From figuring out how to talk about your work to navigating your next career move, building visibility, making meaningful connections, and understanding what you want to be known for — we’re tackling the questions that don’t always come with easy answers. Expect honest conversations, hands-on sessions, lively debates, and plenty of opportunities to meet people who are figuring it out too.

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8:00–9:00 AM | Breakfast & Registration
Start the day with coffee, breakfast, and conversation. Check in, meet fellow STEMPeers, and settle in for the day.

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9:00–9:15 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks
Get to know STEMPeers—where we started, the story behind our community, and how we got here. We’ll also look ahead at where we’re going and why this year’s conversation matters.

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9:15–10:30 AM | Standing Out in STEM in the Age of AI: Storytelling, Relevance & Individuality
Fireside Chat: Before you can tell your story to anyone else, you have to believe it’s worth telling. Start the day with a conversation about finding the human thread in your work—and what makes your story worth hearing.
Breakouts by career stage (academic / early / mid) + domain interest (science communication / consulting / academia / industry transition)

Interactive Workshop: Ever been asked, “So, what do you do?” and wished you had a better answer? Bring your rough draft. Leave with a clearer, sharper way to talk about yourself and your work.

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10:30–10:45 AM | Coffee Break & Networking

 

10:45 AM–12:05 PM | Standing Out in STEM in the Age of AI: Storytelling, Relevance & Individuality

Parallel Sessions | Personal Positioning
Learn how to articulate who you are becoming professionally in a crowded field, and craft compelling stories about your work and interests that resonate with your audience.

Parallel Session 1:  Early Career Professionals
Parallel Session 2: Mid Career Professionals

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12:05–1:00 PM: Lunch & Networking

 

1:00–1:45 PM: Navigating the First 2–3 Years Post-Transition: What Actually Matters?
Career Debate: Skills? Hustle? Being liked? Visibility? Leadership? Hear different perspectives on what really moves your career forward.

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1:45–2:00 PM | Coffee Break & Networking

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2:00–3:15 PM | Not Just Networking: Building What You’re Known For
Interactive Panel: Not everyone walks into a room the same way. Whether networking excites you or feels intimidating, learn how to build authentic relationships and be remembered without pretending to be someone you’re not. Breakout sessions: by career stage and domain will explore what effective networking looks like in your field; what works, and what truly feels right for you.

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3:15–3:30 PM | Coffee Break & Networking

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3:30–4:15 PM | Keynote - Standing Out in the Age of AI: Building Your Personal Brand Through Meaningful Relationships
AI may change how we work, but relationships still shape how opportunities find us. Explore how to build connections that last, and a reputation that reflects who you actually are.

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4:15–4:30 PM | Gurukool: Building Careers Through Community
Special Talk - A look at STEMPeers' professional development initiative, featuring our career coach and the people helping make career growth more accessible and connected.

4:30–4:45 PM | Closing Remarks

4:45-6:00 | Networking