Career Mentoring San Francisco

ELC Annual 2026: 2-Day Conference for Eng Leaders to Reconnect in San Francisco

The ***[ELC Annual](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)*** is built around a simple belief: the most valuable learning happens in conversation - with peers who are navigating the same pressures, making the same hard calls, and building through the same uncertainty. This year, we're going deeper on the questions that don't have easy answers. What does it mean to lead well when the ground keeps shifting? How do you build teams that are resilient, high-trust, and genuinely high-performing, not just on paper? What does great engineering leadership look like beyond the technical, in the moments that require judgment, integrity, and clarity of purpose? Across roundtable discussions, intimate speaking sessions, and 1:1 conversations, you'll engage with engineering leaders who are thinking seriously about these questions — and willing to share what they've actually learned. — What you'll explore * Leadership & Strategy Leading through uncertainty and volatile decision-making environments. The evolving CTO/VP role — from roadmap owner to visionary strategist. Ethical decision-making, leadership integrity, and purpose-driven organizations. Storytelling and influence: communicating complex ideas to executives and boards. * Teams & Culture Building high-trust teams and psychological safety at scale. Navigating culture shifts in growing organizations. Scaling hybrid and remote work — the practices and rituals that actually stick. Building inclusive engineering cultures and diverse talent pipelines. * Talent & People Development Developing next-generation leaders through mentoring and succession planning. Continuous performance management and feedback systems. Retention, engagement, and creating environments where people genuinely thrive. Hiring for potential: assessing soft skills and growth mindset. * Cross-Functional Collaboration Aligning engineering, product, and design around shared outcomes. Breaking down silos with tools and practices that work. Customer-centric engineering: building products users truly love. Cross-functional OKRs and collaborative planning across roadmaps and backlogs. * AI in Practice Building AI-enabled teams — what it looks like beyond the theory. AI in software development: coding assistants, prompt engineering, and human-AI collaboration. Translating AI trends into actionable engineering strategy. Architecting AI systems that make it to production and stay there. * Engineering Excellence Measuring developer productivity, satisfaction, and team health. Observability and incident response in AI-enabled systems. Balancing innovation with operational priorities. Coaching teams through change without losing momentum. — What to expect **Roundtable Discussions** Small-group sessions facilitated by experienced practitioners — designed for active participation, not passive listening. These are the conversations where people say what they actually think. **Speaking Sessions** Close-up conversations with engineering leaders who are actively shaping what the role looks like today. Past speakers have included leaders from OpenAI, Stripe, Google, Dropbox, Atlassian, and Slack, as well as Reid Hoffman, Max Levchin, and Adam Grant. **1:1 Meetings** Structured time to connect directly with peers, mentors, and industry veterans. Some of the most valuable relationships in ELC have started here. — Leave with a clearer sense of what kind of leader you want to be - and a network of people who are working toward the same thing. Register ***[here](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)***.

An Authentic, Trusting & Powerful Men's Circle

Many of us arrive at MDI looking for something. At this point in our lives we have had several challenges. Some that have made us better, some that have rocked the foundation of everything we know and experience in our daily lives. We have felt isolated, alone, burdened, broken even. I was unsure that anything outside of me could hold solutions, or that it was possible for me to learn new ways of being that would connect me with other men-that I could find a place where I could develop into mature masculinity to be able to not only solve some of my problems, but learn how to lead teams of men. This begs a question: How is the world better off with Mature Masculine Leadership, and what is in it for me? Here are a few answers. If your interest is peaked, consider reaching out to us, claim your future... The world is significantly better off with **Mature Masculine Leaders** because such leadership brings a balanced, grounded, and principled approach to power, responsibility, and service. Here's how this benefits society: Mature masculine leaders typically embody **emotional regulation, self-mastery, and integrity**. This creates more stable governments, organizations, and families. These leaders don’t react impulsively or let ego drive decisions—they respond with clarity, long-term thinking, and accountability. *They become anchors in chaos.* The benefit to the world is **transformational**. Mature masculine leaders don't just govern—they **mentor, stabilize, and serve**. Their presence often leads to safer societies, stronger institutions, healthier families, and more cohesive communities. When men lead from maturity, not insecurity or domination, **everyone—regardless of gender—thrives.** Mentor Discover Inspire (MDI) is an international men's organization. You can also [visit our website ](https://www.mentordiscoverinspire.org/) to find out more about us. There is a form there which can help find an MDI Team in your area. If you fill out the form we will get back to you about starting the process of joining an MDI Team.

Job Seeker Meetup: An in-person peer support space for job seekers

This is a relaxed, in-person gathering where job seekers can connect, share, and support one another through the ups and downs of the job search. Looking for work can feel isolating — but you’re not alone. This is a welcoming space to: * Talk openly about your experience * Swap advice, encouragement, or leads * Build a community of people who truly understand * Learn practical job search strategies from career coach [Cathy Lloyd](https://www.whimsy-at-work.com/), including how to use AI tools and prompts to support your job search, research employers, and evaluate your LinkedIn profile and resume for specific opportunities while radiating your unique self. *[View Cathy’s Handout](https://drive.google.com/file/d/196dBGDBrMyHYfFlrJyixCcvGe92v8eGA/view?usp=sharing).* Whether you're between jobs, changing careers, or figuring out your next step — this is a place for you. **This program takes place in the Jobs and Career Center - 4th Floor of the Main Library**.

Beers and Biotech at Curry Pizza House South San Francisco | Sept 24, 2026

Join us on Thursday, September 24th, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm PDT in South San Francisco for Beers & Biotech. Get ready for another round of **Beers & Biotech** on **Thursday, September 24th, 2026, from 6pm to 8pm PDT** in South San Francisco. Join us at **Curry Pizza House, 415 Grand Avenue**, a relaxed spot perfect for great conversations and new connections. Enjoy local craft beers, wines, and ciders, along with our famous Indian-fusion pizzas throughout the evening. **We’ll also have beers and pizza by the slice available for purchase.** Whether you’re a biotech veteran or just entering the field, it’s a great chance to mingle with the Bay Area’s dynamic biotech community. **This event is FREE with an RSVP!** **RSVP NOW: [https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com](https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** We invite entrepreneurs, employees, and researchers to join this South San Francisco business networking event. Come prepared to forge new connections, grow your network, and enjoy a fun and engaging evening! Previous attendees have includes people from companies such as: Genentech, Amgen, Calico Life Sciences, Kaiser Permanente, 23ANDME, Pfizer, ABBVIE, INC, Accenture, Google, Amazon, Facebook, Kairser Permanente, and more. Regardless of your age, industry level, or industry, you are welcome to join us! [The Professional Connector](https://professionalconnector.com/) has hosted successful events with well-known sponsors and partners. Based on the type of event we reach out to different partners we have worked with in the past and are always looking for new sponsors. Our previous Partners and Sponsors have included such companies as WP Engine, Instapage, vCita, General Assembly, Constant Contact, Yelp, WeWork, Diablo Magazine, SF Business Times, Lyft, Uber and more. To learn more about our Sponsorship Opportunities, call us today at 510-761-5895 or visit our website [www.ProfessionalConnector.com/Sponsors/](https://www.professionalconnector.com/sponsors/) **VENUE HOST - Curry Pizza House / Hidden Tap & Barrel** at 415 Grand Avenue, South San Francisco. Located in the heart of Downtown South San Francisco, the birthplace of biotechnology, **Hidden Tap & Barrel** offers the ideal setting for a relaxed happy hour, right across from City Hall and just a short walk from Genentech’s landmark office. Next door, **Curry Pizza House** serves up a diverse menu of Indian-fusion pizzas, classic pies, wings, and salads. **Located at 415 Grand Avenue, South San Francisco, California** We cant wait to see you! **This event is FREE with an RSVP!** **RSVP NOW: [https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com](https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** **MEET THE PROFESSIONAL CONNECTOR/EVENT HOST - David Mitroff, PhD** David is a sought-after Business Growth Strategist who shares his secrets for creating successful brands that stand out and thrive. David inspires business professionals through his keynote talks on a wide range of topics such as how to build a brand with data-driven marketing, digital leadership: growing your online presence, and the psychology behind building professional connections. David Mitroff, Ph.D. ([www.DavidMitroff.com](https://www.davidmitroff.com/)) is the Founder and Chief Consultant at Piedmont Avenue Consulting ([www.PiedmontAve.com](https://www.piedmontave.com/)). David questions assumptions, offers creative ideas, and encourages new initiatives from strategy through implementation. David’s wealth of knowledge is transferred to clients leading to heightened sales, increased customer experiences, and enhanced relationship building techniques. David has an extensive educational background, in addition to professional sales training, which includes a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with coursework in Business Administration, Legal Studies, and Marketing, providing a foundation for excellent critical and analytical thinking, business strategy, relationship building, and networking. Accelerate your business growth with customized consulting and marketing strategies designed to increase revenue, strengthen your brand, and help you stand out from the competition. [Bay Area Business Consulting](https://piedmontave.com/bay-area-business-consulting/) services help entrepreneurs and established companies develop growth strategies, improve operations, increase profitability, and overcome business challenges with customized solutions. Our [Restaurant Marketing](https://piedmontave.com/restaurant-marketing/) services help restaurants attract more customers through strategic branding, digital marketing, local SEO, reputation management, and promotional campaigns that increase revenue and customer loyalty. We also specialize in[ Hotel Marketing](https://piedmontave.com/hotel-marketing/), providing hospitality businesses with comprehensive marketing strategies, website optimization, search engine marketing, social media management, and targeted advertising to increase bookings, strengthen brand awareness, and drive long-term growth. Contact us at [www.PiedmontAve.com](http://www.piedmontave.com/), and let’s create a customized plan to elevate your business success. Throughout his career, Dr. Mitroff has served as an instructor for several reputable colleges such as the University of California at Berkeley, in addition to being a featured media expert for NBC, ABC, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc. Magazine, Washington Post, Hospitality Technology, Hospitality Net and more. David has also written books on[ Online Business Growth Strategies](https://davidmitroff.com/marketing-book/), [Law Firm Business Growth Strategies](https://piedmontave.com/law-firm-business-growth-strategies/), [The Event Effect](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beers-and-biotech-at-curry-pizza-house-south-san-francisco-sept-24-2026-tickets-1994023614308?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true), and more! If you're looking for a business consultant, keynote speaker, executive coach, or marketing expert, schedule a FREE call with David Mitroff Ph.D. to get started! **This event is FREE with an RSVP!** **RSVP NOW: [https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com](https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** The Professional Connector. A vision of Piedmont Avenue Consulting, Inc. We organize and promote hundreds of business networking and social mixers to provide business professionals an opportunity to make new business and personal connections, build their network, find new clients, and expand their business. We work with companies to build their brand through events and create amazing launches and private parties. In the San Francisco Bay Area for the last 8 years we have hosted over 50+ events each year at such venues as Google, WeWork, General Assembly, Yelp, W Hotel, and more. We also host events in other cities such as at the Beverley Hills SLS Hotel and Portland Nines Hotel. Call us today to see how we might be able to help your company organize, launch parties, recruiting events, sales events, and more! ## **Frequently Asked Questions** ### **Why attend?** Looking to grow your professional network in the Bay Area biotech and entrepreneurial scene? Our events are the perfect place to meet like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, discover new opportunities, and stay in touch with what’s happening in the industry all in a relaxed, friendly environment. ### **Who usually attends?** Attendance varies from small, focused gatherings of 20 people to large meetups of up to 400 attendees. No matter the crowd size, you’ll find everyone open, friendly, and easy to connect with. Our event hosts are always on hand to introduce you to new contacts and keep conversations flowing. ### **What should I bring?** Come prepared with business cards and an updated LinkedIn profile something short and shareable like [linkedin.com/in/davidmitroff](https://linkedin.com/in/davidmitroff).It’s a simple way to make connections that last beyond the event. ### **Is there a dress code?** We recommend **business casual**. Even if you’re coming straight from home, dress as if you’re heading to work you never know who you might meet! Photos and videos will be taken throughout the evening, so it’s a great chance to look sharp and professional. ### **What’s on the menu?** Expect *Curry Pizza House’s* crowd-favorite Indian-fusion pizzas served all evening long a delicious mix of bold flavors perfect for fueling great conversations . ### **Want to expand your business network?** Whether you’re refining your business strategy, exploring go-to-market ideas for your product, or just looking for post-work inspiration, our community of experienced professionals and industry experts is here to help. And if you’re searching for the perfect after-work mixer, invite your colleagues and join us! **This event is FREE with an RSVP!** **RSVP NOW: [https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com](https://beersandbiotech-cph-ssf.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!***

Let's talk: imposter

SF Repair Cafe Volunteering

A San Francisco Repair Café is hosting its first event on Sunday, September 13, where neighbors bring broken or well-loved items to be repaired instead of thrown away. It’s a fun way to reduce waste, share skills, and build community. You don’t have to be a repair expert to volunteer! Any skills are appreciated—sewing, jewelry repair, arts & crafts, electrical, mechanical, baking treats for volunteers and guests, or simply helping with check-in, setup, event support, and teardown. There’s a role for everyone! If you’d be interested in volunteering, please email Anya at anya.prasad@sfbayarearotary.org for the signup link and details.

Designers and Engineers at Salesforce Park

**RSVP via:** https://app.gistirl.com/event-details/UL9L3xS2ksuRqWeh34rd **Early Bird Discounts | More $ Later** Hey builders and creatives, Join me for an evening of real shop talk about the thing on all of our minds right now: how AI is reshaping what it means to be a designer or an engineer. We'll kick things off with about an hour of app-guided one-on-one chats to break the ice, and then we'll split into small groups to head out for a bite at a local spot. The Gist IRL app handles all the pairings, so you always know exactly who you're chatting with next and can dive straight into the good stuff: What's actually in your stack right now? Cursor, Claude Code, Figma Make, v0, Lovable, something I haven't heard of yet? What's changed about how you work in the last six months? And the big one - how are people actually landing jobs in this market? Referrals, portfolios, side projects, going independent? Everyone at this event is navigating the same shift, and it's a fantastic way to compare notes with your peers in a warm, easygoing setting. Once the rounds wrap up, the best part begins. You'll select a few of the folks you hit it off with the most, form a small squad, and pick a nearby restaurant and head to dinner together right then and there. By the end of the evening, you're at a table with 4-6 designers and engineers swapping workflows, hot takes, and job-search war stories over a great meal. Whether these folks become your regular dinner crew, your go-to people for "hey, have you tried this tool," or you just enjoy a really memorable night out in the city, I know you'll be glad you came. The Plan: 6:00PM: Check-In. Follow the link to set up your quick profile on your phone. 6:05PM - 7:25PM: One-on-One Rounds. The app pairs you for focused chats. Find out who's using what, how AI is changing their day-to-day, and what's working (and not working) in the job hunt right now. 7:25PM+: Form Groups & head to dinner. Reconnect with your favorite matches, form groups of 4-6, and pick a nearby restaurant and head to dinner - your group leaves together tonight. Let's skip the usual routine of just collecting contacts and instead actually go to dinner together, maybe even discovering the people you'll be trading tool recommendations and job leads with all year. And when the plates are cleared, you can easily keep the conversation going through the app without ever needing to hand out your phone number. I'm so excited to gather around a table with you all and see where the night takes us. **RSVP via:** https://app.gistirl.com/event-details/UL9L3xS2ksuRqWeh34rd **Early Bird Discounts | More $ Later**

Oakland Network & Thrive: Connect with Local Professionals

Come with a happy spirit, ready to connect with like-minded professionals! ✅ **Come ready to share your ideal customers** and **ideal referral partner**. This makes it easier for others to refer you to your target market. ✅ Have something to promote? Whether it’s an event, blog, podcast, YouTube channel, or new project—come prepared to share! ✅ Most importantly, bring your energy, positivity, and willingness to collaborate. Together, we’ll make networking fun, effective, and full of opportunities! 🚀

The Campfire Circle: , Fire, Fun, and Brotherhood

Join us for an evening of connection, laughter, and challenge — no fluff, no judgment, just good fun, honest conversation, and solid brotherhood. Whether you're craving purpose, support, or just something different… this is the night you've been needing.

Total Clarity - Free workshop and happy hour

After the success of our July event, let's regroup again downtown San Francisco Whether you have success or not, you want to figure out what could be a better job for you. After networking with other like-minded or inspirational people, you will have the opportunity to attend a one hour workshop designed to help you unfold and express what you really want. You will certainly come back home happier - This event is open to member of the community as well as other communities

PM x AI Summit 2026

*Paid event. Link to register: https://pmisfbac.org/calendar/pm-x-ai-summit-2026-47467* *PM x AI Summit 2026* Where Project Leadership Meets AI Hosted by *PMI San Francisco Bay Area Chapter* Empowering project leaders with the skills, mindset, and strategies to lead confidently in the AI era.

Women in Tech, Fintech, AI, Startups, Networking Event & Elevator Pitch SF

🔔 **Please Note:** RSVP on Meetup **does not guarantee entry**. To attend, you **must register through the official ticket link** here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sf-women-in-tech-founders-professionals-networking-night-tickets-1996991068042](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sf-women-in-tech-founders-professionals-networking-night-tickets-1996991068042) Join us for an empowering and insightful networking event designed for professionals in the dynamic fields of Women in Tech, Fintech, HealthTech, Edtech, Artificial Intelligence... Startups Founders, Professionals and Entrepreneurs. **Event Overview:** * **Women in Tech:** An exclusive platform for women in technology to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This segment focuses on empowering female professionals and entrepreneurs in the tech industry, offering a space to connect, learn, and inspire. * **Fintech:** Dive into the world of financial technology with experts and innovators. Explore the latest trends, discuss challenges and opportunities, and connect with peers who are shaping the future of fintech. * **AI:** Engage with professionals at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence. Whether you’re a developer, a strategist, or simply an AI enthusiast, this segment offers a deep dive into emerging technologies, ethical considerations, and groundbreaking applications. * **Startups:** A space for startup founders and entrepreneurs to network, share stories, and gain insights. This segment is perfect for those looking to scale their startups, seeking mentorship, or wanting to learn from successful entrepreneurial journeys. * **Entrepreneurs:** Connect with fellow entrepreneurs across various industries. Discuss strategies, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations. This is an ideal platform for both seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs. **Why Attend?** * **Networking Opportunities:** Meet and connect with professionals across diverse yet interconnected fields. * **1-Minute Elevator Pitch** – Introduce yourself, share your expertise, and highlight collaboration or investment opportunities in a structured yet informal setting. * **Knowledge Sharing:** Learn from leaders and peers, and gain valuable insights that can propel your career or business forward. * **Collaboration and Growth:** Discover potential collaborations, partnerships, and ways to expand your professional network. * **Inspiration:** Get inspired by success stories and innovative ideas that are driving these industries. **Who Should Attend the event?** * **Female Professionals in Tech:** Women who are working in or aspiring to break into the tech industry, looking for mentorship, networking, and growth opportunities. * **Fintech Enthusiasts and Professionals:** Individuals working in or interested in financial technology, including startup founders, developers, investors, and those curious about the latest fintech trends. * **AI Innovators and Tech Buffs:** Professionals and students in the field of Artificial Intelligence, including AI developers, researchers, tech entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts keen on exploring the future of AI. * **Startup Founders and Team Members:** Entrepreneurs who are in the process of building a startup, as well as team members of existing startups looking for networking, collaboration, and learning opportunities. * **Aspiring Entrepreneurs:** Individuals who are considering starting their own business and looking to gain insights, find inspiration, and connect with potential mentors and collaborators. * **Investors and Venture Capitalists:** Those interested in investing in tech, fintech, AI startups, or looking for new, innovative ventures to fund and support. * **Business Consultants and Advisors:** Experts who provide guidance and advice in the tech, fintech, and startup sectors, looking to expand their network and knowledge. * **Academics and Researchers:** Individuals from academia who are studying or researching in these fields and are interested in the practical application of their work and industry trends. This diverse group of attendees ensures a dynamic and multifaceted networking event, full of potential for new insights, collaborations, and business development opportunities. This event promises to be a rich experience filled with engaging conversations, learning opportunities, and the chance to form lasting connections. Whether you are deeply entrenched in these fields or simply curious about them, this networking event is a must-attend! Join us to connect, share, and grow in an environment that celebrates innovation and entrepreneurship. **Register now - space is limited to 50 attendees only!** **P.S. Click Follow for future event alerts!**