Why female role models are important: Mass High Tech Women to Watch Breakfast 2011
Posted on Fri, Apr 29, 2011 @ 09:00 AM
by Alexa Kaubris, Life Sciences Account Manager
Women in the science and technology world are often thought of as being overshadowed by the thousands of men that contribute to tech and innovation. The Mass High Tech’s Women to Watch Breakfast 2011, however, told a different story. A story of 22 women who, while still outnumbered, found ways to make their mark on the industry. These representatives proved a point that while statistically men still hold the upper hand, women are making significant strides and increasingly large contributions to the field.
I had personally never been to an event like this, and almost bailed at the last minute due to a meeting that ran over and morning traffic (not to mention the ordeal of parking in the huge garage adjacent to the Seaport World Trade Center). I had originally signed up for this breakfast to try my hand at some networking, but arrived so late I didn’t have any time for chit chat. While the basic introductions were droning on, I found one of the last seats in the ballroom cursing my inability to drive anywhere without getting lost for at least 20 minutes. I figured I had wasted my time in showing up, but at least I could eat a little food before heading out to client meetings. Little did I know that in less than an hour I would almost be in tears.
Each woman had approximately 2 minutes to speak. Some chose to speak about their mentors, others ran the long list of important ‘Thank Yous’, and many gave advice for a younger generation. The majority of the women, being mothers first and business women second, gave powerful advice that really resonated with me. I left this breakfast feeling like I could conquer the world thanks to this amazing group of women. They had energy, power, respect and it was awesome. I can see myself attending this event for years to come- and next time I won’t be late.