Message from Conference Chair 2026
Gefferie (Geri) Yee-Madera
Division Vice President of Engineering (Ret.), Northrop Grumman
Welcome to the 2026 CSULB Women in Engineering Conference.
This year’s theme, Waves of Innovation, captures the moment we are living in. Across every technical discipline, innovation is accelerating — reshaping industries, redefining problems, and expanding what is possible.
Over the course of my career leading complex engineering organizations, I have seen the evolution of innovation firsthand — from incremental advances to transformative breakthroughs that redefine entire systems.
These waves do not move on their own. They are driven by engineers and technologists who ask difficult questions, master complexity, and understand the responsibility that comes with building the future.
As women in engineering and computing, your perspectives are not optional additions to the profession — they are essential to its strength and direction. The challenges ahead require diverse thinking, technical rigor, and leadership at every level.
This conference brings together professionals, educators, and students to share practical insight, real career experiences, and honest conversations about growth. I encourage you to engage fully — build relationships, seek mentorship, and think intentionally about the role you want to play in shaping the next wave.
Innovation will continue to rise. The opportunity is yours to help direct its force.
Note: CSULB events and scholarships are open to all CSULB students, regardless of sex, race, or ethnicity.
