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AI-Driven Efficiency in Modern Workspaces: An ISPE Women in Pharma® Panel Discussion Recap

Hilal Yamaner
Yolanda McLean
Edyna Miguez
Women in Pharma® AM23 Event

At the 2024 ISPE Biotechnology Conference, which took place on 17 - 18 June in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, ISPE Women in Pharma® hosted a compelling panel discussion titled "Beyond Boundaries: AI-Driven Efficiency in Modern Workspaces." The session -- designed and led by ISPE members Hilal Yamaner and Yolanda McLean -- aimed to address the growing need for professionals to manage rapid project timelines, make swift decisions, and juggle multiple tasks daily, all while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The discussion focused on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in achieving these goals.

The session began with an insightful presentation by Adrian Masson, Data and AI Transformation Manager at Moderna. Drawing from his vast experience in data and AI transformation, Masson provided attendees with a deep understanding of how AI can drive both efficiency and innovation in the modern workplace. His presentation set the stage for an engaging panel discussion featuring experts from various industries.

The panelists included:

Yolanda McLean
Senior Director, Quality Control
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals
Moderator
Ragini Rathi
Senior Manager
Deloitte Consulting, Data & AI
Geetanjali Abbi
Leader, Digital Quality Assurance, Alkermes
Alkermes
Hilal Yamaner
Process Engineer
VTU Engineering Schweiz AG
Placeholder Person Graphic
Adrian Masson
Senior AI Products & Platform Manager
Moderna

A key focus of the session was on identifying practical AI tools that can be integrated into everyday business operations to enhance productivity. The panel also explored the cross-generational adoption of AI, examining how different generations of professionals interact with and adapt to this technology. By acknowledging these diverse perspectives, the session aimed to create an inclusive environment where AI's benefits could be fully realized by all.

The diversity of the panelists added depth to the discussion, offering insights into the use of AI across various regions, work cultures, and generational viewpoints. This rich exchange of ideas provided a comprehensive look at how AI is being adopted and utilized differently around the world.

Attendees left the session with valuable knowledge on how AI can elevate their professional lives, enhance efficiency, and contribute to a more balanced work-life experience. The event was a standout opportunity to explore the limitless possibilities of AI-driven efficiency in modern workspaces, helping professionals go beyond boundaries in their careers.

Upcoming: Women in Pharma Opportunities at 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo

The 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo will take place 13 – 16 October in Orlando, Florida, USA and virtually. Women in Pharma events taking place at the conference include:

Women in Pharma Sunday Workshop: Adaptable Leadership 
Sunday, 13 October, 1300-1600 EST

Join ISPE for a transformative three-hour workshop dedicated to leadership development, team building, and personal growth, with a special focus on enhancing the audit and compliance experience, as led by Guido Kremer-van der Kamp with Merck and Yolanda McClean with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals.

This event is ideal for professionals in leadership roles, compliance officers, and those seeking to enhance their influence within a team, this workshop will delve into essential areas such as trust-building, emotional intelligence, and fostering team confidence. The session will feature engaging icebreaker activities and will culminate in an insightful panel discussion with US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) representatives and Vivien Santillan from Novatek International, who serves as Chair of ISPE’s Women in Pharma International Steering Committee.

Women in Pharma Monday Night Event: Masked Connection, Sponsored by AstraZeneca 
Monday, 14 October, 1930-2130 EST 
Industry Price: $75 | Emerging Economies: $50 Student or Recent Graduates: $50 
Sponsored by AstraZeneca

ISPE’s Women in Pharma will host an evening of art, history, and culture in celebration of accelerated equality and inclusivity within our industry. Throughout the two-hour event, attendees will can immerse themselves in the ambiance of Italian culture, enjoying cocktails, Italian cuisine, conversations, and appreciating the rich history and cultural significance of the masquerade tradition dating back to the 15th century Venice. Veiled behind masks, attendees can relish the freedom of anonymity, fostering uninhibited exchanges and forging genuine connections. As the night unfolds, masks will be shed, unveiling identities, paving the way for the exchange of business cards, and the cultivation of professional ties, fortified by the shared bond of ISPE’s Women in Pharma. Please note: All attendees must wear a Venetian-style mask throughout the duration of the event. ISPE highly encourages masks to be elaborate and decorative, covering the eyes and nose area, but they should not obstruct vision or impede conversation.

Women in Pharma Committee Meeting
Wednesday, 16 October, 1200 EST 
Virtual and In-Person | Lunch Provided to In-Person Attendees

ISPE members are welcome to join this pivotal meeting in which Women in Pharma International Steering Committee members, Affiliate and Chapter leaders, and engaged community members will come together to discuss plans for shaping the future of the global ISPE Women in Pharma community. This meeting will entail discussions around programming, opportunities to share insights, and collaboration to lay the groundwork for 2025 as ISPE Women in Pharma works collectively to drive the mission and vision of Women in Pharma on the local and international level. Attendee participation is key to driving the impact and direction of Women in Pharma.

Deadline to register for in-person attendance: Tuesday, 1 October 2024 
Register by emailing WIP@ISPE.org
A lunch buffet will be provided to those who attend in person.

Annual ISPE Foundation Golf Tournament  
16 October, 1200-1800 EST

The ISPE Foundation will host its Annual ISPE Foundation Golf Tournament directly following the 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo, for a day of friendly competition, casual networking, and giving back! The tournament will take place at 1200 EST on Wednesday, 16 October, at Celebration Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, USA.

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the ISPE Foundation whose mission is “fueling global health equity by fostering access to knowledge and nurturing diverse talent.” Prior to the shotgun start, lunch will be provided and an awards ceremony filled with exciting giveaways will conclude the day. A wide range of exciting sponsorship levels are available to meet your organization's unique preferences and objectives. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Dave Dunham.

Learn more and register for the 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo today. 
Visit the Women in Pharma event calendar to learn more about upcoming events at the conference and more.


About ISPE Women in Pharma®

ISPE Women in Pharma® is a vibrant community within the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) dedicated to supporting women in the pharmaceutical industry. Through its global network, Women in Pharma® provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to foster professional growth, leadership development, and gender diversity within the life sciences sector. The initiative offers a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and inspiration, empowering women to excel in their careers and contribute to the industry's innovation and success. With a commitment to inclusivity, Women in Pharma® encourages the participation of all professionals, regardless of gender, in shaping the future of healthcare and pharmaceutical engineering.

Learn more & get involved

WIP