2019 GRACE HOPPER CELEBRATION 5 PANELS TO CHECK OUT

Jan 16, 2024

19 Min Read

1. What are the most anticipated panels at the 2019 Grace Hopper Celebration?


There are many highly anticipated panels at the 2019 Grace Hopper Celebration, but some of the most anticipated ones include:

1. Keynote address by Melinda Gates: The co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is expected to share her insights on diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.

2. Tech Talks with top leaders: This panel will feature leaders from various tech companies like Microsoft, Google, IBM, and Facebook, who will discuss their experiences as women in tech and offer advice to aspiring professionals.

3. AI for Good: How Technology Can Advance Social Good: This panel will explore how artificial intelligence can be used for social good and address issues such as gender equality, education, health care, and environmental sustainability.

4. The Future of Work: An Insight into Emerging Technologies: In this panel, speakers from companies like Airbnb, Uber, and Pinterest will discuss how emerging technologies like blockchain, virtual reality, and machine learning are shaping the future of work.

5. Breaking Barriers in Tech Entrepreneurship: This panel will feature successful female entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges in starting their own tech businesses and share their insights on entrepreneurship.

6. Men Advocating Real Change (MARC) Workshop: This interactive workshop aims to engage men in conversations about gender equality in the workplace and provide tools for becoming advocates for change.

7. Women Transforming Healthcare through Technology: In this panel discussion, women leaders from the healthcare industry will talk about how technology can drive innovations in healthcare delivery and improve outcomes.

8. Navigating Career Transitions as a Technologist: This session will provide guidance on navigating career transitions in the tech industry and offer tips on managing challenges like imposter syndrome and negotiating job offers.

9. Virtual Reality Experience Lab: Attendees can experience cutting-edge virtual reality technology at this interactive lab run by experts showcasing advances being made in VR technology across various industries.

10. Processes that Empower: How Companies Are Creating Inclusive Workplaces: This panel will feature representatives from leading companies who will share their strategies for creating inclusive workplaces and building diverse teams.

2. How do these panels reflect the current state of diversity and inclusion in tech?


The Panel focuses on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, highlighting the fact that there is still a lot of work to be done in this area. The panelists speak about the lack of representation and opportunities for underrepresented groups, such as women and minorities, in the tech industry.

One panelist mentions how there is a “pipeline problem” where marginalized groups are not being exposed to or given equal access to education and training programs that lead to careers in tech. This results in a lack of diverse talent entering the industry.

Another panelist talks about her personal experience as a Black woman working in tech and how she has faced discrimination and exclusion at various points in her career. She also discusses how important it is for companies to have diversity and inclusion initiatives in place to create a more inclusive work environment.

The panels also touch on systemic issues within the tech industry, such as bias in hiring practices and unequal pay, which contribute to the lack of diversity and inclusion. They stress the need for companies to actively address these issues through policies, programs, and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity.

Overall, these panels highlight that while progress has been made towards diversity and inclusion in tech, there is still a long way to go. Steps need to be taken by both individuals and companies to create a more diverse and inclusive industry.

3. What lessons can attendees learn from successful women in STEM who will be speaking at the panels?


There are many valuable lessons that attendees can learn from successful women in STEM who will be speaking at the panels. Some of these include:

1. The importance of perseverance: Many successful women in STEM have faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout their careers, but they never gave up. They persisted through difficult times and remained focused on their goals, which ultimately led them to success.

2. The power of networking: Building a strong network is crucial for success in any field, and this is especially true in STEM industries where collaboration and teamwork are essential. Attendees can learn from panelists about how to build and maintain meaningful professional relationships that can open doors and opportunities.

3. Embracing failure: Failure is an inevitable part of any journey, and it’s important to learn how to handle it effectively. Successful women in STEM know that failure is not something to be feared, but rather a learning opportunity that can lead to growth and new ideas.

4. Breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes: Women in STEM often face prejudice and discrimination due to gender stereotypes. Panelists can provide insights on how they overcame these challenges and inspire attendees to break barriers themselves.

5. Finding balance: Juggling a career in STEM with personal life can be challenging, but it’s important to strike a healthy balance between the two. Panelists may share their experiences and tips for managing work-life balance, which can be helpful for attendees navigating similar situations.

6. Staying curious and always learning: One key trait shared by successful women in STEM is their curiosity and desire for continuous learning. By staying curious, they have been able to stay on top of new developments in their fields, adapt to changes, and continuously improve themselves.

7. Owning your successes: Women are often socialized to downplay their achievements or give credit to others instead of taking ownership of their successes fully. Panelists may share insights into how they have learned to own their successes and confidently promote themselves and their work.

8. The importance of mentorship and being a mentor: Many successful women in STEM have had mentors who provided valuable guidance, advice, and support throughout their careers. They also recognize the importance of paying it forward by being a mentor to others, especially to young women who may be interested in pursuing a career in STEM.

9. The value of diversity and inclusion: Panelists can speak to the benefits of diverse perspectives and inclusive environments in STEM fields. Attendees can learn from their experiences and be inspired to champion diversity and inclusion in their own workplaces.

10. Never giving up on your dreams: Last but not least, attendees can learn from successful women in STEM that anything is possible if you are passionate, determined, and committed to your goals. No dream is too big or impossible to achieve with hard work, resilience, and self-belief.

4. How do these panels address the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries?


The panels address the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries in a few ways:

1. Representation and Visibility: By having women as panelists who have successfully navigated and excelled in male-dominated industries, these panels provide representation and visibility for other women who may be facing similar challenges. This can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for women to pursue their own careers in these industries.

2. Sharing Experiences and Insights: The panelists share their personal experiences and insights on how they have overcome obstacles or barriers in their careers. This can provide valuable knowledge and advice for women who are just starting out or struggling to advance in male-dominated industries.

3. Addressing Bias and Stereotypes: The panels may also address prevalent biases and stereotypes that exist in these industries, such as the belief that certain jobs or roles are more suited to men. By openly discussing these issues, the panels can challenge and debunk these beliefs, promoting more inclusive workplaces.

4. Networking Opportunities: These panels often bring together a diverse group of professionals, providing opportunities for networking and mentorship between established female leaders and new entrants in the industry. This can help create a supportive community for women working in male-dominated fields.

5. Education and Resources: Many of these panels also offer resources or information on policies, programs, and initiatives that support diversity, inclusion, and gender equality within these industries. This can help participants understand what options are available to support their career growth.

Overall, by bringing together successful women from various backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, these panels aim to empower and equip women with the tools they need to thrive in traditionally male-dominated industries.

5. Can attending these panels help advance an individual’s career in tech?


Yes, attending panels in the tech industry can help advance someone’s career in a few ways:

1. Networking: Panels often feature distinguished speakers, industry leaders, and professionals. Attending these events allows individuals to expand their network and make valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities, mentorship, or industry insights.

2. Knowledge and Insights: These panels are often focused on specific topics or themes related to the tech industry. Attendees can gain knowledge and insights on current trends, emerging technologies, and best practices from experts and professionals in the field. This can help them stay updated and relevant in their career.

3. Visibility: Attending panels provides visibility for individuals in the tech industry. They may have the opportunity to ask questions or engage with the speakers during Q&A sessions or networking breaks, increasing their visibility among other attendees and potential employers.

4. Professional Development: Panels usually offer information on career development strategies, leadership skills, and career growth opportunities within the tech industry. This can provide valuable tips and advice for individuals looking to advance their careers in tech.

5. Career Opportunities: Many panel events are sponsored by companies or organizations within the tech industry, which could lead to potential job opportunities for attendees. Companies may also use these events as a way to advertise job openings or connect with potential candidates.

Ultimately, attending panels in the tech industry allows individuals to stay informed about current trends and developments, make meaningful connections with professionals in their field, and potentially open doors for career advancement opportunities.

6. How have past Grace Hopper Celebration panels impacted the tech industry?


Past Grace Hopper Celebration panels have had a significant impact on the tech industry in several ways:

1. Encouraging diversity and inclusion: The Grace Hopper Celebration (GHC) panels have actively promoted diversity and inclusion in the tech industry by highlighting the achievements and experiences of women, people of color, and other marginalized groups in technology. This has helped to raise awareness about the need for more diverse representation in the field and has inspired individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in tech.

2. Promoting female leadership: GHC panels often feature successful women leaders in the tech industry who share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for success. By showcasing these role models, GHC has helped to break down stereotypes and inspire other women to aim for leadership positions in tech.

3. Addressing important issues: Each year, GHC panels cover a wide range of topics related to technology, including emerging trends, career development, workplace culture, and social impact. These discussions have shed light on important issues facing the industry and have sparked meaningful conversations that can lead to positive changes.

4. Providing networking opportunities: The Grace Hopper Celebration is not only an opportunity to attend inspiring panels but also a chance to network with professionals from various tech companies, including major players like Google, Microsoft and IBM. This has allowed attendees to make valuable connections that can open up doors for career opportunities and collaborations.

5. Promoting innovation: By featuring presentations on cutting-edge technologies and innovations at GHC panels, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain or augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), attendees are exposed to new ideas that may inspire them to develop groundbreaking solutions for current or future challenges.

6. Shaping company policies: With major tech companies being regular participants at GHC events, the discussions held during these conferences have influenced their policies regarding diversity and inclusion initiatives within their organizations. As a result of these conversations, many companies have implemented programs aimed at recruiting more diverse talent and promoting an inclusive workplace culture.

Overall, past Grace Hopper Celebration panels have played a crucial role in shaping the tech industry and making it more inclusive, innovative, and aware of important issues. The impact of these panels will continue to be felt for years to come as more women and underrepresented groups are empowered to take on leadership roles in the tech sector.

7. Are there any specific themes or topics that will be covered in multiple panels?


No, there are no specific themes or topics that will be covered in multiple panels. The event organizers have curated a diverse selection of panels and presentations covering a wide range of topics related to their industries and areas of expertise. Attendees can expect a variety of topics and discussions throughout the conference.

8. How can companies utilize insights from these panels to improve their workplace diversity and inclusion efforts?


1. Identify key issues: Panel discussions can provide valuable insights into the specific challenges and issues faced by diverse employees in the workplace. By listening to their experiences and perspectives, companies can gain a better understanding of the barriers and biases that exist within their organization.

2. Create a safe space for dialogue: Panels can create a safe environment for open and honest discussions about diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This can help break down barriers between different groups and foster mutual understanding.

3. Collect feedback: Panel discussions can be used as an opportunity to collect feedback from participants on their experiences with diversity initiatives in the company. This feedback can be used to identify areas of improvement and make necessary changes.

4. Generate new ideas: The diverse perspectives shared in panel discussions can spark creative thinking and generate new ideas for promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

5. Encourage employee engagement: Inviting employees to participate in panel discussions sends a message that their voices are valued and heard by the company. This can lead to increased employee engagement and a stronger sense of belonging.

6. Gain insights from external experts: Companies may consider inviting external experts or thought leaders on diversity and inclusion to participate in the panel discussion. This can provide valuable insights from different industries and perspectives.

7. Promote allyship: Panel discussions serve as a platform for individuals from different backgrounds to come together and share their experiences. This can help promote allyship among employees, where individuals learn from each other’s unique experiences.

8. Incorporate recommendations into action plans: By incorporating insights from panel discussions into action plans, companies demonstrate their commitment towards creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture. These actions should be visible across all levels of the organization to show true commitment towards diversity and inclusion efforts.

9. What networking opportunities are available during and after the panels?

After the panels, there is often a networking session where attendees can mingle and exchange contact information with the panelists and other attendees. This provides a great opportunity to continue the discussions from the panels and make new connections in the industry. In some cases, there may also be designated networking events or happy hours organized by the conference organizers. Additionally, many conferences have online networking platforms or forums where attendees can connect with each other before, during, and after the event.

10. Will there be any live demonstrations or interactive elements in the panels?


It’s possible that some panels may include live demonstrations or interactive elements, but it depends on the specific topic and format of the panel. Some panels may have Q&A sessions or audience participation activities, while others may have speakers who demonstrate a product or technique live on stage. Check the panel descriptions to see if any interactive elements are mentioned.

11. Are there any new initiatives or programs being announced at this year’s event on the panels?


I do not have specific information on any new initiatives or programs being announced at the panels this year. However, it is likely that there will be discussions on current initiatives and projects related to the theme of the event, such as advancements in technology, sustainability, and diversity and inclusion. Attendees can expect to learn about innovative solutions and strategies for addressing these issues in their industries.

12. How can allies support and amplify the voices of women in tech through participating in these panels?


There are several ways allies can support and amplify the voices of women in tech through participating in panels:

1. Listen and learn: Allies can use their privilege to listen and learn from the experiences and perspectives of women in tech. By actively listening and seeking to understand, they can gain valuable insights and make positive changes within their own organizations or communities.

2. Advocate for diversity: Allies can use their platform on the panel to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. They can speak up about the importance of creating an inclusive environment for all genders, races, and backgrounds.

3. Amplify women’s voices: During the panel, allies can actively encourage and give space for women to share their thoughts and ideas. They can also amplify these voices by sharing them on social media or other platforms after the panel.

4. Promote intersectionality: Allies should recognize that women experience different forms of oppression based on their identity, such as race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc. They can use their position on the panel to promote intersectionality and highlight the unique challenges faced by women from marginalized communities.

5. Highlight achievements of women in tech: One way allies can support women in tech is by highlighting their achievements, both within the panel discussion and beyond. This could include sharing success stories or promoting female-led projects or initiatives.

6. Use inclusive language: During the panel discussion, allies should be mindful of using inclusive language that does not reinforce gender stereotypes or exclude anyone based on their identity.

7. Support initiatives that promote diversity: Allies can further show their support by actively participating in initiatives, events, or organizations that aim to promote diversity and empower women in tech.

Overall, allies should use their privilege to create a more inclusive space for women in tech on panels by actively listening, advocating for diversity, and amplifying underrepresented voices.

13. Who are some of the keynote speakers for these panel discussions?


The keynote speakers may vary depending on the specific panel and event, but some examples include industry experts, thought leaders, CEOs and other top executives from relevant companies or organizations. Some possible keynote speakers could include:

1. Tim Cook – CEO of Apple Inc.
2. Sheryl Sandberg – COO of Facebook
3. Satya Nadella – CEO of Microsoft
4. Jeff Bezos – CEO of Amazon
5. Mark Zuckerberg – CEO of Facebook
6. Mary Barra – CEO of General Motors
7. Larry Page or Sergey Brin – co-founders of Google/Alphabet Inc.
8. Indra Nooyi – former CEO of PepsiCo
9. Jack Ma – founder and former executive chairman of Alibaba Group
10. Elon Musk – founder and CEO of SpaceX and CEO/CTO of Tesla Inc.

Note: These are just a few examples and not an exhaustive list; the actual keynote speakers for these panel discussions may vary depending on the event and topic being discussed.

14. How do these panelists represent a variety of experiences, cultures, and backgrounds in tech?


The panelists represent a variety of experiences, cultures, and backgrounds in tech through their diverse perspectives and profiles. For example:

– Some panelists may be from different countries or have lived and worked in different parts of the world, bringing a global perspective to the discussion.
– Others may come from underrepresented communities in tech, providing insight into diversity and inclusion issues within the industry.
– Some panelists may have non-traditional backgrounds or career paths in tech, highlighting alternative routes to success in the field.
– Others may come from different roles within tech (such as product management, engineering, design, marketing), showcasing the breadth of opportunities available within the industry.
– Additionally, the panelists may also have unique stories and experiences that are shaped by their individual cultural backgrounds and identity markers such as race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, etc. These diverse experiences can provide valuable insights into various aspects of the tech industry.

15. What resources or tools will be shared during these sessions to help women advance in their careers?


There are a variety of resources and tools that may be shared during these sessions, depending on the specific focus and goals of each session. Some potential examples could include:

1. Mentorship programs: These could be formal or informal programs that match women with more experienced professionals in their field who can offer advice, support, and guidance on career advancement.

2. Online resources and courses: There are many online platforms that offer courses, webinars, and workshops specifically geared towards helping women advance in their careers. These could cover topics such as leadership skills, negotiation techniques, and networking strategies.

3. Professional development opportunities: This could include access to conferences, seminars, or workshops focused on career advancement for women. These may be offered at a discounted rate or for free to attendees of the sessions.

4. Networking opportunities: Connecting with other professionals can be crucial for career advancement. Some sessions may provide structured networking activities or facilitate introductions between participants to help build relationships and expand professional networks.

5. Career coaching or counseling services: These sessions may offer access to career coaches or counselors who can provide one-on-one guidance and support for women looking to advance in their careers.

6. Personal branding resources: Building a strong personal brand is important for professional success. Sessions may provide tips and tools for creating an effective personal brand, such as resume building templates or social media guides.

7. Workshops on salary negotiation: Women often face challenges when it comes to negotiating salaries and promotions. Sessions could include workshops led by experts in this area to help women improve their negotiation skills and strategies.

8. Access to job opportunities: Some sessions may have partnerships with companies or organizations looking to recruit more women into leadership positions. Participants might have the opportunity to apply for open positions or even participate in job fairs during the session.

9 . Support groups: Participating in support groups with other women facing similar challenges can be empowering and helpful in navigating career advancement. Sessions may offer resources for creating or joining support groups, or even provide a space for participants to connect and form their own groups.

10. Personal development resources: Advancing in your career often requires personal growth as well. Sessions may share resources such as books, podcasts, or other materials aimed at helping women develop leadership skills, confidence, and resilience.

16. Is there a common message or takeaway that organizers hope attendees will gain from these discussions?

The common message or takeaway that organizers hope attendees will gain from these discussions varies depending on the specific topic being discussed. However, in general, organizers often hope to encourage open-mindedness and critical thinking, foster understanding and empathy towards different perspectives, and inspire positive action and change towards a particular issue. They may also aim to create a sense of community and connection among participants and provide resources for further education and engagement on the topic. Ultimately, the goal is for attendees to leave feeling informed, empowered, and motivated to make a difference in their own lives and in society.

17. Are there any VIPs or notable figures expected to make an appearance at these panel discussions?


It is unclear if any VIPs or notable figures will be making appearances at these panel discussions. It would depend on the topic and the specific speakers invited to participate. The event organizers may release more information about potential VIP appearances closer to the event date.

18. How can attendees prepare for engaging with panelists and asking questions during Q&A sessions?


1. Familiarize yourself with the topic of the panel: Before attending the panel, make sure you have a basic understanding of the topic being discussed. This will help you come up with relevant questions to ask during the Q&A session.

2. Research the panelists: Take some time to research the background and expertise of each panelist. This will give you an idea of their perspective on the topic and help shape your questions.

3. Write down your questions beforehand: It can be helpful to jot down any questions that come to mind while researching or listening to the panel. This way, you won’t forget them during the Q&A session.

4. Be respectful and concise: When asking a question, be respectful of both the panelists’ time and your fellow attendees by keeping your question brief and to-the-point.

5. Wait for an appropriate time to ask a question: While it may be tempting to immediately raise your hand when a question comes to mind, wait for an appropriate time (like when a moderator asks for audience questions).

6. Listen attentively: Make sure you’re listening attentively not only when formulating questions, but also when other attendees are asking their own questions. You never know if someone else may ask one that was on your mind as well.

7. Keep an open mind: Panel discussions often involve multiple perspectives and opinions on a particular topic. Keep an open mind and be willing to listen to different viewpoints without judgment.

8. Don’t hog the microphone: While it’s great to have enthusiasm and actively participate in Q&A sessions, try not to dominate the conversation by asking too many questions or speaking for too long.

9. Be prepared for follow-up questions: Panelists may ask for clarification or follow-up information after answering your question, so be prepared to speak at length about your inquiry if necessary.

10. Thank the speakers afterwards: Once the Q&A session is over, take a moment to thank the panelists for their time and insights. This shows appreciation for their contributions and can help establish a positive rapport.

19 . Will recordings or materials from these presentations be available for later viewing or sharing with colleagues?


It depends on the specific event or presentation. Some events may provide recordings or materials for later viewing, while others may not. It is best to check with the organizers of the event for more information.

20 . Are there any additional events or workshops related to these panels taking place during the conference?


Yes, there are additional events and workshops related to these panels taking place during the conference. Some examples include:

1. Networking sessions: These are opportunities for attendees to connect with panelists and other industry professionals in a more informal setting.

2. Interactive workshops: These hands-on sessions allow participants to learn new skills or strategies related to the topics discussed in the panels.

3. Keynote speeches: The conference may feature prominent speakers who will deliver inspiring talks related to the themes of the panels.

4. Panel discussions: In addition to the main panels, there may be smaller panel discussions focused on specific subtopics within each theme.

5. Career and professional development sessions: These workshops and seminars aim to provide attendees with practical tips and tools for advancing their career in their respective fields.

6. Poster presentations: Some conferences include poster presentations, where researchers and students can present their work related to the conference’s themes and topics.

7. Roundtable discussions: These facilitated group discussions encourage open dialogue and idea-sharing among attendees.

8. Cultural events: Conferences often incorporate cultural events, such as performances or exhibitions, that showcase local traditions and customs of the host country or region.

9. Virtual networking opportunities: With many conferences moving online due to COVID-19, organizers may plan virtual networking sessions or online social events for participants to connect with one another.

It is important to check the conference program or schedule for a complete list of events happening during the conference and register in advance if necessary.

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