Attending the IEEE Rising Stars 2025 conference was a transformative experience that provided me with
a wealth of knowledge, practical skills, and inspiration for my personal and professional growth. Through
diverse sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, I gained insights into emerging technologies,
career strategies, and the importance of collaboration within the global engineering community.

Key Learnings

1. Building Business Relationships and Leadership Skills
The Young Professionals Workshop on DISC Training, led by Lynda Grober, was a standout session for
me. I learned how to build and nurture professional relationships effectively, which is a crucial skill for
career advancement. Additionally, the Student Leadership Workshop taught me the value of planning,
measuring success, and advancing careers in technology. These sessions highlighted practical tools to
navigate leadership challenges and foster team collaboration.

2. Career Development and Adaptability
The session “Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot” by DigiKey shared real-world examples of embracing change and
seizing opportunities in engineering careers. It inspired me to view career pivots as opportunities for
growth and innovation. Similarly, the Job Search Workshop provided actionable tips for crafting
impactful resumes and acing interviews, equipping me with tools to stand out in a competitive job market.

3. Emerging Technologies and Innovation
Technical workshops such as Digital Twins and Reality Modeling and the AI for Humanity Workshop
deepened my understanding of cutting-edge technologies. These sessions showed me how to approach
real-world problems with innovative solutions, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to future projects.

4. Networking and Communication
The Speed Networking Session and the Emerging Voices Panel helped me refine my networking skills.
Engaging with professionals from diverse backgrounds enhanced my confidence in initiating
conversations and forming meaningful connections. Moreover, the Adequate Public Speaking
Workshop equipped me with techniques to present ideas effectively, a skill crucial for any professional
setting.

5. Navigating Career Choices
The session “Corporate Job or Entrepreneur?” helped me weigh the pros and cons of different career
paths. Hearing firsthand from Joanne Wong about balancing entrepreneurship and corporate roles
encouraged me to consider hybrid approaches to maximize impact in my field.

This conference was more than an event; it was a catalyst for personal and professional development. The
learnings I gained have already started influencing my approach to work, relationships, and future
planning. From technical skills to leadership and networking, every session contributed to making me
more confident, informed, and inspired to excel in my endeavors. Thanks to the NH

Submitted by Varsha Shukla