Gearing Up is a cohort-based leadership development experience designed by the Gloria Cordes Larson Center for Women and Business at Bentley University for early- to mid-career women+ professionals. Through experiential learning, strategic relationship building, and reflective practice, participants deepen their self-awareness, strengthen their leadership skills, and gain practical tools they can apply immediately in their work. Grounded in a human-centered approach to leadership, Gearing Up prepares leaders who build trust, strengthen teams, foster more inclusive workplaces, and deliver stronger outcomes for their organizations.
Program Kickoff is September 23, 2026
Gearing Up 2026-2027 Program Schedule
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
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
21
Years
120
Workshops
5,200
Participants
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.
