Healthcare Businesswomen's Association

HBA Mid-Atlantic Philadelphia Chapter Panel - Tech Meets Life Sciences: Innovation and Opportunity

HBA Mid Atlantic Tech Life Sciences

The HBA Mid-Atlantic Philadelphia Chapter recently hosted an insightful panel discussion on the intersection of technology and life sciences, held at Veeva Systems’ Philadelphia office. Sponsored by Veeva, the event brought together industry leaders to explore the challenges and opportunities for women in healthcare technology roles.

Moderated by Emily Rollet, Account Partner at Veeva, the panel included Laura Moran (President, Global Commercial, Veeva), Tabby Miller (Product Manager, Veeva), Rachel Morgan (Sr. Manager, Commercial IT, Otsuka), and Jennifer Gallmann(IT Project Manager, PMP, Incyte). Each panelist shared her unique career path, emphasizing that entering healthcare and IT often involves a non-linear journey.

Panelists stressed the importance of effective change management when implementing new technology, with Moran noting that building trust and relationships is sometimes even more crucial than having technical expertise. The conversation highlighted the experience of frequently being the only woman in meetings and emphasized the importance of speaking up and making career aspirations known.

Career growth was another focal point. Veeva’s Consulting Development Program, for example, offers peer learning opportunities to help early-career employees refine their professional paths. Miller, a program alumna, shared how it was pivotal in helping her find her place within the organization. Gallmann recommended establishing a “personal Board of Directors” as a way to receive guidance and support throughout one’s career.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the impact of mentorship, relationship-building, and advocacy for oneself in shaping a successful career in healthcare technology.

The evening concluded by honoring several MidAtlantic Region and Philadelphia Chapter volunteers for their time and efforts:

  • Natalie Schafer and Lisa MacDonald received Honored Volunteer Awards from the MidAtlantic Region for their support of HBA’s Mental Health Awareness Day. Natalie was also the Philadelphia Chapter honored July volunteer for her Project Manager role on the Programming Team
  • Kavya Rakhra was the August honored volunteer for volunteering at Victory Brewing Networking Event and Career Communities Webinar
  • Dana Trump was the September honored volunteer for volunteering at the Parks on Tap networking and Veeva events
  • Natasha Crayton was the October honored volunteer for her work on the Marketing Committee and hosting the Marketing Career Communities Webinar

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