When a small group of us established the Women’s Leadership Forum (WLF) back in March 2016, we wanted to show AspenTech’s commitment to giving female employees career development opportunities and a strong support system. I’m thrilled at how much we’ve grown since the program’s inception and wanted to take the opportunity to look back on some of this year’s accomplishments and let you know what we have planned for 2019.

In part, our growth comes from a strategic partnership with the AspenTech executive team. Our senior leaders recognize the Forum as an asset to our company culture; we’re grateful for their support in propelling our success. Some of the milestones from 2018 that stand out as examples of how we’re demonstrating the value of women in the workplace – especially in leadership roles:

Global Growth: Different Offices Join WLF

This year, we extended our footprint to include the Mexico City and Houston, Texas offices, thanks to our presence at this year’s Sales Kick-Off in July. Men and women throughout the globe have demonstrated interest in participating in and leading the WLF. We’re glad to expand our international reach -- staff in Reading, UK have been working with WLF since 2017.

The chapters in Mexico City and Houston got on board quickly: Both groups have already hosted successful events. In September, the Houston WLF held a discussion on building professional relationships and driving your career through collaboration; in October, the Mexico City WLF offered a panel discussion on how to be an effective female leader in STEM in Latin America.

As our presence has expanded, so has our steering committee. We’re pleased to welcome 12 new members across the globe, 1 new strategic advisor, and an overwhelming amount of organization supporters who have been instrumental in helping us grow.

 

Our Best-Attended Event Yet

Standing room only for Vice President, HR Amy Moynihan’s presentation, “Building Your Leadership Muscles,” let us know our programming is on the right track. This event was extremely well received by both the men and women who attended. Amy inspired us to believe in ourselves and to take thoughtful steps towards professional growth.

Throughout the year, we hosted a variety of other events at our Bedford, Massachusetts headquarters, including social and networking events as well as learning programs. Our International Women’s Day event (pictured here) helped spread word of the WLF and our purpose through the #PressforProgress tag line.

 

What to expect in 2019

We’re looking forward to continuing to raise awareness on how the Women’s Leadership Forum contributes to AspenTech’s overall corporate success. That includes growing our existing chapters as well as getting new international ones up and running. Watch for a book club kicking off in January, discussion groups with career coaches and a podcast discussing leadership and corporate development. We’re also planning to have a presence at OPTIMIZE™ 2019.

If you’re thinking about how to grow your career in 2019, the Women’s Leadership Forum can provide valuable insight. Whether you’re a young woman looking for mentors, established in your career and ready to support up-and-coming colleagues or a man who wants to work more effectively with female teammates, we’re glad to help. 

Want to get a head start on reading for our first book club meeting at the end of January? Pick up a copy of Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In and meet us on January 30!