A significant step forward in the pursuit of gender balance in STEM-related disciplines.
June 13, 2023
For women pursuing post-secondary education and professions in science, engineering, technology, and math (STEM), there remains a sizable gender disparity, despite notable advancements in recent years. Even though women make up the bulk of Canadian university graduates, they are still underrepresented in STEM fields.
Ontario Tech launched the Women for STEM initiative in 2019 with the goal of addressing gender inequality in Canada and empowering the upcoming generation of women leaders in STEM. The program, which is run by the university's Women for STEM Council, aims to award 600 in-course scholarships and 200 entry scholarships over a ten-year period. The three pillars of the Women for STEM initiative are honoring the accomplishments of women as innovators and change agents, providing opportunities for networking and mentorship, and offering scholarships.
In order to achieve gender equity in STEM, a concentrated, long-term strategy is needed to support female engagement and success in the field. This strategy should include programming to pique the interest of young girls in elementary and secondary school, financial aid and mentorship for post-secondary students to help them succeed in their studies, and assistance for graduates as they enter the workforce.
