In engineering, few careers follow a straight line — and the rise of AI is making transitions even more common. Whether it’s shifting roles, learning a new tech stack, moving across industries, or stepping into leadership, change is accelerating. Leaders are being asked to adapt faster than ever, and with that comes uncertainty, fear, and often extra barriers for women and non-binary professionals.

This roundtable will open with reflections on why pivots happen in the age of AI and what it takes to thrive through them. In small peer groups, participants will dig into what made past transitions hard, what made them work, and the support structures that made the difference — from mentors and communities to training and networks. Together, we’ll explore how to evaluate a potential pivot, what signals say “go for it” versus “wait,” and the resources that make transitions successful.

The goal: to leave with a clearer view of how to navigate change, a set of strategies to lean on, and renewed confidence that career pivots — especially in an AI-driven landscape — aren’t setbacks, but opportunities to grow, redefine your path, and lead on your own terms.