Young Minds, Big Impact: The New Wave of STEM Leaders

Saturday, October 25, 2025

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM CT

Location: MCCNO 208- 210

Moderator(s)

Jocelyn Prewett

Student
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

Speaker(s)

Alyssa Podgorski

Dairy Foods R&D Sr. Technologist
Land O’Lakes
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Margaret Krueger (she/her/hers)

AF Solutions Clinical Specialist II
Boston Scientific
Seattle, Washington, United States
RG

Rahini Giridharan

Student
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Leah Baker

R&D Engineer II
Medtronic
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

Dive into an inspiring session that spotlights the dynamic young women from Gen Z and Millennial generations who are revolutionizing the STEM fields. Discover the unique characteristics and values of young innovators, their workplace expectations, and how their tech-savvy nature is reshaping industries. Learn about Gen Z's preferences for remote work, their career development aspirations, and the pivotal role of mentorship and networking. Be captivated by stories of innovation, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Understand their distinct communication styles, feedback preferences, and the significance of continuous learning. Explore the rise of new generation entrepreneurs, their leadership in digital transformation, and their collaborative spirit. This session promises to equip you with practical insights and strategies to support the next generation of STEM leaders. Engage with our panelists and be part of the conversation shaping the future of work.

Learning Objectives:

Illustrate how young professionals drive workplace innovation and creativity.
Explain how young professionals' tech skills transform industries.
Identify characteristics and values of young professionals.