9-15-2025 6:25pm

Women in Tech returns on Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Ypsilanti PressLLC Editor

One of the most popular events in the a2Tech360 lineup is back. Women in Tech returns on Wednesday, October 1, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and allies for an afternoon of thought-provoking discussions and an evening of community connection.

Women in Tech has become a regional staple, consistently selling out and sparking conversations that extend well beyond the stage. This year’s program blends personal stories of resilience, strategies for equity in the workplace, and opportunities to build meaningful networks across industries.

For many women, breaking into and advancing in the tech industry has required persistence, creativity, and community. From early challenges of being the only woman in the room to launching new networks of support, women across Southeast Michigan have continually built spaces that elevate one another. Women in Tech reflects that progress, offering a platform where individual journeys fuel collective change.

“SPARK’s research shows that companies thrive when they tap the full spectrum of talent—and that requires intentional pathways for women at every stage of their careers,” said Melissa Sheldon, director of research at Ann Arbor SPARK. “Women in Tech is more than a single event; it’s part of a broader regional effort to strengthen the talent pipeline, reduce barriers to advancement, and turn lived experience into better products, stronger teams, and measurable growth for our economy.”

The program will be guided by emcee Senator Sue Shink, a longtime public servant and former Ann Arbor SPARK board member who has championed regional growth and opportunity. It will also feature a keynote from Connie Chang of ONL Therapeutics, recently recognized as SPARK’s 2025 Entrepreneurial Services Company of the Year.Chang will share reflections on the intersection of leadership, innovation, and purpose, drawing from her experience advancing breakthrough therapies and building a mission-driven company.

The first panel, From Burnout to Breakthrough, will be moderated by Kathleen Craig, founder and CEO of Plinqit. Panelists Lindsay Joseph (BedConnect, a Boot Camp 2025 winner), Andrea Taylor (Livsee), and Linda Girard (Pure Visibility) will share how hitting limits inspired them to reimagine solutions, launch ventures, and create positive change.

The second panel, Elevating Women, will be moderated by Elaine Ezekiel, Director of Marketing at Atomic Object. Panelists include Alisyn Jackson (The Manufacturing Institute), Dr. Shelley Wooley (SME Education Foundation), and Faye Zaski (Toyota). The conversation will highlight strategies to build pathways for women in technology and manufacturing, foster equity, and drive lasting impact.

The event concludes with a networking reception featuring food, drinks, and opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and allies across the tech community.

Event Details
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 2:30–8 p.m.
Location: Washtenaw Community College, Morris Lawrence Building
Tickets: $50 | Seating is limited

Women in Tech is part of a2Tech360, a 10-day series of events showcasing the Ann Arbor region’s spirit of innovation, September 24–October 3, 2025. Produced by Ann Arbor SPARK, the series includes pitch competitions, tech demos, networking receptions, and conversations that highlight the strength of our region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Women in Tech is presented with support from the Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), MI-HQ, Destination Ann Arbor, and Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union.Learn more about a2Tech360 and register today at a2Tech360.com.