EmpowerHER: Building a Women in Tech Community (Greater Illinois Chapter)

This session is one of the three award winners of the HIMSS25 Chapter Encore "Best of the Best" (BOTB) Session Contest.

This session is designed to provide a comprehensive and interactive experience for attendees, focusing on the development and enhancement of Women in Tech programs within their organizations. The panel discussion will cover several key components to ensure a thorough understanding and practical application of the concepts presented. The session will begin with an interactive discussion on assessing organizational needs and benchmarking principles. Panelists will introduce the concept of a Women in Tech program, outline its potential benefits, and provide an overview of benchmarking principles. Next, the panelists will present the pillars of a successful Women in Tech program. Attendees will be encouraged to consider how these pillars can be adapted to fit their organization's specific needs and goals. This collaborative environment will foster creativity and innovation, helping attendees develop tailored strategies for their organizations. The discussion will also focus on identifying stakeholders and promoting allyship. Attendees will reflect on potential sponsors and key stakeholders who can champion a Women in Tech program within their organizations, with particular emphasis on the role of male allies in supporting the initiative. Panelists will share strategies for establishing subcommittees or support networks to enhance the program's impact. This discussion will underscore the importance of building a strong support system to ensure the program's success.