An Unforgettable Journey at the Society of Women Engineers Conference 2024
Empowering Women, One Session at a Time
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Conference 2024 was an event of historic proportions held in Chicago, Illinois, from October 23-25. With an astounding 22,000 women in attendance, this year’s conference broke records and set new benchmarks for career development and networking opportunities. The conference offered over 130 learning sessions and hosted 470 companies at the career fair, making it a monumental gathering of professionals eager to advance their careers and support and mentor one another.
Among the attendees was Anna Trauth, an Associate Regulatory Affairs Specialist at AFB corporate headquarters in St. Charles, Missouri, USA. She tells her story in our newest blog:
“As a first-time participant, I was initially unsure of what to expect, but I quickly found a wealth of valuable information and a sense of camaraderie that permeated the event. I attended nine learning sessions, worked at the Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI) booth for two hours, mentored newly graduated students, and networked with fellow EBI colleagues. The experience was a whirlwind of educational opportunities and meaningful connections that will leave a lasting impact on my professional journey.”
“One of the most memorable sessions I attended was titled “Moving from Contributor to Leader Mindset.” The session delved into business behaviors in the office and how to become a more confident and supportive team member. The speaker emphasized the importance of listening to colleagues’ ideas and collaborating effectively and positively. This session resonated deeply, as it aligned perfectly with my current career development stage. It provided me with valuable insights on how to foster a positive work environment and enhance my leadership skills.”
The SWE Conference was a transformative experience meant to empower women to realize their full potential. The knowledge and confidence gained from attending this conference are invaluable. Anna’s story is a testament to the positive changes influenced by SWE, and she hopes that more women will have the opportunity to benefit from such enriching experiences. The conference highlighted the importance of continuous learning, networking, and supporting one another in the quest for career growth and personal development. As Anna eloquently put it, “the SWE Conference is a unique and inspiring opportunity that every woman should seize to enhance their professional journey.”