AIM-AHEAD Training Programs Host Initial Networking Sessions for Trainees and Mentors
Overview
February and March have proven to be transformative months for the five collaborative supplemental AIM-AHEAD Training Programs launched in January, 2025. Leaders from each training program successfully hosted their first networking sessions designed to enhance connections and advance the expertise of both their trainees and mentors in the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare and research. During these engaging sessions, participants engaged in substantive discussions, forged meaningful collaborations, and explored valuable pathways for career development and project advancement. Below are the highlights from these impactful events.
AIM-AHEAD & NCATS Training Program
On February 20th, NCATS Trainees participated in their inaugural Mentor Panel session via Zoom, focusing on “Navigating Career Pathways in Health Data Science.” The panel provided valuable insights into career opportunities across academia, industry, and government, as well as the transition from clinical and research roles to data science positions.
The panelists discussed the key skills and experiences essential for career growth in health data science. After answering a series of pre-determined questions, the panelists engaged with mentees, providing further guidance during a Q&A session. The event was an excellent opportunity for trainees to gain insights into the varied career paths within health data science.
On March 20th, program leadership held their first Fireside Chat - attended by the Axle Informatics Team, AIM-AHEAD program leadership, trainees, and invited mentors - which explored powerful stories of resilience and problem-solving in complex projects, strategies for managing failures and turning setbacks into valuable learning opportunities, and presented practical tips for navigating imposter syndrome while building confidence.
AIM-AHEAD Bridge2AI (AI-READI & Clinical Care) Training Programs
In March, program leadership hosted the first of three Networking Sessions for the AIM-AHEAD Bridge2AI for Clinical Care and AIM-AHEAD Bridge2AI AI-READI Training Programs. The Clinical Care session took place on March 10, with 27 trainees and 13 mentors in attendance. The AI-READI session followed on March 12, bringing together 21 trainees and 9 mentors. Both sessions allowed trainees and mentors to connect and explore the benefits of professional networking.
Dr. Robert Mallet, Regents Professor in the Department of Physiology & Anatomy at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC), led each session with an overview of networking benefits and introduced a networking map resource to help trainees strategically expand their professional circles. Luz Henriquez, Senior Administrative Coordinator at the National Research Mentoring Network (NRMN), followed with a presentation on the NRMN network, encouraging trainees to join and leverage the platform for mentorship and collaboration.
Participants then gathered in breakout rooms to discuss their goals, research interests, and potential applications of their training. Following these discussions, attendees reconvened for a debrief to share key takeaways. Each session concluded with a wrap-up, encouraging trainees to continue engaging with their peers and mentors through AIM-AHEAD Connect. A follow-up question was posted on the program discussion board to facilitate engagement further, inviting trainees and mentors to continue the conversation. Both sessions successfully provided trainees and mentors valuable opportunities to build meaningful connections, and the next networking events are highly anticipated.
AIM-AHEAD All of Us Training Program
Also on March 10th, the AIM-AHEAD All of Us Training Program featured an insightful panel discussion from two former trainees from Cohort 1, who generously shared their experiences in developing individual research projects with 18 trainees and 5 mentors representing current participants from Cohort 2. Breakout rooms included a facilitator who was either an RTI coach or one of the panelists, as well as trainees and mentors. The groups switched for the second session so that they had a chance to speak with new facilitators and trainees.
The structured transition from panel discussions to breakout sessions allowed participants to gain practical knowledge while exchanging personal insights. Dr. Robert Mallet’s effective facilitation created an empowering environment, encouraging trainees to learn and enhance their projects.
AIM-AHEAD ScHARe Training Program
On March 26th, the AIM-AHEAD ScHARe Training Program session was led by Dr. Anil Shanker. This session provided a critical opportunity for Cohort 2 participants, which included 19 trainees and 6 mentors, to focus on team-building strategies for complex AI projects. Dr. Shanker’s guidance offered direction and inspiration, empowering trainees as they collaborated to brainstorm ideas for integrating various datasets (e.g., MEPS, BRFSS, NSDUH) into their future reports and research initiatives. The trainees presented their individual project ideas and identified others with similar interests, which facilitated the formation of teams.
This networking session proved to be highly beneficial, allowing trainees to connect with peers who shared similar goals, exchange valuable insights, and collaborate on projects that could lead to improved research outcomes. It also provided the opportunity to learn from one another's experiences and broaden their understanding of available resources for project success.
Looking Forward in AI and Health Research
These initial networking events showcased consortium engagement and the vitality of the AIM-AHEAD Community. These sessions served not only as platforms for knowledge sharing but also highlighted the essential role of collaborative exploration in the dynamic field of AI in healthcare. As they plan for upcoming events, program leadership remains steadfast in their commitment to fostering an environment rich in mentorship, innovation, and the integration of AI into health data science. Together, these five collaborative training programs are shaping a promising future for researchers in this vital field.