Professional Development for Women and Minorities

This course focuses on the practical uses of machine learning to optimize operations and enhance decision-making processes. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of various machine learning models and their applications, including supervised and unsupervised learning, neural networks, and deep learning. The course will cover the evaluation of appropriate use cases for machine learning in both government and industry settings, highlighting real-world examples and case studies. Additionally, participants will assess data and ethical considerations, such as data privacy, bias, and fairness, to ensure responsible and effective implementation of machine learning technologies.

At the end of this seminar, the participants will be able to:

- Understand machine learning models and applications.

- Evaluate appropriate use cases for government and industry.

- Assess data and ethical considerations.

Speaker(s):

William Makell

Kia Smith

Soroush Nazemi

Many of our HBCUs are conducting research in AI and quantum computing as they are the current priorities in support of the Administration’s technology priorities for the Nation and to ensure the Nation leads in these areas for both economic and national security. This seminar will showcase the cutting-edge research occurring at a number of HBCUs and partners.

Speaker(s):

Erin Lynch

Daniel Sierra-Sosa

Pawan Tyagi

Daniel Vrinceanu

Speaker(s):

Dominique Carter

Lola Fatunmbi

David Montgomery

Tiffany Bailey Lash

Laura Steckman

Melissa Edwards

This course explores how artificial intelligence, and digital tools can be leveraged to optimize workforce performance, strengthen employee engagement, and drive organizational innovation. Participants will delve into various AI technologies that enhance human capital, such as machine learning algorithms for talent management, AI-driven performance analytics, and intelligent automation tools. The course will also cover strategic workforce planning, including how to forecast future workforce needs and align AI initiatives with organizational goals. Additionally, participants will develop frameworks for integrating emerging technologies while maintaining diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

At the end of this seminar, the participants will be able to:

- Identify digital technologies that enhance human capital.

- Explore AI’s role in strategic workforce planning.

- Develop frameworks for integrating emerging technology while maintaining inclusion.

Speaker(s):

Kendall Brooks

Myron Fletcher

Korie Grayson

Renee Reynolds

The pipeline for national security STEM talent starts with engaging the next generation at the K-12 levels. This seminar will discuss current programs for K-12 students about exciting career opportunities in the field of national security, and how HBCUs can serve as advocates to inform parents, teachers, and counselors about these future jobs.

Speaker(s):

Anshu Arora

Kevin Norton

Talitha Washington

Amit Arora

Diana Simmons

Learning Objective(s): "Strategic Women Rising: Voices that Inspire Impact" is a dynamic panel featuring trailblazing women from both STEM fields and corporate leadership roles. The discussion will explore the upward trajectory of women in high-ranking positions within these traditionally male-dominated industries, offering invaluable insights into their professional journeys. Each panelist will share personal stories of breaking barriers, overcoming challenges, and shaping the future of their respective fields.

The conversation will also focus on the importance of mentorship, leadership, and advocacy in fostering more inclusive environments for women in STEM and corporate sectors. As these women highlight the pivotal moments in their careers, attendees will gain practical strategies for leveraging their voices to create lasting impact. Additionally, the panel will examine the evolving role of women in decision-making positions, exploring how their contributions are driving innovation and influencing positive change.

"Strategic Women Rising" aims to inspire current and future leaders, providing a platform for women to empower one another and champion diversity and equity in the workplace. This panel will serve as a beacon for women aspiring to rise within their fields, proving that their voices not only matter but can inspire significant impact.

Speakers:

Sheena Rubin 

Army Enterprise Marketing Office (AEMO)

CSM Faith Alexander 

Command Sergeant Major

Army Enterprise Marketing Office (AEMO)

MG Michelle Link 

Commanding General

U.S. Army

BG Antoinette Gant 

Chief, Army Enterprise Marketing Office

United States Army

MG Jason Kelly 

Deputy Commanding General

USACE

Learning Objective(s): HP People Leaders will facilitate an engaging and interactive session focused on understanding and managing microaggressions and biases in the workplace. This presentation will explore the complexities of collaborating with colleagues who may unknowingly or knowingly introduce biases and microaggressions into conversations and team dynamics. Participants will receive practical, effective strategies for identifying, addressing, and reducing these issues. The session aims to empower attendees to challenge biases effectively, reduce fear and hesitation, and foster an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and thoughtful collaboration.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1.      Manage conversations, expectations, and hold people accountability
2.      We know that it happens, but it shouldn’t.
3.      Manage those allowances to do the wrong things or be counter-productive

 

Speakers:

Nadia McKinney 

Sr. Director, Executive Talent Acquisition

HP, Inc.

 

Rebecca Swanson 

Cloud Developer & Data Engineer Manager

HP,Inc

 

Krista Madril 

R&D Senior Manager

HP Inc.

 

Margaret-Marie Miles 

Account Delivery Manager

HP Inc.

Learning Objective(s): The essence of executive presence and the importance of commanding respect and influence in leadership roles. This discussion will highlight the unique journey of black female leaders in developing and asserting their executive presence.

Speakers:

Michelle Carpenter 

Attorney and Senior Corporate Counsel

Jacobs

 

Kimberly Watkins 

Global Solutions Director

Jacobs

 

Chandace Richardson Arledge 

Vice President of Growth & Sales Operations

Jacobs

Learning Objective(s): The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a US scientific and regulatory agency charged with forecasting weather, monitoring oceanic and atmospheric conditions and space weather, charting the seas, conducting deep-sea exploration, fisheries management and protecting marine life and endangered species in the US. The agency employs over 12,000 civil employees all across the U.S. and its territories with career fields ranging from STEM fields in engineering, marine and atmospheric science, and meteorology to other careers that support NOAA’s business processes including public policy, finance, and project and portfolio management. In this session, you will hear from women in NOAA who are advancing their careers to work in leadership levels of the agency. The panel will address questions and/or decision points they’ve had in their careers when considering advancing to the next level. They will also discuss challenges they’ve faced as women in considering career goals, family obligations, experiences, and circumstances to make decisions about climbing the career ladder and will talk about opportunities within leadership development programs as a pathway to prepare for transitions into leadership roles. Participants in this session will be able to explore the “Wonderful world of NOAA”, gain more insight about leadership competencies, mentoring, network building, and the nuances of career advancement at this exciting agency. Come join us!

Speakers:

Alisa Young 

Weather and Climate Portfolio Lead

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

 

Nelsie Ramos

Meteorologist

NOAA

 

Isha Renta Lopez

Physical Scientist

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

 

Lihang Zhou

LEO Satellite Product Manager

NOAA

 

PaTrina Gregory

Budget Analyst

NOAA

 

Monique Baskin

Deputy Director, Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

NOAA