Last Updated: 12/06/2012*

Imagine - Find Your Purpose and Make a Difference

200 Raytheon women were among the 8,000 participants for a day of keynote speeches, health and wellness tips, expert mentoring and professional development seminars as part of this year’s Massachusetts Conference for Women, the largest women’s conference in the United States. The event took place at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

"Throughout our careers, it's important to remain open to new ideas," said Rebecca Rhoads, Raytheon's Chief Information Officer. "This conference is the perfect place to soak up content from some amazing speakers."

The festivities kicked off with a company-sponsored breakfast hosted by Chief Information Officer Rebecca Rhoads, Chief Communications Officer Pam Wickham and Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources & Security Keith Peden. The invitation-only event featured a presentation from Marla Capozzi, leader of McKinsey & Company’s Global Innovation Practice.

During the morning plenary, Charlotte Beers, former Chairwoman and CEO of Ogilvy & Mather talked about finding your voice. She told participants that "being memorable means people can actually hear and retain what you say."

“Having access to so many remarkable women in one place on one day is incredible,” said Allison Jeannotte, a member of the company’s community relations team and first time conference attendee.

Later, Wickham, one of the top 10 most social Chief Marketing Officers, took questions and shared her story as part of the local leader “Meet Up” session in the conference exhibit hall. You can follow her on Twitter @PamWickham1.

Luncheon keynote speakers included Arianna Huffington, president and editor-in-chief of the Pulitzer Prize winning Huffington Post Media Group; Tory Johnson, CEO of Spark and Hustle and weekly contributor to ABC’s Good Morning America; and Kristin Chenoweth, award-winning singer, actress and Broadway star.

Before the afternoon events got underway, Connie Smith was named the winner of this year's "Be the Change" award. She was recognized for the art therapy program that she runs at the Women's Lunch Place. She told all assembled that she was humbled by the award and that she shared it with the women at the center who used art to find peace.

Throughout the day, the career pavilion was the destination for mentoring help, resume reviews, social media roundtables and expert discussions.

This year, Raytheon made the decision to turn its usual exhibition space over to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston. The company is also sponsoring a career advancement session hosted by Chief Learning Officer Beth Carlson.

You view the conversation on Twitter by searching the #masswomen hashtag or following organizers @MassWomen. They also have a Facebook page.