Hudson County Community College recently hosted their 12th annual “Girls in Technology Symposium” to celebrate women who are thriving in STEM.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Our annual event is all about sparking excitement in young women for STEM!” began HCCC Assistant Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development Chastity Farrell.
“With hands-on activities and inspiring talks, we want to help them explore career paths in science, technology, engineering, and math, showing them the amazing opportunities available and supporting their journeys to find their passion.”
The event featured a panel moderated by Alka Kustagi, Principal of a-Squared LLC, an architectural design firm.
Panelists included Denise Dagadu, a Partner Manager at Google; Ceallaigh Lorenz, Founder of Salvation Wellness; Allison Wesley-Jones, a Senior Services Engagement Manager at life sciences software firm Veeva Systems; Hilary Padget, a Registered Architect, CPHD and Partner at pHdesign; and Jade Sessions, a Software Engineer at the Farmer’s Dog.
These industry experts shared insights on career growth, challenges, and opportunities for women in STEM fields, answering questions from students and offering insight to aspiring tech professionals.
One attendee was Xena Khan, a Computer Science and Cybersecurity major at HCCC, is the president of HCCC’s Girls Who Code Club.
“I was motivated to get into cybersecurity by the massive data breaches over the last few years – I realized that the industry needs skilled people to work on these complex challenges, and I want to be part of the solution,” she stated.
Other activities included keynote speeches, networking opportunities, and hands-on workshops designed to equip attendees with experience and skills for the future.
Additionally, there was a student display contest, which Laura Salamanca Rojas and Helen Ortega of North Bergen High School won for their display on instant cameras, and a student essay contest, won by Gisella Guerra of Union City’s Jose Marti STEM Academy – who also delivered opening remarks.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response and participation in this event. Seeing so many passionate individuals come together to support women in technology is inspiring,” added HCCC President Dr. Christopher Reber.
