About Engineering Outreach
Our Mission
Our mission is to engage with the community, spark curiosity and prepare K-12 students to build critical skills and confidence by making STEM learning opportunities accessible and inclusive to all youth including those from underrepresented communities in the Durham Region and beyond. We aim to foster and build a community that understands the importance of STEM education by developing impactful partnerships with community organizations. We aspire to increase digital literacy and skill development of youth through the delivery of hands-on STEM education in schools and community hubs. We strive to empower and support teachers and school leaders in their delivery of STEM education.
Our Values
- Inclusivity - We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
- Innovation - We embrace new ideas, technologies, and methodologies to deliver impactful outreach programs.
- Collaboration - We work together with partners, stakeholders, and volunteers to create positive change in our communities.
- Accessibility - We believe that everyone should have access to engineering and technology education, regardless of their background or circumstances.
- Excellence - We are committed to delivering high-quality programs that meet the needs of our communities
Our History
In 2014, the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Ontario Tech University began an ambitious initiative to deliver Kindergarten to Grade 12 engineering outreach programs to youth in the Durham Region. After a concerted, multi-faceted effort over the past four years, the faculty has developed an organization called Engineering Outreach, our programs have grown to reach over 24,000 students annually. Our goal is to inspire youth to ask questions and empower them to develop solutions to everyday problems using Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) from across Durham Region and our surrounding communities.
Engineering Outreach is a proud network member of Actua, and we share in their national mission:"... To prepare Canadian youth to be innovators and leaders by engaging them in exciting and accessible STEM experiences that build critical skills and confidence.”
Our Staff
Engineering Outreach staff have backgrounds in science and engineering and are joined by over 75 undergraduate and graduate engineering students who volunteer their time throughout their year. Our team is excited to share their knowledge with the youth who participate in our programs each year.