In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD), 75 students from Dante Alighieri Academy Catholic Secondary School were invited to the Barrett Centre for Technology and Innovation at Humber Polytechnic for their "Championing Women in STEM" Event.
Students in Grades 9 to 12 had the opportunity to participate in engaging workshops designed to empower future female leaders in STEM. The workshops focused on robotics, 3D printing, and mechatronics. Students used block coding to interact with VEX robotics, Sphero RVR, and the STEAM lab cobots. They toured the additives lab and engaged in a hands-on 3D printing pen activity. The Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology also demonstrated an advanced manufacturing assembly line powered by pneumatic energy.
The luncheon featured a diverse panel of extraordinary women who shared their authentic stories and insights, reflecting the 2026 IWD theme, "Give to Gain." Students asked the panelists thoughtful questions that sparked meaningful discussions. Key messages from the panel included the importance of diversity in driving stronger problem-solving and innovation, as well as the value of perseverance in pushing through obstacles to pursue one’s passion. The inspiring afternoon highlighted the power of reciprocity and support in uplifting women in STEM.
Our students left the event inspired by new perspectives and were excited about future career possibilities within STEM.
Thank you to Humber Polytechnic and the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) Central Guidance for organizing this inspiring event.
A special thank you to the Dante staff for supporting this event!
