What is the GEMS Collective? 

GEMS is a hands-on mentorship network and community for women and gender-expansive leaders across life sciences and engineering. We combine executive skill-building, strategic sponsorship, and tactile studio sessions to help members navigate every stage of their careers—from early discovery to the boardroom. 

What does GEMS stand for? 

Gender Equity & Mentorship in Science

Who is GEMS for?

GEMS is built for women, non-binary, and gender-expansive leaders across life sciences and engineering at every step of their career journey. 

• Executives & Directors: Directors, VPs, founders, and senior executives looking to share hard-earned wisdom, sponsor the next generation, and connect with peers at the top.

• Mid-Career & Specialists: Managers, senior scientists, and specialists expanding their leadership footprint, navigating career pivots, and stepping into strategic roles.

• Early Career & Students: Undergrads, postdocs, and early-career professionals laying their foundation, building core executive skills, and seeking authentic guidance.

If you see yourself in our mission and want to grow alongside a supportive community, you belong here.

Who is included in your definition of "women"? 

When we use the word women, we mean it in the fullest, most inclusive sense. GEMS is explicitly welcoming of transgender women, non-binary, gender-fluid, and gender-nonconforming individuals. 

Simply put: if you feel you belong in this space, we want you here. 

How is GEMS different from traditional professional networking groups? 

We ditch rigid panel discussions and transactional happy hours in favor of tactile studio sessions and deep connections. We believe real mentorship happens through shared creation, radical transparency, and active career sponsorship. 

Are GEMS sessions held virtually or in person? 

We operate on a strictly in-person model. Our sessions occur in and around Boulder County, Colorado. 

Why a cohort model? How long is the program?  

We use a cohort model because real mentorship and skill-building require continuity, trust, and depth—not one-off, transactional networking. Each GEMS cohort runs over a 5-meeting series spread across one academic year (September - May).

By moving through the curriculum with the same dedicated group of peers and executive mentors, you build psychological safety, form lasting bonds across every career stage, and see tangible growth from session one to session five.

What is the attendance expectation for cohort meetings? 

All meeting dates are shared before the cohort begins, and we request that members attend a minimum of 4 out of the 5 sessions. 

Our cohort model is built on deep engagement and shared growth; showing up consistently honors the investment of your peers and allows you to get the absolute most out of the curriculum. 

Is there a membership or event cost? 

No, participation in GEMS is 100% free for all members. 

Thanks to the generous support of our corporate sponsors, all costs—including venue spaces, creative studio supplies, and event amenities—are fully covered. We believe access to high-caliber mentorship and community should never come with a financial barrier. 

How do I join the Collective? 

You can start by submitting an inquiry form through our website's home page. Whether you're seeking mentorship, looking to mentor others, or interested in attending our upcoming studio sessions, we’ll reach out with next steps for our upcoming cohort. 

How can my company sponsor a GEMS event? 

We partner with forward-thinking organizations in life sciences, biotech, and engineering to power our studio sessions and mentorship initiatives. Visit our website homepage or email us directly at hello@gemscollective.org to let us know about your interest in collaborating.