UNB Engineering News

UNB Engineering Outreach recently welcomed 75 students from 28 schools across the province for Go ENG Girl (GEG) 2024, a free event designed to inspire girls and non-binary youth to pursue careers in engineering. Supported by the Ontario Network of Women in Engineering (ONWiE), this nationwide initiative connects participants with role models and offers hands-on activities to highlight the creativity and impact of engineering.

GEG would not have been possible without the generous support of Irving Oil, our primary event sponsor. Their dedication to innovation and education aligns perfectly with GEG’s mission, enabling us to provide impactful experiences that inspire the next generation of engineers.

The day began with tours of UNB’s engineering facilities, showcasing disciplines such as chemical, civil, geodesy and geomatics, and mechanical engineering. Female faculty and students led interactive demonstrations that brought engineering concepts to life, showcasing highlights like testing concrete’s breaking point, exploring heat exchange principles, learning mapping techniques through geodesy, and engaging with mechanical engineering equipment.

During lunch, four Irving Oil engineers shared their journeys as women in STEM and what it’s like to be an engineer in the industry. Students left feeling inspired and empowered after asking thoughtful questions at the lunch and learn session. In the afternoon, students participated in “Hacking for the Holidays,” an initiative by Makers Making Change to adapt toys for children with disabilities. They learned to solder, trim wires, and assemble components, creating accessible toys while seeing the meaningful impact engineering can have on lives.

Parents attended a support workshop led by women from the UNB Engineering community and Irving Oil to learn how to encourage youth in engineering. Topics included managing workloads, building connections within the UNB community, scholarships, co-ops, and utilizing resources like peer mentorship programs and student societies. The session also introduced UNB’s Technology Management and Entrepreneurship (TME) diploma, which complements engineering degrees by teaching business and entrepreneurship skills.

As a thank-you, Grade 12 participants had their UNB Engineering application fee waived, making it easier for them to take the first step toward a future in engineering.

Go ENG Girl 2024 combined inspiration, education, and interactive activities to highlight the opportunities within engineering. By connecting students with role models and engaging activities, UNB is empowering the next generation of engineers to solve problems and shape a brighter future. UNB Engineering alumni, now student leaders, faculty members, and team members with Makers Making Change, returned to inspire future engineers, showcasing the significant connection between UNB and its graduates.