A group of industry partners has come together to officially launch the newly rebranded Women in Tech and Trades (WiTT) program at Algonquin College, previously known as We Saved You a Seat (WSYAS). This relaunch marks a renewed commitment to equity and inclusion in fields with gender disparity in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and the skilled trades.
"Striving toward gender equity is a massive effort that requires meaningful action and collaboration," said Roslyn Bern, President of the Leacross Foundation, WiTT's founding partner. "My hope is that every woman can have the opportunity to succeed in whatever career they choose. I'm proud to partner with Algonquin College to transform this hope into reality for more women."
Thanks to a transformative commitment of $100,000 per year for the next three years from the Leacross Foundation, WiTT was able to launch this fall with a clear purpose and the resources needed to achieve its goals. The generous support of the Leacross Foundation has positioned WiTT as a key player in the collective effort of advancing gender equity across professions in technology and the skilled trades in Eastern Ontario.
WiTT empowers women in tech and trades at Algonquin College through mentorship, networking, and inclusive community-building. Available to learners in a wide range of programs, in various areas such as those within the School of Advanced Technology, the School of Media and Design, and the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence, WiTT creates spaces for connection and provides learners with opportunities to develop their leadership skills. These experiences support long-term student success, build resilience, and ultimately drive gender diversity in fields with longstanding gender imbalance.
Sandra Brancatelli, Dean of the School of Advanced Technology, looks forward to WiTT's programming. "WiTT events are designed to advance the career goals of our students and provide them with rewarding experiences," she said. "At our speed networking event in the fall, students will engage with faculty and industry professionals in fast-paced conversations about career growth and belonging. Later, in the winter, the WiTT panel discussion will bring successful professionals to campus to share real-world insights and inspire the next generation of women in tech and trades. We'll also host monthly coffee clubs for students to come together in solidarity and grow their networks in a welcoming environment."
The continued success and sustainability of WiTT is made possible through the commitment of the Leacross Foundation and our sponsors:
- The MATT Foundation
- Minto
- Black & McDonald
- Cardel Homes
- Urbandale Construction
- Fullscript
- Hydro Ottawa
- Louis W. Bray Construction
- CGI
- McDonald Brothers Construction (MBC)
- Morgan Quality Homes
- Nokia Canada Inc.
Algonquin College is deeply grateful to these partners for their shared vision and dedication to equity. "Industry support is key to fuelling the growth, resilience, and long-term success of future leaders in STEM and the skilled trades," said Katherine Root, Dean of the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence. "By collaborating, we can more effectively reduce the barriers women face in both their education and the early stages of their careers."
At Algonquin College, we believe that diversity drives innovation. Through WiTT, we are creating meaningful access to opportunity, building a workforce that reflects our communities, and strengthening the future of tech and trades in Ontario and beyond. Students interested in participating in WiTT and organizations who wish to shape the next generation of talent in tech and trades are encouraged to contact WiTT by email or go to the WiTT website.
For more information
1385 Woodroffe Avenue
Ottawa Ontario
Canada K2G 1V8
www.algonquincollege.com/
