Actua Crucial to Engineering Outreach

Actua provides training, resources, and support to a national network of university and college members across Canada so we can deliver science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education outreach programming to youth with zero barriers. Each year, Actua’s network members engage over 350,000 youth in 500 communities nationwide. Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach, part of Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, has been a member of the Actua network since 2018.

“This year our Engineering Outreach initiatives have reached more than 27,000 youth through engaging STEM programs,” says Ellen James, Ontario Tech’s Engineering Outreach Manager. “Such a remarkable reach wouldn’t have been possible without the partnership and invaluable support of Actua. Their commitment, advocacy, generous funding, and transformative training opportunities have truly been a catalyst for growing the STEM skills within our community. Through Actua’s outstanding contributions,
we’ve witnessed a substantial increase in digital skills within our community.”

By working with school boards and community organizations, Ontario Tech’s Engineering Outreach program familiarizes youth in kindergarten through Grade 12 with STEM and engages youth in activities that bring STEM to life. In addition to financial support, Actua provides resources such as training materials and connections to other universities that offer similar programs, allowing its network members to learn from each other.

“Actua’s invaluable support enables Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach to expand its program offerings
significantly, both during the academic year and throughout the summer,” says Ellen. “Our summer outreach efforts, for instance, now encompass an impressive array of 20 one-week camps, featuring specialized programs like Robotics and Programming Fundamentals developed and delivered by Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach staff and student leaders.”

Ontario Tech’s Indigenous youth programming actively involves students from grades 1 to 12 in immersive STEM experiences. These programs span across both Durham Region and Northern Ontario, prioritizing landbased learning and are led by Indigenous youth who are passionate about STEM education. The programs focus on the harmonious intersection of Indigenous Knowledge and Western perspectives, fostering a holistic and enriched approach to STEM education.

Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach hosts a variety of STEM clubs, including programs tailored to Black youth and girls, spanning grades 1 to 12. These programs are strategically designed to foster mentorship and facilitate the growth of digital skills through immersive, hands-on STEM learning experiences.

“I take immense pride and passion in our ability to engage with 27,000 young minds who may very well become the future engineers of our world,” says Dr. Hossam Kishawy, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “Actua’s invaluable support plays a pivotal role in enabling us to ignite the spark of STEM excitement among the youth across Durham Region and beyond. By nurturing their curiosity and engagement in STEM, we aim to inspire them to acquire the skills required to tackle some of the challenges that society will face.”

“Actua is delighted to support Ontario Tech in fostering a new generation of STEM leaders,” says Jennifer Flanagan, Co-Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Actua. “Our future depends on our ability to inspire and prepare youth with skills and confidence in STEM. By engaging youth today—particularly youth from equity-deserving communities—we’re strengthening the social fabric and economic outcomes of the future.”