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Welcome to AWSN

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AWSN’s primary focus is to connect, unite, support and promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs throughout the province. 

As a network, AWSN creates a collaborative environment where member groups and volunteers help each other, learning from each others’ experiences, successes and challenges. Along with our long-term volunteers, we have been fortunate this year to gain many new creative minds, who are lending their time and expertise across the board and our various committees. AWSN activities focus on supporting host programs through funding, in-kind support and volunteer resource connections. We categorized these activities under three core pillars: Recruitment, Retention and Recognition.

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Latest Updates

WinSTEM Week 2026

WinSTEM Week is an annual province-wide celebration led by the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN) to recognize, support, and celebrate women and gender-diverse individuals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It is a time to highlight achievements, foster connections, amplify diverse voices, and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders. Following the Government of Alberta’s official proclamation establishing the third week of October as WinSTEM Week in perpetuity, we are excited to continue this growing tradition across the province. 

From October 11–17, 2026, communities throughout Alberta will come together through events, workshops, networking opportunities, and outreach activities that showcase the impact of women in STEM and encourage greater participation in these fields. WinSTEM Week 2026 will celebrate the accomplishments of women in STEM while creating opportunities for learning, mentorship, collaboration, and community engagement. We look forward to welcoming participants from across Alberta as we continue working toward a more inclusive and equitable future in STEM. Together, let’s celebrate achievements, inspire future generations, and build a stronger STEM community for all.

Featured Events

Lighting Schedule

Landmarks across Alberta will light up in celebration of WinSTEM Week. 

October 14, 2026 – Calgary Tower

October 17, 2026 – TELUS Spark Science Centre, Calgary

Silent Auction

The WinSTEM Week Silent Auction is back for 2026! Following the success of last year's auction, we are once again bringing together a collection of exciting experiences, gifts, and opportunities to support AWSN's mission of advancing women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM. We are currently seeking donations for the auction and would love to hear from individuals, organizations, and businesses interested in contributing an item or experience. 

Past auction highlights have included laboratory tours, family attraction tickets, unique local experiences, STEM-themed opportunities, and much more. Stay tuned for the launch of our online bidding platform, where you will be able to browse and bid on available items. 

All proceeds will support AWSN programming and initiatives across Alberta. Keep an eye on this page and our social media channels for updates—we look forward to sharing this year's amazing auction items with you soon!

WinSTEM Week Expo (October 17, 2026)

Date: October 17, 2026 

Time: 12:00 to 4:00 PM MT 

Location: Vivo for Healthier Generations (11950 Country Village Link NE, Calgary)

Cost: Ticket by donation

Join us for the WinSTEM Week Expo 2026, a family-friendly celebration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics featuring interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with inspiring STEM organizations from across Alberta. Whether you are a young aspiring scientist, a student exploring future career paths, or simply someone who enjoys learning and discovery, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. 

The Expo will feature a wide variety of booths hosted by community organizations, educational institutions, industry partners, and STEM professionals, offering engaging activities designed to spark curiosity and make STEM accessible, exciting, and fun. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn more about the WinSTEM Week Silent Auction, view featured auction items, and participate in our 50/50 fundraiser. 

Funds raised through ticket sales, the silent auction, and the 50/50 draw will directly support AWSN programs and initiatives that empower women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM throughout Alberta. We are committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent participation, and free admission options will be available for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship. Come explore, learn, connect, and celebrate with us as we showcase the incredible STEM community that exists across Alberta. We can't wait to welcome you to an inspiring day of discovery, creativity, and fun for all ages.

Register here by 16 October, 2026.

STEM Stars of Tomorrow at Calgary Public Library (October 11, 2026)

Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026 

Location: Central Library, Calgary 

We’re bringing back one of our most loved events! Families are invited to join us for hands-on STEM activities in the morning, followed later in the day by an exciting robotics demonstration.

Athena & Minerva Awards

One of the most anticipated moments of WinSTEM Week is the announcement of our Athena and Minerva Award winners. 

These awards celebrate trailblazing women in STEM across Alberta: 

  • The Athena Award recognizes women who are well-established leaders in their field, paving the way for others and leaving a lasting impact through mentorship, innovation, and leadership.
  • The Minerva Award shines a spotlight on rising stars and emerging leaders who are making remarkable contributions early in their STEM journeys. 

Each year, our awardees inspire us with their stories of perseverance, brilliance, and dedication to advancing equity in STEM. 

Stay tuned for the big reveal during WinSTEM Week, and join us in celebrating the incredible women who are shaping the future of science, technology, engineering, and math in Alberta.

Collaborations & Partner Events

AWSN's impact is made possible through the strength of our partnerships. Throughout 2025, we were proud to collaborate with a diverse range of organizations, community groups, educational institutions, industry partners, and STEM advocates who helped us expand our reach and create meaningful opportunities across Alberta.

As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited to build new partnerships and strengthen existing relationships with organizations that share our commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and engagement in STEM. Whether through co-hosted events, educational programming, mentorship initiatives, sponsorship opportunities, community outreach, or knowledge-sharing, we welcome opportunities to work together to inspire and support current and future generations in STEM.

If your organization is interested in collaborating with AWSN, we would love to connect and explore how we can create impact together. Please email info@awsn.org.

Social Media Giveaway

Follow us on Instagram @awsnsocial for your chance to win tickets to Telus World of Science (Edmonton) or Telus Spark (Calgary). 

Details and entry rules will be posted on our feed closer to WinSTEM Week in October!

 

AWSN is seeking sponsors and partners to support WinSTEM Week 2026 and the WinSTEM Week Expo. Sponsorship helps us provide accessible STEM programming, hands-on activities, and community events that inspire and empower women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM across Alberta. 

If your organization is interested in supporting this province-wide celebration, we invite you to explore our Sponsorship Package and join us in making WinSTEM Week 2026 a success. Click here to view our sponsorship package, and please feel free to reach out to us at info@awsn.org.

 

WinSTEM Week 2025

WinSTEM Week 2025 was our most impactful celebration yet, bringing together communities across Alberta to recognize and support women and gender-diverse individuals in STEM. To learn more about the events, achievements, and impact of the week, please view our WinSTEM Week 2025 Report here.