Description

This session, facilitated by Bilita “Bili” Mattes, Executive Director of STEM-UP Network, will help participants understand how to approach networking as an intentional way to build authentic professional relationships, strengthen communication, and create lasting connections. Rather than focusing only on meeting more people, the session emphasizes how to connect with purpose, listen actively, communicate with confidence, and follow up in ways that build trust over time. 

Explore practical strategies for starting conversations, identifying shared interests, asking thoughtful questions, and creating meaningful dialogue in both formal and informal settings. The session will also highlight how networking supports collaboration, career growth, knowledge-sharing, and a stronger sense of belonging across the organization. 

By the end of the session, participants will have simple, actionable tools to expand their genuine connections and communicate more effectively. 

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR: Dr. Bilita “Bili” Mattes is the Executive Director of STEM-UP Network, a social enterprise powered by KINBER, and a passion project started in 2011. The STEM-UP Network addresses the workforce and gender talent gap in STEM. The STEM-UP community works directly with women in STEM to provide them with real-world strategies and opportunities to build their professional networks and relationships, to mentor and be mentored, to develop their leadership and career skills, and to navigate and advance their careers. STEM-UP specifically targets the next generation of women in STEM with its work; and engages more experienced women in STEM professions as mentors, coaches, facilitators, and speakers. The network has grown to over 2,000 women and allies with over 200 women who have successfully participated in the research-based Level-Up Your STEM Career program and with over 400 women having participated in the signature STEM-UP Mentoring Program. 

Bili has almost thirty years of experience in higher education leadership, administration, academic outreach, and program innovation and development. Bili most recently served as Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology. As Provost, she was responsible for all aspects of academic and student affairs at the university.