Learning Event Support: WiSER Conference 2024 Inspired by Discovery – Lunch with Experts

Supporting Wisconsin's statewide scientific conference to enhance trainee networking and STEM retention

Full Project Name:Learning Event Support: WiSER Conference 2024 Inspired by Discovery – Lunch with ExpertsPrincipal Investigator:Michaela Patterson, PhD, Cell Biology, Neurobiology and AnatomyAward Amount:$5,000

Award Date

August2024

Project Duration:5 months

Project Summary:

Wisconsin lacks opportunities for trainees in STEM fields to participate in scientific conferences due to economic barriers, limiting their career advancement and retention. Supporting accessible networking and collaboration events is critical to developing a strong future healthcare workforce.

With funding support from AHW, the 2024 WiSER Conference—a statewide scientific conference—will host a "Lunch with Experts" networking event, pairing trainees with established scientists across disciplines.

This unique educational offering will bring together attendees from various Wisconsin colleges and universities and create valuable opportunities for knowledge dissemination, mentorship, and career advancement that will ultimately strengthen Wisconsin's healthcare workforce.

Outcomes & Lessons Learned:

Conference engaged audience members during the lunch session with 45 tables staffed with experts in the field answering questions from current and future health workforce candidates
Estimated 350 participants attended the event, with over 2/3 stating the experience was very positive in written evaluation