Thank you for Attending!
Date: March 15, 2025
Time: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm PDT
Location: San José State University, Student Union
SOLD OUT
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Keynote Speakers
Sally M. Benson
Precourt Family Professor for Energy Science and Engineering
Stanford University
Topic: What Can Engineers Do to Slow Down and Stop Climate Change?
Sally M. Benson, who joined Stanford University in 2007, is the Precourt Family Professor in the Department of Energy Science and Engineering in the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability.
She studies technologies and pathways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions including geologic storage of CO2 in deep underground formations and energy systems analysis for a low-carbon future. From 2021 to 2023 she was on leave from the University to serve as the Energy Division Director and Chief Strategist for the Energy Transition at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Prior to this, she served as the Co-Director of the Stanford Center for Carbon Storage and the Stanford Carbon Removal Initiative. From 2013 to 2020, she served as the Director and Co-Director of the Precourt Institute for Energy. She also served as the Director of the Global Climate and Energy Project from 2009 to 2019. Prior to joining Stanford, Benson was Division Director for Earth Sciences, Associate Laboratory Director for Energy Sciences and Deputy Director at LBNL.
Professor Benson currently is a member of the Breakthrough Energy Innovation Council and a Board Member of the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute. In 2023 she was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She has previously served on the Board of Directors for Climate Central and from 2008 to 2020 on the Board of Directors of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. She also served on the Advisory Boards for Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Argonne National Laboratory and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Princeton’s Carbon Mitigation Initiative, Princeton’s Adlinger Center, Japan’s Initiative for the Cool Earth Forum, Climate Vault, and the Lahore University of Management Science in Pakistan. Over the past several years she participated in many National Academy of Sciences, Secretary of Energy, and National Petroleum Council research needs assessments related to carbon management. She also is on the Editorial Board for Energy and Environmental Sciences.
Rose Castanares
President
TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), Arizona
Topic: Engineering a New Era of Chips
Rose Castanares is a 26 year veteran of TSMC and is currently President of TSMC Arizona. With a $65B investment representing the largest foreign direct investment in US history, TSMC Arizona will produce the most advanced semiconductor technology on American soil. In Rose’s distinguished career in the semiconductor industry, she has consistently achieved exceptional results and strengthened customer relationships. Rose previously served as senior vice president of Business Management for TSMC North America, where she contributed to TSMC’s leadership in the semiconductor sector through her collaboration with many of the company’s valued U.S. customers. Her career includes leadership roles in engineering, quality, and sales at Chartered Semiconductor, GTE, National Semiconductor, and Siliconix. Rose earned her Bachelor of Science in Material Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Ya Xu
VP of Research
Google DeepMind
Topic: New Possibilities in the Era of AI
Ya is a leading AI expert who currently serves as VP of Research at Google DeepMind, where she focuses on developing cutting-edge Generative AI models with the goal of achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Her impressive career includes leading AI efforts at LinkedIn, where she oversaw AI product development and research as Head of Data & AI.
Ya’s expertise is widely recognized. She co-authored the influential book “Trustworthy Online Controlled Experiments” and was named to Fortune’s 40 under 40 in tech. A sought-after speaker, she has delivered numerous impactful talks, including a commencement speech to Stanford’s Class of 2019 in Mathematics, Statistics, and Mathematical & Computational Science. Ya holds a PhD in Statistical Machine Learning from Stanford.
Agenda
7:30-8:30 am
Registration and Breakfast
8:30-9:30 am
Welcome and Opening Keynotes
Topic: What Can Engineers Do to Slow Down and Stop Climate Change?
Sally M. Benson
Precourt Family Professor for Energy Science and Engineering, Stanford University
Topic: New Possibilities in the Era of AI
Ya Xu
VP of Research, Google DeepMind
9:30-9:45 am
Break
9:45-10:45 am
Concurrent Session A
Emerging Technologies Concurrent Sessions
A1 • Cybersecurity
Session Chairs
Younghee Park
Associate Professor, Computer Engineering, SJSU
Xiao Su
Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research, College of Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly enhanced the cybersecurity landscape by introducing intelligent solutions to address evolving threats. This session explores the diverse applications of AI in cybersecurity, highlighting its transformative roles in threat detection, risk mitigation, and security automation.
Meeting Room: 1A
Presentation Abstract
Suchreet Dhaliwal
Director of Software Engineering, LinkedIn
Presentation Abstract
Viji Krishnamurthy
VP of Generative AI Solutions, Oracle
Presentation Abstract
Nithya Nair
Principal Technical Specialist – Security, Microsoft
A2 • Under the Hood of ChatGPT
Session Summary
Has anyone not tried ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Grok, or DeepSeek yet? Whether you’re solving a math problem, fixing a broken pipe, or refining the grammar in a paragraph, it’s likely you’ve turned to some variety of large language models (LLMs) for help. In this session, we’ll explore the fundamentals of LLMs and the remarkable hardware that powers them.
Meeting Room: 3
Presentation Abstract
Anahita Bhiwandiwalla
Deep Learning Algorithms Manager, NVIDIA
Presentation Abstract
Sanjana Kandi
Sr System Software Engineer, NVIDIA
A3 • Human-Centered Robotics and Automation
Session Chairs
Behin Elahi
Associate Professor, Industrial and Systems Engineering, SJSU
Yue (Lyla) Luo
Assistant Professor, Industrial and Systems Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
Human-centered robotics and automation are playing an increasingly vital role in addressing societal challenges by enhancing education and healthcare. With advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics is transforming children’s learning experiences, making education more interactive and accessible. In healthcare, robotics is enhancing medical diagnostics, treatment, and personalized care, particularly by addressing the specific needs of populations with different backgrounds. In this session, we invited experts from these fields to share insights on how robotics and automation are being designed with a human-centered approach to improve accessibility, safety, and quality of life. Their presentations provide an excellent opportunity to understand the impact of these technologies and explore their potential for future advancements.
Meeting Room: 4A
Presentation Abstract
Zara Hajihashemi
Founder/CEO, Cybele Health
Presentation Abstract
Elnaz Sarraf
Founder & CEO, ROYBI
A4 • Future Energy Systems
Session Chairs
Ayca Erdogan
Associate Professor, Industrial and Systems Engineering, SJSU
Hongrui Liu
Associate Professor, Industrial and Systems Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
This session explores advancements in energy infrastructure, including:
Smart Grid Transformation – how AI, digitalization, and policy innovation enhance grid reliability and sustainability.
Thermal Batteries for Industry – Antora’s breakthrough technology enables 24/7 industrial heat and power from low-cost renewable energy.
Seismic Reliability in Energy Systems – strategies to strengthen PG&E substations and the electrical grid against earthquakes.
Meeting Room: 1B
Presentation Abstract
Sahika Vatan
Principal Program Manager, Business Operations, Antora Energy
Sujean Wu
Civil Principal Engineer, Pacific Gas & Electric
Concurrent Session A
Career Launch Concurrent Sessions
A5 • Job and Internship Search
Session Summary
Everyone is familiar with the big job boards – Glassdoor, Indeed, LinkedIn. Come learn how to optimize your searches as well as other methods to increase your chances of landing a job or internship that will be the right fit for you. We will also discuss tips for how to navigate a job search in less than ideal times.
Meeting Room: 2
A6 • Professional Branding
Session Summary
Discover how to unlock your career potential in this exclusive workshop led by a LinkedIn expert. Learn strategies to create a standout profile, grow your network, and communicate your unique value in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re looking to land your dream job or expand your professional reach, this session will empower you with insider tips and actionable insights to build a brand that gets noticed. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your career to the next level!
Meeting Room: 4B
Presentation Abstract
Cecily Hastings
California State University Account Director, LinkedIn
10:45-11:00 am
Break
11:00-12:00 pm
Concurrent Session B
Emerging Technologies Concurrent Sessions
B1 • New Possibilities for AI
Session Chairs
Jorjeta Jetcheva
Assistant Professor, Computer Engineering, SJSU
Yunjian (Jojo) Qiu
Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
Recent advances in Artificial Intelligence have ignited unprecedented innovation across a wide range of scientific and enterprise domains. In this session, we will get a glimpse of the AI-powered technology shift taking place through the use of AI in materials discovery, conceptual engineering design, and enterprise and business transformation.
Meeting Room: 3
Presentation Abstract
Brandi Ransom
Research Scientist, IBM Research
Jay Subrahmonia
Managing Director, Accenture
Presentation Abstract
Ye Wang
Senior Principal Research Scientist, Autodesk Research
B2 • Semiconductors
Session Summary
Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology and the driving force behind Silicon Valley’s success. Semiconductors form the foundation of integrated circuits (ICs), transistors, and diodes, enabling the functionality of computers, smartphones, and countless other devices. Advances in semiconductor technology have driven progress in computing power, energy efficiency, and miniaturization, leading to innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and automotive industries. As demand for high-performance chips continues to grow, semiconductor research and manufacturing remain critical to global technological advancement. Our invited speakers come from Silicon Valley’s leading high tech companies: Apple, KLA, and TSMC. They will provide up-to-date development for their respective company in the semiconductor area.
Meeting Room: 1A
Presentation Abstract
Kush Desai
Lead Electrical Engineer – iPhone, Apple Inc.
Presentation Abstract
Charu Sardana
Sr. Program Manager – Field Technical Solutions, TSMC, NA
Presentation Abstract
Prasanti Uppaluri
Senior Engineering Director, Broadband Plasma Division, KLA
B3 • Biomedical Robots and AI in Healthcare
Session Chairs
Winncy Du
Professor, Mechanical Engineering, SJSU
Lin Jiang
Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
The intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence is transforming the healthcare industry, from advanced surgical robots to AI-powered diagnostics and patient care. This session will bring together experts from leading biomedical and technology companies, such as Intuitive Surgical, Nvidia, and Noah Medical, to discuss the latest innovations, real-world applications, and future trends in healthcare robotics and AI. Speakers will share insights into their work, the challenges and opportunities in the field, and how these technologies are shaping the future of medicine. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge about the impact of automation, machine learning, and robotics on patient outcomes, surgical precision, and healthcare accessibility.
Meeting Room: 4A
Neeta Mhatre
VP of China Strategy and Operations, Intuitive Surgical
Meghana Puvvadi
Director of AI/ML enterprise, NVIDIA
B4 • Revolutionizing Mobility: Telecom and Urban Transport
Session Chairs
Sravani Vadlamani
Assistant Professor, Civil & Environmental Engineering, SJSU
Riti Gour
Assistant Professor, Aviation and Technology, SJSU
Session Summary
This session will explore funding strategies for urban transport tech projects in the public sector, career pathways in the cloud industry, and key insights from a consultant’s perspective on transit. Experts will share best practices for securing grants, navigating the cloud industry, and shaping the future of urban mobility.
Meeting Room: 1B
Presentation Abstract
Zeel Patel
Technical Operations Manager, Amazon
Presentation Abstract
Marcella Rensi
Deputy Director, Grants, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority
Concurrent Session B
Career Launch Concurrent Sessions
B5 • Employer Perspective: Tips on Job and Internship Success
Session Summary
Hear from company representatives about how to best approach all aspects of the job search from applying to interviewing to career growth.
Meeting Room: 2
Pallavi Joshi
Sr. Principal Engineer, Hardware & Silicon Validation, Marvell Semiconductor
Nathan Kwan
University Tech Recruiter, KLA
Margaret Paulin
Campus Relations Manager, Lockheed Martin
Krystle Sanchez
Sr. Tech Recruiter, Global Emerging Talent, ServiceNow
B6 • Using Generative AI to Enhance Resumes
Session Summary
Join SJSU Career Counselors in this interactive workshop to learn how to use Generative AI for your resume development—ethically and creatively. You’ll be able to create a customized resume that catches the attention of both hiring managers and the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Meeting Room: 4B
Kristin Keller
Career Counselor, San Jose State University
Thuy Nguyen
Career Counselor, San Jose State University
12:00-12:45 pm
Lunch
12:45-1:15 pm
Lunch Keynote
Topic: Engineering a New Era of Chips
Rose Castanares
President, TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) Arizona
1:15-1:45 pm
Roundtable Discussions
1:45-2:00 pm
Break
2:00-3:00 pm
Concurrent Session C
Emerging Technologies Concurrent Sessions
C1 • Responsible AI
Session Summary
As artificial intelligence (AI) gets increasingly more powerful, there is no better time to discuss how to make AI fair, unbiased, inclusive, trustworthy, and secure. As wise Uncle Ben said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Join us in this session to learn about the what, how, and why of building AI systems responsibly.
Meeting Room: 2
Shubham Agrawal
Tech Lead, Google
Akaanksha Sinha
Sr. Program Manager and Security Architect, External Compliance, Global Software, IBM Corporation
Angelina Yang
Co founder, Transform AI Studio
C2 • Autonomous Vehicles (Cars/Drones)
Session Chairs
Wencen Wu
Associate Professor, Computer Engineering Department, SJSU
Yuwei He
Assistant Professor, Aviation and Technology, SJSU
Session Summary
Autonomous vehicles are transforming transportation, from self-driving cars to unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This session brings together experts from industry and academia to explore the latest advancements, career opportunities, and the future of autonomous mobility. Join us for an engaging discussion on how autonomous technology is reshaping mobility, both on the ground and in the air, and what it means for the future of engineering careers.
Meeting Room: 3
Presentation Abstract
Kris Borgen
Assistant Professor of Aviation, San Jose State University
Presentation Abstract
Sandra Wright
Technical Trainer, Joby Aviation
C3 • AI-Enabled Biotech
Session Summary
AI is transforming biotech, driving innovation in diagnostics, treatment, and workflow optimization. This session explores cutting-edge AI applications in healthcare, featuring insights from experts in academia and industry. Topics include optimizing radiotherapy workflow via data-efficient AI models, delivering AI solutions to biotech researchers and strategists, and ensuring the reliability of molecular diagnostics. Join us for a dive into the intersection of AI and biotechnology, shaping the future of healthcare.
Meeting Room: 1A
Presentation Abstract
Lianli Liu
Clinical Assistant Professor, Stanford University
Presentation Abstract
Shiva Moballegh
AI Scientist / GCS Computational Sciences, Genentech Inc.
Presentation Abstract
Aadarsha Nanthakumar
Systems Verification Engineer II, Cepheid
C4 • Water and Climate
Session Summary
The escalating challenges of sea level rise, drought, and environmental contamination necessitate comprehensive, multidisciplinary approaches to groundwater remediation and flood risk management. This session will explore innovative strategies for protecting water and groundwater resources and human health amidst these pressing environmental concerns. Key topics will include the integration of advanced remediation technologies to address contamination and pollution in groundwater systems and the role of flood risk assessments in developing adaptive solutions for vulnerable regions. Attendees will learn about methods for enhancing drought resiliency and facilitating climate adaptation, ensuring long-term sustainability of water resources. The discussions will underscore the importance of safeguarding human health while advancing the resilience of communities in the face of evolving climate impacts.
Meeting Room: 1B
Africa Espina
Director of Environmental Services, Locus Environmental
Meg Ackerson
Climate Risk & Resilience Engineer, Arup
Concurrent Session C
Career Launch Concurrent Sessions
C5 • Launching Your Career: The Pitch That Sets You Apart
Session Chair
Katy Kao
2025 SV WiE Co-Conference Chair, Professor, Chemical and Materials Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
Your story is your superpower, and the way you tell it can shape your entire career. “Tell me about yourself” is more than just an interview question — it’s your moment to stand out, make connections, and leave a lasting impression. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how to craft a confident, authentic pitch that highlights your strengths, passions, and potential. Whether you’re preparing for your first job interviews, networking events, or career fairs, this session will equip you with the skills to open doors and set you on the path to career success.
Meeting Room: 4A
Shalini Agarwal
Sr Director, Engineering, LinkedIn
C6 • Own the Interview: Confidently Navigate Your Tech Career
Session Summary
Let’s break barriers and build a brighter future—join us and take charge of your career!
This Interview Essentials Workshop will help you gain the skills and confidence to ace your tech interviews! Designed for women in engineering and tech, this hands-on session covers key strategies, showcases your strengths, and includes small-group role-playing with feedback.
Meeting Room: 4B
Kristin Keller
Career Counselor, San Jose State University
Felix Lim
VP, QST Solutions
Monique Michel
University Sourcer – University Talent Program, Juniper Networks
Cecilia Reyes
Senior Recruiter, Mainspring Energy
Vinson Vu
Adobe Career Hub Coordinator, San José State University
3:00-3:15 pm
Break
3:15-4:45 pm
Concurrent Career Panels
Concurrent Career Panels
I • Software and Information Technology
Session Chair
Xiao Su
Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research, College of Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
A panel of women engineers and leaders in “Software and Information Technology” share their stories in charting their educational and career pathways. They offer insights and advice to help attendees achieve success from campus to career. Attendees have the chance to ask their own questions.
Meeting Room: 2
Sravani Boggavarapu
Sr Manager, Software Engineering, ServiceNow
Suchreet Dhaliwal
Director of Software Engineering, LinkedIn
Rashmi Chandra
Senior Technical Staff Member/Infrastructure, IBM
Nicole Magnus
Senior Technical Program Manager for HW Infrastructure, Nvidia
II • Semiconductor and Electronics
Session Chair
Nicole Okamoto
2025 SV WiE Co-Conference Chair, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies and Student Success, SJSU
Session Summary
A panel of women engineers and leaders in “Semiconductor and Electronics” share their stories in charting their educational and career pathways. They offer insights and advice to help attendees achieve success from campus to career. Attendees have the chance to ask their own questions.
Meeting Room: 4B
Amanjot Gill
Optical Engineer, KLA Corp.
Jing Jiang, Ph.D.
Sr. Business Development Manager, Applied Materials
Armine Matentsian
Director, Program Management, Synopsys
Lisa Wang
Principal Engineer, Digital IC Design/Central Engineering, Marvell Semiconductor
III • Biomedical and Biotech
Session Chair
Katy Kao
2025 SV WiE Co-Conference Chair, Professor, Chemical and Materials Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
A panel of women engineers and leaders in the “Biomedical and Biotech” industry share their stories in charting their educational and career pathways. They offer insights and advice to help attendees achieve success from campus to career. Attendees have the chance to ask their own questions.
Meeting Room: 4A
Stacy Jo Dominguez
Sr. Manager of SW Test Engineering, Data Platform, Dexcom
Dr. Monica Kapil, Ph.D.
Digital Health & Clinical Research, Senior Program Management, Apple Inc
Chantell Kuhlmann
Sr Director, Program Management Office, Stryker
Rosie Medina
SVP, Sales & Marketing, Promex Industries
Dr. Sandra Melo, Ph.D.
Sr. Principal Scientist, Genentech
IV • Aerospace and Aeronautics
Session Chairs
Tina Panontin
Professor, San José State University
Maria Chierichetti
Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
A panel of women engineers and leaders in “Aerospace and Aeronautics” share their stories in charting their educational and career pathways. They offer insights and advice to help attendees achieve success from campus to career. Attendees have the chance to ask their own questions.
Meeting Room: 1A
Arpitha Hanumanth
Senior Flight Software Engineer, Planet Labs
Maryam Khoshlahjeh
Sr. Manager, Propellers, Archer Aviation
E. Lara Lash
Aerospace Engineer, NASA Ames Research Center
Lea Mak
Propulsion Analysis Lead, Lockheed Martin Space
V • Building, Infrastructure, and the Environment
Session Chairs
Thalia Anagnos
Professor Emerita, SJSU
Olivia Yip
Assistant Professor, Civil and Engineering, SJSU
Session Summary
A panel of women engineers and leaders in the “Building, Infrastructure, and the Environment” sector share their stories in charting their educational and career pathways. They offer insights and advice to help attendees achieve success from campus to career. Attendees have the chance to ask their own questions.
Meeting Room: 1B
Tamika Bassman
Modeling Engineer, ACTUAL
Sarah Christensen
Executive Director, Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC)
Erin Estenson
District Controls Manager, Kiewit
Renee Morales
Senior Engineer, Earth Systems Pacific
Rosa Portugal
Design Engineer/Structural, Ashley & Vance Engineering
4:45-5:00 pm
Break
5:00-7:00 pm
WiE Innovation Showcase, Networking Reception, Prize Drawing
Sponsors
Title Sponsor
