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25 - 30 January 2025
San Francisco, California, US
Professional Development Event
Communication for self-advocacy and conflict resolution
30 January 2025 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM PST | Moscone West, Community Stage (Level 2) 
Join us for lunch and learn strategies to navigate difficult conversations with confidence and clarity.

Communication for self-advocacy and conflict resolution.


Effective communication is essential for sharing our perspectives, needs, and ideas. However, being truly heard—particularly in moments of conflict—can be a significant challenge. One common obstacle is that our communication can unintentionally trigger defensiveness in others, whether we are asking for a raise, advocating on behalf of others, or presenting new ideas. This workshop will explore strategies to minimize defensiveness, helping you to clarify your position and navigate difficult conversations with greater ease. With practice, these techniques will build your confidence, empowering you to approach challenging discussions with assurance. Strong communication is crucial not only for advocacy and leadership but also for effective management and all interpersonal relationships.

Presenter: Dr. Tara Fortier


Dr. Tara Fortier is a project leader and physicist with nearly 20 years of experience in the Time and Frequency Division, where she has developed laser systems that interface with atomic clocks to advance the realization of optical atomic time and conduct tests of fundamental physics.

In addition to her work in physics and metrology, Dr. Fortier is an ICF Level 2 certified leadership coach, specializing in organizational performance. She is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for underrepresented minorities and women. Dr. Fortier serves on the executive board of the NIST Women in STEM group and played a key role in the development and implementation of the NIST DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) strategic plan.

Her leadership extends beyond NIST, as she is recognized as a Fellow of both the Optical Society of America and the American Physical Society, contributing to the broader physics community.

 


Event Details

FORMAT: Lunchtime education session with presentation followed by live audience Q&A.
MENU: Boxed lunch service for the first 80 guests. Gluten-free and vegetarian options available. Soft drinks and water provided.
SETUP: Round tables with approximately 8 chairs per table.

 


Attend a Celebration of Women in Optics on Sunday 26 January.


Join us for a day of panel presentations, lightning talks, and networking.
Separate registration is required. Member $50*, Non-Member $75.*
More information can be found here