Women in Data Science, or WiDS, is an independent conference event organized by Aula Magna Business School as part of the annual edition organized by Stanford University. The focus of the event is to give visibility to relevant women who perform outstanding work in the field of data science. Recently, Aula Magna hosted the WiDS Barcelona and Madrid events on June 14th and June 21st respectively. Combined, both events saw over 300 attendees.

At the conference, after an opening speech by Clara Lapiedra, CEO of Aula Magna Business School and ambassador of WiDS Barcelona & Madrid, a series of data science related speeches and discussions ensued. At both events, there were seven total panels, discussing everything from pharmacology, to mass consumption, and more. Noteworthy speakers included Elisenda Bou, now Head of Apple Media Knowledge; Rocío Tortosa, VP of Salesforce; and Maria Vásquez, Consulting Sales Lead at Microsoft.

Women enjoyed informational speeches and debates while also being given the chance to network with other successful women in their field. Notable aspects of the events aside from the panels were a visit from a robotic dog, high scale catering, and various gifts, such as canvas tote bags, sunglasses, and Barbies. 

All of the panels examined their respective topics through a gendered lens. As we continue to navigate the digital age, it is important to use data science and technology to advance not only the digital field, but also issues related to gender, sustainability, and so on. We must discuss data science, technology, and adjacent sectors through this gendered lens because of the unique perspective women are able to bring to the table, and the WiDS conference draws attention to the value this perspective holds. Aula Magna looks forward to continuing to host the event in the future and continuing to empower women in data science, business, and every other field.

By Caroline Anderson