Women of Computing and Advocates

Women have been vital contributors to the development of Los Alamos's computing since the origins of computing and of the Lab itself. Not only were women the first “computers” at Los Alamos (people who manually performed calculations for the scientists), they were also the first computer programmers.  Women have left their mark on all aspects of computing and continue to play key roles in building and maintaining the Laboratory’s mission-critical computing capability.

Founded in 2015, Women of Computing and Advocates is an empowerment-focused group that seeks to create strong connections between its members and to other existing groups and activities, as well as to engage with advocates and senior management in the shared goal of attracting, connecting, and continuously revitalizing women at LANL.

Goals

Our primary goal is to build a vibrant community and a strong sense of belonging through which female (and advocate) staff and students engage in all aspects of networking, share resources, and provide encouragement to help each other grow, lead, and succeed.

Interests & Activities

• Weekly High-Five Friday Coffee Break: A place to celebrate, be heard, valued, and engaged
• Book, article and webinar discussions
• Panel discussions on a broad range of career development (and other) topics
• Summer STEAM Spotlight Series: Weekly series to highlight the wonderful diversity of women at LANL and connect with students and staff
• Advocacy with LANL Senior Management
• Encouragement and mentorship: personal growth, collaboration and leadership opportunities
• Women’s History month activities (March)
• Engagement in diversity recruiting events and activities

Anyone at the Lab who supports women engaged in computing is welcome to join the group. If you are interested in joining the Women of Computing and Advocates ERG mailing list and/or participating in any of our meetings or events please contact us!