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Women In STEM Leadership

Your Story Matters: Share How DEI Policy Changes Have Impacted Your STEM Journey

Leave a Comment / Voices Of Women In STEM /

The landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is shifting, and many women in STEM are feeling the impact. At Women in STEM Leadership, we believe that every story has the power to inspire change, raise awareness, and build a stronger, more supportive community. Recent reports have shown that female scientists’ information is being deleted from U.S. government websites, raising concerns about visibility and representation. These changes make it more critical than ever for women in STEM to share their experiences and ensure their voices are heard. That’s why we’ve launched a new blog inviting women in STEM to share their experiences. Have you been affected by changes in DEI policies? Have these shifts created new challenges or opportunities in your career? Your voice matters, and we want to amplify it! By sharing your story, you’ll help shed light on the real-world effects of these policy changes and contribute to a collective movement advocating for a more inclusive future. 💡 How to Participate: Together, we can make a difference. We look forward to hearing from you! Thank you for being part of our community! Would you like to donate to our STEM Forward Initiative? Join Us in Elevating Women in Leadership STEM FORWARD Women in STEM Leadership (WISL), a 501(c)(3) organization, is committed to ensuring that women continue to have pathways to leadership roles in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). We invite founders, corporate leaders, and donors to join us in a bold initiative: STEM Forward, a strategic campaign to equip, empower, and elevate women in STEM leadership despite these evolving challenges. The Challenge With the reduction or restructuring of DEI initiatives, women face greater barriers to securing leadership roles in STEM. Research consistently shows that diverse leadership teams drive innovation, profitability, and growth, yet progress is at risk. Our Solution: The STEM Forward Initiative To ensure that women continue to break barriers and lead in STEM fields, we are launching: Why Your Support Matters By supporting STEM Forward, you are: ✅ Championing Future Innovators – Ensuring talented women are not left behind in STEM leadership. ✅ Driving Economic Growth – Women-led teams create stronger, more competitive businesses. ✅ Making a Tangible Impact – Your donation directly funds programs that elevate women’s careers and opportunities. Ways to Give Join Us in Moving STEM Forward Be part of the solution. Make a tax deductible donation! Your investment today shapes the future of STEM leadership.

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The WISL GAZETTE NEWSLETTER – 2024 is here!

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The WISL GAZETTE A NEWSLETTER FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT WISLVOLUME 2 2024 is here! WRITTEN by Dr Susan McGintyFounder, Aya Leadershipsusan@ayaleadership.com I really enjoyed the down time over Christmas/New Year and I hope you did too. I always like to use January to ease into the year, give myself a little extra permission to take space for myself and my family, and let my brain switch into gear in its own time. But that doesn’t mean I am not ready to support you and year team reach your goals in 2024, because I am! Like many of you, I took some time to reflect on the year just gone. 2023 was an incredible and fast-paced year for me.  I was recognized as Leader of the Year by Women in STEM LeadershipI co-authored an international #1best seller book     I spoke at Australian and international conferences and eventsI worked with more than 250 incredible leaders in STEM and Security from across Australia, Asia, the United States, Europe and South AmericaI facilitated more than 40 workshops across numerous continentsI was a finalist in the Women in Security Awards, Women’s Agenda Leader in Tech Award and Business in Heels Gender Equity Awards  I won a Deakin University Dean’s Award for my Master’s Thesis (alongside 3 of my incredible friends)    I joined the Advisory Board of Women in STEM Leadership Here’s a snapshot of how I can support you in 2024, in addition of course to my 5-minute coaching and leadership tips. If there is additional support you need, please get in touch and let’s chat about how I can help. I also love hearing from you! I can’t wait to see how I can help you and/or your teams create your own leadership impact this year. If you are looking for: * Leadership growth for your organization* Career expansion for your female leaders* Enduring approaches to expand diversity in your organization* Retention strategies for your technical experts with a high ROI Kickstart the year with one of our tailored leadership development programs for women in STEM and Security, commencing in February: Women in STEM IMPACT Leadership Program, Leadership Accelerator Program, Emerging Leaders Program I am thrilled to be opening my 1-on-1 Executive Leadership Coaching for 2024 and am excited to partner with female leaders to support them in achieving their goals. If you are established female leader in STEM or Security and would like to work with me 1-on-1 during 2024 to focus and up-level your leadership development and achieve some significant career goals, I am opening SIX positions for 6-month and 12-month 1-on-1 coaching packages. To explore how I can support you, please email me directly or get in touch. My most popular leadership workshop for STEM and Security organizations in 2023 was Strengthening Communication and Resilience. This workshop provides male and female technical leaders the knowledge and practical strategies to:Develop effective communication and emotional intelligence skills to: effectively negotiate, give and receive feedback, manage difficult conversations and conflict to positive outcomes, and build a positive communication culture. Build Team Resilience, including understanding and managing stress, overwhelm and adversity through individual and team resilience strategies. If your team or organization would benefit from this 1-day workshop, please get in touch. I have workshop availability during February, March and April. Until next time,Susan.

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Warm Welcome to Our Newest Executive Member

Leave a Comment / STEM /

Sandra Park, Systems Engineer Chief at SAIC Sandra Park is a highly accomplished Engineer with over two decades of expertise in the aerospace/defense industry, specializing in Systems Engineering, hardware, software, and testing. Throughout her dynamic career, she has held various leadership roles, showcasing her proficiency as both a Technical Lead and a Chief Engineer. In addition to her impactful engineering career, Sandra extends her influence as a financial advisor, specifically catering to women in STEM fields, helping them achieve early retirement. Her passion for empowering others is evident in her efforts to support and guide women through the financial complexities of their careers. Beyond her professional pursuits, Sandra is a devoted mother to a future engineer, instilling the values of innovation and dedication in the next generation. Outside of her busy career, she finds joy in various interests, including cooking, exploring different cuisines, traveling, staying informed through podcasts, and embracing the outdoors through hiking. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-park-fs/Join WISL Today! Select Your Membership Level.

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🌿 Embracing Mindful Living: Cultivating Peace in Every Moment 🌟

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In a world that often moves at a dizzying pace, there’s incredible power in slowing down and embracing the beauty of each moment. Mindful living isn’t just a practice; it’s a way of life that gifts us the present. 🌱 **The Gift of Presence:** At the heart of mindful living lies the simple yet profound act of being present. It’s about savoring the sights, sounds, and sensations of the here and now, free from the grip of past regrets or future worries. 🧘 **Nurturing the Mind-Body Connection:** Mindful living invites us to reconnect with ourselves. It’s about tuning into our bodies, listening to their whispers, and honoring their needs with kindness and compassion. ✨ **Cultivating Gratitude:** Each day offers a myriad of blessings, big and small. Mindful living encourages us to acknowledge these gifts, fostering a deep sense of gratitude for the simple joys that enrich our lives. 🌅 **Finding Serenity in Nature:** Nature’s embrace serves as a powerful reminder to slow down and appreciate the world around us. From the gentle rustle of leaves to the vibrant hues of a sunset, there’s magic in every natural moment. 🌬️ **Breathing Space for the Soul:** Amidst the chaos, the breath remains an anchor to the present. Taking a pause, inhaling tranquility, and exhaling stress — it’s a simple yet profound act that centers us. Let’s embark on this journey of mindful living together. Let’s relish each sunrise, find solace in the rain, and savor the sweetness of life’s fleeting moments. In doing so, we discover an oasis of peace within ourselves, a sanctuary where serenity thrives. How do you embrace mindful living in your daily routine? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to live mindfully and cherish the beauty of each passing moment. 🌸🌿✨ Check out these great books on Mindful Living from Amazon 👈 Mindful Living Hardcover – August 21, 2023 Mindful Living, Mindful Goals: A Self-Coaching Workbook and Planner for Success and Happiness for The Tik Tok Generation Hardcover – March 20, 2023 Wisdom for Mindful Living Hardcover – January 20, 2023 The Art of Mindful Living: A Guide to Cultivating Inner Peace and Happiness 2024 Mastermind Journal: A Comprehensive Planner for Goal Setting, Mindful Living, and Personal Growth

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WISL International Conference to Bring Together Women in STEM Leadership on August 11-12 Dallas, TX

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WISL (Women in STEM Leadership) is delighted to announce the highly anticipated dates for their upcoming WISL International Conference. The conference is scheduled for August 11th and 12th, 2023, at the prestigious Omni Las Colinas Hotel in Irving, Texas. This two-day event aims to bring together women in STEM leadership from around the world to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire one another. The Women in STEM Leadership International Conference is outlined to fulfill the needs of every woman in the field. The conference attendees will have the opportunity to develop their personal and professional identities, establish valuable support networks to help them, identify ways to achieve their goals, and engage in meaningful connections and exchanges of ideas, all while enjoying a positive and empowering atmosphere. Founder and Executive Director of WISL, Ogechi Ugwulebo, expressed her excitement about the inaugural conference, stating, “The Women in STEM Leadership conference is part of our commitment to dismantle  any barriers and provide women in STEM with valuable professional development opportunities to advance in their careers.” Women in STEM Leadership (WISL) is the leading organization dedicated to empowering women by offering them the support, resources, and tools necessary to excel in their careers and become catalysts for change within the STEM industry. The organization’s primary goal is to create multiple opportunities for professional women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to advance into leadership roles within the traditionally male-dominated STEM ecosystem. WISL welcomes all women interested in STEM to join their organizations and participate in their initiatives. By joining WISL, women gain access to a supportive community, valuable networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and various resources tailored to their professional growth in STEM. To learn and know more about the Women in STEM Leadership organization and to become a member, interested individuals can visit the official website at womeninstemleadership.org. The website provides comprehensive information about the organization’s mission, programs, and events, allowing women to take a proactive step toward achieving their STEM career goals. The WISL International Conference promises to be an event of great significance for women in STEM leadership. As the conference approaches, anticipation builds among professionals in the field who are eager to participate in this unique opportunity for growth, empowerment, and collaboration. With its commitment to fostering inclusivity and providing a platform for women to thrive in STEM, WISL continues to drive positive change within the industry and inspire future generations of women leaders in STEM. For more information contact:  Ogechi Ugwulebo ogechi@anwep-usa.org (775) 200-4513 Kate McDougall-Mason kjmmason@hotmail.com (530) 392-0802

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Women in STEM Leadership Welcomes Its Newest Executive Member

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Women in STEM Leadership Is Happy to Welcome Our Newest Executive Member, Cecilia Saez Women In STEM Leadership (WISL) welcomes its newest Executive Member, Cecilia Saez! We’re happy to have Cecilia as part of the WISL family, sharing her experience with those aspiring to be leaders in the STEM industry, and serving as an essential part of professional network. About Cecilia Saez In her 20-year career span, Cecilia successfully scaled high-growth tech startups, completed M&A arrangements, shaped  cultures and led domestic and international business expansion initiatives by guiding executives, overcoming obstacles,  retaining top talent and harmonizing work practices. She has a track record for driving long-term value by linking HR  metrics to business performance and excels at articulating a common vision and influencing organizational progress. Her career and life mission are focused on equalizing diversity in the workplace and operating sustainably to protect  businesses, people and the planet. Cecilia was named one of the Top 100 Women in Finance in 2021.   What Is She Doing Now? Most recently, Cecilia served as Chief People Officer at Aspiration, the first socially conscious, sustainable financial firm. Aspiration is a member of 1% for the Planet, B-Corp and ESG certified, built to help everyone spend, save, and invest by bringing quality, ethical, and sustainable financial products to all. As the Chief People Officer, Cecilia leads the design and  execution of Aspiration’s human capital strategies. Along with her stellar team of HR professionals, she drives the  company’s culture, DEI, HR operations & systems, organizational design, talent acquisition, total compensation,  performance and succession.   Past Experience And Education Prior to joining Aspiration, Cecilia Saez was Chief Human Resources Officer at Integra Beauty, Chief People Office at Albert Financials, Vice President of Human Resources at TrueCar, Division Vice President of Organizational Effectiveness at Nature  Made, Global Director of Leadership and Organizational Development at Patagonia, Director of Learning and Organizational  Development at Smile Brands, and Senior Organizational Development Consultant at WaMu/JP Morgan Chase.  Among several certifications, including 360 Executive Coaching, Situational Leadership, MBTI, and SPHR, Cecilia Saez received a Master of Science in Organizational Behavior and Industrial Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

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Women Have A Bright Future In Cybersecurity

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Cybersecurity Opportunities For Women Are you considering a career shift to the tech industry, specifically cybersecurity? Are you a seasoned tech professional looking to advance your cybersecurity certifications? Regardless of your personal situation, there are many reasons why women need to consider cybersecurity careers.   Currently, women are advancing to leadership positions more quickly than their male counterparts and their advanced education and training is to credit. If that’s not incentive enough, women are actually in demand in the cybersecurity industry. Corporations as well as governmental agencies have recognized the lack of diversity in the cyber security talent pool as well as in their own cyber security departments. Not only is it beneficial from a public image standpoint to employ a diverse workforce, but more importantly, a diverse workforce drives innovation.1   What are popular cybersecurity certifications?  The estimated total pay for a Cyber Security is $94,342 per year in the United States area, with an average salary of $78,932 per year.2 As with most positions, a master’s degree and certifications will significantly increase your base salary. With this being said, now is the time to explore cybersecurity certifications, and we’ll break down a few popular entry level and advanced certifications.  Some Popular Entry Level Cybersecurity Certifications  1. CompTIA Security+ Security+ is a respected, entry-level certification that will get you on the path to a future incybersecurity. By showing potential employers that you have the core skills required for a  cybersecurity role, you may find more job opportunities as a more competitive candidate.  2. Certified Security Specialist (ECSS)  This is the perfect starter course to give you a grounding in cybersecurity concepts and terminology. It is a good starting point for those wanting to enter the profession. It is also useful for people who may work in a small organization to provide enough information to put simple security best practices in place.  Advanced Cybersecurity Certifications  1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)  Earning your CISSP demonstrates that you’re experienced in IT security and capable of designing, implementing, and monitoring a cybersecurity program. 3 Adding CISSP will most  definitely set you apart from those just starting out and should offer a significant increase in pay. There are requirements for this certification as it geared towards professionals with five or more years’ experience.  2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)  According to Coursera, obtaining CISM certification you can validate your expertise in the  management side of information security, including topics like governance, program  development, and program, incident, and risk management.4 As with CISSP certification,  CISM requires five years of experience and typically are suited for those pursuing or who  have obtained a master’s degree.  Mentorship Programs Offer Support And Guidance For Those Seeking Cybersecurity Certifications  So, you’ve decided to either begin your journey and obtain basic cybersecurity certification or you’re ready to advance your career with advanced certifications. No matter where you are in your tech journey, there are many paths to choose from and navigating those roads can be tough, let alone actually completing the journey.  At Women In STEM Leadership (WISL) we understand the challenges women face and that is why we started our mentorship program. WISL members are guaranteed the best professional guidance from our industry professionals. In fact, WISL Founder/Executive Director, Ogechi Ugwulebo, MS, CISM, is a cybersecurity professional and has served as a mentor to many women at different levels in their STEM careers.  If you’re ready to take the next step, become a WISL member today and unlock your key to leadership success.  written by Stacey Scarabello, Digital Marketing Specialist  ___________________________________________________________________ 1 6 Reasons Why Women Should Consider a Career in Cyber Security 2 How much does a Cyber Security make? 3 10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications [2022 Updated]4 10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications [2022 Updated] 

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WISL Celebrates Women’s History Month

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Women In STEM Leadership Recognizes Women’s History Month With A Power Group of Women Leaders March is Women’s History Month. Women In STEM Leadership (WISL) celebrates all women particularly those in the male dominated field of STEM. Each of our board members brings with her a diverse set of skills and experiences that contribute to the power of Women In STEM Leadership. To join us in our mission to increase the representation of women in STEM leadership, visit our website to learn more about our group and become a member today! 

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WHY CULTURAL CHANGE IS NECESSARY TO BRIDGE THE GENDER GAP IN STEM

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BLOG WHY CULTURAL CHANGE IS NECESSARY TO BRIDGE THE GENDER GAP IN STEM Merriam Webster defines cultural change as the ‘modification of society through innovation, invention, discovery, or contact with other societies.’ No society can develop without cultural change because change is constant and creates an enabling environment for growth and development. Gender inequality has most of its roots in the culture of a people and that in turn retards the growth of a society. Culture contributes to gender stereotyping and expectations, for example, associating math with boys. Unless there is a revolutionary change that will cause different ways of viewing the world, we will keep having societies that thrive on poor cultural perceptions of women. WHAT CAUSES CULTURAL CHANGE A society or people cannot change until they change their old ways of doing things by either learning from their mistakes, being innovative or by contact with other people. Here are some causes of cultural change. Environmental factors. Technological inventions. Acculturation. Actions of individuals. Direct borrowing from other cultures. WHAT LIMITS CULTURAL CHANGE Just as there are many causes of cultural change, there are also lots of things that lead to resistance of such changes. These factors can be either internal or external and they include: Religion: This is a key reason that many use to resist cultural change. For instance, if a person’s religious beliefs center on how a woman should behave and that behavior does not include going out of the house, getting an education, having a say in certain matters or puts a structure where women cannot go into some fields like STEM, it will be difficult to change this view as it has deep roots in a person’s belief of how God wants the world to be and resistance becomes natural as such a person will want to protect the word or wishes of God. Culture: Culture itself can be a strong ground for resistance as many people’s lives revolve around the acceptable norms of their communities and naturally they wouldn’t want to let go of the only life they have always known. Personal beliefs or selfish reasons: Some people do not want change because they can no longer hold onto their privilege. For instance, it’s common to see women push the desire for equality while men afraid of losing their privilege actively resist that change or discredit the movements to achieve it. If lesser women in STEM guarantee more spaces for men, there is a higher chance of men resisting the active movement to create more spaces for women in the field. Lack of Awareness: Sometimes, people resist change because they do not understand how such a change can transform their lives for the better. For instance, people may not understand that their society will become better if they encourage the education of women and actively work towards creating spaces for women so that they can help develop a society. This lack of awareness can lead to stagnation in the development of the society. HOW CULTURAL CHANGE CAN BE ACHIEVED Open mindedness: People have to be willing to accept change for it to occur. No society can change if its people choose to remain close minded. Encouraging women education and participation in diverse fields: No society can develop without the development of women who make about fifty percent of the population. In order to move forward, no one should be left behind. Borrowing from other cultures: No culture has it all and it’s necessary for our survival as humans to learn from each other.   Innovation: For a place to develop, they have to be willing to try new things and come up with new ideas that will push them forward. In WISL, we place great emphasis on stimulating social change, promoting gender equality, creating safe spaces and encouraging women to go into more male dominated fields like STEM for the sustained growth and stability of the economy.

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