DiscoverE Clubs

The Cause

DiscoverE is a student-delivered initiative of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta, in Edmonton AB. We focus on fun, accessibility and mentorship to deliver programs about engineering, science and technology! We deliver high-impact classroom workshops, unique clubs and events, and engaging summer camps for kids. Our programs reach over 80 communities across the Edmonton area, northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories.

Our mission is to have children and youth recognize the value and importance of engineering, science and technology in today’s world and consider the pursuit of related fields a fun, interesting and rewarding option for their future. DiscoverE was founded in Edmonton in 1993 in response to a national concern about the shortage of engineers, scientists and technically literate individuals in Canadian society. This shortage was identified as a result of the lack of interest in science, math and technology in younger generations. If children are exposed to engineering and science at an early age, they are more likely to pursue further studies in these fields.

We currently run programming for girls on Saturdays in the Fall and Winter. We run GEM club, which is Girls Engineering Mentorship and Girls Coding Club. Both clubs provide a safe and inclusive space for girls to explore STEM and get guidance from current University of Alberta Female students. We previously had funding from Google for this initiative, however this has run out. We are also hoping to expand and add clubs for all students that are engaging, exciting and can help students grow both academically and personally.

Who Will it Benefit?

Our programs feature an interactive, hands-on approach to learning. Our goal is to get as many students involved in our programs as possible, regardless of their socio-economic background or families financial status. We also provide bursaries so all youth have the chance to attend our camps. These programs will benefit youth in grades 3-9. Our target groups are girls, at-risk youth, and FNMI students (First Nations, Metis and Inuit). But our programs are open to all.