Celebrating Markham's Women in STEM on International Women's Day

Celebrating Markham's Women in STEM on International Women's Day

As Canada’s High-Tech Capital, we are celebrating the thought leaders, influencers and change makers who are helping the City of Markham lead the way in innovation.

“I am constantly impressed by the women in our community who are inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders, here in the City of Markham, in the heart of Ontario’s innovation corridor,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “We have to showcase our women scientists, tech leaders, engineers and mathematicians who push for progress with purpose.”

On International Women’s Day, we recognize women’s achievements on every front while supporting movements driving change.

"The opportunities for STEM students in the City of Markham are immense,” says Keeley Aird, a Markham teen who co-founded STEM Kids Rock, an organization dedicated to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. “STEM Kids Rock truly has flourished with start-up support through the Markham Libraries Entrepreneurs in Residence Program and mentors such as Y2Labs and Venture Lab."

Kristal Lewis is the Founder & CEO of Senior Care Connect, a platform that helps families in finding the best care options for their aging loved ones. She is passionate about educating the community and acting as a support to seniors and their families.

Aïko Thurlow is the Founder & CEO of InFounders, a social organization that creates masterminds for entrepreneurs. She is also a startup mentor at Launch YU York and the founder of Toolmuse.

Joanna Ng is an emerging technology strategist and an IBM Master Inventor. She mentors many inventors at IBM Canada’s Lab and under her leadership, IBM has birthed many patents, publications, incubation prototypes and commercialized products around the world.

Vanessa Williamson is the Dean of Applied Research and Innovation at Seneca College who oversees HELIX, the on-campus entrepreneurship centre. Throughout her career, Vanessa has helped organizations innovate, develop products and create jobs.

Amanda Kalhous is a leading innovator at GM Canada and has established herself as a recognized expert in Bluetooth low energy and smart phone interactions. She has an impressive 21 patents to her credit, most of which are in the areas of infotainment and connected vehicle.

At the recent opening of GM’s new Canadian Technical Centre in Markham, GM Canada’s president Stephen Carlisle announced a $1.8M fund that has been set up to support programs and scholarships that will help more young women and girls to study the fields of STEM.

The City of Markham is committed to promoting inclusion, diversity and equality throughout our community so that everyone feels empowered to pursue their dreams.