STEM Talks
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STEM Talks at the GMiS Conference
STEM Talks Showcase 1: Empower & Inspire
Thursday, October 2 | 1:30–4:00pm
Beyond the Quiet: How I Learned to Stop Hiding and Start Connecting
Lockheed Martin engineer and past GMiS Luminary Ryan Cruz wants to share with students how he navigated the many challenges and minefields he faced on his journey to a fulfilling and successful career at one of the world’s technology leaders.
Ryan Cruz
Cyber System Security Engineer Sr.
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Thursday, October 2 | 1:30–4:00pm
Curiosity as Fuel: Exploring the World Through STEM
Aerospace flight test engineer and former GMiS Scholar Claudia Pineda will discuss her journey into engineering and her creation of “Cosmically minded,” a social media space where she blends aerospace with advocacy, storytelling with science, and identity with intention.
Flight Test Engineer
Founder, Cosmically Minded
Thursday, October 2 | 1:30–4:00pm
Strong STEMs and Healthy Plants
Veteran forensic scientist Tim Hamon will feature actual FBI case studies to show how STEM principles apply to criminal investigations and highlight STEM careers at the at the FBI.
Master Digital Forensic Examiner
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Thursday, October 2 | 1:30–4:00pm
Cree en ti y todo será posible: Believe in yourself and everything will be possible
Mr. Juan Alberto Duran is a senior member of the technical staff at Sandia National Labs. Juan came to the United States when he was 15 and was placed in the lowest English level as a second language learner. He now supports the nuclear weapons portfolio of ensuring a safe, secure, and reliable stockpile for the United States. Juan would love to share his life story and lessons learned with students who aspire to a career in science and engineering.
R&D, S&E, Mechanical Engineer
Sandia National Laboratories
STEM Talks Showcase 2: The AI Revolution
Friday, October 3 | 1:00pm–3:30pm
Paving Your Path: Careers, Resilience, and the AI Movement
Bryan Leon shares his personal journey navigating the job market, including setbacks and rejections that ultimately opened new opportunities. Drawing from his experience in AI/ML and project management, he empowers students to identify and build their own career paths while embracing resilience and adaptability. The session explores how AI is transforming workflows, reshaping skill requirements, and creating new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Attendees will leave with practical strategies, inspiring lessons, and actionable advice to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven world.
Engineering Project Manager
Apple, Inc.
Friday, October 3 | 1:00pm–3:30pm
AI: Your Power Tool, Not Your Crutch
AI can help you move faster, think bigger, and cut through the clutter—but it won’t replace your creativity or problem-solving. Like any tool, it is only as good as how the person is using it. In this talk, Brian shows how students and early-career professionals can use AI to “think big” for problem solving, level up skills, spark innovation, and stand out in their career journeys.
Lockheed Martin Fellow
Friday, October 3 | 1:00pm–3:30pm
AI & You: Building a Career That Thrives in the Age of Intelligence
The AI Revolution is reshaping every corner of the STEM landscape—from engineering and computer science to biology, physics, and mathematics. In this fast-paced talk, Carlos will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the job market, automating entry-level roles, and creating new opportunities for graduates who adapt. With real-world trends, emerging technologies, and practical strategies, students will learn how to future-proof their careers by developing hybrid skills, building portfolios, and leveraging AI tools to stand out. Whether you’re a scientist using AI for discovery, a mathematician designing algorithms, or an engineer integrating smart systems, this session offers actionable insights to thrive in the age of intelligence.
Sr. Machine Learning Principal Engineer
Howmet Aerospace
Friday, October 3 | 1:00pm–3:30pm
Startup Street Smarts: Engineer a Founder Mindset
Tech start-up founder Juan Sotelo will discuss his journey as a founder and illustrate how you can start yours today. He’ll also highlight how CyberDyme is bringing game-changing tech and services to the virtual payments market. With experience in film production, consulting, and sales management at companies like Payscout, Triloji, JD & Associates, Oracle, and BEA Systems, Juan has showcased strong skills in change management, P&L management, and operational efficiencies.
CEO & Co-Founder
CyberDyme
Friday, October 3 | 1:00pm–3:30pm
AI is Transforming the Enterprise and Changing How Companies Work—Here’s How You Can Thrive
From STEM Student to AI Trailblazer: Lessons Along the Way. Twenty-five years ago, Nic Morales sat in the audience at this very conference as a STEM student. Today, he leads Global Customer Experience & Partnerships at Cohere, one of the world’s fastest-growing AI companies. In this talk, Nic shares his journey from student to AI leader, unpacks how AI is transforming how businesses operate, and offers practical advice on how you can thrive in a world where every career will be touched by AI.
Head of Customer Experience & Partnerships
Cohere