It’s no secret – BCIT cares deeply about its community. As one of the tenets behind the Institute’s Strategic Vision, BCIT is committed to strengthening and improving the lives of those who work and learn at BCIT. We are proud to celebrate the positive impact our community is making in the world – from reducing the gender gap in STEM-related fields to addressing systemic discrimination within our own organization and encouraging discourse around this.
Here are some highlights from 2021 which celebrate the people of BCIT.
1. Reconciliation in post-secondary education requires courage and humility
Led by Kory Wilson, a proud Kwakwaka’wakw woman and Executive Director of Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships, BCIT called on post-secondary leaders to commit to Indigenous reconciliation. At the same time, BCIT renewed its own pledge to enrich campuses with Indigenous wisdom and knowledge through empowering Indigenous champions in their own departments and Schools.
2. Fireweed: BCIT’s new podcast inspires with stories of resilience and adaptability
Named for the vibrant wildflower which is first to grow after the devastation of a forest fire, Fireweed launched this year as the inaugural podcast for BCIT bringing together a diverse cast of voices and thoughtful discussions around accessibility, sustainability, careers, and more.
3. How a BCIT researcher is helping bridge the gender gap in STEM
BCIT researcher and School of Computing and Academic Studies faculty member Dr. Mirela Gutica’s research aims to identify the challenges and factors which influence female high-school students in their decision to pursue careers in STEM and in turn, find ways to motivate and increase their self-confidence.
4. Improving learner access with the BCIT Enhanced Bridge Watch Rating program
With funding from Transport Canada’s Marine Training Program, this 17-week full time School of Transportation program offers opportunities for women and Indigenous learners to embark on a fulfilling career in the marine industry.
5. How BCIT is building a sustainable home for health sciences education in BC
Set to open in the spring of 2022, the new BCIT Health Sciences Centre is a state-of-the-art teaching facility designed to foster learning and collaboration across all BCIT health students.
6. Moving Forward: Let’s Talk Anti-Racism
What happens when two high-profile BCIT alumni are invited to speak on anti-racism through the lens of their own lived experiences? A discussion that inspired the BCIT community to gain a better understanding of different cultures, continue anti-Racism dialogue, and move forward.
7. BCIT receives award for South Wetland Restoration Project
Congratulations to Ken Ashley, Director of the BCIT Rivers Institute, and the staff and students of the BCIT School of Construction and the Environment (SOCE) on winning the 2021 Environmental Star by the City of Burnaby (the City) for the South Wetland Restoration Project located on the Burnaby campus.
8. BCIT Forest Society receives Minister’s Award for Innovation and Excellence
Jonathan Smyth, instructor in the BCIT Forest and Natural Areas Management and Fish Wildlife and Recreation programs, was awarded with the 2020 Minister’s Award for Innovation and Excellence in Woodlot Management for the Coast area. Congratulations Jonathan and to the BCIT Forest Society!
9. BCIT instructor Rob Nason: Five decades of empowering students and shaping the world of television
After 50 years of teaching at BCIT, the revered instructor attributes his success to staying curious, being open to innovation, and passionate about the craft of storytelling on screen.
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Feeling inspired? Discover more stories behind the researchers, instructors, staff, and students which make up the people of BCIT. Or if you’re interested in joining our community as a student, we offer over 300 programs and 1,000 part-time courses to choose from.