Written by Leslie M. Dill, AWT Director of Public Relations, UT-Austin Department Manager and Film Enthusiast

Burnout. burn·out /ˈbərnˌout/ : the physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress. 

Going far beyond the universal times of stress throughout the year, burnout can happen to anyone at any time. I personally experienced burnout earlier this year intensely enough that I had to ask for time off from my job. Now reread that sentence again. "Intensely enough,", "I had to ask for time off." Many of us are guilty of justifying our sense of burnout with knee-jerk reactions like "it'll get better once this project/month is over," or, "I'll eventually get a break here soon, I just have to make it through." And therein lies the problem. We seem to have internalized the assumption that all stressful times or situations will eventually end without speaking up. In a way, it's true that nothing lasts forever (insert dad joke: 'except death and taxes' here), and hard work is not the enemy, but rather, we should be identifying environments, systems and expectations that don't account for the human element of well...everything. 

There's a simplistic analogy that gets tossed around when talking about burnout. It usually goes something like ,"you have to charge your phone regularly, why wouldn't you do the same for yourself?" Though I would personally love to learn how to go into "low battery mode" or "do not disturb", the comparisons between human life and the iPhone are a bit forced, in my opinion. Earlier this year, I had gone through months of extensive financial training at work, on top of my regular managerial responsibilities which range from overseeing the complete overhaul and migration of our website to managing our accounting and HR business processes. I was also dealing with the cornucopia of issues life likes to throw at you at the worst of times, like my dog's keen sense of when to get sick in the middle of the night, my car needing a new part to the tune of $1,000...now that's what I call burnout!

In my current position, late July and all of August is considered the busy season, as it's not only back-to-school time, but it's also the end of the fiscal year - in other words, there's more than a lot going on. I could feel myself draining quicker by the day, and there was no recharge going on. No matter how much I tried the online "listicle" suggestions of going to bed at a reasonable hour, getting fresh air or cooking all my meals at home, my energy levels were just not renewing. 

There's only so many midday walks you can take.

The only fix, I realized, would be to completely step away from my work...even for just a few days. (Please note, I know this isn't applicable to everyone and isn't a one-size-fits-all suggestion.) Stepping away seemed like the only way to do a hard "reset" on everything and return as much as possible to my regularly programmed factory settings. (This is the end of the tired iPhone puns, I promise!) 

Of course, the next step would be to admit that I was getting burnt out to my manager. For some, this never seems to be an issue. For others, it causes enough anxiety to consider not asking for time off altogether, for fear of being judged. Luckily, I work for a person who's very empathetic and also raised the idea that there may be processes in the office we could address head on upon my return to prevent any future burnout. (The key phrase being "upon my return", not "instead of taking time off.") I haven't always been so lucky with managers, though. In the past, I've worked for a variety of people, some of whom would approach using my earned vacation time by saying, "it's your time, you've earned it, just tell me when you'll be out-of-office," and others who would reply to a request to use a few hours of sick time with, "I mean, it is actually food poisoning, or are you able to hop on this call?" No wonder there's a stigma about asking for time off to address serious burnout!

In a perfect world, we'd be able to take time off when we need to. Period. End of sentence. Unless you're abusing the company vacation or remote work policy, employers really shouldn't be asking you for a personal essay on why you're taking time off. But we live in a world where we have to internalize the ideas that "HR is not your friend" and you really should save every email just in case. So before you ask for time off because you're burnt out, consider the following questions:

1. Is your manager likely to counter with a suggestion, instead, to lighten your workload temporarily?
2. Are you bringing this up around a huge deadline or a typically demanding time?
3. Do you already have the accrued vacation or personal time? Or have you already spent the hours?

While burnout doesn't discriminate about when it hits, there are times of the year in every organization that are consistently busier than others. (I.e. asking for time off a week before the annual close, on December 1st or during that big conference you'd been planning will likely not only not yield you the response you want, it will almost certainly be mentioned in your annual performance review.) You should be able to take your earned time off when you're truly burnt out whenever that may be...but reading the room will always go a long way. Think about it as the same reason you don't ask for vacation during your first week in a new job. No matter how innocent the intention, it's not a good look. 

Having a few examples and reasons outlined about why you're burnt out will leave your manager very little room to "negotiate" with you. You don't want to walk into your manager's office planning to take time off the next week and leave having heard "this busy period will end in about a month and that would honestly be a better time to take off." Just as you write your out-of-office emails, listing names of colleagues who can help out in your absence, plan out who can cover what projects, questions, problems, etc., before you ask for time off.

Finally, if you find yourself negotiating with your manager about being burnt out *insert eye roll here* be prepared to talk about the ways in which you've already tried to address your burnout. Yes, that's right, talk about your lunchtime walks and trying to get so many hours of sleep every night. Explain that it is a last resort as opposed to another way to ask for vacation.

When it came to asking for time off due to my own burnout, I carefully wrote my manager an email, outlining the reasons I was feeling burnt out, what I had already done to address it, how we could adjust a few processes for the future and the exact number of days I would be taking off. Of course, I said I was happy to discuss this further in a one-on-one meeting. A week later, my out-of-office automatic replies were turned on, and for the first time in a long time, I didn't think about work. I took myself out for morning coffees, enjoyed long lake walks with my dog, caught up on my Netflix watch list, took that Pilates class I'd been putting off and went to bed at mostly reasonable hours. I returned to work the next week with a new lease on my career and the renewed energy needed to tackle my inbox. Most importantly, when my manager asked if I got what I needed from my time away, I was able to say, "Yes, and thank you for listening." 

Got any burnout advice for us? Leave it in the comments!

If you'd like to contribute to the AWT blog, please connect with Leslie M. Dill via LinkedIn or email publicrelations@awtaustin.org.

Written by Lauren Collins, Senior Associate at Husch Blackwell & Austin Monthly Magazine Top Austin Attorney 2024

Contract negotiation is a critical skill in both personal and professional spheres, acting as the bridge between the interests of different parties. Whether you're drafting a business deal, securing a lease, or finalizing employment terms, understanding how to navigate contract negotiations effectively can make a significant difference in outcomes. Here’s a breakdown of essential elements to consider when entering negotiations.

Understanding the Basics

At its core, a contract outlines the terms, conditions, and obligations that each party agrees to uphold. Terms specify what is being agreed upon, conditions outline the circumstances under which the agreement is valid, and obligations are the responsibilities each party has under the contract.

The importance of contract negotiation cannot be overstated. It ensures clarity and sets the foundation for a successful relationship by addressing potential disputes before they arise. Having a clear understanding of these basic concepts helps in formulating agreements that reflect the parties’ intent.

Preparation is Key

Preparation is crucial to successful contract negotiation. Start by listing and understanding your own needs and goals. This involves knowing exactly what you want from the contract and being clear about your priorities. For instance, if you’re negotiating a business deal, understand the financial and operational goals that are essential to your success.

Equally important is analyzing the other party’s position and interests. This involves researching their needs, constraints, and goals. Understanding their motivations can help you tailor your negotiation approach to address their concerns while advancing your own objectives.

Gathering relevant information and documentation is another vital step. This includes historical data, legal precedents, and any prior agreements that might influence the current negotiation. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to negotiate effectively.

Developing a Strategy

With preparation in hand, the next step is to develop a comprehensive negotiation strategy. Start by setting clear objectives and priorities. Define what you must have versus what you can be flexible about. Establishing these parameters helps in maintaining focus and ensuring that you don’t agree to terms that undermine your core interests. You can use the things you are flexible about in negotiating for things you must have.

Decide what negotiation style you will utilize – will you be assertive, collaborative, or a blend of both? Your approach should align with your objectives, the counter-party and the nature of the negotiation.

Additionally, establish a negotiation plan and timeline. This plan should outline key milestones, deadlines, and fallback positions. A well-structured plan helps keep the negotiation on track and ensures that both parties are clear on the process and expectations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Overlooking Critical Details: Small details can have significant consequences. Ensure that all terms and conditions are thoroughly reviewed and understood. Inadequate attention to detail can lead to misunderstandings and disputes.
2.  Miscommunication and Assumptions: Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful negotiations. Avoid making assumptions about the other party’s intentions or expectations. Clarify all points and confirm mutual understanding to prevent miscommunication.
3.  Failing to Consider Long-Term Implications: Contracts often have long-term effects that extend beyond the immediate agreement. Consider how the terms will impact future interactions and obligations. A contract that looks favorable now might create challenges later if not carefully considered.

Mastering the essentials of contract negotiation involves understanding the basics, thorough preparation, strategic planning, and avoiding common pitfalls. By focusing on these elements, you can navigate negotiations with confidence.

If you'd like to contribute to the AWT blog, please connect with Leslie M. Dill via LinkedIn or email publicrelations@awtaustin.org.

Written by Sarah Parker, AWT member, multi-talented senior freelance writer and content marketer

Now that you know which networking events around Austin are worth your time, it’s time to brush up on your networking skills. Whether you’re a seasoned pro at small talk or recoil in horror at the very idea of talking to a stranger – even a very nice, professional one – we’ve got the tips and resources you need to proceed with confidence into that next industry happy hour. 

4 tips for those who hate networking or are feeling rusty  

Many people have only recently gotten back into the swing of networking at in-person events so don’t worry about feeling like you’re the only one who’s out of practice. Ease back in with these tips and tricks. 

1. Start virtual

You don’t have to go back to in-person events if you’re uncomfortable with it! Look for virtual networking events that will allow you to connect with others in your industry from the comfort of your own space. 

As a bonus, virtual events let you connect with people outside of your immediate geographic area, giving you a wider range of connections. (And you can have your pets with you for moral support the whole time.) 

Consider something like the Net-Do virtual community and their events. 

2. Look for islands 

If you are venturing back into the physical world, take the advice of the Harvard Business Review and look for odd-numbered groups of people to join when you find yourself in a sea of strangers. People tend to talk to each other in groups of two, so a group of three or five will likely have an odd person out who’s looking for a conversational partner. 

3. Figure out what you have in common with someone

Networking is all about connection. Think about the hobbies and interests you could discuss at networking events – sports you follow, exercise you enjoy, a new podcast you listened to, and a fun fact you learned from it. 

When you’re talking to someone new, think of it like a Venn Diagram where the sweet spot is finding something you’re both interested in to discuss, from all of the things you separately enjoy as people. That might be something specifically about your jobs and it might not. 

 

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When all else fails, bring up your pet or child and show the other person a cute photo of them (pro tip: have one picked out ahead of time and saved in your Favorites so you don’t have to awkwardly stand around scrolling for one). Almost everyone has either a pet or a child, so it’s an easy way to start a conversation and a connection. 

If you can’t find anything you have in common with someone, don’t be afraid to end the conversation and move on to another one. 

4. Bring a friend

You don’t have to network alone! If simply having a familiar face in the room with you will help, invite a coworker to go along with you, or a friend who works in the same industry. Try not to stick to their side the entire time; challenge yourself to talk to at least one new person and figure out what you have in common. 

Just knowing you have a friend to return to if a conversation dries up or becomes awkward can give you the confidence you need to get started. 

3 tips for those who want to level up their networking 

If you’re feeling comfortable with networking on a basic level but want to do more to strengthen the connections you’re making, here’s how you can level up your connection game. 

5. Follow up, for real  

Challenge yourself to send a follow-up message if you connected with someone on LinkedIn, or an email if you got someone’s card at an event. Then take it another step further: actually set up a time to grab a coffee or invite them to another relevant event coming up that seems like it would be relevant for them. 

LinkedIn isn’t a Pokedex where you just want to collect them all. The power of connections is being able to provide value for one another – and that can start over a cup of coffee. 

6. Connect your connections 

If you find yourself thinking that X person would be a great connection for Y friend or Z coworker of yours, take the extra step and connect them with one another. Send a message introducing them to each other, highlighting why you think they should know each other, and then let them take it from there. 

If you know the other parties are a little shy, suggest that you all meet for coffee, lunch, or happy hour and introduce them the same way, letting each of them know why you think they should know each other. 

7. Plan the event you want to see

If there’s a specific type of networking event you’d like to attend but have never found, create it. The first meetup doesn’t have to be extremely formal, either; invite some of your existing network to meet up for casual coffee and conversation around your industry. 

If after a few events turnout is steady, consider reaching out to others you admire in your industry that you’d like to get to know better and invite them to attend. If someone isn’t able to make it, follow up and invite them to the next one. A personal invitation makes it much more likely they’ll make the time for the next event. 

Got any networking advice we missed? Leave it in the comments!

If you'd like to contribute to the AWT blog, please connect with Leslie M. Dill via LinkedIn or email publicrelations@awtaustin.org.

Written by Megan Murray, Founder, Speaker & Entrepreneur 

Hey there, fellow women in tech! It's Megan Murray here, co-founder of ATX Women in Web3 and Operations Manager of ATX DAO. While much of my time these days is spent in the blockchain and emerging technology space, I have recently been reflecting with amazement on different industries. Most recently, of all places, in the health diagnostic industry. Tech advancements are everywhere these days, and can impact us even if we are not actively working and building in those fields.

Today, I want to share a personal story about the importance of advocating for your health, because let's face it, we often put our well-being on the back burner while we're busy making waves in the tech world. The constant juggle of daily life, professional commitments, and self care is important to balance if we are truly showing up as the best versions of ourselves.

For years, I struggled with mysterious digestive issues that left me feeling bloated, fatigued, and just downright unwell on random days. For years, I could not draw strong correlations and kept wondering what was physically wrong with me. I underwent countless scans, ultrasounds, and blood tests, desperately searching for answers. Every test came back normal, which I am grateful for, however the uncertainty left me feeling constantly defeated and depleted. I even gave up my beloved coffee, thinking it might be a trigger! 

But it wasn't until my doctor recommended the LEAP MRT test that I finally found the clarity I'd been seeking. This innovative food inflammation test revealed that some of my biggest triggers were lurking in my everyday diet. Cows milk, barley, chickpeas, bananas, bell peppers, onions, and a slew of food dyes and preservatives were wreaking havoc on my system without me even realizing it! ️

Eliminating these inflammatory culprits from my diet wasn't easy. I experienced a five-day headache and literally felt like toxins were being flushed from my body. But let me tell you, the relief I felt once I started feeling better was worth every single discomfort. Within days, my body felt unrecognizable in a good way. You really are what you eat!

This led to me to dive deeper on not just what I eat, but also what I put on my skin. This particular test also assessed common preservatives, additives and food dyes. Turns out a number of active ingredients in my face wash, sunscreen, and other daily items also contained inflammatory ingredients. While I have mostly been focusing on getting comfortable with new eating patterns, I am slowly identifying and phasing out these toxic (to me) soaps and lotions. I even trained a ChatGPT powered model to research and summarize product ingredients to help me!

But hey, different things work for different people. Consider this to be another tool in your awareness kit if you are on a journey to improving your health. For me, the LEAP MRT test provided me with answers that years of tests failed to uncover. It's been a powerful reminder that when it comes to your health, never settle for a single test result. Keep pushing for answers until you find the solution that's right for you. We are all unique and our bodies are no exception, however you are always your best advocate!

I encourage all of you to prioritize your health amidst the chaos of your busy lives. You owe it to yourself to feel your best, both inside and out. I truly believe that it is only through navigating our personal well-being that we are able to live our healthiest, happiest lives!

If you'd like to contribute to the AWT blog, please connect with Leslie M. Dill via LinkedIn or email publicrelations@awtaustin.org

Written by Sarah Parker, AWT member and multi-talented senior freelance writer and content marketerI

There’s nothing worse than psyching yourself up to attend a networking event only to leave feeling like you’ve wasted your time. While it takes a little bit of work to truly find the spaces and people you connect with the most, this list should get you started without having to comb through 1,000 events on Eventbrite. 

Whether you’re new to Austin (welcome!) or just getting back out there with in-person networking (it has been a year for layoffs), I hope this list can also be helpful to you. And either way, come say hi if you see me* at one of these events! 

Lady Bird Talent’s Hire Women Week + coffee meetups   

A community intent on helping women find the jobs and leadership roles they want in the tech industry, Lady Bird Talent offers virtual and in-person networking events. While this year’s Hire Women Week has already passed (keep an eye out for the next one in 2024) they have an upcoming in person Yoga + Coffee Meetup at the Airstream.

If you’re not a yogi, don’t sweat it, that part is optional. Just show up for the coffee and conversation! 

FIESTA’s Gathering Together F3

Held monthly, these smaller events are an offshoot of the larger FIESTA community and bring together female founders, funders, and those simply looking for friends. Be ready for a mix of general networking, small group discussions, and specific time to put your asks out there – those can be anything from looking for your next role to looking for new friends to go out on the town with. 

For details and to RSVP for the October event, check out the listing on Meetup. 

WCA’s Connect Over Cocktails 

Women Communicatos of Austin is a professional group and community aimed at bringing together women in communication roles across industries; everything from marketing to PR, journalism, and more. For those in the tech industry, it can be a refreshing break to hear what fellow comms professionals are dealing with in other spaces! 

Keep an eye on their events page for the next Connect Over Cocktails – they’re usually held the first Wednesday of every month – and join the conversation. Your first one is free! 

Meego’s Austin Freelancer Monthly Meetup

If you’re a freelancer, the free monthly meetup from Meego is a great way to network with the colleagues you won’t find in your home office hiding behind your ficus. Build up your referral network, find fellow freelancers to co-work with when you need to get out of the house, or just have a great time talking shop. 

Check out the Eventbrite page to find the next meetup and join the Meego team to check out new spaces around town. 

Out in Tech ATX Monthly Mixer

Looking to meet new friends? Searching for new opportunities? Or simply looking to be in a queer space with other fellow humans? Look no further than the Out in Tech ATX Monthly Mixer – everyone is welcome! 

Get the details and RSVP on Eventbrite. 

More networking resources 

Didn’t see anything that spoke to you? Check out these other events and resources to find more networking opportunities around town:  

• Austin Tech Happy Hour

• BASHH (Big Ass Social Happy Hour) 

• Austin Business Woman events 

• AWT events page 

• FIESTA Community Calendar 

*I’m the 5’10” redhead who is probably talking about my large dog

If you'd like to contribute to the AWT blog, please connect with Leslie M. Dill via LinkedIn or email publicrelations@awtaustin.org

Noopur Gupta

Speed Round Questions

College Major: Computer Science (Interactive Intelligence Major)

Favorite Quote/Mantra: "Make small steps a big priority!"

App you can't live without: YouTube (it has music and my favorite podcasts)

Hobby you'd like to explore more: "Speaking engagements and dancing!"

Tammy Hunter

Speed Round Questions

College major: Chemistry

Favorite Quote/Mantra: "C'est la vie!"

App you can't live without: Spotify

Hobby you'd like to explore more: Baking

_____________________________________________________________________________________

In celebration of Women's History Month, who are the women who've made the biggest impact on your life?

TH: "My grandma, and my multiple female bosses."

What has been your most meaningful learning opportunity in your career?

TH: "Accepting working on an automation project that was all data entry, as it exposed me to project management."

What technological advances are you most excited about?

TH: "Solar batteries."

What advice would you give to your younger self and to young women starting their first full-time position?

TH: "Let yourself take chances. Take on the little tasks as they are learning opportunities for other areas of the company." 

Nicole Pletka

Speed Round Questions

College major: Anthropology with a specialization in Archaeology

Favorite high school summer job/internship: Family-run, local pizza place

Favorite quote/mantra: "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, this is to have succeeded." -Emerson

App you can't live without: 1Password

Hobby you'd like to explore more: Carpentry

_______________________________________________________________________________________

In celebration on Women's History Month, who are the women who have made the biggest impact on your life?

NP: "My mom and my sister. I feel very fortunate to have been raised by strong women with strong opinions. I'm a pretty outspoken person, but believe it or not, I've always been the quiet on in the family." Also Joan Jett. That woman stood behind her convictions and didn't let anyone tell her how a woman should act, or sing, or dress.

What has been your most meaningful learning opportunity in your career? How has it shaped you in your current position?

NP: "Getting fired from a really toxic place. I had never been fired before and I was shocked when it happened. I learned a lot about how much of my self-esteem was tied to my career and how important it is to be able to articulate what matters to me. I realized that hard work and great results are not what always matters to the people at the top. I was never going to be respected there because my principles about how people should be treated were not shared with leadership. From then on, I always remember that my values are far more important than a paycheck. My confidence comes from who I am, and what I believe, not where I work and what I do."

What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing women in the workforce today?

NP: "I think one of the biggest challenges for everyone is related to how quickly technology is evolving. It can feel very difficult to stay well versed in the current trends when everything moves so fast."

What technological advances are you most excited about?

NP: "I'm really excited to see more focus on  sustainable technology. I started my career in environmental consulting, and I love seeing more integration with environmental science."

What advice would you give to your younger self, and to young women getting their first full-time position?

NP: "Don’t stop going out. Find organizations and activities you like and keep showing up. Even if you don’t know what to say to people, just keep attending. It takes being seen 5 or more times before people start expecting you. Then you start noticing the other regulars. Then it starts getting easier. This is true for networking, hobbies, exercise, and quite literally anything."

Lastly, do you have any favorite female-focused charities or causes you'd like people to know more about?

NP: "I’m a big fan of Herizon Music. Thea Wood creates a Newsletter and podcast spotlighting women's contributions to modern music and industry trends affecting women who work on stage, on air, and behind the scenes. I’m not a musician, but I’m a Riot Grrl at heart. (fyi – not a typo… this was a 1990s revolution that you are probably too young to know about.)

Emily Gupton

Speed Round Questions

College Major: Undergrad: BS in Neuroscience and BS in Business Administration - both from the University of Texas at Dallas / Executive MBA from Texas Woman's University / Digital Transformation Certificate from MIT

Favorite high school/summer job: Working at a French bakery with half my high school friends our senior year. We had a blast, ate lots of good snack and learned a lot about interacting with people.

Favorite Quote/Mantra: "Be the change you wish to see in the world" -Mahatma Gandhi and "This too shall pass".

App you can't live without: New York Times Games - got to get that Wordle in each day! Work related: Monday.

Hobby you'd like to explore more: Playing the clarinet.

______________________________________________________________________

In celebration of Women's History Month, who are the women who've made the biggest impact on your life?

EG: My mom is one of them for sure. She raised me as a single mother and chose a continued career path as a teacher so we could have summers and long breaks off together. She is an avid believer in equity for all and taught me so many things growing up. Beth Goff-McMillan, my CEO at FOLIO, was such an inspiration for me when I moved to Austin. She is heavily involved in the community in many ways - from donating money and time, to angel investing in female-founded startups, to speaking at different engagements, and serving as a mentor for others in Austin. Beth's involvement and encouragement for me to do the same allowed me to grow tremendously as a human, and executive, and champion of women in technology. She will forever hold a special place in my heart. The third group - the Austin Women in Technology board. Whether still on the board, or not, being connected to this group of women has inspired me in so many ways.

What has been your most meaningful learning opportunity in your career? How has it shaped you in your current position?

EG: When Beth and I decided to build FOLIO to sell to the greater commercial real estate, design, and furniture market, I had to figure out what it takes to build a technology product and technology company. I took classes at MIT to prepare and joined Austin Women in Technology to find a community to support my new endeavor. Transitioning into this role as COO + product owner of FOLIO has taught me a lot about technology in general, fundraising, managing tons of different stakeholders, and so much more.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing women in the workforce today?

EG: The balance of "work from home" and "return to office" seems to be a struggle, especially for working moms (and dads). The ability to have flexible schedules to accommodate the needs of kiddos is so important in keeping women in the workforce and helping them move up the ladder. In addition, giving women the tools, mentors, and clear path required to move up the career ladder is still a struggle. The stats say it all - for every 100 men promoted from entry-level jobs to managed positions, only 87 women get promoted and only 73 women of color get promoted. In addition, 1 in 4 c-suite leaders are women, while 1 in 16 c-suite leaders are women of color. We still have work to do to create equity for all.

What technological advances are you most excited about?

EG: Oh man. So many! There are crazy things happening with genetic-driven medicine, biotech, and other deep science technology that are coming at us at a rapid pace. Local companies like InSyBio, Neurox1, and Triumvira are doing amazing work in the biotech and health tech spaces. It will be interested to see where AI and machine learning head as we move forward in time.

What advice would you give to your younger self, and to young women getting their first full-time position?

EG: Be confident and be curious. Getting your first full-time gig out of school can be scary. Have confidence in yourself and be curious about the role and what you need to learn to advance in the position or keep up with the changing pace of technology and general workforce trends. You've got this!

Lastly, do you have any favorite female-focused charities or causes you'd like people to know more about?

EG:  Outside of Austin Women in Technology, Girlstart, Girls Empowerment Network, and WiSTEM do great things for our next generation of females and female leaders. Check them out and get involved today!