When WISE NL was established in 1988, the situation for women was different and our attention was focused on increasing technical career awareness and removing systemic obstacles. Since then, much progress has been made.The number of women enrolled in post-secondary science and engineering programs has increased. Women are entering the technical workforce and taking on positions of increasing responsibility.

Are we done now? Not at all. We need to ensure that past gains are not lost, that we do not repeat mistakes, that the education and experiences of women are harnessed to improve our quality of life. Today, we call attention to retaining and advancing women in the workforce and increasing the impact women are able to make.

Panel 1: Getting Started
Now that it is no longer unusual for women to “consider” technical careers, the next step is to help women better match their unique interests and talents to the wide range of career possibilities.

Panel 2: Getting Established
The first five to ten years of a career are a critical time for technical women. Statistics show that is the period when many women transition out of the technical workforce, especially in engineering.

Keynote: Career with Impact
Companies have discovered that diversity is good for business. We also know that diversity is good for community and society. Our keynote speaker, Greta Raymond, will demonstrate how women’s perspectives enrich the discussion and raise the bar for what is possible.  Greta’s progressive thinking and interdisciplinary perspective will challenge and motivate the next wave of technical women and their organizations while building on the strong foundations laid by other women.

For more information check out the conference website.