CAPWIC 2026 brings together participants from around the region to advance women in computing

The 2026 ACM Capital Region Celebration of Women in Computing conference (CAPWIC) took place March 27–28 at Virginia Tech’s Academic Building One in Alexandria, bringing together more than 230 students, researchers, and industry professionals to support and advance women in computing.

CAPWIC is part of an initiative under the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) to create regionally tailored, accessible conferences that support women and minorities in computing. The event welcomed participants at all stages – from high school and college students to faculty and industry leaders – fostering mentorship, research, and professional growth. 

Attendees were from eight states, concentrated on the east coast, but including Colorado and California. With participation from 21 universities, 13 industry partners, and organizations across nonprofits and K–12 education, CAPWIC 2026 brought together a truly diverse and collaborative computing community. Nearly 75% of participants were college and graduate students.

“CAPWIC 2026 was a powerful reminder of what happens when a supportive community comes together – ideas flourish, voices are amplified, and impact grows,” said Sehrish Basir Nizamani, Virginia Tech collegiate assistant professor of computer science and chair of this year’s conference. “Thank you to our sponsors, speakers, organizers, and participants who made it all possible.”

Through activities such as research presentations, student poster exhibits, and networking sessions, CAPWIC provided opportunities for attendees to share ideas, build connections, and gain exposure to real-world applications of computing. The conference emphasized the importance of strengthening the pipeline of women in computing in the D.C. area., and retaining diverse talent in this key technology hub. 

The conference was hosted by the Virginia Tech Department of Computer Science and the Institute for Advanced Computing (IAC). Erika Olimpiew and Melissa Cameron, IAC collegiate professors who teach in the Virginia Tech Master of Engineering Program, served as D.C. Area co-chairs for the conference. Christine Julien, head of the Department of Computer Science, welcomed the group to the conference at its first session. 

“We are at an inflection point where AI is changing what it means to be a computer scientist,” said Julien during her welcome address Friday in the Boeing Auditorium. “Computer science is the intellectual thinking behind these changes - problem solving, adaptability, flexibility, creativity - this is all a foundation for leadership in how AI is going to be applied across a realm of other disciplines beyond computer science. That’s the role that many of you are getting ready to step into.”  

CAPWIC 2026 featured three keynote speakers highlighting both innovation and challenges for women in computing. Dr. Laurian Vega of Booz Allen Hamilton delivered the Friday evening keynote. Candace Aku of Google Public Sector and Dr. Meg Dickey-Kurdziolek of Intrinsic.ai participated in the Saturday portion of the two-day event.