EMPOWER’s new trainees are current MS and PhD students in Chemistry, Earth Sciences, and Civil and Environmental Engineering. On Feb. 3, the trainees, along with participating faculty, met to officially kick-off the program. After an interesting game of “People Bingo,” the trainees brainstormed ideas for possible communications and professional development workshops. Trainees also had the opportunity to share what they hoped to gain from participation in the program and any concerns that they may have. Many interesting and helpful ideas were shared that will help faculty and staff plan for the upcoming semester.