In recent years, many inspiring feats in the field of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) have been achieved in Australia, including that the first Astronaut to be trained under the Australian flag graduated from the European Space Agency Astronaut Training Program; a quantum computing professor was named Australian of the Year; and a wildlife conservation biologist was also named Young South Australian of the Year.
With this in mind, Spence Club felt it was an opportune time to highlight some of the inspiring female STEM leaders in South Australia. As such, we hosted a panel at the Australian Space Discovery Centre in May called: 'Women in STEM Leadership', featuring three speakers paving the way in their respective fields: Carmen Wentrock- Operations Manager for SA & VIC, Tonkin Consulting; Dr Caitlin Selway - Clinical Bioinformatician, SA Pathology; andTori Tasker - Director of Human Space Flight, Raytracer.
The panel discussion was moderated by Darcey Watson and panellists – hailing from the fields of engineering, health and space – shared numerous insights about working in STEM, particularly in male-dominated sectors. Discussion topics ranged across leadership, management, value systems, work-life balance, authenticity, and more.
Our panellists shared stories from across their careers, including challenges faced and biggest lessons learned. It was an enlightening conversation, and our audience members loved being able to explore the Space Discovery Centre later in the evening, including through a tour from the friendly staff.
This event was also quite a special one for Spence Club as we farewelled outgoing leaders Darcey Watson (Chair) and Alexandra Paxinos (Deputy Chair), and welcomed new Chair Beth Shimmin and Deputy Chair Michelle Kalsan.
A huge thank you to our venue sponsor the Australian Space Discovery Centre and our event sponsors Healing Arts Studio and Jimmy Elias & Son Seafood Processing.
