CEMS November Luncheon – In Person Only

CEMS Career Workshop: Beyond Technical Expertise

Erin Kane, Founder, Ascend

Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 11:45am-1pm

Davis Graham, 3400 Walnut Street #700, RiNo Denver

CEMS will not be applying for a CLE for this presentation.  One (1) Professional Development Hour will be available.

Technical expertise builds credibility, but as professionals advance, their impact increasingly depends on skills that are rarely part of their formal training. They are expected to think and communicate more strategically, influence decisions, deepen client relationships, recognize opportunities, lead others, and prepare the next generation to step up. 

This interactive session explores how the definition of professional value changes as careers progress. Participants will examine the shift from technical expert to trusted advisor and leader, identify the capabilities that can expand their impact, and work through real-world challenges submitted in advance by CEMS members, using small-group exercises to practice approaches they can apply in their own workplace.

Erin Kane is the founder of Ascend Strategy Co., where she helps technical professionals and organizations strengthen leadership, client relationships, and business growth. She began her career as a geologist and spent more than 15 years in environmental consulting and corporate strategy, holding senior roles across marketing, sales, and client success. Erin is also a certified coach and brings a practical, real-world perspective to helping technical experts navigate the people, business, and leadership challenges that become increasingly important as their careers advance. 

Fill out our questionnaire to help us shape the workshop! Participants will be entered into a prize drawing.
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Key themes:  

•                      Thinking and communicating beyond your technical specialty

•                      Building influence and navigating increasingly complex organizations

•                      Becoming a trusted advisor and approaching business development more naturally

•                      Developing others through delegation, coaching, visibility, and opportunity

•                      Adapting as your role and responsibilities evolve 

In Person Location: Davis Graham LLP, 3400 Walnut Street, Suite 700, Denver, CO, 80205 (map it). Guests will check-in with the security guard on the first floor of the building, he will then let folks up to the 6th floor where you will be directed to the meeting location. Parking and entrance information here. You may be able to find parking for free on the neighborhood streets.

Sponsorship: CEMS accepts sponsorships to defer expenses associated with its webinar series. Sponsorships are also accepted to fund the Scholarship Fund. Information about sponsorship can be found here: Sponsorship Program.

Notice: CEMS would like to thank Davis Graham LLP for the use of meeting space and would like to emphasize that the use of Davis Graham LLP space does not constitute endorsement of CEMS, sponsors of CEMS functions, or the content of CEMS workshops or meetings.