BC Business has announced BC’s most influential women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This annual issue features the top female influencers in the province and Dr. Bethany Edmunds, BCIT Associate Dean of Computing, is among the women on the prestigious list.
“This award is quite humbling, but it speaks to the impact that educators have in shaping the future,” says Dr. Edmunds. In the article, Dr. Edmunds is highlighted for her passion for machine-learning and training students to embrace the challenges of the ever-evolving tech industry. Within her role at BCIT, Dr. Edmunds has been instrumental in developing a first-of-its-kind Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality/Mixed Reality (VR/AR/MR) curriculum – in partnership with Microsoft at the BCIT Downtown Campus Tech Hub.
“Bethany’s passion for the tech industry and her desire to help students succeed has driven innovation in Computing at BCIT,” says BCIT President Kathy Kinloch. “She is an invaluable BCIT leader who has spearheaded a host of initiatives and programming that will ensure students have the skills they need to thrive in their future workplaces.”
Dr. Edmunds is in good company on the impressive list alongside Judi Hess, CEO of Copperleaf Technologies and Alexandra Greenhill, cofounder and CEO of Careteam and myBestHelper.
Honourable “STEM Stars” from the issue also include BCIT President Kathy Kinloch and SAP Labs Canada Vice-President and Managing Director Kirsten Sutton.
Readers can find a print version of the magazine on newsstands today, with a digital accompaniment online now. You can also hear from Dr. Edmunds at a panel discussion featuring women working in STEM-related roles, in celebration of International Women’s Day this Thursday, March 8, at BCIT Burnaby Campus.
The article also touches on what organizations across BC are doing to get more women and girls in STEM fields. BCIT is working with government and other organizations to help to increase interest in computing in the K-12 education system, as well as for those who are reskilling mid-career. One upcoming initiative includes partnering with TD Canada Trust to offer a workshop that will introduce women to programming and careers in IT.
Congratulations Bethany!