Cracking the Code: How to Navigate Trust in Science Conversations
Facilitated by Dr. Judy Giordan (ecosVC, 2023 ACS President, 2025 WRM Plenary Lecturer)
In today’s world, trust in science and scientists is more critical than ever. As we face global challenges, from healthcare to sustainability, the need for reliable information and solutions is paramount. However, distrust in scientific findings and experts is on the rise, fueled by misinformation, social media, and personal perceptions. Fear not! The Cracking the Code: How to Navigate Trust in Science Conversations workshop is here to equip you with the tools and skills you need to foster trust in science through meaningful conversations and become a trusted advocate for science in your community. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or just passionate about scientific topics, you’ll learn how to engage in constructive dialogues, listen actively with empathy, and navigate potentially divisive discussions with confidence. By the end of the workshop, you’ll emerge with a deeper understanding of how to communicate controversial scientific topics effectively, build trust in interpersonal interactions, and approach discussions with newfound ease.
Career Transitions: Making Them Your Best Opportunity
Facilitated by Dr. Lucinda Jackson (LJ Ventures)
During this workshop, you will be provided with a 5-step process to help you focus on making the most of your career transition. The five steps will help you: (1) Identify Your Opportunity – Create a personal vision statement and find your core values; (2) Generate and Select Alternatives – Use your research and science tools to brainstorm ideas based on core value criteria; (3) Develop Your Preferred Alternative – Map out the plan; (4) Execute – Take action; (5) Operate and Evaluate – Use metrics and a scorecard to see if you are on the right track or need to recycle. Whether you are finishing school and heading off to your first job, thinking of changing jobs, recovering from a lay-off or re-organization, moving to a new career, or considering post-career options, you’ll be faced with how to cope and make the change as positive and fulfilling as possible.
Working for Yourself: Turn Your Idea into Your Own Business
Facilitated by Dr. Bill Carroll (Carroll Applied Science, 2005 ACS President)
This workshop combines both parts of the “Working for Yourself” ACS Career Pathways™ series and will help you determine if self-employment is a viable career option. You will learn about different modes of self-employment in chemistry and examine common chemistry-based entrepreneurial businesses. The workshop will provide tools to create a preliminary business plan by defining your goals, structure, the marketing and sales strategy, and financing. After completion of the workshop, attendees will be able to understand the components of a business plan, describe four entrepreneurial chemistry business models, define key factors in creating a sales and marketing plan, as well as create key deliverables in a high-level financing plan.