Ann Arbor SPARK is excited to announce the return of Women in Tech, one of the most anticipated events in the a2Tech360 series. Known for selling out quickly, this event is dedicated to empowering women and non-binary professionals in the technology sector. This year, the focus will be on the life cycle of a tech career, offering insights into the unique challenges and experiences that women encounter at various stages of their professional journeys.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, September 25
- Time: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Location: Sheraton Hotel | 3200 Boardwalk Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
- Tickets: $35 Early Bird Pricing Ends 8/23 (Regular Tickets $50)
Produced in partnership with the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), and sponsored by DaySmart, MI-HQ, and Shine & Rise, the program will feature a series of panels centered around the theme “Life Cycle of a Career.” These panels will guide attendees through the various stages of career development, from mentorship to legacy-building, offering valuable insights for professionals at every stage of their journey.
Ann Arbor SPARK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem through a wide range of programs and services. From offering resources and support to startups and early-stage companies to promoting diversity and inclusion within the tech community, SPARK plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and economic growth in the region. By providing tailored mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking events, Ann Arbor SPARK ensures that entrepreneurs from all backgrounds have the tools and connections they need to succeed.
Hilary Doe, Chief Growth Officer for the State of Michigan, will serve as the emcee for the event. Hilary brings a wealth of experience as a former tech executive and now in her current role, she drives economic growth and fosters innovation across Michigan, making her an ideal leader for guiding the event’s discussions. Her commitment to supporting the tech community aligns perfectly with the event’s focus on empowering women in technology.
Act I: Mentorships
The first panel, “The Life Cycle of a Career – Act I: Mentorships,” will focus on the vital role mentorship plays in career progression. The panel will feature distinguished speakers: Alison Todak, Co-Founder of Shine & Rise; Sonya Callahan, Vice President at Comcast Business; Ashtanté Clemons, Customer Advocacy Manager at Beamery; Kelly LaPierre, Co-Founder & Partner at Venture Catalysts; and Khalilah Burt Gaston, Executive Director at Song Foundation. This session will explore the diverse forms of mentorship, the unique challenges women encounter in STEM fields, and how mentorship can act as a catalyst for skill enhancement and career growth.
Act II: Building, Influencing, and Engaging in the Tech Community
In “The Life Cycle of a Career – Act II,” the focus shifts to building influence and engagement within the tech community. The panel will feature Jasmine Burns, chief people officer at Censys, Christa Chambers-Pierce, founder of Entre-SLAM, Jasmit Kaur, founder and CEO of Culturebie, and Ylondia Portis, founder and managing director of BrandHrt. This discussion will address the challenges of finding camaraderie in underrepresented spaces, especially in today’s increasingly remote work environments, and how organizations can foster a more inclusive culture.
Act III: Conquering the Third Act
The event will conclude with a fireside chat, “The Life Cycle of a Career – Act III: Conquering the Third Act,” featuring Cynthia Wilbanks, retired Vice President for Government Relations at the University of Michigan and now a senior advisor at Peterson Rudgers Group, and Maria Thompson, Venture Partner at Arsenal Growth Equity. They will share insights from their personal journeys, discussing challenges such as gender bias, leadership philosophies, and legacy-building. The conversation will also explore strategies for elevating the next generation of women in tech, securing board roles, and advocating for issues affecting women in the workplace.
Reception with Rebel Nell
Following the closing remarks, the event will move into a networking reception, providing attendees with an opportunity to connect with speakers and peers. The reception will include food, drinks, and a unique interactive mural activity hosted by Rebel Nell, where participants can contribute to a collaborative art piece, sparking conversations and forming meaningful connections.
“Women in Tech is one of our most successful a2Tech360 events, consistently selling out and demonstrating just how much it resonates with our community,” said Jenn Hayman, senior vice president of marketing, communications and events at Ann Arbor SPARK. “This year, we’re excited to dive into the theme of the career life cycle with a dynamic lineup of speakers. I’m confident that their insights and experiences will inspire and energize attendees.”
a2Tech360’s Women in Tech event offers valuable insights for professionals at all stages of their careers, from those just starting out to those navigating mid-career challenges or considering their legacy.
In partnership with the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), Ann Arbor SPARK extends its gratitude to our a2Tech360 Marquee Sponsors: University of Michigan Innovation Partnerships, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, DTE Foundation, Kapnick Insurance, Rehmann, MI-HQ, and Wacker Chemical Corporation. Their generous support makes this event possible and drives the continued growth of our thriving tech community.
For more information and to register for Women in Tech, please visit a2tech360.com.
