Volunteer
We really appreciate the hard work of our volunteers. Each year, more than 600 of our volunteers dedicate a combined total of 13,000 hours of their time to support our unique programs and initiatives.
If you are interested in strengthening science and society through diversity, there are various volunteer opportunities available throughout the year, including at our major programs (see table below).
Due to the large volume of volunteers that work with us each year, WISEST cannot provide employment references; we can only verify volunteer roles within the past 3 years when requested. Requests can be made by completing the attached Google Form. See a list of transferable skills for each volunteer role that can be used on resumes or CVs.
Volunteer Opportunities
| When | Program | Description | Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | Choices Conference | A one-day experience for girls and gender-diverse students in Grade 6 to explore science, engineering, and technology. | Scientific Activity Leader, Campus Ambassador, General Volunteer |
| July - August | Summer Research Program | A six-week work experience for girls and gender-diverse students in Grade 11 to explore science, engineering, and technology fields in a research environment at the U of A, enhanced by numerous professional development opportunities. | Direct Supervisor or Principal Investigator, Role Model, Lab Tour Leader |
| November | SET Conference | A one-day conference for girls and gender-diverse students in grades 10-12 to learn about what an education and a career in science, engineering, and technology can offer. | Lab Activity Leader, Role Model, Student Group Leader, General Volunteer |
| Various | UA-WISE | A UofA student group focused on building community among STEM undergraduates. | Executive Member, Guest Speaker, General Volunteer |
| Various | WISER | A community of early-career STEM Professionals. | Executive Member, Guest Speaker, General Volunteer |
| September/ October - March/ April | WISEST Intern | A 6-8 month long internship to assist in various activities within outreach based on your abilities and what skills you'd like to develop. | Outreach |
| Various | Advisory Board and Committees | WISEST has various opportunities on its Advisory Board and numerous volunteer committees, which act under the direction of the Advisory Board. | Advisory Board Member, Program Committee Member, Communication Committee Member |
| April, August, December | WISEST Ambassadors (Coop Students) | Promote EDI to your employer during your Co-op placement by showing your dedication to STEM field diversity and inclusion at your workplace, this role will give you the opportunity to raise your profile within your placement, add value to your employer, and enhance your capacity to secure permanent employment in the future. |