Patent Pathways®: Fostering the Next Generation in Patent Law

Patent Pathways® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities in the patent profession. By offering free virtual education, mentorship, financial support, practical career guidance, and law firm matching, Patent Pathways® empowers talented individuals from underrepresented backgrounds—particularly those with STEM degrees—to succeed in patent law. Through this program, participants are provided with the tools, resources, and community needed to prepare for and pass the patent bar, as well as the opportunity to meet with and apply for roles with law firm partners, transforming career aspirations into realities.

The program arose out of patent firm Harrity & Harrity’s “Give 2 Give” philosophy, through which the partners prioritize giving back to the community simply to make a difference. Launched in 2022, Patent Pathways® has since hosted over 130 virtual sessions for 91 participants, with a record 51 individuals in the most recent cohort. It is a 100% volunteer-based organization, comprised of over 40 law firm partners and corporate sponsors, 108 mentors, and 189 active volunteers all dedicated to improving inclusion in the patent field by bringing in individuals from all backgrounds sharing one common goal: passing the patent bar.

Pai Liu, one of the incredible members of the June 2024 Patent Pathways® cohort, recently celebrated that tremendous achievement: she passed the patent bar exam. Pai’s journey is a testament to her remarkable determination and highlights the powerful influence Patent Pathways® can have on those dreaming of obtaining a career in patent law.

With both a bachelor’s and Ph.D. in neuroscience from Emory University, Pai has already established herself as a trailblazer in the technology transfer field. However, balancing her patent studies with a full-time role was no easy feat, especially since she is not a native English speaker. Reflecting on this challenge, Pai noted, “Passing the patent bar is something I never imagined achieving (as English is not my first language). Just three years ago, I didn’t even know what patent law was, and I can hardly believe how far I’ve come with the support of this program.”

During her journey, Pai found invaluable resources, mentorship, and encouragement through Patent Pathways®. “I’m forever grateful for the encouragement provided throughout (I needed that to study after full-time work every day), the PLI study material, and the guidance from everyone on the Patent Pathways® Team,” she shared. Patent Pathways® provided the tools that allowed her to build confidence and thrive in the patent profession. “Passing the patent bar has been a game-changer for me as a technology transfer professional,” Pai said, emphasizing how the knowledge she’s gained “has enriched my work and boosted my confidence immensely.”

One of the most memorable moments in Pai’s journey was her recent meeting with Kathi Vidal, Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). During their conversation, Pai shared her story and expressed that her success would not have been possible without the support of Patent Pathways®. Director Vidal later celebrated Pai’s accomplishment in a LinkedIn post, publicly recognizing her dedication and resilience. This recognition underscores the potential of programs like Patent Pathways® to elevate and inspire others pursuing and within the patent profession.

John Harrity, Chairperson of Patent Pathways®, also praised Pai’s success, calling her journey “a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of support and mentorship.” He emphasized that Pai’s achievements—especially passing the patent bar as a non-native English speaker while managing full-time work—capture the mission of Patent Pathways®. “Your success is not just personal; it uplifts and motivates everyone involved in this community,” he noted, pointing out that Pai’s journey will undoubtedly inspire others who may have once felt that patent law was out of reach.

Pai’s story exemplifies the impact of Patent Pathways®’ commitment to creating a more inclusive future for patent law. Through mentorship, financial assistance, study resources, and ongoing support, Patent Pathways® empowers individuals like Pai to excel in patent law and make meaningful contributions within the innovation ecosystem.

Congratulations to Pai on this incredible accomplishment. Her journey offers powerful encouragement for those who hope to follow in her footsteps, and her success highlights the vital role that programs like Patent Pathways® play in building a diverse future for the patent profession.

Stay tuned for more stories as Patent Pathways® continues opening doors and paving new paths for talent in patent law.

Want to be part of our mission? Learn how you can get involved as a partner, sponsor, committee volunteer, or mentor below.

JOIN A PATENT PATHWAYS COMMITTEE
BECOME A MENTOR
BECOME A LAW FIRM PARTNER
BECOME A CORPORATE SPONSOR
APPLY TO PARTICIPATE IN PATENT PATHWAYS

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At Cargill, diversity and inclusion are more than just buzzwords—they are integral to how the company operates, from its internal culture to its partnerships with outside counsel. One champion of this commitment is Cass Dottridge, a patent attorney at Cargill, who has passionately driven the company’s efforts to promote diversity in the legal profession. “Patent Pathways program is really about walking the talk, and that is really, really important,” and “is a real differentiator for law firms,” says Cass, reflecting on her work with the company and its external partners.

Cargill’s dedication to diversity extends beyond its walls, influencing the firms they choose to work with. The company actively evaluates the diversity of its outside counsel, ensuring that diverse talent is not only involved but given the opportunity to lead and grow. This proactive approach isn’t just about meeting quotas—it’s about fostering meaningful change in the industry.

One standout example of this commitment is Cargill’s participation in the Patent Pathways program. Cass was deeply impressed with the program when she first learned about the program. Through Patent Pathways, Cargill collaborated with its outside counsel, Kagan Binder, to create an invaluable opportunity for one of the program’s participants. Together, they brought Aeriel Parker on board for a 2L summer internship. Cass not only facilitated the opportunity but also went above and beyond to ensure Aeriel’s experience was enriching. She mentored Aeriel throughout the summer, arranged for her to have lunch with Cargill’s General Counsel, and created a network of support that led to Aeriel being offered a full-time position at Kagan Binder after graduation.

This type of collaboration between corporations like Cargill and their outside counsel is a powerful model for future iterations of Patent Pathways. It not only creates opportunities for diverse talent but also sets a standard for how companies and law firms can work together to drive real, lasting change in the legal profession.

What Cargill and Cass Dottridge have done with Aeriel Parker’s internship is a shining example of how diversity programs like Patent Pathways can make a tangible impact, helping to shape the future of the industry while providing a competitive edge. This partnership shows that when corporations and outside counsel unite with a shared vision, the results are nothing short of transformative.

Looking for ways to get involved? Check out these useful links below!

JOIN A PATENT PATHWAYS COMMITTEE
BECOME A MENTOR
BECOME A LAW FIRM PARTNER
BECOME A CORPORATE SPONSOR
APPLY TO PARTICIPATE IN PATENT PATHWAYS

Increasing Diversity in the Patent Field

Patent Pathways®: Fostering the Next Generation in Patent Law

How Cargill is Walking the Talk in Diversity & Inclusion