Upcoming Events

Transformative Conversations. Real Connections. Lasting Impact.

Our programs empower women and allies in STEM to lead with confidence, amplify their voices, and make contributions that transform industries and communities. Scroll to find your next event or two!

apr8

Giving & Receiving Feedback: Discover How to Make These Conversations Easier for Both of You
April 8, 2026, 6:00-7:30 PM ET

Feedback is an opportunity to strengthen trust, improve performance, and deepen professional relationships. The goal of this workshop is for participants to understand that giving and receiving feedback is not one-size-fits-all. Participants will learn how to set the stage ahead of delivering corrective advice. They'll reflect on what they need to feel safe and comfortable receiving feedback, and they'll learn how to customize their feedback for anyone on their team, including their manager.

Participants will learn the basic steps to giving meaningful feedback in a way that feels safe for both the giver and the receiver. They will explore the importance of positive reinforcement/encouragement as the first step in offering feedback. They will walk away with questions they can use to start any feedback discussion.

LocationSiena Construction Corporation, 38 Sidney St., Cambridge, MA 02139

Cost: Members: $15; Non-Members: $30

Register

apr22

Get to Know WEST - Membership/Outreach
April 22, 2026, 6:00-7:00 PM ET

This is a wonderful opportunity to explore more about WEST – what we’re all about, meet fellow members (including Ad Board and Board members), and learn more about upcoming activities and benefits. Come join us and engage in meaningful conversations, and discover all that we have to offer.

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

Cost: Free to All

Register

 

apr23

Applied AI in Life Sciences
April 23, 2026, 6:00-8:00 PM ET

WAAI and WEST are partnering to offer an engaging conversation on how AI is moving into the daily toolkits of women leading in the Life Sciences. Join our panelists as they share the AI applications they use to accelerate drug discovery, optimize clinical workflows, and manage complex industry data, offering a look at how these tools are changing their roles and their companies.

Panelist:

LocationLab Central, 700 Main St., North, Cambridge, MA

Cost: Members: $15; Non-Members: $30

Register

apr27

Effective Transition from Academia to Industry
April 27, 2026, 6:00-8:00 PM ET

Join us for a dynamic conversation focused on navigating the shift from academia to industry. Our panel will share real-world lessons learned, practical guidance, and the critical skills needed for a smooth and successful transition. Hear from professionals who have made the leap themselves, as well as an experienced recruiter who has supported countless candidates through this process. Hear tips for making connections and effectively networking. Whether you're actively exploring industry roles or simply curious about what the transition entails, this session will offer valuable insights and actionable advice.

Location: Tufts, Medford Campus, Room 160, Joyce Cummings Center, 177 College Ave., Medford, MA

Cost: Members: $0; Non-Members: $10

Register

 

apr29

Master the Moment: Bridging the Gap Between Instinctive Reaction & Intentional Leadership
April 29, 2026, 6:00-7:30 PM ET

In today’s climate of relentless change, rising complexity and increasing pressure, even the most experienced leaders can struggle to show up as the leader they aspire to be. Under stress, we default to reactive patterns, including overthinking, over-functioning or overcompensating. These instinctive reactions quietly erode trust, undermine innovation and weaken the bottom line. 

The real opportunity for leaders isn’t learning how to manage the onslaught of external forces driving pressure, which will only continue to accelerate and evolve over time. It’s learning to manage yourself in the face of that pressure. What leaders need are strategies to close the gap between their aspirational leadership selves and the version of themselves that shows up under stress.

In this timely and practical keynote, leadership coach and former high-tech leader Kim Meninger introduces the LEADS framework—a science-backed, actionable system to help leaders quickly shift from reaction to intentionality under pressure. Through compelling stories and real-world strategies, Kim empowers leaders to step more consistently and seamlessly into their aspirational selves, especially in the moments that matter most.

LocationFoley Hoag, 155 Seaport Blvd., Boston, MA 02210

Cost: Members: $15; Non-Members: $30

Register

 

may4

Being Bold - How to Find Your Voice & Speak Up
May 4, 2026, 12:00-1:00 PM ET

Being Bold: How to Find Your Voice and Speak Up equips participants with practical tools to articulate their ideas, contribute confidently in meetings, prepare for difficult conversations, and reframe mistakes with resilience. Grounded in positive psychology, leadership development, and real-world leadership experience, this session blends evidence-based frameworks with hands-on practice.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Identify personal barriers to speaking up and replace them with confident communication strategies
  • Clarify what they want to say and how to say it effectively
  • Speak up with both warmth and assertiveness in meetings and professional conversations
  • Navigate bias using translation strategies
  • Reframe setbacks using the 3Ps framework (Personal, Permanent, Pervasive)
  • Advocate for themselves and confidently ask for opportunities

This highly interactive workshop is designed for women in STEM at several career stages, including early and mid-career scientists and emerging leaders. It can be delivered as a 60-minute session in virtual format that includes reflection exercises, discussion, role-play, and practical communication tools. There is polling to encourage engagement, without breakout sessions.

LocationZoom

Cost: Members: $5; Non-Members: $15

Register

 

may6

WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking
May 6, 2026, 5:30-7:30 PM ET

WoW – WEST on Wednesdays is a cornerstone of the WEST community, bringing STEM professionals together to build genuine connections and lasting relationships. These welcoming gatherings offer space to connect and share experiences while enjoying drinks and appetizers.

LocationBeam Therapeutics, 238 Main St., 6th Floor, Cambridge, MA

Cost: Members: $0; Non-Members: $10

Register

may11

Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking - Lab and Facilities Operations, IT, & EHS
May 11, 2026, 6:00-7:30 PM ET

As the STEM landscape continues to evolve, professionals are increasingly embracing non-linear career paths that reflect their expanding skills, interests, and goals. This series is designed to support STEM professionals navigating career shifts—whether exploring new sectors, pursuing leadership roles, or transitioning into emerging fields.

The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, and transferable skills for those looking to make a change.

LocationZoom

Cost: Free to All

Register

may27

Building Personal & Professional Connections: The Science of Making Friends
May 27, 2026, 6:00-7:30 PM ET

This engaging, research-based talk by Linda Lin explores the science of how friendships form and how these principles can be applied to professional networking and community building, offering data-supported strategies for professional women to strengthen connections across their personal and professional lives.

LocationLab Central, 700 Main St., North, Cambridge, MA

Cost: Members: $15; Non-Members: $30

Register

june2

Emotional Intelligence as a Leadership Predictor
June 2, 2026, 6:00-7:00 PM ET

We continue to live and work through uncertain, changing and challenging times. How we manage ourselves, our interactions and relationships with others can be pushed in many directions. Our ability to lead will certainly be heightened and tested throughout these challenges. Now, more than ever, our capacity to develop our Emotional Intelligence will enable us to be effective leaders. Emotional intelligence is a defining predictor of success, especially in today’s increasingly virtual, AI-driven world. This session led by Rita B. Allenexplores how self-awareness, self-management, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex human dynamics set exceptional leaders apart. As technology accelerates decision-making and reshapes how we work, the human elements of leadership become even more critical. In an era where change is constant and relationships drive results, leaders who can manage their own emotions while connecting authentically with others build stronger teams, foster trust, and drive sustainable performance. Join us for a practical and insightful conversation on how emotional intelligence shapes leadership effectiveness—and how to strengthen it in your own leadership journey. This interactive session will provide an overview of EQ and the role it can play in building powerful leaders and high performers. It will include introduction of the brain science behind the theory of emotional intelligence, tips and strategies for developing emotional intelligence, and the importance of building the business case for growing emotionally intelligent leaders.

 
LocationZoom

Cost: Members: $5; Non-Members: $15

Register

june23

Leading with Confidence and Connection Group Coaching Program
June 23, July 14, August 4, August 18, September 15, October 6, October 27, 2026

WEST’s new Leading with Confidence and Connection Group Coaching Program offers practical leadership development with a focus on building on your unique strengths and talents. This cohort is designed for those who want to grow their leadership skills in a supportive environment alongside others who are navigating similar challenges. If you are ready to lead with more clarity, confidence, and connection, this program gives you the space to reflect, learn, and practice in community.

By joining this program, you move through 6 sessions, including:

  • Enhance Self-Leadership: Develop a deeper understanding of your leadership style, strengths, and patterns.

  • Increase Your Influence: Build the tools to strengthen your voice and expand your impact within your organization and beyond.

  • Emotional Intelligence: Recognize emotional patterns and triggers so you can respond with greater intention.

  • Build Confidence in Difficult Conversations: Strengthen your ability to navigate challenging conversations with clarity and confidence.

  • Achieve Clearer Decision Making: Learn strategies to make thoughtful, effective decisions with more confidence.

Improve Mentoring and Team Engagement: Grow your ability to support others and foster a more connected, motivated team

Location: Zoom

Cost: $500

Register

 

july22

Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking - Strategic Growth & Alliances including Portfolio Strategy, Business Development, and Partnerships
July 22, 2026, 6:00-7:30 PM ET

As the STEM landscape continues to evolve, professionals are increasingly embracing non-linear career paths that reflect their expanding skills, interests, and goals. This series is designed to support STEM professionals navigating career shifts—whether exploring new sectors, pursuing leadership roles, or transitioning into emerging fields.

The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, and transferable skills for those looking to make a change.

LocationZoom

Cost: Free to All

Register