Upcoming Events

2023-2024 Annual Theme: Empower, Amplify, Advance

In a world where the interpretations of the rights and opportunities of many demographic groups, particularly women, are constantly up for debate and are ever-changing, we can and must work for consistent progress. The only way that women will see consistent progress in their opportunity to excel in previously male dominated professions, like the STEM industries, is if we make the constant effort to amplify the voices of women and their allies. These strong voices push for the empowerment of women to fulfill their full potential in any and all fields of study and work. These voices shout from the rooftops that women deserve a seat at the table, every table. Only when women are given the opportunity to excel in anything they are passionate about, will true advancement be possible. WEST’s 2023-2024 Annual Theme speaks to the necessity of amplifying the voices that will support the empowerment of women and the advancement of women’s STEM careers around the world.

 

apr22

Women Leaders in Food & Agricultural Science & Technology
April 22, 2024, 5:30-7:30 PM ET 

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring amazing local leaders sharing about their careers in agricultural science and technology. This Earth Day event offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from pioneering women who are shaping the future of agriculture.

In addition to thought-provoking discussions, we'll provide delicious food and refreshing drinks to fuel your networking experience. Don't miss the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate new professional relationships. As a special interactive activity, you'll have the opportunity to get hands-on and create seed bombs to take home. These seed bombs not only serve as a fun DIY project but also contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting green spaces and biodiversity. 

Come join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the achievements and contributions of women leaders in agricultural science and technology.

LocationInari, One Kendall Square, Bldg 600/700, Suite 7-501, Cambridge, MA 02139

CostMembers: $0; Non-Members: $10

Register

may2

Open House for Getting to Know WEST & Membership
May 2, 2024, 5:30-7:30 PM ET 

Join us for a special open house event for those interested in learning more about membership opportunities with WEST. You can network with WEST Board Members. We will talk about the benefits of becoming part of the WEST community and going to WEST events, how our programming can be a resource, and much more.

Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 88 Sidney St., Cambridge, MA 02139

CostFree

Register

may8

WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking
May 8, 2024, 5:30-7:30 PM ET 

The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. 

Location: Beam Therapeutics, 238 Main St., 6th floor, Cambridge, MA

CostMembers: $0; Non-Members: $5

Thanks to our sponsor!

Register

may15

Introverted & Influential: Strategies for Visibility & Presence
May 15, 2024, 12:00-1:30 PM ET 

Visibility and presence play crucial roles in shaping career trajectories. While it may seem that those with an extraverted preference tend to receive more recognition, those with a preference for introversion have many unique qualities that can help drive their professional visibility and success. This 90-minute session will highlight the strengths and strategies those with introverted preferences can use to support their growth. Focusing on practical and achievable approaches, the workshop will offer insight on how to effectively leverage natural tendencies to build a strong, impactful presence at work, proving that success is not about how loud you are, but the significance of your contributions.

Location: Zoom

CostMembers: $5; Non-Members: $15

Register

may23

Breaking Boundaries: Stories From Asian and Pacific Islander Trailblazers in Science & Technology
May 23, 2024, 5:30-7:30 PM ET 

Join WEST to promote and engage talent diversity in the biotech industry. This event is focused on enhancing the representation of Asian & Pacific Islander groups in science and technology, breaking barriers, navigating challenges, and building relationships with the community and peers. There will be a panel discussion and networking.

LocationBayer, 238 Main St., 6th Floor, Cambridge, MA

CostMembers: $5; Non-Members: $15

Register

june4

Empowering YOU: How to Be a Great Coach or Mentor
June 4, 2024, 6:00-7:30 PM ET 

Embark on a journey to uncover the key points of coaching & mentoring in the workplace. Explore the nuances (differences and similarities) between the two powerful approaches while digging into the foundational elements of the coaching relationship. Discover how to create an intentional coaching alliance setting the stage for success for you and your team. Dive into practical, hands-on exercises (on active listening and powerful questioning) to immediately kickstart and get the most out of your coaching and mentoring journey.  Plus, learn invaluable techniques for giving and receiving feedback from all stakeholders. Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop where learning meets action!

Location: Monte Rosa Therapeutics, 321 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118

CostMembers: $0; Non-Members: $10 - heavy appetizers included

Thanks to Monte Rosa for providing the venue and food.

Register

june17

GPS Your Career: Navigating Unique Career Paths
June 17, 2024, 6:00-7:30 PM ET 

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring local seasoned experts sharing their career transformation stories. Whether you're considering a career change or simply want to explore your options, this session offers valuable insights into navigating transitions. Discover firsthand how these professionals successfully made the leap from one function, industry, or career landscape to another. This session is a more intimate forum for learning from the experts why they changed, how they changed – and the impact this has had on their career journey. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable lessons and discover new possibilities in your own career journey.

Location: Seismic Therapeutic, 250 Arsenal Place, Suite 210, Watertown, MA 02472

CostMembers: $15; Non-Members: $30

Register

july12

Women in Leadership Bootcamp
July 12, 2024, 11:00 AM-4:45 PM ET 

Nucleate and WEST are hosting a virtual Women in Leadership Bootcamp. This event include several hours of workshops and talks from leaders in the life sciences on the topics of leadership styles, building confidence, and effective team dynamics and management. Attendance is limited.

Location: Zoom

CostMembers: $20; Priority registration currently open to WEST members only

Register

 

july16

Piloting Your Way Through Chaos: How to Achieve Career Success Amidst Organizational Turbulence
July 16, 2024, 6:00-7:30 PM ET 

Managing your career (and your sanity) is a challenge in the best of times, and messy workplace dynamics only make it more difficult. Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring seasoned leaders who endured workplace challenges and emerged professionally and personally stronger. From navigating bankruptcies to succeeding amidst acquisitions and reorganizations, our panelists have steered their careers through challenging times. Their insights and advice will help you safeguard your career trajectory and preserve your sanity during times of uncertainty. Reserve your spot today and embark on the path to career resilience and success.

Location: LabCentral, 700 Main Street, North, Cambridge, MA 02139

CostMembers: $15; Non-Members: $30 - light dinner included

Register

 

Aug8

Networking for Introverts: How to Effectively Connect
August 8, 2024, 6:00-8:00 PM ET 

Networking and connecting effectively are pivotal for professional growth. While some find it intuitive, especially extroverts, it can be daunting for introverts. Attempting to adopt extroverted strategies often exacerbates discomfort and even causes some people to dread the idea of networking. To support their networking endeavors,  WEST is offering this event tailored to  introverts with practical tools and strategies, fostering authentic and confident connections.

All are welcome to attend 'Networking for Introverts: How to Connect Effectively' to explore a refreshing approach to networking. In addition to insights from our panelists, introverts who've navigated networking hurdles, attendees will engage in interactive games, facilitated discussions, and open networking sessions. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where introverts can thrive and connect with authenticity and confidence.

LocationBe Biopharma, Inc., One Kendall Sq, Bldg 200, 3rd Floor, Be Bio Café, Cambridge, MA 02139

CostMembers: $15; Non-Members: $30 - light dinner provided by WEST

Register

 

Oct24

Rockstar Breakfast
October 24, 2024, 9:00-10:00 AM ET 

If you would love to learn about industry achievements and experiences first-hand from some of the most respected leaders in their fields, you won't want to miss this event WEST's Rockstar Breakfast. Join us for an intimate event where the panel of leading women in venture capital will share their roles, career journey, professional achievements, lessons learned, inspirations, advice, and more. The panel will feature Sarah Gheuens, Chief Medical Officer & Head of R&D at Agios Pharmaceuticals. Registration for this event is limited to maintain an intimate, engaging environment.

Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 64 Sidney St., Heliopolis Conference Room, Cambridge, MA 02139

CostMembers: $5; This event is open to members only.

Register