Biography

Jen is a science communicator and educator whose passion for making science accessible and engaging has defined her career for over 15 years. From giving live animal shows at a reptile zoo — think alligators, 14-foot snakes, and everything scaly in between — to teaching secondary school science, leading curriculum-based outdoor education programs, and running hands-on paleontology programs for classrooms, Jen has spent her career meeting people where they are and sparking curiosity at every age.

As a Staff Scientist at TELUS World of Science - Edmonton, she co-leads a team of staff and volunteers, overseeing experiential programming, outreach initiatives, and large-scale events that connect communities with science in meaningful and memorable ways. Her dedication to exceptional programming was recognized nationally when she received the CASCADE Award for Exceptional Program/Project Leadership from the Canadian Association of Science Centres — an award presented to one outstanding individual from across Canada each year.

Jen holds a Bachelor of Science in Palaeontology and a Bachelor of Education in Senior Sciences. She leads a youth robotics team that competes at the international level, and volunteers extensively with FIRST Alberta, supporting event planning and the growth and development of youth robotics programming across the province. She also brings science-based programming to her Girl Guides unit on the regular — because science nights are always a hit.

As a board member of the Alberta Women's Science Network (AWSN), Jen serves on the WinSTEM Week, Casino, and Partnership committees, channelling her background in science communication, event planning, and community relationship-building into AWSN's mission of supporting women and girls in STEM across Alberta.

When she's not at work or volunteering, you'll likely find Jen on a trail somewhere in the Rockies with her hiking boots on — or logging kilometres as a newly devoted runner who has fully caught the bug.

Maryam is a Data and Insights Strategist with five years of experience in research, project management, and systems development, with expertise spanning AI and Generative AI, machine learning, geospatial platforms, and other emerging technologies. She holds a PhD and MSc in Computer Science, as well as a BSc in Information Technology. At AWSN, Maryam contributes her expertise to fundraising, STEM program design, program development and execution, stakeholder engagement, and event planning, helping to strengthen and expand opportunities for women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM.

Rebecca is an avid supporter of women and girls in STEM. She completed her degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Toronto and worked as an Environmental Engineer for many years prior to transitioning in 2022 to teaching after completing her Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Alberta. She really enjoys teaching high school engineering design courses combining her experiences as an engineer and teacher. She spent many years supporting and organizing STEM events for girls of all ages through Girl Guides of Canada which sparked her interest in teaching. Her goal as an educator and engineer is to understand the barriers that women and girls face in entering STEM fields and to continue to support the younger generations' journey in finding their passion and interests in STEM. Her newest challenge is to find fun and engaging STEM activities for her young daughter.

Graduated as a CPA, CGA in 2012, I've been working in Accounting/Finance within the tech space ever since, in Calgary. Joined AWSN in 2021 as Treasurer and I look forward to seeing AWSN keep growing

Mandy Williams, P.Geol., MBA, FGC is a co-founder of GeoWomen of Calgary (www.geowomen.org), an organization committed to advancing women working in the geoscience professions in Calgary. As a mother of three (including twins), she has learned firsthand that “you can have it all, just not all at once.” Mandy is a senior-level geologist with over 20 years of experience in the petroleum industry. She is a seasoned mentor and advocate for women in STEM and in 2023 was named a Fellow of Geoscientists Canada. Mandy holds a BSc from the University of Alberta and an Executive MBA from the University of Calgary.

Mahi Rawat is completing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Psychology at the University of Alberta. Her interests lie in language, rehabilitation, and healthcare, with a focus on creating accessible and supportive environments for individuals with diverse communication needs. She joined the Alberta Women’s Science Network in 2023 and is passionate about advancing inclusion in STEM and creating spaces where women in science can thrive.

Hasmik Asmaryan is the Director of Business, Employment, and Training Services (BETS) at the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS). After immigrating to Canada in 2013 as a skilled worker, Hasmik joined CCIS, where she has held various roles over the past decade. She has contributed significantly to programs funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Employment and Social Development Canada, and the Province of Alberta.As the Partnership Committee Chair for the AWSN Board, Hasmik aims to foster strong partnerships and enhance opportunities for STEM professionals, driving inclusivity and sustainable development

Ela Dudek is a scientist with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry. With over 10 years of research experience in both academia and industry, she has a strong background in recombinant protein expression and purification. Ela is currently the Vice President of Research and Development at Future Fields, where she leads the implementation of cutting-edge strategies and innovative technologies in protein expression and purification from Drosophila melanogaster. She has a proven track record of successfully managing interdisciplinary projects and teams, meeting objectives, and delivering results. Ela possesses excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills, allowing her to effectively collaborate with stakeholders at all levels. She is also a passionate STEMinist. Throughout her academic journey and beyond, she has actively worked with various non-profit organizations, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact.

Nirmal Cheema is a medical student at the University of Alberta and has been involved with the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN) since 2021. As someone who has experienced firsthand the opportunities and challenges faced by women in STEM, she is passionate about creating spaces where women and gender diverse individuals can connect, grow, and thrive. Through her volunteer work with AWSN, she is committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM and supporting the next generation of leaders.