Heidi Ploeg, a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering and Smith Engineering’s inaugural Chair for Women in Engineering, has been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 for 2024 by WXN: Women’s Executive Network. Recognized in the BMO STEM category, Ploeg’s visionary leadership and dedication to advancing gender equity in STEM have brought national attention to the impactful work underway within Smith Engineering.
A timely accolade, the Smith Engineering Women in Action Alumnae Panel held October 18 at Homecoming was more than just an inspiring gathering; it highlighted significant strides toward gender equity in engineering, a core goal for both Queen’s University and Smith Engineering as we work to reimagine engineering education for everyone.
The panel united generations of Queen’s alumni, students, faculty, and community members in a shared commitment to fostering and supporting the next generation of women in engineering. As second-year Mechanical Engineering student Ruby Sinclair expressed, “The student-alumni connection is so valuable. It was inspiring to share ‘jacket stories’ with alumni and see how far Queen’s alum have come in making strong impacts across fields.”
This reflection underscores the purpose of the Chair for Women in Engineering: to build an inclusive community where all voices are valued and to prepare talented young women to excel in engineering. Ploeg’s national recognition strengthens the Smith Engineering commitment to "Engineering for Everyone" and "Engineering for Humanity," and demonstrates that equity and inclusion are essential to our vision of reimagining engineering education.
The panel tackled essential topics, from overcoming imposter syndrome and unequal opportunities to the importance of mentorship and representation. Sinclair highlighted the power of mentorship, saying, “Mentorship is universal. No matter who you are or where you are in life, everyone can use a mentor.” This spirit of mentorship empowers today’s young women in engineering to navigate their careers with confidence, supported by a community deeply invested in their success.
Watch the inspiring panel discussion and join the Women in Action campaign by sharing your own photo to show your support for gender equity in STEM.
Explore the initiatives led by the Chair for Women in Engineering, such as the C4WiE undergraduate summer research assistantships, the annual IWED lunch, career workshops in partnership with Corporate Relations, and showcase events during Fall Preview and Spring Break.
Learn more about the Chair of Women in Engineering at Queen’s University and discover how you can be part of this powerful movement.
