Summary:
In today’s competitive landscape, it is crucial for women engineers to be strategic when navigating transitions in their mid to late career stages. As seasoned professionals, Lisa and Wendy both know first-hand what a career change can look like after more than two decades of work and they will share the proven strategies to make these shifts successful.
A strong personal brand not only enhances visibility but also communicates one’s value, expertise, and aspirations to peers and potential employers. Simultaneously, a board of directors provides invaluable support, diverse perspectives, and guidance tailored to
individual career goals.
This session will explore practical steps for building a compelling personal brand and assembling a supportive network, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, proactive networking, and continuous learning. By embracing these strategies, women engineers can confidently make impactful career moves, foster resilience, and create pathways for growth and innovation in their professional journeys.
Lisa Rimpf
Lisa Rimpf is the Senior Proposals Manager for Babcock & Wilcox’s BrightLoop™ organization, where she leads a team focused on implementing innovative chemical looping technology. Prior to rejoining B&W in February 2024, Lisa previously held key leadership roles at Dürr, a global mechanical engineering firm, including a significant assignment in Stuttgart, Germany.
Starting her career at B&W in 2006, she excelled in roles such as Research Engineer and Integration Manager for Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions. Lisa also served as Director of Operational Excellence at Dürr, driving advancements in Clean Technology Systems.
She holds both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from The University of Toledo and is an active member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), advocating for diversity and innovation in the field.
Wendy Cocke
Wendy Cocke, a trailblazer in redefining career success, is the author of two bestselling books, “Making Flex Work: Defining Success on Your Own Terms” and “Reimagine Your Work: Managing Your Career Like It’s Your Business” and a contributor to “When Work Works: Cutting-Edge Solutions for the Contemporary Workplace.” She is the visionary behind Engineering Leadership Solutions, guiding technical professionals and organizations to think about work differently. Her journey from growing up in a family business, to obtaining a chemical engineering degree and then leading global teams showcases her belief in hard work and perseverance. Wendy’s pivotal moment came when she negotiated the flexible work arrangement that launched her from individual contributor to a director, and eventually to a business owner. She believes that with her experience and her engineering mindset, she can help people find their place at work and thrive once they get there.
