Women of Color - WOC Central Auditorium

Date: 10/08/2022, 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Riverview Grand Ballroom - Level 200

Breaking Barriers The conference culminates with the ultimate celebration of women who are STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), trailblazers in industry, government, military, and academia. These awardees have broken barriers educational, geographic, cultural, linguistic, gender-based, racial, and beyond. Generations to come are guaranteed a better future because of them and the way they’ve worked through the struggle, embraced the progress to brightened our path to the future.

Program Guide: Download

Launch Recording

Women in Tech: More than Just a Pipeline Issue

Date: 10/08/2022, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning Objective: Examine the factors for dwindling numbers of women in the tech field and how to retain women tech professionals When people with the same qualifications apply for the same job, studies have shown that they are evaluated differently. These biases may occur unconsciously and without intention or malice. Research has shown that most women leave the tech workforce after seven years. Employers face a massive loss of talent as they struggle to hire and retain. This impacts the STEM enterprise and industries that are significant drivers of the U.S. economy. This seminar will address why attrition is high in the STEM pipeline. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Examine the causes behind the lack of women in the tech field. Discuss the natural bias that exists in our workforce culture. Explore ways to break bias in the workforce.

Presented by: Kelly Wolf, D Sangeeta, Dana Ginn, MIchael Alicea

Launch Recording

Life in the Zone: Women, Work, Life, and Flow

Date: 10/08/2022, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Learn strategies to increase balance, clarity, and efficiency for a better life and work outcomes Many women feel torn between competing priorities, obligations, and personal goals. Some experience a daily struggle to find a balance that reflects harmony and fulfillment. There are two zones of professional and personal satisfaction. One is lived in the comfort zone, and the other is in the life zone. You can only be in one area at a time. In the Comfort Zone, you are driven by fear and perceive life as a series of risks you do not take. But, in the Life Zone, you are tuned into actions, decisions, and ways of thinking that align with your success vision. This seminar will provide inspiration, motivation, strategies, and mental shifts that may change your life. Join our diverse panel as they share tips to feel good, balance your life and work, and make each day count. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Explore personal definitions of success. Examine stress management tools to relax your mind and increase clarity. Use organizational and motivational tools to control the calendar/schedule. List solutions and tips to stay motivated and inspired. Create a personalized strategy for weighing the costs and benefits of essential decisions.

Presented by: Matt Bowman, Sylvia Trent-Adams, Kwan Hurst, Steffanie Easter, Edye Washington

Launch Recording

Vertical Leadership: Developing the Next Level of Women Leaders

Date: 10/08/2022, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Examine methods for helping female employees grow and develop into new leaders Good organizations ask questions such as “Do our leaders possess the skills they need to think strategically?” Change and development strategies can be complicated for some. Executives are not influential until they can think strategically or lead change. That’s why vertical leadership will support women and advance strategic thinking. As managers learn and progress, the way that they think about processes will expand their competencies. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Understand and define what “vertical development in leadership” is. Focus more on strategic development thinking in female employees. Make the development and the work inseparable. Create solid developmental networks at work. Make female leadership development a process, not an event.

Presented by: Lawanda Warthen, COL. Princess Atunrase, Antoinette Gant, Cheryl Neal-Green, Col. Jenise Carroll

Launch Recording

The Path to Being the Best Leader: How to Lead with Charisma, Integrity, and Conviction

Date: 10/08/2022, 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Discuss methods that increase leadership skills The quality of an organization’s leadership and management is critical to its success. This is true at the team, department, and organizational levels. However, what’s the secret? How do you ensure leadership throughout the organization? How do you become an excellent leader and manager yourself? As with any skill set, leadership and management can be learned. This course is specifically designed to help you do that in your organization. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Understand the skills needed to be a successful leader. Examine ways to manage staff performance. Learn how to evaluate their style. Develop skills that help deliver their objectives.

Presented by: Charmaine Thomas, Geremy Keith, Vanessa Ulrich

Launch Recording

Women in Cybersecurity: Taking Charge and Protecting the World

Date: 10/08/2022, 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning Objective: Explore methods for obtaining a career in cybersecurity Security threats are increasingly complex, coming from both in and outside organizations, making everyone vulnerable. Consequently, cybersecurity has become one of the most dynamic fields in information technology (IT). It combines IT with crime-fighting, and global organizations are leading the search for skilled professionals. Since women represent less than 25 percent of the global cybersecurity workforce, recruiting more people of color is essential. This environment requires diverse professionals who can bring expertise and skills to these challenging times. Join our expert panel as they discuss how to get certified, gain experience, and land your first job in this in-demand industry. At the end of this session, participants will be able to: Present your non-traditional resume in a way that is attractive to the recruiter. Examine tools and resources to enhance your journey to mastering cybersecurity. Explore tips on gaining experience before applying to jobs.

Presented by: Nefertiti Jackson, Deirdre Peters

Launch Recording

Micro-learning session: Generational Work Styles and Women in the Workforce – A New Communication Style

Date: 10/08/2022, 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Today’s workforce consists of people from various age groups, such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. According to a recent report regarding communication styles, Baby Boomers prefer in-person or telephone, while Gen X likes emails. On the other hand, Millennials and Generation Z communicate more through text, social media, and Facetime. How can we integrate different work styles to work collectively and empower one another across generational differences?

Presented by: Sondia Christian

Launch Recording

Micro-learning session: I Got Your Back: Women Sponsoring Women and Supporting More Women in the Executive Level

Date: 10/08/2022, 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

The journey for women climbing the executive leadership ladder is arduous. This can be compounded by the idea that no one is there to assist your upward movement. Therefore, it can be essential for women leaders to help them permeate the leadership realm. It’s also important to know there is not just one seat for one woman – there are multiple seats at the table. How can we find the right sponsors and mentors to support women on this journey and speak up? What does it mean to continue to have other women’s backs as they make their way into senior roles?

Presented by: Sondra Sutton-Phung, Kirby Wilkerson

Launch Recording

Micro-learning session: Poised for Success – Believe in Yourself!

Date: 10/08/2022, 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I
Location: Room 251 A

Some research suggests that women are less confident in their abilities than men. This alleged lack of confidence has been mentioned as to why fewer women are promoted to the top leadership roles. Upon further reflection, the problem isn’t that women aren’t confident, but that confidence in women’s abilities is not rewarded in the workplace, which creates the imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern in which individuals doubt their skills, talents, or accomplishments and have a persistent internalized fear of being exposed to “fraud.” How can women overcome this? What can organizations do to help?

Presented by: Christine Burkette

Launch Recording

Fresh, Clean, and Fly in Corporate America: Grooming and Image Secrets to Power, Style, and Grace

Date: 10/08/2022, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Enhance professionalism and image As soon as you step into an office, you have spoken about 1,000 words with your appearance alone. Wouldn’t it be nice if the first three words were fresh, clean, and fly? All Professionals should invest time in grooming and developing an effective personal image appropriate for their work environment. This seminar will feature executives that have mastered the art of looking and feeling good on their journey to the top. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: List ways to improve the image and personal hygiene. Explore ways to build and express self-confidence. Engage in candid conversations with professionals about perceptions and stereotypes. Examine specific corporate dress tips. Explore ways to express professionalism and personal style.

Presented by: Adrienne Somerville, Keyana Artis

Launch Recording

Strategic Executive Leadership: Discover Essential Leadership Skills That Change the Game

Date: 10/08/2022, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Learn techniques and approaches to increase team and individual performance by implementing strategic leadership skills. Ever wonder what separates “good” from “great?” Of all the leadership advice out there, what works? What are the top key strategies we need to manage ourselves, people, and competing values? The most effective leaders think ahead, keep the big picture in mind, and plan to get results. Leaders will share their winning strategic moves and skills you can use to thrive and move to the next level. The key to success is planning a strategy and using the science of leadership to give you an edge. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Understand the top five strategies used to get results. Review critical leadership knowledge and techniques that have transformed industries. Identify personal leadership strategies.

Presented by: Aria Jones, Jeannice Fairrer Samani

Launch Recording

The Conversation of Change: Addresses the Challenges that Black and Latino Women Encounter When Building a Career

Date: 10/08/2022, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning objective: Explore efforts to advance DE&I in the tech industry Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is a hot topic across all organizations, especially in tech. Although great strides have been made in gender diversity, the experiences of Black and Hispanic/Latino women are being overlooked. In this session, experts in the “Conversation of Change” focus on stereotypes, affirmative action, interconnecting identities, and other issues in the tech industry. Join our Champions of Diversity as they push the envelope to advance DEIB. At the end of this session, participants will be able to: Examine and understand how Black and Latinx women encounter the tech workplace. Explore how efforts to advance gender diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace have affected Black and Latinx women in the tech industry. Understand how interconnecting identities contribute to workplace experiences. Identify campaigns to fully include Black and Latinx women in efforts to advance DEIB for women. Understand how to lead and mentor without disadvantaging Black and Latinx women.

Presented by: Tamika Gray, Felicia Burks, Victoria Castaneda, Daphne Brooks

Launch Recording

Leadership and Team Development for Managerial Success

Date: 10/08/2022, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Explore methods that lead to becoming an initiative-taking manager, mentor, and advisor When should you take on the role of mentor, motivator, and coach? Do your teams crumble if you are not there to lead? In this seminar, professionals will share stories on guiding and promoting team cooperation. You will learn what it takes to be a leader, coach, and communicate goals and ideas, effectively sharpening your team-building skills to increase team productivity. This seminar is ideal for new and recently promoted managers, team leaders, and enterprise leaders who need practical leadership skills. At the end of this session, participants will: Understand leadership styles when managing their teams. Know their leadership style and the best way to generate results from their team. Understand methods to visualize their goals and communicate them to their team. Be able to develop a high-performance team by developing leadership skills and motivating them to better performance.

Presented by: Kristin Brown, Patrick Hoyle, Rachel Raynor

Launch Recording

The Flight Plan for Your Career: The Take Off. The Cruise. The Landing. Presented by The Boeing Company

Date: 10/08/2022, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM ET
Venue: Huntington Place (In-Person)
Location: WOC Networking Suite

A basic flight plan can help us, as Women of Color in STEM, take a bird's-eye view of our careers. Our careers can be divided into three major phases, which are outlined in the plan: "Take Off," "Cruise," and "Landing." For example, consider the "take off," which includes accelerating and preparatory steps, such as an action plan. Making progress or navigating in the right direction is interpreted as the “cruise." A roadmap is one of the tools that can help us during this phase. Finally, have we shaped the legacy or long-term impacts for others during the “landing" phase?

Presented by: Carissa Pajel, Joy Johnson, Karriema Calhoun, Andrea Allen, Norma B. Clayton, Bernice Billups

Launch Recording

"Can You Hear Me Out There?" The Power of Public Speaking

Date: 10/08/2022, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Explore speaking styles to build speaking skills Regardless of title or position, a confident speaker will have a competitive edge over everyone. Cultivating the ability to communicate, choose your words carefully, and engage people is the best investment you could ever make. This seminar will help attendees understand the principles of active listening and how to apply them to ensure that we collect the information needed to attain success. Learn how to take the lead and motivate the masses by expressing your message with passion and inspiration. At the end of this course, participants will be able to: Examine the principles of active listening. Explore active listening skills for better communication. Learn techniques to convey their message accurately and directly. Explore mental coaching techniques to address fear.

Presented by: Todd Frech, Samantha Rose, Jyni Holland

Launch Recording

Join the Revolution: Technology is Changing Health Care!

Date: 10/08/2022, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning Objective: Explore how technology is improving healthcare Technology has changed the way we think about health and health care. Advancements in health care using virtual reality, 3D printing, robotics, and digital technology are helping everyone lead healthier lives. These changes allow people to be more productive and increase their quality of life. Technological advancements such as wearables, genome sequencing, robotics, and medical tricorders will enable us to live longer, healthier lives. This is a progressive time to be at the forefront of medical technology. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Examine the role of technology in improving the quality of human lives. Explore how technology is assisting us to live whole lives through better medical care and technological improvements. Discover what medical advancements are being developed to combat new illnesses.

Presented by: Trudy Sullivan, Suneela Joshi, Nadine Louis

Launch Recording

Leaders and Legends Recognition Event

Date: 10/08/2022, 8:00 AM - 9:45 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Riverview Grand Ballroom - Level 200

Embracing the Change This popular annual event is twofold: lifting nine outstanding women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), for Special Recognition Awards, followed by an enlightening and exhilarating panel discussion featuring powerhouse leaders in STEM. It’s a signature Saturday morning event at our conference, where attendees hear fascinating and educational conversation. Moderated by the amazing and accomplished Dr. Pamela McCauley, the discussion with these leaders and legends is an event not to be missed!

Program Guide: Download

Launch Recording

Data Analysts: Harvesting Your Career Path to the Executive Level

Date: 10/07/2022, 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning objective: Examine ways to access, understand, and translate data into insight and use that insight to drive creativity and success In today’s world, data is king because companies are amassing more data than ever. Data permits us to stay on top of the latest market trends, improve services, solve customer needs, and make better decisions. Having this data can be effective only if your organization has someone capable of interpreting and making sense of it. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) assessed the data-interpretation and critical thinking skills in the United States, ranked 21st out of twenty-three countries. This disparity means that a vast percentage of the workforce needs to enhance their data literacy skillset. Companies need more people with the ability to interpret data and draw informed insights. There are now many ways for individuals to upskill as employers support them, lift capabilities, and drive change. Data-driven decision-making improves business performance. At the end of this session, participants will be able to: How to foster a data skillset and insights-first mindset. How to analyze and transform data to create a strategic plan. How data can help you fuel your professional growth.

Presented by: Ernest Smiley, Jennifer Blum

Launch Recording

Women in Robotics: The Impact Women have in the Development of Robotics and Automation Presented by Amazon Robotics

Date: 10/07/2022, 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM ET
Venue: Huntington Place (In-Person)
Location: WOC Networking Suite

Robotics and automation are vastly growing industries and women are making their way to this field. The latest trends in technologies such as autonomous driving, personal assistants such as Alexa, service robots, and industrial robots are inching into to everyday lives. At Amazon, the Global Robotics organization is continually re-imaging what present day life looks like. We see the big picture, imagine a better one, and make the connections that turn complex problems into elegantly simple solutions. This seminar is an intimate conversation with some of Amazon's top leaders to discuss the role women must play in the development of these technologies and the strides the company has made so far.

Presented by: Neema Amatya, Nia Jetter, Diya Wynn, Temperance Hendela, Shoba Subramanian, Jenae Glover

Launch Recording

Assertiveness Learning - Gain More Confidence, Make Better Decisions, and Earn the Respect You Deserve!

Date: 10/07/2022, 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Explore habits that increase confidence and lead to being more assertive in the workplace The business world combines various people, personalities, and perspectives. Some can be more outspoken than others, especially in meetings with the boss. In this seminar, you will learn proven methods for understanding how to be more assertive and develop skills to help you deal with workplace conflict and disagreements. This session will address critical issues such as being a more assertive conversationalist, procedures for giving and receiving feedback properly, and business etiquette techniques for the situation. This session will help you to comprehend how social styles alter behavior and can enhance your on-the-job assertiveness skills. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Define behaviors that distinguish between assertive, passive, and aggressive styles. Assess your areas of strength and areas for growth. Examine assertive behaviors using a range of verbal and visual techniques. Identify appropriate opportunities for assertive behavior in the workplace.

Presented by: Ashley Gorazda, Dedra Pritchard, Olujimisola Adelani

Launch Recording

It’s a Woman’s World: Learn the Art of Influence to Own it

Date: 10/07/2022, 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Increase performance in the workplace through influence This may be the most critical skill you have in your toolbox. Some people are excited when they hear the word influence, while others shy away. How you feel about being thrust into a position of influence could be your breakthrough answer. The truth of the matter is we are all constantly influencing others and impacting those around us. But great leaders understand how to do this strategically. This seminar will show proven techniques to make an impact, get results, and gain respect in the workplace. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Recognize how others perceive them and capitalize on their strengths and weaknesses. Enhance performance by applying the science of motivation and the art of empathy. Use praise, support, and team building as a strategy to influence.

Presented by: Christine Burkette, Tara Phelps-Jones, Sharon Doss, Daphne Brooks

Launch Recording

Inspirational Leadership: Leading with Style

Date: 10/07/2022, 2:30 PM - 3:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Examine characteristics that make a successful leader and how women leaders can inspire others In today’s workforce, leaders come in all shapes and sizes. She could be a blue-jean marketing student running a profitable company out of her apartment or a middle-aged woman presenting the latest groundbreaking device at a major conference. What matters is that leaders motivate and empower their workers, instill confidence, and inspire those around them. Join us as we address what great women leaders do every day. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Explore your leadership style through conversations with your peers. Develop the necessary self-confidence to help make good decisions based on the opinions and ideas of others. Examine perspectives on leadership from outstanding experts in the leadership field.

Presented by: Salma Jutt, Bernice Billups, Tina Rupp

Launch Recording

Leveling Up to Lead: Developing the Skills to Lead from the Front While Embracing Discomfort Presented by Jacobs

Date: 10/07/2022, 2:30 PM - 3:45 PM ET
Venue: Huntington Place (In-Person)
Location: WOC Networking Suite

Learning objectives: Discuss critical leadership and team-building skills that will help you grow as a leader. It is critical to be a great leader in today's environment of constant change and a focus on diverse, high-performing teams. Learn from a panel of experienced women professionals who have learned how to manage the challenges of Corporate America successfully. They will share experiences and lessons that will provide you with the leadership tools to create successful teams and be a leader who will accelerate your organization's growth. At the end of the session, participants will be able to: Learn tactics for capitalizing on your leadership strengths & turning your weaknesses into strengths. Recognize how good leaders build a diverse team of competent experts. Understand how to create a team that is goal oriented. Not be afraid to indulge their team’s differences if productivity, efficiency, and accuracy are optimized.

Presented by: Isaac Henderson, Sharon Jean-Baptiste, Chrissy Thom, Ifeyinwa Arinze

Launch Recording

Playing in the Sandbox: Effective Strategies for Managing Multi-Generational Teams

Date: 10/07/2022, 2:30 PM - 3:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning Objective: Enhance techniques for successful collaboration among teams Managers are charged with meeting diverse needs to maximize value and productivity. To be a competent leader and manager, your role is to create opportunities, empower others, and leverage the specialized skills of employees. One continuing challenge is managing multi-generational teams. The complexity of communication presents two core challenges: How do we increase the quality and efficiency of knowledge sharing, and how do we improve value? Collaboration knowledge-sharing ring practices are essential to solving problems, enhancing professional relationships, increasing productivity, and improving work quality. Building communities that continue to address knowledge sharing and collaboration systems is the key to remaining competitive. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Explore knowledge-sharing techniques to stay ahead of the competition. Identify new and innovative ways that organizations share knowledge and collaborate. Explore ways to foster communities that embrace successful collaborative exchanges. Examine global and multi-generational knowledge-sharing opportunities and challenges.

Presented by: Premeela Chacko, Melissa James, Angelique Napoleon

Launch Recording

Technology Recognition Event

Date: 10/07/2022, 12:00 PM - 2:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Riverview Grand Ballroom - Level 200

The women recognized at this event are our Technology Rising Stars, Top Women in Finance, and Technology All-Stars. Chosen by their companies for this exceptional recognition, we salute their brilliance in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and most of all their humanity.

Program Guide: Download

Launch Recording

High-Performance Collaboration: Leadership, Teamwork, and Negotiation

Date: 10/07/2022, 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Discuss traits that help develop and expand your leadership repertoire Are leaders born or made? How do aspiring managers succeed in an ever-changing business environment? How do they lead diverse groups? This seminar will explore how great leaders manage collaborative teams, team negotiations, and workplace conflict. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Discover the power of storytelling and other communication strategies. Explore and analyze leadership styles. Identify how organizations can optimize groups and develop a game plan for effective negotiation.

Presented by: Lymari Castro, Natasha Williams

Launch Recording

The Power of Focus: Tuning in to the Right Priorities

Date: 10/07/2022, 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Increase professional and personal productivity and workplace efficiency We have access to limitless information in our rapidly changing world as we face competing priorities. Many opportunities, options, paths, new developments, and discoveries fight for our limited attention. Clarity and focus are critical skills to ensure that we reach our most important milestones. If you can conquer the art of focus, you will prosper, be more effective, and increase your quality of life and work. This workshop will provide specific focusing strategies to help you make decisive moves, change bad habits, minimize your weaknesses, and maximize your strengths. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Explore specific strategies and habits that support mental clarity. List common distractions and how to manage them. Identify priorities and strategies to create better work-life balance. Examine habits and activities that help and hurt ANY goal.

Presented by: Alevia Colombell, Rukiya Higgins, Cynthia Miller, Erica Blomgren

Launch Recording

Careers in STEM for Women by 2030

Date: 10/07/2022, 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 C

Learning Objective: Acquire insight into market trends and innovative factors that will influence STEM professional careers within the next five years A recent report published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the U.S. will add 20 million new jobs by 2030. Estimates indicate that careers in the STEM fields will account for over 10 million new jobs. Given the strong correlation between higher education and economic growth, some experts have been bold enough to claim that the national economy through 2030 and beyond will be tied directly to the level of education achieved by our workforce. Join us for an eye-opening discussion on market trends in the future of STEM careers. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Identify the STEM professions in high demand and will command the highest earning opportunities. Leverage their current professional skills towards career advancement. Increase their market value by becoming a STEM professional.

Presented by: Lolitha Gayden, Denise Jackson, Nefertiti Jackson, Alisha Diggs

Launch Recording

USDA Forest Service, Leading as a Climate-Smart STEM Professional

Date: 10/07/2022, 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM ET
Venue: Huntington Place (In-Person)
Location: WOC Networking Suite

Learning Objectives: Enhance your understanding of the best available science and the role of STEM professionals in the management of climate-smart forests, communities, and economies with outstanding leaders and scientists from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service. Drought, hurricanes, flooding, extreme weather, and catastrophic wildfires driven by the growing climate crisis threaten the health and resilience of our communities, lands, waters, and wildlife. Now more than ever, science-based management of natural resources is increasingly important for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change. Thinking about your personal and professional goals are critical steps in planning your STEM career in these rapidly changing times. Join USDA Forest Service panel members as they describe their impact as leaders helping our nation make climate-smart management decisions. Their research provides a holistic understanding of carbon and ecological dynamics across our nation’s diverse landscapes to help guide sound, science-informed, decision-making in response to climate change and extreme climate events. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Deepen understanding about best practices and STEM professional career opportunities in the management of unique ecosystems currently threatened by climate change. Use what has been shared by panel members as guidance to help build a personal road map as a Climate-smart STEM professional. Connect with USDA Forest Service science and scientists providing leading scientific knowledge of carbon and climate change for climate-smart management decisions on the Nation’s forests and grasslands.

Presented by: Conception Flores, Shaneka Lawson, Grizelle Gonzalez, Cassandra Johnson Gaither, Consuelo Brandeis

Launch Recording

Unleash Your Professional Savvy – Secrets to Power, Style, and Grace

Date: 10/07/2022, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

Learning Objective: Access your competitive edge by designing a winning image, building self-confidence, and communicating value with style and grace. Did you know that 90 percent of your ability to move up the corporate and federal executive ladder is influenced by your brand and image, credibility, and communication skills? Are you on top of your game? In today’s market, the professional woman must understand how to project a powerful image. Your ability to build professional savvy is the key to breaking through barriers and achieving success. Technical skills, education, specialized career training, and performance are only the beginning. If an image is everything, then everything matters. Whether you seek recognition, promotion, or just entering the workforce, this seminar will help you capitalize on your challenging work as you unleash your best. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Explore ways to build and express self-confidence. Create a winning image and leverage their circles of influence. Examine professional savvy and politics. Design a plan to increase recognition and value in the workplace. Explore 10 critical style tips for today’s professional woman.

Presented by: Cornelia Butler, Sondia Christian, Cynthia Gallo Lee, Jessesa Dupart

Launch Recording

Act Like a CEO, Think Like a Leader: Top Leaders Get Real About Gender, Leadership, and Perceptions

Date: 10/07/2022, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

Learning Objective: Examine the challenges of and strategies for developing better leadership skills Be strong in the workplace. Wait, not too strong! Be assertive. Wait, that’s aggressive! There is an equal and opposite reaction to every piece of advice a woman leader receives. This seminar brings leaders together to share challenges and strategies for growth. Leadership grows when we hone our skills and learn to do what we are not good at. Influential leaders develop new skills by connecting diverse groups, envisioning new possibilities, and engaging others to achieve success. Effective leaders create networks to tap into innovative ideas, connect to people and develop new skills or leadership powers. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Discuss the challenges of and how to develop practical leadership skills. Explore techniques that build leadership skills and professional relationships. Measure the impact of inspiring others and managing creative solutions. Examine how utilizing coaching and engaging others can successfully achieve goals.

Presented by: Salma Jutt, Jacob Aladejobi, Natoshia Anderson

Launch Recording

Embracing Diversity & Inclusion in Clinical Trial Design Presented by Abbott

Date: 10/07/2022, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM ET
Venue: Huntington Place (In-Person)
Location: WOC Networking Suite

Presented by: Jennifer Jones-McMeans

Launch Recording

Women Empowered to Engage

Date: 10/06/2022, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET
Venue: WOC I
Location: Riverview Grand Ballroom - Level 200

It's our time to lead a generation of women to own the importance and the necessity of their contributions to the collective success of our families, our communities, our workplaces, our nation, and the global community in which we live. The Tech talks presented at WOC draws attention to the varied experiences of women at key points in their STEM career journey. It unveils the contrast between their universal experiences, and the uniqueness of each career trajectory. The Women of Color Tech talks serve to inform women of their options, and to remind them that they matter, that staying the course matters in measurable ways to our collective success.

Presented by: Denise Evans, Rita Kakati-Shah, Angela Satchell, Javiera Soto, Lakisha Platenburg

Program Guide: Download

Launch Recording

Micro-learning session: The New Norm of Work and Life Assimilation

Date: 10/06/2022, 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

For decades corporations have encouraged the notion of work-life balance. With the ongoing pandemic, personal and professional lives have merged, leaving little to no space for a full separation. What can we do now? What are best practices in creating an environment that allows for a healthy distinction between work and home life when both are overlapping? How can women continue to support one another during and beyond the pandemic when the new normal seems to be sticking around for a long time to come?

Presented by: Olujimisola Adelani

Launch Recording

Interview Skills that Get You Hired!

Date: 10/06/2022, 3:00 PM - 4:15 PM ET
Venue: WOC I
Location: WOC Central Auditorium

Learning Objective: Discuss techniques for promoting yourself during an interview Do you know the benefits of establishing a positive and professional self-representation during an interview? Promotions depend on preparation and practice but knowing what to prepare and how to practice is essential. Mastering the Interview Training Materials holds the knowledge of the qualities that employer’s desire. Expanding your expectations of the questions that will be asked during an interview can give you an incredible advantage over other applicants for the position. Even more, being able to demonstrate your unique skills through a well-articulated answer to interview questions will put you in the lead. Taking the initiative to prepare for an interview can create new opportunities for career development in your industry. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: What are the common interview questions and how to prepare your answers? What information do I need to know for every interview? How do I answer tough questions? What are good questions to ask your interviewer? How to answer the question: “So tell me about yourself’? What do I do after the interview? What are common interview mistakes?

Presented by: Eric Price

Launch Recording

Women In Fintech Startups – Taking FinTech by Storm

Date: 10/06/2022, 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

If it feels like there are more women in FinTech startups than ever before, then you are correct. Before 2010, less than 6% of Fintech companies had a woman as a founding member. By 2018, that rate had doubled to 20%, and by 2020, it was almost 30%. These early female startup founders are signifying a new era of financial companies with enhanced diversity, progressive thinking, and redesigning the potential of FinTech. Our panel of trailblazers will share their stories on how to gain access to the world of Fintech and took the FinTech world by storm. At the end of this session, participants will be able to: Discover how women business owners are shaping the face of FinTech. Learn how to research industries and market potential. Apply Fintech concepts to the dynamic world of finance and banking. Understand the transformations Fintech brings to financial services.

Presented by: Christine Burkette

Launch Recording

Make the Most of Your Next Digital Investment

Date: 10/06/2022, 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 A

The 2020s will be the decade of digital currency. FinTech organizations will have the opportunity to bring significant potential contributions to our environment and society through innovation as we transition to a cashless society. Various new technology includes developments such as digital wallets, tap-and-pay cards, and ecommerce and how organizations can capitalize on these trends.? FinTech will play an important part by providing those who are unbanked with banking access, accessibility to new platforms, acceleration for innovative companies and products, access to women and empowerment of marginalized communities, and a transition to a paperless society and reduced physical operations footprint. At the end of this session, participants will be able to: Discuss options for capitalizing on your next digital investment. Explain digital cash in a new decade and understand transitioning to cryptocurrency. Increase digital vocabulary through understanding terminology such as blockchain, cryptocurrency and Bitcoin. Explain the opportunities for young women and professionals to pursue a career in FinTech.

Presented by: Pamela Sams, Douglas Randolph

Launch Recording

Bitcoin, Blockchain, and Cryptocurrencies, Oh My! What's the Difference?

Date: 10/06/2022, 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I- Huntington Place
Location: Room 251 B

What are Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies? How do they work, and what determines their price? Are they the future of currency? This seminar will separate fact from fiction to answer many other digital currency questions. The sudden rise in the value of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and its subsequent decline, focused the world’s attention on cryptocurrencies as a means of payment. Blockchain technology has been hyped as the next new, transformative technology. Our expert panel will guide you by developing a framework for understanding Cryptocurrency and Bitcoin. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Investigate how digital currencies work. Discuss the technical underpinnings of blockchain and review key concepts such as decentralization and consensus algorithms. Explore blockchain as a business solution, focusing on understanding business cases in which blockchain does and does not make sense.

Presented by: Jeannice Fairrer Samani, Sary Qasim

Launch Recording

X-treme Resumes: Constructing a Stellar Resume

Date: 10/06/2022, 1:30 PM - 2:45 PM ET
Venue: WOC I
Location: WOC Central Auditorium

Learning Objective: Examine the elements for constructing superior resumes An efficient and robust resume will improve your chances of landing that dream job and starting your career on the right foot. Creating the perfect resume takes practice and skill. You want to make sure that your resume stands out without overdoing it. How does one make sure that their resume is top-notch and bulletproof? This seminar will give you the scoop on creating the standout resume that will get you your following interview. We will discuss tips on your resume’s purpose, supporting your strengths, using keywords, the benefits of proofreading and bullet points, and proper font usage. At the end of this seminar, participants will be able to: Identify the purpose of a solidly effective resume. Discern good from bad resumes. Analyze the resume factors that recruiters identify to disregard some resumes. Identify the attributes of resumes that get on the interview schedule.