January 7, 2020 | By Kavita Sabharwal-Chomiuk
The Power Workers’ Union (PWU) has entered into a 10-year partnership to support the Women for STEM Program at Ontario Tech University. The partnership will help provide female students with the knowledge and tools to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The PWU’s $250,000 contribution to the STEM program will create entrance and in-course scholarships that will directly support about 110 female students throughout their studies at Ontario Tech. These scholarships aim to make university education more accessible to female students who face financial barriers and allow the recipients to focus on their studies.
Each recipient of the PWU’s Women for STEM scholarship will be paired with a mentor, allowing them to learn, first-hand, from a professional in their chosen field, while also gaining valuable support and networking opportunities. The PWU will have the option of nominating a number of personnel from their office for the mentorship program.
“The University of Ontario will also reach out to Indigenous communities across Ontario to bring awareness of the program to young women. Gender equality, diversity and partnerships are part of our union’s DNA,” said Mel Hyatt, president of the PWU. “We also understand the importance of innovations that create jobs, reduce costs and better protect our environment.”
“Ontario Tech University’s focus on external partnerships helped drive the creation of Women for STEM. This empowering program encourages success for our women students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, by focusing on mentorship and networking opportunities, investing in scholarships and celebrating their achievements, all backed by a powerful council of senior female executives. On behalf of all of the women who will be Power Workers’ Union Scholarship recipients, we thank you,” said Dr. Steven Murphy, president and vice-chancellor of Ontario Tech University.
