WE25: A Celebration of Community and Connection

With the close of another SWE annual conference this past October comes an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride for the remarkable experience we all shared at WE25 in New Orleans. This year’s theme, “Embrace Your Story,” came alive in every conversation, session, and celebration. Everyone in attendance experienced firsthand the power of community, the strength of connection, and the resilience of women engineers and allies who shape the future of technology and innovation.

From the moment attendees arrived, the energy was electric. Over three days, nearly 14,000 engineers, technologists, and allies came together to learn, network, and celebrate the many ways in which women are transforming engineering across industries and around the world.

At WE25, we experienced what makes the SWE community so special: the sense of belonging that transcends geography, experience level, and discipline. Students met mentors who inspired their next steps, professionals reconnected with longtime friends and made new ones, and leaders across sectors shared their wisdom about navigating change, embracing innovation, and leading with authenticity.

Our signature career fair once again stood out as one of the most impressive in the country, offering opportunities that spanned every career stage. Hundreds of partner organizations actively recruited and demonstrated their commitment to building diverse and inclusive teams. The enthusiasm in the hall was contagious! Lots of hugs and high fives could be seen throughout the two-day event, with many employers extending offers on-site. 

Our conference sessions also embodied SWE’s mission to empower women at all stages of their professional journey. With hundreds of technical talks, leadership workshops, and inclusion-focused panels, the schedule was as diverse and inclusive as our global community. Experts from around the world led discussions on artificial intelligence, sustainability, biomedical innovation, and so much more, illustrating the depth and breadth of engineering expertise that women bring to every field.

One of the most moving events of WE25 was our annual APEX Awards celebration, where we recognized the extraordinary achievements of women and allies in engineering and technology. Their stories remind us why SWE exists: to ensure that every woman engineer has the opportunity, support, and community she needs to thrive. These honorees represent not only excellence in their disciplines, but also the mentorship and advocacy that help sustain our community.

Reflecting on WE25, one theme resonates above all: The power of connection. The connections we make at SWE events don’t end with the conference; they continue to grow into lifelong friendships, professional collaborations, and networks of support that help us meet the challenges ahead and celebrate our successes together. This sense of shared purpose is what strengthens our organization and propels our mission forward no matter the obstacles we encounter.

To everyone who made WE25 possible — our leaders, volunteers, sponsors, speakers, staff, and attendees — thank you. Your ongoing dedication and enthusiasm are what make the Society of Women Engineers so vibrant and impactful. 

Looking ahead to WE26 in Boston, Nov. 5-7, I invite you to carry forward the spirit of New Orleans, one of joy, resilience, and kinship. Together, we will continue to create spaces where every woman engineer feels seen, supported, and empowered to lead. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey and for making WE25 a celebration we won’t soon forget.