Together, we unpack the real challenges facing today’s students and young professionals: balancing demanding academic pressures, building confidence, developing communication and emotional intelligence, and cultivating networks that truly matter.

John offers practical, actionable strategies to thrive in school while preparing for the complex dynamics of the modern workplace. Listeners will gain rare insight into the discipline behind authoring more than 150 technical publications, the impact of mentorship on career trajectory, and the mindset required to make meaningful, long-term contributions to the engineering profession. This candid and inspiring conversation is essential listening for anyone seeking not just a job in STEM—but a purpose-filled, resilient, and influential career.

JDM Associates, LLCAbstract

What happens when a software engineer follows her curiosity … and ends up redefining what cybersecurity research can look like?

She started in software, pivoted to research, and landed on the IEEE Top 30 list. This month on WIE RISE TOGETHER, we are "Tech Unplugged" with Anastasija Collen, a Senior Cybersecurity Researcher and Associate Professor pushing the boundaries of digital defense. From spotting the next big security trends to mastering the art of the career pivot, Anastasija shares the roadmap to success in cybersecurity. Plus, we get real about the power of mentorship and why rest is a non-negotiable part of the job. Tune in now to hear how she’s charting pathways to STEM and securing our connected world!

Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) replacing jobs? How can you grow from a Data Analyst to a Director in the tech industry? In this episode of Tech Unplugged: Spotlighting Women in AI, host Kelly Onu, Cybersecurity Consultant, sits down with Nimisha Morkonda Gnanasekaran, Director of Data Science at Western Digital and Advisory Board Member for ML/AI. Nimisha shares her journey from analyst to leadership, insights on Machine Learning (ML), Generative AI, and strategies for thriving in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. We discuss:

AI and job security – myth or reality? Career growth tips for women in technology The role of mentorship and community in breaking barriers How to bridge business and technology effectively

If you’re passionate about AI, Data Science, and Women in Tech, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

Own Your Worth: A Guide to Confident Career Moves

In the competitive world of STEM, success isn't just about your skills, it's about how you present yourself. This episode features an HR expert who offers a transformative approach to job searching, helping you break through the barriers and own your career. Get ready to turn a simple job hunt into a powerful strategy for building the future you deserve.

In this inspiring episode of the IEEE WIE Rise Together podcast, executive coach and former engineer Jahnavi Brenner shares how the PIE framework can transform the careers of technical professionals.

In this framework, our guest explains how we can use our presence, combined with our image and exposure, to build an authentic personal brand. Jahnavi offers practical strategies for engineers at every stage.

Tune in to learn how to become visible, valued, and impactful in your work.