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WinSTEM Week 2025

WinSTEM Week is an annual province-wide celebration led by the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN) to recognize and uplift women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). It is a time to highlight contributions, build community, and inspire the next generation of innovators. 

We are thrilled to share that beginning this year, the third week of October has been officially recognized by the Government of Alberta as WinSTEM Week in perpetuity. This milestone ensures that the achievements and advocacy of women in STEM will continue to be honored every year across our province. As in past years, we are honored to have a message from Tanya Fir, Alberta’s Minister of Status of Women

Keep an eye on our social media channels to view her inspiring remarks.

Together, let’s celebrate the achievements of women in STEM and inspire future generations.

2025 Lighting Schedule

Landmarks across Alberta will light up in celebration of WinSTEM Week. 

October 14 – High Level Bridge in Edmonton 

October 15 – Peace Bridge in Calgary 

October 16 – Reconciliation Bridge in Calgary 

October 16 – TELUS Spark in Calgary 

October 18 – Calgary Tower

Featured Events

Silent Auction (October 1 to 18, 2025)

Dates: October 1 to 18, 2025 

Support AWSN and bid on incredible experiences and items, including contributions from: The Wilder Institute Royal Tyrrell Museum Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra LOUD Art Society …and many more! 

Every bid helps raise funds to support women in STEM, with 100% of proceeds going directly toward AWSN programs. 

Silent Auction - Bid Here 

Webinar: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: AWSN WinSTEM Week Panel (October 17, 2025)

Date: Friday, October 17, 2025 

Time: 12:00 to 1:00 PM MT 

Format: Virtual 

Cost: Free! 

Join us for a lunchtime panel featuring accomplished women in STEM who will share stories of leadership, resilience, and growth. It is open to everyone, and not just women in STEM! 

Panelists: 

Ingrid Pederson (Storage Senior Specialist, Enbridge) 

Eva Drivet (President at Drivet Geological Consulting) 

Deanna Burgart (P.Eng, C.E.T)

Moderator: Mandy Williams (AWSN Board Member and President of Azure Energy Inc.) 

Expect an engaging discussion on topics such as: 

  • Building confidence in new or challenging roles
  • Finding balance and sustaining energy in high-pressure environments
  • Strategies for amplifying women’s voices in underrepresented spaces
  • Turning challenges into opportunities for growth Creating supportive workplaces and communities
  • Advice for the next generation of women leaders 

The session will conclude with an audience Q&A and closing reflections. Register here by 15 October, 2025.

STEM Stars of Tomorrow at Calgary Public Library (October 18, 2025)

Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025 

Location: Central Library, Calgary 

We’re bringing back one of our most loved events! Families are invited to join us for hands-on STEM activities in the morning, followed later in the day by an exciting robotics demonstration from Team 21595, The United Squadron Women’s Division – Nelson Mandela High School Robotics.

Athena & Minerva Awards

One of the most anticipated moments of WinSTEM Week is the announcement of our Athena and Minerva Award winners. 

These awards celebrate trailblazing women in STEM across Alberta: 

  • The Athena Award recognizes women who are well-established leaders in their field, paving the way for others and leaving a lasting impact through mentorship, innovation, and leadership.
  • The Minerva Award shines a spotlight on rising stars and emerging leaders who are making remarkable contributions early in their STEM journeys. 

Each year, our awardees inspire us with their stories of perseverance, brilliance, and dedication to advancing equity in STEM. 

Stay tuned for the big reveal during WinSTEM Week, and join us in celebrating the incredible women who are shaping the future of science, technology, engineering, and math in Alberta.

Collaborations & Partner Events

WinSTEM Week wouldn’t be possible without the creativity and support of our partners across Alberta. This year, we’re excited to highlight: 

  • Bracelet Making at ULethbridge 

Date : Friday, October 17, 2025 

Hosted with ACID:BASE, this drop-in event invites students and community members to create STEM-themed bracelets using fun charms and beads. A hands-on way to celebrate STEM and take home a reminder of WinSTEM Week! (Image in Drive folder WinSTEM 2025 Bracelet Making (1).pdf) 

  • Mujeres Omega Foundation 

Collaborating with Mujeres Omega Foundation, AWSN is excited to extend WinSTEM Week to reach and empower more women and girls, especially within immigrant and diverse communities. 

  • Family Science Olympics – Medicine Hat 

Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025 

Hosted with Praxis Science Outreach Society at Medicine Hat College, this free event invites families to team up and tackle exciting hands-on science challenges for a chance to win prizes. A fun-filled day of discovery, teamwork, and competition that brings STEM to life for all ages! Find more information here.

Social Media Giveaway

Follow us on Instagram @awsnsocial for your chance to win tickets to Telus World of Science (Edmonton) or Telus Spark (Calgary). 

Details and entry rules are posted on our feed!