oSTEM Conference Proposal Letter for Professionals.docx

Dear [MANAGER’S NAME],

I would like your approval to attend the 14th Annual Out in STEM (oSTEM) Conference from October 17-20, 2024. This professional development conference is a unique opportunity for 1,000+ accomplished LGBTQ+ individuals in STEM to present to and learn from an audience of colleagues.

Quick facts about the conference:

• Convening LGBTQ+ STEM professionals, students, and allies from across the country and globe
• Hosted by the largest chapter-based LGBTQ+ STEM organization in the world
• Past speakers include Paulette Blanchard, Ph.D., Marvi Matos Rodriguez, Erica Snider, Ph.D., Dr. André K. Isaacs, and Kyne Santos.

While attending, I’ll have the opportunity to meet and network with peers who are focused on similar challenges as me. Between the content presented in the sessions, I plan to continue to strengthen my skills in [X], [Y] and [Z], and walk away having learned [BELOW ARE POTENTIAL GOALS TO MODEL/ADAPT]:

Goal 1: Gain 2-3 professional and leadership skills.

Goal 2: Connect with 3 peers in my current role from a similar company to strengthen my work and develop a network.

Goal 3: Network with senior level executives to further develop skills as a professional.

Goal 4: [If your company is actively hiring] Share job and internship openings with job seekers and student leaders attending the event.

The most recent conference program book can be found here and this event will have over xx talks. Past and current topics include:

• Technical Expertise:

o   Emerging Technologies in Water Management

o   Thermoplastic Composite Materials for Sustainable Structures

o   Medical Device Security

o   Embracing Agile Software Development

o   Technology and Innovation for a Sustainable Future

• Career and Professional Development