Q-WASE
The Queen's Women in Applied Science & Engineering Conference
Empowered Women, rrrrrrrEmpower Women.
- Q-WASE
About Us
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What is Q-WASE?
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The Queens Women in Applied Science and Engineering Conference (Q-WASE) is the faculty’s first and only non-technical student conference.
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Q-WASE aims to explore the gender disparity in engineering in Canada through an intersectional lens and challenge the status quo.
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The Q-WASE Conference aims to empower students in engineering by challenging conventional norms and fostering a supportive community to encourage all individuals, irrespective of gender, to recognize and seize opportunities within the dynamic field of STEM.
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In its fourth consecutive year, our conference, scheduled for March 9th, extends an open invitation to students of all genders, backgrounds, and academic pursuits. Attendees can expect a program of stimulating workshops, case competitions, and engaging conversations with industry experts.
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About Us
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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
2024
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Argo Gold Inc.
ConeTec
Egis Group
Logical Choice Construction Inc.
Dymond Group
Impala Canada
Meet Our Team
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Delegates Can Expect:
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Interactive panels with industry professionals,
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Talks from inspiring leaders who have made a name for themselves in their field,
Engaging workshops and case competitions designed to tackle pressing issues in the engineering industries
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Opportunities to network with passionate & like-minded individuals
​Introducing Our Speakers
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Kate is currently working as a Process Development Engineer at ABK Biomedical in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She holds a B.ASc in Mechanical Engineering from Queen's and an M.Sc in Biomedical Engineering from TU Delft in the Netherlands. Her career has focused on medical device innovation, particularly in bringing lifesaving technologies to underserved populations. 
Kate Loe
(she/her) MSc., P.Eng.
Rathi Perumal, CEO of Uyir Engineering Inc., is a trailblazer in the electrical engineering world. Holding degrees in Electronics & Instrumentation from India and a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from the University of Windsor, Rathi boasts over 13 years of professional experience in electrical engineering in both the US and Canada. She has been recognized as a Top 40 under 40 Kingston Young Professional, a testament to her entrepreneurial innovation, resilience, and ability to conceptualize and design effective solutions.
Rathi's expertise spans troubleshooting machinery to collaborating on alternative fuel projects with strategic partners in the environment and climate change sector. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish one of Canada's first women-led global engineering consulting firms, leveraging AI for enhanced efficiency, starting in Kingston with a clear vision on how to expand beyond the Canadian borders. This venture is deeply rooted in her professional experiences and the less
Rathi's efforts are heavily influenced by her experiences as a newcomer to Canada. Rathi's story is one of a relentless pursuit of excellence, consistently asking the right questions to incrementally improve the status quo. When the timing is right, she applies these principles to achieve breakthrough innovations. This approach was the foundation for conceptualizing, establishing and developing the vision for Uyir Engineering Consulting.
Rathi Perumal
(she/her) MSc., P.Eng.
Zaineb Al-Faesly
(she/her) MSc.
Zaineb Al-Faesly is a University of Ottawa double alumna, she has received her bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Ottawa in 2018 and 2021, respectively. She is an experienced professional with a background in engineering, research, management, and teaching. She has a comprehensive understanding of environmental and sustainability issues in civil engineering, developed through industry and graduate research. Zaineb has over four years of civil engineering experience and over five years of management experience, including supervising 30+ staff members. She currently works as a Technical Advisor at the National Research Council Canada, providing support to the Canadian Board on Harmonized Construction Codes. Additionally, she is a professor at Algonquin College’s School of Advanced Technology. Zaineb is actively involved in mentoring, outreach, and volunteering activities and holds certifications in university teaching, project management, and cross-cultural competency.
Why Attend?
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Professional Development
The conference offers invaluable opportunities for professional development through presentations, case competitions, and interactions with industry experts. Attendees can enhance their skills, gain insights into industry trends, and develop strategies for personal and career growth.
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Inspiration
Hearing from inspiring leaders who have succeeded in their respective fields can kickstart your passion and motivation. Stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success serve as powerful motivators for students to pursue their dreams in engineering and any related fields.
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Networking
We provide opportunities for you to network with passionate and like-minded individuals, including fellow attendees, industry professionals, and speakers. Building connections at the conference can open doors to mentorship, career opportunities, and collaborations, enriching attendees' academic and professional journeys.
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Diverse Perspectives
Q-WASE exposes attendees to diverse perspectives on issues relevant to engineering and STEM fields. Through interactive panels and discussions, participants gain an understanding of the complexities of gender imbalance and other challenges facing the industry, fostering empathy and a commitment to driving positive change.
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Inclusive Environment
Q-WASE extends an open invitation to students of all genders, backgrounds, and academic pursuits, creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. This inclusivity fosters rich discussions and encourages collaboration among attendees.
GET IN TOUCH
We'd love to hear from you!
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qwase@engsoc.queensu.ca for general inquiries
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