Women in business will unite under one roof on Nov. 3, as the Small Business Development Center and the Stanislaus Business Alliance host the second annual Business Women’s Symposium.

The inspiration for the event came from the desire to provide women with an opportunity to learn new ideas, network with other women and be inspired by successful professionals.

“It’s important to connect women in business so that they can network,” said SBDC Assistant Director Katy Winders. “It allows women business owners to know there are others out there, and that we’re actually all rooting for each other and supporting each other.”

With a theme of “Overcoming Obstacles, Celebrating Success,” the event will be headlined by President and Chief Executive Officer of DirectLine Technologies, Inc., Dr. Martha Connor. A marketing and fund-development veteran, Connor founded DirectLine in 1990 and is known for understanding her clients’ needs.

The event will also feature three panel speakers. Patty Amador, president of Ambeck Mortgage Associates, will speak to the crowd about “Teaming, Leading and Succeeding.” Her talk will focus on leadership communication. According to Winders, Amador still has many of the employees she began her business with 30 years ago.

“I think that alone is a huge testament to her business skills,” said Winders.

Also speaking on the event’s panel will be Victoria Popoff, owner of Studio V Pilates & Fitness. Popoff’s talk, titled “Optimizing Your Social Media Presence,” will teach the audience how to balance personal and business social media accounts.

“She has a real knack for social media, and even consults on it in her spare time,” said Winders.

Amy Vickey, public information office for the City of Modesto, will inform the crowd about “Leaning in Without Tipping Over.” The talk will center around how business women can balance work in life, and remain involved in the community without jeopardizing their personal lives.

“We want to inspire, educate and promote professional growth,” said Winders.

The second annual Business Women’s Symposium will be held from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 3 at Greens on Tenth in Modesto, 953 10th St. Tickets are $30 each, which includes a breakfast buffet. According to Winders, there are currently only 34 tickets left for the event. Tickets will be on sale until they sell out, or until the day of the event. Those interested in purchasing tickets must register before the event at www.alliancesbdc.com/classes/womens-business-symposium/.