At Wood, we believe education has the power to change lives, strengthen communities and create opportunities for future generations. We are committed to supporting initiatives that help young people explore their potential, build confidence and discover pathways to meaningful careers.
This commitment is especially important in our work with Indigenous communities, where relationships and long-term partnerships are at the heart of our approach. Through partnerships, mentorship and hands-on learning experiences, we aim to help Indigenous youth see themselves in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) careers while building skills that can support their future ambitions.
This summer, employees from Wood's Calgary office partnered with two Indigenous youth camps, creating opportunities for young people to explore STEAM concepts, connect with role models from Wood’s summer student program and developing professionals' network and experience firsthand how creativity and problem-solving are part of engineering and other technical careers.
Learning through experience at YMCA Camp Riveredge
Wood volunteers spent the day at YMCA Camp Riveredge with Indigenous youth aged 6 to 13. The day combined outdoor recreation, cultural activities and educational experiences designed to encourage curiosity and learning.
Campers participated in activities including archaeology digs, archery, obstacle courses, hoop dancing and friendship bracelet making. Alongside these activities, Wood's summer students shared their educational journeys and career experiences, introducing campers to careers in engineering and other STEAM-related fields.
Through interactive discussions, the youth were encouraged to ask questions, explore different career possibilities and learn what it takes to pursue opportunities in technical professions.
To support learning beyond the camp experience, Wood provided each camper with a backpack and school supplies for the upcoming school year.
Indigenous youth deserve opportunities to see themselves reflected in careers and industries they may not have previously considered. It has been incredibly rewarding to support experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence and future possibilities.
Placing STEAM in the spotlight at IndigeSTEAM
IndigeSTEAM is a University of Calgary-based camp that introduces Indigenous youth aged 13 to 17 to STEAM disciplines through culturally relevant and hands-on learning experiences.
Wood's Indigenous Relations team designed and facilitated a STEAM-themed Amazing Race, where participants worked in teams to complete a variety of challenges focused on creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. Activities included an egg-drop engineering challenge, LEGO bridge building, navigation exercises, lacrosse, hoop dancing and nature-inspired art projects.
The challenges encouraged campers to think like engineers while drawing connections between Indigenous knowledge, teamwork and problem-solving. Throughout the day, participants earned points for creativity, collaboration and team spirit, with the winning team taking home robotics kits donated by Wood.
Wood's Calgary developing professionals network also delivered a presentation sharing personal stories about education, career pathways and working in engineering and related fields. For many participants, hearing directly from young professionals helped make future careers feel more accessible and relatable.
"Creating opportunities for Indigenous youth to explore, learn and grow is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in the future," said Kahsha Patterson, Indigenous Policy and Program Lead at Wood. "When communities, educators and industry work together, we can help create pathways that empower Indigenous youth to realize their potential."
Investing in the Leaders of Tomorrow
Supporting Indigenous youth is an important part of Wood's broader commitment to reconciliation, community investment and creating opportunities for future generations.
Since 2023, Wood employees have contributed more than 2,500 volunteer hours supporting Indigenous community initiatives, while the company has invested more than $200,000 through Indspire to help Indigenous students pursue post-secondary education and achieve their academic goals.
Whether through STEAM camps, science fairs, mentorship programs or educational bursaries, these initiatives help create opportunities for young people to explore their interests, pursue their ambitions and develop the skills that will help shape the future.
One of the most meaningful parts of these camps was giving Indigenous youth the opportunity to explore how their interests could connect to careers in STEAM. Experiences like these help young people better understand the range of education and career pathways available to them.