Let’s Recap…
Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015: I presented at the IEEE WIE Summit USA East Conference, which was held at the Sheraton University City Hotel. IEEE WIE Summit USA East 2015 in Philadelphia, PA, focuses on developing and improving leadership skills for individuals at all stages of their careers. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear inspirational and empowering talks presented by successful leaders from IEEE USA North-East region. To inspire and empower women as leaders in engineering and technology.
My presentation was one of several held on this day, which was part of a weekend of events meant to bring women leaders together, who could both inspire and empower one another. My session “Creativity is the Key to Longevity” focused on creativity as the means by which women can enter and grow in the technology industry, which tends to be male-dominated.
The first segment of my talk was aimed at the process of “entering in technology” and looked at how creativity “develops innovative ideas to obtain financial security,” as well as how it can develop one’s brand. With regard to financial security, I covered bootstrapping, which is the act of finding creative ways to obtain money when you do not have an investor; as well as the art of negotiating one’s pay and the advantages of having multiple streams of income. Furthermore, I discussed how certain people are trying to figure out their message to the world, whether it is a personal brand or company brand to build a customer base.
The second segment of my presentation covered “Growing in Technology” and looked at how creativity can open the door to potential partners, which includes mentors, potential employers, and investors. Furthermore, creativity can help you identify your passions, define your skills, as well as identify your goals for the next five plus years.
Finally, I closed the presentation by discussing ways in which one can develop and improve one’s skills. This can be done though fellowships like Flatiron School and General Assembly; on and offline classrooms, such as Code Academy and Girl Develop It; and various organizations, including IEEE and self-started chapters.
After my final discussion, I invited the audience to stand and introduce themselves to ask questions. I try to make all of my sessions very inclusive and intimate to ensure I’ve developed an inspiring presentation. From the great feedback stated by the attendees, I’m sure my session complimented the theme of the conference, which is to inspire and empower women, as well as to help them feel a sense of community among each other.
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