Skyline Biotechnology Students Shine at the Annual Women in Life Sciences Event
Skyline College Biotechnology students recently attended the Annual Women in Life Sciences Conference, hosted by the West Coast Chapter (WCC) of the Parenteral Drug Association (PDA) at Genentech. The event brought together over 150 industry professionals from across the life sciences sector, providing a unique opportunity for students to engage with experienced professionals, hear from inspiring speakers, and expand their professional networks.
Skyline College students Iqra Chughtai, Katherine ton Kyi, and Olena Tsvirkunova participated in the event, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for women in biotechnology. In preparation for the conference, students worked closely with Dr. Nick Kapp, who provided mentorship on professional networking, personal branding, and career development. His guidance helped students maximize their experience by teaching them how to introduce themselves professionally and engage in meaningful industry conversations.
A Dynamic Event with Meaningful Discussions
The PDA Women in Life Sciences Conference featured professionals at various stages of their careers, from students to senior industry leaders. Representatives from companies including Genentech, Thermo Fisher, Elements Material Technology, Binova Scientific, Emery Pharma, Gilead Sciences, Veltek Associates, Bayer, Nelson Labs, Novatek, and more showcased the diverse career paths available in biotechnology.
Key discussion topics included:
● Work-Life Balance in the Biotech Industry
● Overcoming Biases Related to Gender, Age, and Race
● Imposter Syndrome and Building Confidence
● The Critical Role of Technical Development in Innovation
● Advocating for Fair Treatment and Equity in Professional Environments
Panelists also emphasized the importance of mentorship, resilience, and continuous learning in navigating a fast evolving industry like biotechnology.
Student Reflections
The event left a lasting impact on Skyline students, inspiring them to pursue their career aspirations with renewed confidence.
“One of the most valuable aspects of this event was the opportunity to network with professionals who were once in our shoes. Hearing their stories and their advice gave me confidence in pursuing a career in biotechnology. “
–Iqra Chughtai
“Attending this event was truly inspiring. It reinforced my passion for healthcare and gave me a clearer vision of the opportunities available in this field.”
– Olena Tsvirkunova
Skyline College’s Commitment to Student Success
Biomanufacturing Skyline College’s participation in the Women in Life Sciences Conference reflects its commitment to supporting students’ academic and professional growth. Engaging with industry leaders and learning from their experiences equips students with the tools they need to navigate the competitive and rapidly advancing world of biotechnology.
This event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in science, paving the way for future health professionals to make meaningful contributions to the world. The visit to Genentech not only underscored the critical role of women in the life sciences but also highlighted the importance of community partnerships in nurturing the next generation of scientists and leaders.
Skyline College remains dedicated to offering students transformative learning experiences that inspire confidence, build professional networks, and prepare them for rewarding careers in biotechnology.
Events like the Annual Women in Life Sciences Conference provide invaluable opportunities for students to expand their professional networks, gain industry insights, and find inspiration for their future careers. Skyline College remains committed to empowering students by connecting them with industry leaders and fostering an environment where they can thrive. The experiences gained at this event will undoubtedly shape the future of these aspiring biotechnology professionals as they continue their journey in the life sciences field.
📸 Event Highlights
Skyline College extends heartfelt thanks to the West Coast Chapter of the PDA for providing this incredible opportunity. The experience not only enriched our students’ academic journey but also strengthened their professional development and industry connections.
Article by by Iqra Chughtai
