When the International Tire Exhibition & Conference returns May 14-16, it will bring back the popular Women's Power Breakfast.
3 things to know about ITEC's Women's Power Breakfast
Set for 8 a.m. May 16, the breakfast is designed as a safe space for women to network, learn, and share insights, ideas and opinions.
The program—which requires a separate ticket—includes a breakfast, a keynote presentation and panel discussion.
For more information about this program and other ITEC programs, visit rubbernews.com/itec-tireshow.
Here are three things you need to know about the Women's Power Breakfast.
Jamie McNutt knows a thing or two about being the only woman in the room. Because throughout her three decades-long career, McNutt was often one of the few women—if not the only woman—in the room or in her respective department. She was one of a few women who chose to build a career around the technical side of tires.
That's changed with time, and McNutt remains an advocate for women she knows can push the industry further. Women, after all, bring talents and unique insights to the table, making them a valuable part of any team—but especially a technical team.
During her keynote presentation, "Lessons in Tire Chemistry: Women in Technical Roles," she'll highlight challenges that face women across the industry and explore the opportunities that lie ahead.
McNutt, an accomplished tire chemist, serves as a tire industry consultant, and her 30-year career spans stints at Bridgestone and others, with expertise in all phases of tire development and production.
Perspectives differ.
And that is especially true for the women who call the tire industry home.
Every woman's experiences are unique, and the issues they face are far different from those of their male colleagues. That makes learning from one another critical, and it's why we are proud to open opportunities for those discussions.
Following McNutt's presentation, a panel of industry leaders will discuss some of those issues and offer insights on how to tap your courage, find a mentor and advance your careers. Panelists are:
- Juliane Hefel, vice president of PPG's specialty coatings and materials business;
- Autumn Kahwaji, senior manager of standards and regulations for Yokohama Tire Corp.;
- Quiana Kee, Continental Tire the Americas' quality director for the Americas region; and
- Bonnie Stuck, president of Akron Rubber Development Laboratories.
We're certain you'll come away from the Women's Power Breakfast encouraged and empowered.
And, hopefully, heard.
We believe that women should have a safe space to ask questions and speak freely. And the Women's Power Breakfast is intended to do exactly that.
Following the keynote presentation, there will be time for Q&A. Moreover, you'll have the chance to ask questions of panelists and maybe even have a chance to share some of your own insights.
Your feedback and perspectives are valued and welcomed.
Until recently, attending the Women's Power Breakfast required full ITEC registration.
But inspiration, idea-sharing and networking shouldn't be limited to the tire industry. For women across the rubber industry who wish to attend the women's breakfast only, a special code is available.
When using the code ONEDAY at registration, you'll receive access to the Women's Power Breakfast—the meal, keynote and panel—and free admission to the expo on May 16 only.
To register for ITEC and/or purchase a ticket to the Women's Power Breakfast, visit rubbernews.com/itec-tireshow.
SIGN UP FOR NEWSLETTERS
Rubber News wants to hear from its readers. If you want to express your opinion on a story or issue, email your letter to Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].