SPE Thermoset TopCon 2024 announces first keynote speaker

The Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Thermoset Division (Bethel, Conn., U.S.) has announced its first keynote speaker for the annual SPE Thermoset TopCon event held from April 30 – May 1, 2024 at the Monona Terrace and Convention Center in Madison, Wisconsin.

“Empowering women in composites: Building bridges and strengthening the industry” will be presented by Marcy Offner, director of events and industry partnerships at Composites One (Schaumburg, Ill., U.S.) and founder of women in the composites industry (WCI). Her presentation will focus on insights, valuable experiences and tactics to capitalize on the distinctive contributions of women within the composites sector.

“The participation of women in the global composites and advanced materials industry is on the rise,” says Offner. “As the sector expands, women are dismantling obstacles, fostering mentorship and harnessing their collective power. Building a supportive community is essential, not just for women, but also for forging strong collaborations with our male counterparts. By cultivating a cooperative atmosphere, we can close existing divides and fortify our industry.”

SPE Thermoset TopCon 2024 will also feature technical presentations and exhibits highlighting advances in materials, processes and equipment for thermoset technologies in multiple applications. The two-day conference includes networking breakfasts, lunches and a cocktail reception. Optional social events, including a tour of the Polymer Engineering Center at UW – Madison, a golf outing at the University Ridge Golf Course and a cruise of the Madison shoreline (weather permitting), are offered on April 29, the day before the conference begins.