Breaking Barriers: Leadership & Gender in Tech

The Gender Factor: Leadership Double Standards in Tech brought together an inspiring panel of industry leaders for an honest and impactful conversation on navigating leadership as a woman in engineering. Facilitated by MEML student Samantha Fuentes at McMurtry Auditorium in Duncan Hall, the event created space for meaningful dialogue around the unique challenges, expectations, and double standards women continue to face in technical leadership roles.

Panelists Jasmine Gipson, Vicky Jackson Nielsen, Charisse Rodriguez, and Molly Smith shared personal stories from their careers, highlighting obstacles they’ve overcome, lessons learned along the way, and the evolving landscape of leadership in tech. From navigating bias to building confidence and credibility, their insights offered valuable perspective for both aspiring and established professionals.

More than just a discussion, the event encouraged reflection and action, providing practical advice for breaking down gender barriers and fostering more inclusive, equitable workplaces.