Abstract
PEER MENTORING – A PATHWAY TO IMPROVE DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Kwestan Salimi, Ph.D. P.E.[1]
Resa Furey [2]
Peer Mentoring is a rewarding and underutilized. Peer Mentoring engages participants and allows them to discuss issues in a safe space, while exposing participants to diverse perspectives, and building camaraderie across a group. We may struggle with things on our own, but often the best solution can be found amongst our peers.
This presentation will provide an overview of a very successful Women’s Peer Mentoring program within Stantec. The objectives of the program are to strengthen professional networks; promote individual and group development through positive discussion; encourage individual engagement via small group arrangement; provide a forum for diverse perspectives and collaboration. The program started in 2021 and has resulted in exciting outcomes: more confidence among participants as well as improved retention and attraction rates among younger women. By creating an open and safe environment, the program has prepared women for leadership roles and empowered women from diverse and more reserved cultures to grow and contribute.
1 Stantec, Geotechnical Engineer, Denver, Colorado, Kwestan.Salimi@Stantec.com.
2 Stantec, Principal, Broomfield CO, Resa.Furey@stantec.com.