That is why ISPE's Emerging Leader program plays such an important role in cultivating the next generation of industry professionals. As part of the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo, taking place 18-21 October in Washington, D.C., USA, Emerging Leaders are gaining unique opportunities to collaborate with industry experts, contribute to conference planning, and help shape conversations around the most critical topics facing pharmaceutical manufacturing today.
One of those Emerging Leaders is Mireya Lisseth Portillo Alfaro, whose professional journey with ISPE has been marked by continuous growth, meaningful connections, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Watch: Emerging Leader Spotlight with Mireya Lisseth Portillo Alfaro
In the video above, Mireya shares her experience as a member of the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo Program Committee and discusses why the opportunity has already become an important milestone in her professional development.
For Mireya, one of the most exciting aspects of serving as an Emerging Leader is the opportunity to learn from the industry's most respected voices.
"What excites me the most about participating as an Emerging Leader for the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo is the opportunity to continue learning from professionals, global leaders, and regulatory agencies that are actively shaping the future of the pharmaceutical industry."
As the pharmaceutical sector navigates increasingly complex challenges around digital transformation, governance, risk management, regulatory readiness, and operational excellence, access to this level of expertise is invaluable. Mireya sees the Annual Meeting & Expo as an opportunity not only to expand her technical knowledge, but also to better understand the strategic decisions influencing the future direction of the industry.
"Every experience that I have had with ISPE has led me to a new level of professional growth, and this opportunity represents another important step in that journey. I am especially excited to be learning about governance, risk, and readiness topics and to better understand how the industry continues to evolve toward more integrated, strategic, and innovative approaches."
Learning Through Leadership and Collaboration
Beyond the educational opportunities, Mireya has found tremendous value in collaborating with colleagues from around the world while helping develop the conference program.
The Annual Meeting & Expo brings together professionals representing a wide range of disciplines, experiences, and geographic regions. Working alongside these industry leaders has provided Mireya with firsthand experience in teamwork, communication, and leadership.
"I am also excited to contribute through collaboration, international teamwork, and active participation in planning the conference. Being part of the Program Committee has already allowed me to strengthen my leadership, communication, and multidisciplinary collaboration skills, while also helping me better understand what creates meaningful learning experiences for the industry community."
These experiences reflect one of the core benefits of ISPE involvement. Members gain opportunities to develop skills that extend far beyond technical expertise, including leadership, strategic thinking, and professional networking. For emerging professionals, those experiences can create lasting impacts throughout their careers.
Advice for Early Career Professionals
When asked what she would tell other early career professionals considering involvement with ISPE and industry events, Mireya's message is simple: take advantage of every opportunity to engage, learn, and connect.
"My advice would be not to underestimate the impact that an experience like this can have on your professional development. Conferences like the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo offer much more than technical learning; they provide opportunities to broaden your perspective, build productive connections, and gain insights from professionals across different areas of the industry."
In today's rapidly changing pharmaceutical landscape, continuous learning is essential. The most successful professionals are often those who actively seek opportunities to expand their knowledge, build relationships, and understand challenges from multiple perspectives.
Events such as the ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo provide a unique environment where professionals at every stage of their careers can engage directly with industry leaders, regulatory authorities, technology providers, and peers facing similar challenges. Those conversations often lead to new ideas, fresh perspectives, and connections that continue long after the event concludes.
Join the Industry's Largest Annual Gathering
The 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo will convene pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical professionals from around the world to explore the latest developments in manufacturing, facilities, digital innovation, quality, supply chain, workforce development, and regulatory trends.
Attendees will have access to:
- Industry-leading educational sessions across multiple conference tracks
- Insights from global experts and regulatory agencies
- Peer-to-peer networking opportunities
- Interactive discussions and case studies
- The latest technologies and solutions showcased in the Expo Hall
- Professional development opportunities for both emerging and experienced industry leaders
For Emerging Leaders like Mireya, the event represents an opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to the industry's future. For attendees, it offers a chance to gain practical insights, expand professional networks, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
The 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo provides valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and advance careers for established leaders, technical specialists, project professionals, and early career practitioners alike.
Ready to be part of the conversation shaping the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing?
Learn more and register today
