Leadership, AI Ethics, and Career Growth at the 2025 Women’s Leadership & Empowerment Conference
A Night of Learning, Inspiration, and Career Growth
Attending the Women’s Leadership & Empowerment Conference (WLEC) at Goizueta Business School wasn’t just an opportunity to hear from inspiring leaders—it was a chance to explore the evolving landscape of business, data science, and leadership. As an MS in Business Analytics (MSBA) student, I often think about how data-influenced decision-making shapes industries. At WLEC, I gained valuable insights into how professionals at the top of their fields are tackling AI ethics, leadership challenges, and career growth in an increasingly tech-driven world across various male-dominated industries. This year’s theme, Ready for the Challenge, was the perfect backdrop for deep discussions on the responsibility of data professionals, the role of AI in business, and how strategic leadership is evolving in an era of rapid digital transformation.
Key Takeaways: Leadership, AI, and Career Impact
1. AI Ethics and Bias: A Challenge for Future Data Leaders
One of the most thought-provoking discussions centered on bias in AI and Large Language Models (LLMs). Open-source LLMs gather data from the internet, meaning the bias isn’t just in the algorithm but in the underlying data.
Dr. Beverly Wright, Vice President of Data Science & AI at Wavicle Data Solutions, emphasized that bias in AI isn’t just a tech problem—it’s a business problem that requires strategic oversight, diverse perspectives, and ethical guardrails. Hearing from professionals who work directly on these challenges reinforced how important it is for future data leaders—myself included—to actively question, evaluate, and refine the AI models we work with.
2. Leadership is More Than a Title—It’s Influence
Angela Guevarra, Decision Scientist at Delta and Emory Goizueta BBA/MSBA Alumna, shared how leadership in analytics isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about effectively communicating insights, influencing decision-makers, and driving real business impact.
This resonates with me as I continue to refine my own ability to translate data into strategy. In data science roles, technical skills will get you in the door, but the ability to think critically, tell a story with data, connect with others, and guide business decisions is what truly sets leaders apart.
3. Networking and Career Growth: Building Meaningful Connections
One of the most valuable aspects of WLEC was the chance to connect with professionals from a variety of industries, from finance and consulting to tech and academia.
It was wonderful hearing from Marina Pashkevich, Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Stickler Properties and Lydia Zhang, Data Scientist at Georgia-Pacific, about how AI and analytics are shaping the future of business and why it’s critical to have diverse voices at the table in tech-driven decision-making. I also had the opportunity to learn from Roxanne Porch, SVP of Finance at the Atlanta Braves, who shared insights on navigating leadership as a woman in finance and her experiences as she flourished and grew in her career.
Events like this are a great reminder that networking isn’t just about handing out resumes—it’s about learning from others, sharing experiences, and finding mentors who can help shape your career path.
Why WLEC Matters for Future Business Leaders
The Women’s Leadership & Empowerment Conference isn’t just about celebrating women in business—it’s about equipping the next generation of professionals with the skills, insights, and connections needed to thrive in data-driven industries. With over 70 attendees this year, the event continues to be a platform for discussing critical topics like AI ethics, leadership in analytics, and the evolving role of data in strategic decision-making. WLEC is an incredible opportunity to engage with industry leaders, build your professional network, and gain insights that directly impact your career.
Looking Ahead
I left WLEC feeling not just inspired, but more prepared to take on the challenges of a career in data science and analytics. The event reinforced that leadership isn’t just about expertise—it’s about using your knowledge to make informed, ethical, and strategic decisions, regardless of your field or industry.
A huge thank you to the Goizueta Business School MSBA team, specifically Carly Shuman, MSBA Associate Director of Student Affairs, the event organizers, and all the incredible speakers and attendees for making this such an insightful experience. Looking forward to continuing these conversations and applying what I’ve learned to my future career!
Interested in exploring MS in Business Analytics opportunities? Learn more about Goizueta’s MS in Business Analytics program.
