October 7, 2025 Panel Discussion & Networking
Topic: Unlocking Project Leadership Across Domains
The evening will begin with a networking session, followed by a fireside chat featuring a panel of seasoned project leaders from diverse backgrounds. The panel discussion will be moderated by Wadzanai Mellisa, a student from Clark University.
Panelists will be:
- Tim Wharton is completing a successful and diverse career in the Naval Nuclear Power community. Starting in the enlisted ranks he served on two submarine crews as a propulsion mechanic and taught nuclear propulsion operations. He was selected into the Nuclear Propulsion Officer community and went on to serve aboard aircraft carriers and submarines during both operational and shipyard maintenance periods. During these tours of duty, he acted as an operational team leader, project manager, and technical expert. He is currently the Ship’s Maintenance Manager on the aircraft carrier under construction in Newport News, VA where he oversees programs required to maintain the condition of the ship. Tim's education and certifications include BS Nuclear Engineering Technology (TESU '12), MS Project Management (BU '22), PMP, and PPL. He enjoys endurance sports and is kind of a space nerd.
- Ashish Bhardwaj is a seasoned technology leader with over two decades of experience driving innovation and strategic transformation across the financial services and utility/ energy sectors. As the Head of Worksite Technology at MassMutual, Ashish leads the initiatives to modernize platforms, streamline operations and enable business growth. He is currently spearheading a strategic program to launch new supplemental health products in the voluntary benefits marketplace, expanding access and value to customers. Previously Ashish led the digital transformation and business enablement of the gas business unit and held multiple leadership roles at Fidelity Capital Markets- Prime Services and Securities Finance, Institutional brokerage and Corporate Actions. Ashish holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering, master’s in information systems, and an MBA, blending deep technical expertise & leadership and strategic business insight. Outside of work, Ashish enjoys traveling, staying active through outdoor sports, hiking, and yoga.
- Bob Ellis (stay tuned for bio)
If registration is closed - Walk Ins are Welcome!
