Get ready to learn, connect, and grow—here’s what’s happening.

Here’s what’s ahead at the AdaMarie Career Navigation Summit.

12:00 - 12:15 PM EST

AdaMarie Kick-Off

We’ll open the day with an introduction to the AdaMarie community, setting the stage for a day filled with inspiration, practical insights, and connection. During the kickoff, you’ll learn what to expect from the Summit, meet fellow attendees, and hear how AdaMarie is creating identity-safe spaces for early-career and rising STEM professionals to thrive. This is your chance to ground yourself, set intentions for the day, and step into a supportive environment where your growth, curiosity, and ambitions are celebrated.

12:15 - 1:00 PM EST

Opening Keynote

Jayshree Seth is a Corporate Scientist and the first-ever Chief Science Advocate at 3M. An award-winning innovator, prolific inventor, TEDx speaker, and accomplished thought leader, she holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering and has been awarded 80 patents over her three decades at 3M. Jayshree brings a unique and practical perspective on innovation, leadership, culture, and careers, shaped by her experience developing groundbreaking products and technologies.

In 2025, she was named to the Thinkers50 Radar list of global management thinkers. She is also the author of the The Heart of Science – Engineering Footprints, Fingerprints, & Imprints, The Heart of Science – Engineering Fine Print and The Heart of Science – Engineering Blueprint, which includes more than 50 actionable frameworks for corporate innovators, managers, and leaders. All proceeds from her books support a SWE-administered scholarship for women in STEM.

1:05 - 2:00 PM EST

Next Gen in STEM Panel: Ask the Experts

In this interactive panel, senior STEM professionals and recruiters pull back the curtain on what it really takes to grow your career in today’s fast-changing STEM landscape. From navigating your first role to positioning yourself for leadership, our panelists will share lessons learned, insider hiring tips, and honest reflections from their own career journeys.

You’ll get answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to ask—about breaking into competitive fields, building your network, and standing out to employers—directly from those shaping the future of STEM talent. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make your next big move, this conversation will give you practical strategies and the confidence to chart your own path forward.

2:10 - 2:25 PM EST

From Hidden Gem to Go-To Expert

You already have the skills, experience, and potential—now it’s time to make sure the right people know it. In this fast-paced lightning talk, MeShae' Prophet (Mailchimp) shares practical strategies for showcasing your work, highlighting your expertise, and building credibility so that when opportunities arise, your name is top of mind. Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up, you’ll walk away with clear, doable steps to transform your visibility in STEM from “who’s that?” to “we need them.”

2:25 - 2:40 PM EST

Turn Your Network into Your Superpower

The right connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed—but only if you know how to use them. In this lightning talk, Ashley Farley (Gates Foundation) shares how to identify, nurture, and leverage relationships that align with your career goals. You’ll learn practical ways to turn casual contacts into career champions and create opportunities that move you closer to the role, impact, and future you want.

2:40 - 2:55 PM EST

From Lab Bench to Launchpad: Leveraging Startups to Accelerate Your Career

Startups move fast — and for scientists, they can be powerful accelerators for both innovation and careers. In this lightning talk, Carmen Banks, Ph.D. (MelanInScience) shares how working in biotech startups provide a launch pad for innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking beyond the lab bench. Drawing from her own journey, she’ll highlight the unique opportunities startups offer from taking on cross-functional roles to gaining direct exposure to fundraising, strategy, and product development. Attendees will leave with a fresh perspective on how startups can accelerate both science and careers, and practical ways to step into these high-impact environments.

3:00 - 3:15 PM EST

Negotiate Like Your Career Depends on It

In STEM, knowing your value is one thing—communicating it confidently is another. In this session, Kimberly Bennett (Fidu) shares actionable strategies for self-advocacy and negotiation so you can speak up, secure what you deserve, and set the tone for your career trajectory. Whether it’s asking for a promotion, a raise, or more resources, you’ll walk away ready to lead your own conversations with clarity and power.

3:15 - 3:30 PM EST

Thriving in Your Career Through Digital Transformation

The pace of digital transformation is accelerating, impacting every corner of STEM careers. In this session, Natasha Hendrick (Santos and b.bold) will share four key strategies to help early and mid-career professionals thrive amidst these changes. By reframing digital disruption as an opportunity rather than a challenge, she highlights how professionals can adapt, grow, and lead - and leverage our human qualities that set us apart.

3:15 - 3:30 PM EST

AI Readiness in STEM Careers: What Hiring Managers Actually Want

AI tools are everywhere, but professionals who can use them thoughtfully are in high demand. In this session, you'll learn the critical thinking skills and strategic approaches that make STEM professionals truly valuable in an AI-enhanced workplace.

Make Your Work Meaningful

3:45 - 4:15 PM EST

Want your STEM career to be more than a job? Join Jennifer Tolman (Dignity Grows) as she explores what it truly means to do meaningful work—work that aligns with your values, impact, and purpose. Drawing on her years of nonprofit leadership and operational strategy with Dignity Grows, Jennifer shares how early-career professionals can connect their technical skills to real-world impact. You’ll learn how to identify opportunities that resonate with your values, communicate what matters to your team, and grow your career with intention and integrity.

4:20 - 4:45 PM EST

Pivot With Purpose: Turning Career Curves into Power Moves

Join Lauren Choi (The New Norm) as she explores how to navigate the winding path of an early-career STEM journey. Learn how to reframe pivots, detours, and unexpected opportunities as power moves that accelerate your growth. This session will give you practical strategies to embrace change, build confidence in your career decisions, and see every turn as a chance to advance toward your goals. Walk away inspired to own your journey, make bold choices, and turn uncertainty into your advantage.

4:45 - 4:50 PM EST