The Emerald Coast Science Center is marking a decade of its Women in Science Conference with this year’s event set for Sept. 22 at Beachside Church in Fort Walton Beach.
The 10th annual conference, held in partnership with Modern Technology Solutions, Inc., will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and feature presentations from six local women working across science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. The event is designed to encourage young women to explore STEM education and career pathways by connecting them with role models who have built careers across a range of industries.
This year’s speakers include:
- Lauren Bednaroski, an art student at the University of West Florida
- Brittany Brock, a product owner at Beast Code
- Louise Coulter, vice president of business operations and deputy general manager of the E-OMS Contract at Reliance Test & Technology
- Gina Duke, a senior arborist at Florida Power & Light
- Jennifer Harris, an executive leader in the Program Management Office at BAE Systems
- Megan McGoldrick, a board certified behavior analyst and regional director at Beyond Expectations.
The speakers will share personal experiences centered on innovation, curiosity, confidence, resilience and the paths that led them to careers in STEM. The event will also include an open panel discussion with a question-and-answer session and opportunities to network with professionals in the field. Light refreshments will be served.
The conference welcomes all attendees, with a special focus on elementary, middle school, high school and college students interested in STEM careers. Student admission is free with advance registration, while adult tickets are $10. Registration is available here.
Research shows that many girls begin losing interest in STEM by age 15. The conference aims to help students see themselves in STEM careers while building confidence and broadening their understanding of the opportunities available to them.
