STAC Launches Young Professionals Program with Oversubscribed Private Event at Cboe Global Markets 

By: Hanna Droessler, STAC YP

On April 4, 2024, the Security Traders Association of Chicago (STAC) hosted our inaugural STAC Young Professionals (YP) event. This was our first opportunity to bring together young professionals in trading, finance, and related fields to demonstrate how STAC can help them supercharge their career in the securities industry. 

When we launched STAC YP earlier this year, our goal was to create and foster an environment where driven early to mid-career professionals, as well as upper class undergraduate and graduate students could gather to learn and network with their peers. We recognize it can often be intimidating to attend industry events, so we designed STAC YP to be a welcoming space for security professionals at a similar career stage to gather alongside veterans in the industry who can offer unique mentorship opportunities.

We were so fortunate to have three amazing sponsors join us as our foundational annual sponsors to kick off the STAC YP program and support this event: Cboe Global Markets, HRT and Penserra. These three organizations are committed to championing emerging talent and cultivating meaningful connections with the next generation of securities industry professionals. They are truly forging the path for tomorrow's securities industry leaders, and their generous backing made this first event possible – and a resounding success!

Our Young Professionals were treated to an exclusive private tour of Cboe Global Markets followed by a reception where they were able to network with like-minded professionals in the industry. They received a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart of one of the world's leading financial markets, were able to walk the trading floor and had the exciting opportunity to ring the bell! This was a unique opportunity for our attendees to gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of trading operations and the cutting-edge technology Cboe is using to drive the industry forward. Following the tour, attendees gathered for a presentation on the rich history and pivotal role of options trading as well as a comprehensive overview of key concepts and trends shaping the future of securities trading.

The highlight of the evening was the networking reception, where professionals from across the industry came together to exchange ideas, insights, and contacts with our Young Professionals and enjoy the amazing hospitality our sponsors arranged. And a big thank you to our STAC board and members for taking the time to join in the education and fun with these Young Professionals and make this such a successful endeavor. The success of this inaugural STAC YP event underscores the importance of fostering connections and collaboration as we work together to shape a brighter future for the local Chicago finance industry. 

Thank you once again to all our sponsors, attendees, and supporters for making this event possible. We look forward to many more successful gatherings in the future! To learn more about STAC Young Professionals and apply to become a member, visit our STAC YP page. If you’re an organization who would like to foster the next generation of financial industry talent in Chicago, learn more about our STAC YP sponsorship opportunities. 

Make sure to check out all the photos from the event!