2025-2026 Program
The CWB is excited to announce that Gearing Up is expanding from a one-day conference into a year-round leadership development program that offers ongoing in-person, virtual, and asynchronous programming starting in October and culminating in March during Women’s History Month.
From negotiation tactics and financial empowerment to navigating risk, building influence, and leveraging AI for strategic advantage, Gearing Up is designed to develop the full spectrum of inclusive leadership.
The Program Includes:
- In-person Networking with Industry leaders
- Virtual Panel Discussions
- Spotlight Speakers
- Multi-day Leadership Intensive
- Learning Hub Content Subscription
Additional details will be sent upon registration.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Cultivate a robust pipeline of women+ leaders in your organization.
Catalyzing Careers
The Gearing Up program addresses the leaky pipeline, highlighted in the Women in the Workplace report by McKinsey & Co and LeanIn.org., at the individual, organizational, and systemic level. In collaboration with Bentley’s renowned scholars, the CWB provides insights that break down structural barriers and offer practical strategies for building more inclusive, high-performing organizations.
By investing in women+, your organization can cultivate a robust pipeline of women+ leaders who are well-prepared for key roles within your organization.
Skill Enhancement
✔ Workshops for enhancing leadership skills
✔ Focus on communication, negotiation, strategic thinking, and more
✔ Designed to equip participants with tangible skills
✔ Aimed at thriving in corporate settings
Networking and Mentorship
✔ Connect with like-minded individuals, potential mentors, and influential speakers
✔ Building a strong professional network emphasized
✔ Mentorship for career advancement
✔ Conference facilitates valuable connections
✔ The chance to collaborate with the CWB to host a corporate visit for graduate and undergraduate students. These visits provide students with the opportunity to learn about your organization while exposing them to different workplace environments within the corporate sector.
Career Advancement Action Plan
✔ Learn actionable steps and best practices for career advancement
✔ Panels and curated speakers provide real-world strategies
✔ Focus on breaking through barriers and advancing into C-suite positions
✔ Personalized action plans tailored to individual career goals
Learn More About Gearing Up
20
Years
110
Workshops
5,000
Participants
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Gearing Up Leadership Awards
The Gearing Up Leadership Awards honor the extraordinary achievements of individuals and organizations who are dismantling systemic barriers and paving the way for women+ leaders to thrive in the workplace.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 19, 2025
WINNERS ANNOUNCED: FEBRUARY 23, 2026
Nominate a Leader Today
Why These Awards Matter
Advancing gender equity takes leadership, courage, innovation, and relentless dedication. It’s a mission filled with challenges, but it’s essential for building workplaces and communities where everyone can thrive. By celebrating these trailblazers, we aim to:
- Inspire others by showcasing these leaders, organizations, and allies as beacons of excellence.
- Amplify their stories to drive further progress in dismantling barriers and creating opportunities.
- Foster a community of advocates committed to advancing women+ in the world of business.
Recognizing these efforts publicly not only celebrates their accomplishments but also reinforces the idea that this vital work deserves visibility, support, and emulation.
Learn about the leaders, allies, and changemakers advancing women+
The Gloria Cordes Larson Center for Women and Business aims to create a welcoming space that celebrates the diversity of our community at the intersection of race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, and ability. We are committed to providing and promoting a bias free environment by addressing issues of equity and inclusion through our conference.
Accessibility
The Gloria Cordes Larson Center for Women and Business at Bentley University is committed to ensuring all individuals have access to the Gearing Up Conference. We are committed to providing accommodations to conference attendees, and if you need accommodations, including but not limited to listening devices, quiet or prayer spaces, closed captioning, large print, wheelchair access, and lactation rooms, please let us know. In addition, if you have any questions about the venue, or workshops, please get in touch with us at cwb@bentley.edu.
