Join us to hear from two influential leaders as they discuss how the Commonwealth can lead the AI Revolution.
01/21/2025
9:30am - 11:00am
Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce
Hear from James E. Rooney about the state of the economy, and how it all matters to businesses, residents, and policymakers.
02/25/2025
10:00am - 10:30am
Virtual
Join on us on Friday, January 31, as we host our highly anticipated 2025 Pinnacle Awards Luncheon.
01/31/2025
11:00am - 1:30pm
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport
Go deeper than basic DEI training to achieve higher productivity, satisfaction, and revenue growth with our new corporate workshop.
Join our Transformational DEI Certificate! Our comprehensive learning & development offerings are designed to connect and grow strong leaders who lead both inside and out of the office.
Our Women’s Leadership Program enables you to take your leadership to the next level by arming you with the most in-demand leadership toolkit.
Our Boston’s Future Leaders (BFL) program provides emerging leaders with a socially conscious and civically engaged leadership toolkit, as well as the opportunity to apply their knowledge through experiential assignments.
City Awake empowers young professionals in a variety of ways that encourages these rising leaders to stay invested in the region’s future success.
We are developing an ecosystem of corporations and partners with the influence and buying power to transform economic inclusion for minority business enterprises (MBEs).
The Fierce Urgency of Now Festival brings Boston’s diverse young professionals together with business leaders, organizations, and their peers to build connection, advance careers and ignite positive change.
09/14/2024 -
09/17/2024
Suffolk University - Sargent Hall
Small businesses are the backbone of the Boston economy. Learn more about the resources available through the Chamber.
BIMA (the Boston Interactive Media Association) serves a vibrant community of like-minded professionals from agencies, brands, publishers, and ad-tech companies with business interests in the New England market.
For 30 years, the Chamber’s Women’s Network has connected female professionals of all background and career levels. Today, our Women’s Network is the largest in New England, strengthening the professional networks of women each year.
The Massachusetts Apprentice Network convenes employers, training providers, and talent sources interested in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs in occupations across industries and statewide in fields such as tech, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and more.
Explore our mission and values to better understand how we are leading the business community forward.
Our member directory is your resource to discover, connect, and engage with Boston’s businesses from every industry and sector.
As we move forward in 2025, women in business face both incredible opportunities and unique challenges. Navigating leadership means utilizing the power of networks, setting boundaries, offering your distinct perspective, and seeking out mentorship that supports your growth.
During the final Women’s Network event of 2024, two influential leaders—Susan Loconto Penta, outgoing Board Chair and Co-Founder of MIDIOR Consulting, and Caitlin Dodge, incoming Board Chair and CEO of Argus—shared their experiences, insights, and advice for women aiming to lead with intention in the years to come.
Here are four key takeaways that you can bring into the new year:
Networking is often considered one of the most essential tools for career advancement, but it’s more than exchanging business cards—it’s about becoming a connector.
Susan Loconto Penta emphasized the deeper value of building meaningful relationships:
“If you can connect, you become the glue for your community.”
By building genuine connections, you not only grow your network but also create opportunities for others to prosper alongside you. In 2025, focus on quality over quantity when networking. Look for connections that align with your values, goals, and vision.
Women in business often feel pressure to say ‘yes’ to every opportunity, fearing they’ll miss out. But the truth is, overcommitting can hold you back from achieving excellence.
Caitlin Dodge emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing focus. When stretching yourself too thin, she warns:
“You can be good at a lot of things and not great.”
Saying no to opportunities that don’t align with your goals creates space to show up fully for what matters most. As you step into the new year, get comfortable turning down things that don’t allow you to give your best.
Diverse perspectives are critical for innovation, leadership, and problem-solving. Caitlin reflected on the value of differing opinions, reminding us that good leadership often comes from listening and engaging thoughtfully with others.
“Having different opinions is good. Solving conflicts is a great way to leadership.”
Leaders who embrace challenges—rather than avoid them—build stronger teams and more sustainable solutions. As you climb the leadership ladder, lean into your perspective and encourage others to share theirs.
When an audience member asked about finding mentors, both Caitlin and Susan shared thoughtful perspectives that challenge how we traditionally view mentorship.
Caitlin pointed out that mentors aren’t always formal or obvious. Often, you look back and realize the people who challenged you the most—those who pushed you out of your comfort zone—were the ones who shaped your growth.
Susan added that mentorship doesn’t just apply to career development; it’s about finding people who guide you in both personal and professional areas of life. The key? Find someone you respect and whose advice you truly value. Without that mutual alignment, the mentorship won’t be effective.
Going into 2025, remain open to mentorship in all its forms. Whether it’s a trusted colleague, a past manager, or someone you admire from afar, mentors can provide guidance, perspective, and accountability as you step into new opportunities.
As the Women’s Network wrapped up its 30th anniversary, the event highlighted not just the progress of the past but the leadership shaping the future.
Susan Loconto Penta, an accomplished engineer, entrepreneur, and educator, reflected on her time as Board Chair of Women’s Network:
“It’s been a privilege and a pleasure.”
Looking ahead, Caitlin Dodge, who steps in as the incoming Board Chair, brings a visionary approach to leadership as the CEO of Argus. Her advice to women in business—to prioritize, embrace challenges, and lead with intention—sets a strong foundation for the Women’s Network’s next chapter.
While women have made significant strides in leadership, these lessons are essential for emerging leaders looking to solidify their presence and impact:
Whether you’re early in your career, growing as a leader, or already leading at the top, these tools will help you navigate challenges, drive meaningful change, and lead with intention.
Here’s to the next chapter of women’s leadership—powered by connection, clarity, and confidence.
Together, we’ll make Greater Boston (and beyond) the best place for women to live, work, and lead.
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