Women & Hi Tech upcoming events

ClickSide Chat: Women Who Lead & The Power to Persist (04/15/2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 20:00:00 GMT

In the United States, studies show that approximately 39-42% of all enterprise companies are women-owned and generate $2.7 to $3.3 trillion in annual revenue. Women-owned businesses are growing at a rapid rate and are making significant strides, however, still face challenges in all aspects of ownership.

Join Jessica Nickloy, Jennifer Crandall, Stephanie Sponsel and Membership Engagement Director Tori Harper Mercado for an honest discussion featuring women from diverse industries as they share their experiences navigating today’s complex landscape – shifting policies, economic uncertainty, and workforce conditions. Attendees can expect thoughtful insights, real-world stories, and an engaging dialogue centered on empowerment, innovation and moving forward together.

Jessica Nickloy, as President and CEO of The Etica Group, manages the relationship with key clients such as the Indianapolis Airport Authority, Citizens Energy Group and municipalities. Her passion for the clients success has led her to be involved with garnering public support whether at the State House or in the local community for projects.

Her dedication to the clients success is one aspect of what has led the firm to grow from approximately 10 employees to 70 since 2008 when she became CEO. Etica Group has been named one of IBJ’s FAST 25 for 2015, 2016, 2018 & 2019. Etica Group was also honored with being ranked #49 in 2019 on the WPO 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies and the only Indiana based company to make the list. Etica Group has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana in 2020 and Jessica was named a Women of Influence by the IBJ in 2021 and NAWBO Women Business Owner of the Year in 2023.

Jessica obtained her formal education at Purdue University. She actively serves to promote and advance not just the profession, but other women business leaders and organizations.

This includes:

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) President 2018-2019 and 2020-2021
Chair for GoRed for Women (2021-2022)
Chair for Diversity and Inclusion (ACEC) 2010-2011, 2021-2022
Chair of Make-A-Wish Board (2020-2022)
Governance Board Member of Make-A-Wish Indiana, Kentucky & Ohio (2020-current)
2016 Women Inspiring Strength and Hope (W.I.S.H) woman

Jennifer Crandall is the founder and CEO of Safe Food En Route, LLC, a food safety consulting firm that specializes in Food Safety, Quality Assurance, and Supplier Verification. As a Certified Woman’s Business Enterprise focused on evening the playing field in the food industry; SFER’s mission is to make Reliable Corporate Level Food Safety Programs Accessible to all Companies using systems that are intentionally designed for their customers!

For 27 years, Jennifer has worked in both private and publicly held companies, balancing scientific and regulatory guidance while understanding crucial operational and manufacturing directives necessary for the success of a food business.

Jennifer’s experience includes 8 years in dairy and juice manufacturing and 12 years at Kroger Corporate in their Corporate Food Technology and Sourcing departments. She has worked in various roles exposing her from “farm to fork” which has helped her understand the many obstacles within the supply chain. Jennifer was the initial business lead for developing the software solution intended to ensure Kroger’s compliance to applicable FSMA regulations.

Jennifer also makes space for bridging industry to education by being a regular guest lecturer and alumni contact for Purdue University Food Science students, a guest lecturer for Fresno State University; and has served on the Curriculum Advisory Committee for Cincinnati State’s recently approved Culinary Arts and Applied Food Science Bachelor of Arts program. She is also an active Independent Director with Land Betterment Corporation.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science from Purdue University and an Associate Degree in Agriculture from Vincennes University. Throughout her career, she has pursued extensive education and professional training to support her food safety, centered work across manufacturing, supply chains, and regulatory compliance. Her credentials include FSPCA Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI), Version 2.0; FSPCA Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP); FSPCA Intentional Adulteration Vulnerability Assessment (IA/VA); Produce Safety Alliance Produce Safety Rule training; SQF Practitioner; SQF Ethical Sourcing; EAS Food Labeling Compliance Training; and HACCP-based food safety systems. She has also completed professional development programs in 6-Step Strategic Sourcing through Kroger and Karrass Negotiation Training.

Jennifer is trained in the Run Like Clockwork® Methodology, applying structured operational principles to support scalable systems, role clarity, and accountability. In recognition of her contributions to the field, Jennifer was awarded the Purdue University Food Science Outstanding Alumni Award in 2023 and the Purdue University Distinguished Ag Alumni Award for Food Science and the College of Agriculture in 2024.

Stephanie Sponsel has nearly 13 years of experience at netlogx, and serves as Chief Operating Officer, leading and coordinating business development, IT, proposal, and consulting functions for a $10M+ professional services organization. She provides direction to 35+ team members, oversees 10+ active client engagements, and manages fiscal planning, accounting operations, and cash-flow forecasting. Under her leadership, netlogx has expanded into new markets, including Illinois and municipal contracts, while strengthening partner relationships and leveraging AI to drive profitability.

Stephanie's well-rounded expertise has positioned her as an invaluable asset to the netlogx team. As a certified Six Sigma Black Belt, she has assisted with Lean/Six Sigma training and certification for the Gannett Company, Inc. and regularly provides Lean/Six Sigma training to netlogx staff. She also completed the Bloombase Experience for Advanced Woman Leaders. Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Science in Business/Supply Chain with a Minor in International Studies from Indiana University at Indianapolis.

Stephanie is deeply committed to giving back to the Indianapolis community. In 2018, she was both a finalist for Indy's Best and Brightest and a TechPoint Tech 25 award recipient. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Centers of Wellness for Urban Women, served as Treasurer of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Indianapolis Chapter from 2019 to 2025, and continues as Finance Chair for Our Lady of Lourdes School. She is also an active foster and adoptive parent and a dedicated advocate for autism awareness and ABA services expansion.

The event is FREE and exclusive to Women & Hi Tech members! Registration for ClickSide Chat is required in order to provide you with the final login instructions.

Women & Hi Tech’s ClickSide Chats are virtual discussions amongst our members to share ideas, resources, and perspectives about the professional and personal challenges we are facing and serve to build new connections with fellow members. One or more members serve as co-hosts and share their experiences, advice, talents, and resources for our greater good. ClickSide Chats are presented by the Membership Engagement Committee, led and facilitated by Women & Hi Tech Board Member Tori Harper-Mercado.

Tori Harper-Mercado is the Business Development Manager for Weddle Brothers Construction Companies, where she excels in her role as a relationship builder, networker and mentor. Prior to her pivot into construction, she devoted 4 years of her professional career in IT consulting, specializing in data analytics and AI best practices, which is also how she first got connected to Women & Hi Tech.

She holds a degree from the Kelley School of Business at IU Indianapolis and a sales certification from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Tori's diverse background includes experience in civil engineering, sports and entertainment and technology consulting sectors, where she has held various marketing and sales positions. In her spare time, she looks for new ways to develop her professional skills such as taking leadership training courses, attending local conferences, and working to become a master in her field of expertise.

Tori participates and involves herself in areas where she feels she can give back to her community such as coaching and mentoring athletes of her high school track and field team and being an active volunteer and committee member in various organizations.

Outside of work, she is a mom to two-under-two, a wife, and a new experience fanatic that thrives off of fun adventures, connectivity, and the love of animals (especially dogs).

**By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you may be photographed, videotaped, and/or audio-taped during the course of this event and hereby give permission for your image, and/or voice to be used in education, training, promotion, advertisement, and/or trade and communications media by Women & Hi Tech in any and all media outlets throughout the world, without restriction as to frequency or duration of usage.**

***PLEASE NOTE: Event registration is non-transferable. ***

The Chemistry of Cheese (04/30/2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

About the Event

Science Meets the Cheese Board

What happens when you combine a food scientist, an award-winning local creamery, and a gorgeous winery venue? A truly unforgettable evening. Join Women & Hi Tech and the Indianapolis ACS chapter for a hands-on exploration of the fascinating chemistry behind one of the world's oldest crafted foods.

The Science Talk

Dr. Maria Alvim-Gaston breaks down the biochemistry of cheesemaking — from microbial cultures and enzymatic reactions to the proteins and fats that give each variety its unique character.

Live Demonstration

Watch the craft in real time as Tulip Tree Creamery walks you through a live cheesemaking demonstration — see the science happen right before your eyes.

Wine & Cheese Pairing

End the evening with guided wine and cheese pairings at Mallow Run Winery. Learn the flavor science behind perfect pairings — then enjoy them yourself.

Featured Speakers

Meet Your Guides for the Evening

Dr. Maria Alvim-Gaston

Scientist & Speaker

A leading voice in chemistry, Dr. Alvim-Gaston brings expertise in dairy science and flavor biochemistry to demystify what makes cheese — chemically — so irresistible.

Tulip Tree Creamery

Indianapolis Artisan Creamery

Indiana's award-winning Tulip Tree Creamery is known for handcrafted, cave-aged cheeses made with local milk. They'll share their craft and the stories behind their beloved wheels.

What's Included

$20per person

Your ticket includes

Science presentation by Dr. Alvim-Gaston
Live cheesemaking demonstration
Guided wine & cheese pairing
Artisan cheese sampling
Networking with W&HT & ACS members
Evening at Mallow Run Winery

ℹ️ This event is co-hosted by Women & Hi Tech and the American Chemical Society Indianapolis chapter. Tickets are available through each organization. Limited to 100 total guests — register early to secure your seat.

The Venue

Mallow Run Winery

The Homestead Room

Bargersville, Indiana

Nestled in the rolling countryside south of Indianapolis, Mallow Run Winery is one of Indiana's most beloved destinations for wine lovers and curious explorers alike. The Homestead Room offers a warm, rustic-elegant setting — the perfect backdrop for a science-meets-sensory evening. With estate wines crafted right on the property, the venue itself is part of the experience.

2026 Spring Networking Event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (05/13/2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Fuel Your Network at the Brickyard!

Join Women & Hi Tech for an afternoon of connection and fun at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Whether you are a longtime racing fan or a first-time visitor to the track, this event offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the technical preparation and strategic precision that goes into team preparation for the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500.

This event is co-hosted in partnership with IT Nerd Happy Hour, Indianapolis's longest-running monthly networking community for software and IT professionals. Whether you're a Women & Hi Tech member, an IT Nerd Happy Hour member, or both — this is a rare chance to bring two of Indy's premier tech communities together at one of the most iconic venues in the world.
IT Nerd Happy Hour members: To qualify for the member registration rate of $30, a registration code is required. To receive the code, sign up to become an individual member. Any questions — reach out to the ITNHH team at info@itnerdhappyhour.com.

Fuel your afternoon with a hosted lunch in our private pavilion before heading out to experience the thrill of practice day at the Brickyard. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow professionals in Indiana’s STEM community while surrounded by the historic energy of the world’s most famous racetrack.

This event is open to members and non-members alike!

We encourage you to invite friends and colleagues to join you. Whether you’re exploring the garages together or meeting new faces in the pavilion, it’s the perfect opportunity to share a unique afternoon at the track while expanding your professional circle.

Registration Deadline is Friday, May 1, 2026. This event is limited tand usually fills up fast, so don’t wait to register – register today!

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: Pavilion 3, Plaza Village

Registration Cost: $30 for Members | $45 for Non-Members

Agenda & Activities

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch is served! Enjoy a delicious meal and opening remarks as IMS Leadership welcomes Women & Hi Tech.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: The pavilion remains open for networking, snacks, and refreshments. During this time, guests are free to:

Visit the IMS Garages to see the cars and crews up close.

Watch Indy 500 practice runs from the stands.

Network with members and friends in our private pavilion.

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: While our formal event concludes at 4:00 PM, your ticket allows you to stay and enjoy the remainder of the practice session until 6:00 PM.

Important Attendance Information

Paper Tickets Required: IMS requires physical paper tickets for entry. Electronic tickets will not be accepted. Tickets must be picked up in person during the week of Monday, May 4. We will reach out to all registrants with specific pickup locations and times as the date approaches.

Parking: Parking information will be provided to registrants as the date approaches.

Mandatory Waiver: IMS requires each registrant to sign a liability waiver. You can review the waiver here. During registration, you must select the checkbox acknowledging you have read and agreed to these terms. Please note that you may be asked to sign the waiver again on-site per IMS protocols.

Dress Code & Garage Access: The general dress code is casual; however, we strongly recommend comfortable walking shoes for exploring the track.

Garage/Pit Access: To visit the garages, long pants are highly recommended and often required for closer pit access (no shorts). Please plan your attire accordingly if you wish to go behind the scenes!

Register Today!

Don’t miss one of our most popular events of the year. Register now to secure your spot at the track and join us for an afternoon of high-speed networking!

Terms of Participation

Paid event registration is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Cancellation Policy: In the event you are unable to attend a high demand, at-capacity, and/or sold-out event, please send a "Notice of Absence" email to whtinfo@womenandhitech.org at least 24 hours prior to the start of the event. We often have people waitlisted for events and appreciate your professionalism in communicating your absence to us with enough time to allow others to attend.

By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you may be photographed, videotaped, and audio-taped during the course of this event and hereby give permission for your image, and voice to be used in education, training, promotion, advertisement, or trade and communications media by Women & Hi Tech in any and all media outlets.

2026 Leading Light Awards and Scholarship Gala (10/01/2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Registration

Individual registrations are not open at this time.

Please contact events@womenandhitech.org if you are interested in sponsoring or purchasing a table at the Leading Light Awards. The cost to purchase a 10-person table is $1,500 or please click here to view the sponsorship prospectus.

Celebrate Connection, Innovation, and Impact in STEM

Women & Hi Tech is thrilled to announce the 2026 Leading Light Awards & Scholarship Gala (LLA) — coming Thursday, October 1, 2026, to Indianapolis, IN.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and community as we honor women of achievement in STEM and the allies who champion them.

✨ This year’s theme, Connected Brilliance, celebrates the network of bright minds and bold leaders driving progress in STEM. Together, we’ll recognize the mentors, innovators, and visionaries who light the way for generations to come.

What to Expect

Networking & Welcome Reception – Mix and mingle with STEM leaders, colleagues, and peers during our lively happy hour.

Elegant Dinner – Enjoy a full-course meal while connecting with industry professionals and inspiring women across Indiana.

Scholarships & Grants Ceremony – Applaud the next generation of innovators as Women & Hi Tech and our sponsors award scholarships and professional grants to students and professionals pursuing STEM careers.

Awards Presentation – Celebrate the extraordinary individuals and allies making an impact in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Women & Hi Tech exists to change the landscape of women represented in STEM and related high-tech fields to be equally inclusive to all. At our 2024 Gala, we proudly awarded over $60,000 in scholarships and grants — and we’re excited to continue this legacy in 2026.

Event Agenda

5:30-6:30 pm:Networking, Cocktails
6:30-6:45 pm:Opening and Welcome
6:45-9:00 pm:Dinner and Program
9:00-10:00 pm: Networking, Photos, and Celebration