and insights. Her emphasis on resilience, intentional partnerships, adaptability, and faith-driven perseverance left students with meaningful lessons and a clearer understanding of what it takes to build and sustain a successful business.
Want to catch every insight from this year’s Halladay Lecture Series?
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALL SPRING 2026 HALLADAY LECTURE SERIES SPEAKERS HERE.
Watch Shannan Busby's full lecture below.
