FAQs
Why was iWIST created?
iWIST was created by dedicated women with an initial mission to fill a need and offer a positive and supportive environment where women who worked in STEM could connect and build a community, helping women grow their networks, careers and personal skills.
What are the iWIST membership benefits?
Membership benefits include free access to monthly educational events, the opportunity to share your personal or organization’s story, discounted access to affiliate partnerships, community outreach opportunities, and other benefits from our friends in the community.
What are membership fees used for?
All membership fees go directly to supporting our initiatives and event programming.
When was iWIST created?
Founded in 2011 as Island Women in Technology, it was chaired by Robyn Quinn, APR, MA, Fellow CPRS. In 2016 the decision was made by an ad hoc committee to change the name to include science, as many members were active in research, academic and corporate science roles.
What type of organization is iWIST?
In 2016, iWIST was granted official status as a not-for-profit society by the British Columbia government. iWIST is a 100% volunteer group that organizes monthly events. The locations and themes vary but the core function is always building the STEM community on Vancouver Island.
Who can volunteer with iWIST?
If you are interested in volunteering with iWIST as an event volunteer, a Director on the iWIST Board of Directors, or have an idea for future initiatives, please feel free to contact us for more information. Our volunteers are integral to keeping iWIST running.
Who can join as an iWIST member?
iWIST membership is open to everybody! We strongly welcome all who wish to join our community. Students, individual, and corporate members are able to sign up for membership here.
Where does iWIST see itself growing in 10 years?
We see ourselves growing with our fun, engaging, and accepting community within our memberships and between our partnerships with like-minded organizations. We will always aim to promote and embody diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM.
What type of events does iWIST hold?
iWIST hosts annual summer and winter networking events, in addition to monthly educational seminars on a variety of topics, including DEI, finances, negotiation, mental health, and a business book club.