Schneider Electric & WEST Partner to Support Women in STEM

Schneider Electric is partnering with Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology (WEST) to back an inspiring educational initiative that aims to nurture the next generation of female-identifying engineers. Schneider Electric which is serving as the project partner has sponsored the student club's project showcase along with panel on women in STEM and the very first Schneider Electric Energy Management (SEEM) project.

Tom Stevenson, Director of Engineering, Advanced Metering Group at Schneider Electric said, “Empowering and growing the next generation of female-identifying engineers and leaders is a top priority for us”. He further added,  “In recent months, we've had the privilege of mentoring, presenting real-world challenges, and collaborating with a talented group of STEM students to address pressing business issues. Our partnership with WEST is an inspiring platform for students to demonstrate their incredible potential in driving positive change in the world of energy management and sustainability.”

Schneider Electric’s partnership with WEST is a collaboration between the student-run club at the University of Victoria.

In order to run the STEM program, Emily Murray and Aislinn Dressler, Program Managers at WEST, joined forces with the rest of the WEST executive team and collaborated with the Victoria branch of Schneider Electric.

The aforementioned program will target Grade 12 high school students and engineering students in first, second and third year. The program aims to achieve four key goals: Recruit Female-Identifying Students; Support Transitioning Students; Reduce Turnover Rates; Promote Electrical Engineering.

“WEST is excited to collaborate with Schneider Electric on this impactful program,” said Aislinn Dressler, Program Manager at WEST. “In partnership with Schneider Electric, four student teams have the opportunity to learn more about energy management and sustainability and are able to exit the program having gained project management, teamwork, and communication skills as well as industry experience.”

held in late September, the Project Showcase, attracted 50-70 attendees who were mesmerised by the innovative ideas presented by up-and-coming engineering students. Schneider Electric rendered the chosen students with mentorship, introduced the design challenge at the start of the semester. They also awarded grants to every participating student.