IGNITE: SCWIST Networking Night Kicks Off in Vancouver

IGNITE: SCWIST Networking Night Kicks Off in Vancouver

SCWIST has a long-standing tradition of recognizing systemic barriers while creating spaces that ignite opportunities for women in STEM. For over three decades, the Wonder Women Networking Event served as a cornerstone of this work. In 2019, SCWIST shifted to a virtual format, expanding its reach across Canada. This year, we’re excited to build on that foundation with IGNITE — a national road trip bringing together STEM professionals and Canadian talent in six cities across the country.

On March 5, the series kicked off in Vancouver before heading to Yellowknife, Toronto, Halifax, Montreal, and Winnipeg. While the format has evolved, the spirit of the event remains the same: to create dynamic spaces for connection, collaboration, and career growth.

The Vancouver event began with a “How to Network” workshop designed for attendees looking to sharpen their skills before diving into the main event. The session unpacked networking from a systems change perspective, offering practical strategies and insights to foster authentic connections.

The highlight of the evening was a powerful panel discussion featuring STEM leaders:

• Charles Ju, Technical Programs Manager at Verdi
• Dr. Eveline Pasman, Chief Operating Officer at Tenomix
• Lieutenant-Commander Calley Gray, Marine Systems Engineering Officer in the Royal Canadian Navy

The panelists shared their diverse career journeys, insights into their respective organizations, and personal stories about how networking played a transformative role in their professional growth.

A special highlight of the evening was the Canadian Armed Forces, who traveled to Vancouver for IGNITE. Lieutenant Jesse Grigor, Captain Kalina Yurick, and Captain Kathryn Guenter engaged with attendees and inspired many through their stories and presence. The CAF is extremely proud of the valuable contributions its servicewomen have made — and continue to make — on behalf of Canada and Canadians. The military is actively working to increase the number of women in its ranks and recognizes the growing importance of STEM occupations in ensuring national security in an increasingly advanced and unpredictable world.

The energy in the room was buzzing as attendees explored interactive activity boards featuring discussion prompts on topics like pay equity, safe STEM workplaces, and education pathways. These conversations were echoed in curated networking sessions focused on emerging career opportunities and employment trends.

The night concluded with an open networking session where attendees freely mingled and built new connections — a fitting end to an evening filled with insight, inspiration, and collaboration.

The IGNITE 2025 series is just getting started — join us in a city near you:

• Yellowknife: May 20
• Toronto: June 17
• Halifax: July 31
• Montreal: September 23
• Winnipeg: October 1

Follow SCWIST on on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Bluesky, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on IGNITE events happening across Canada in 2025.

“I recently attended a networking event organized by SCWIST, and it was an incredibly valuable experience. The event provided a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and professionals in the STEM field. I left feeling inspired and motivated, with new insights and connections that will help me in my career. SCWIST creates a supportive environment where women in science and technology can come together, share experiences, and grow. I’m grateful for the opportunity and look forward to future events!”

— IGNITE Vancouver Attendee