By Mandy Vocke

Inclusive tech sectors

Workplace diversity could grow alongside tech and engineering industries

May 23, 2019 | 5:03 PM

PRINCE GEORGE—Many groups in B.C.’s technology and engineering sectors are underrepresented, which could be hindering growth in these fields.

Up to $2.2 million will be going towards pilot projects and mentorship to encourage more people from underrepresented groups to pursue a career in tech and engineering sectors.

A research report by HR Tech Group, Diversity & Inclusion found:

• women represent 15 per cent to 20 per cent of the tech industries
• Indigenous peoples represent less than 1 per cent of the tech industries and
• people with disabilities represent less than 1 per cent of the tech industries.

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Multiple perspectives and people with different backgrounds are necessary for companies seeking innovation and growth.

Dana Schwehr has had a successful career as a Geospatial Developer for Sparkgeo. She says she has been one of the only women in the workplace and post-secondary at UNBC. Schwehr says mentorship is key to encourage more underrepresented people to enter male dominated industries, like technology and engineering sectors.

“I had a tough time coming up through the ranks. I would absolutely love to make sure that doesn’t happen to people coming up behind me. If we can get people together to build networks and stamp out sexist or racist comments and make things more inclusive for everyone that would be fabulous.”_{Dana Schwehr}

The Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC aims to increase the number of women in applied science and engineering sectors closer to 30 per cent by 2030.