Founded in 2011 as Island Women in Technology, the group’s mission was to offer a positive and supportive environment where women who worked in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) could connect and build a community. A common concern from members of the group was that they felt like the “other” at work. The goal was to counter that and help women flourish and grow their networks, careers and personal skills.

Today, over 900 people subscribe to iWIST’s various social network sites or newsletter. iWIST hosts regular networking and professional development events on Vancouver Island. The themes vary but the core function will always be to build opportunities for women in the evolving STEM communities on Vancouver Island. Great events will always be the heart and soul of what makes iWIST a success – from the annual events like our holiday breakfast & AGM, and the Summer Party to the many impressive professional development initiatives: Best Advice I Ever Ignored CEOs Panel, Leading the Way conference, and many more.