By Crissandra Ayroso
Trailblazers Who Changed Science and Technology
Throughout history, Canadian women have made groundbreaking contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Their discoveries and innovations have changed the way we live, learn, and understand the world.
Teachers and aspiring educators can draw inspiration from these pioneers and share their stories to encourage future generations of students—especially young girls—to explore STEM fields.
As we celebrate International Women's Day on March 8 and Women's History Month, we honor the achievements of these trailblazers and continue to promote gender equality in STEM fields.
Here are some of the most influential Canadian women in STEM who have shaped history and continue to inspire young minds today.
Dr. Roberta Bondar, The First Canadian Woman in Space
Roberta Bondar, born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is a name that many Canadians recognize.
As the first Canadian woman in space, she made history aboard the Canadian Space Agency's Space Shuttle Discovery in 1992.
But Bondar is more than just an astronaut—she is also a neurologist and researcher.
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Conducted experiments on the effects of space travel on the human body
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Helped develop strategies for astronaut health and rehabilitation
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Advocates for science education and environmental awareness
Her work bridges the gap between space science and human health, inspiring young scientists to explore careers in both medicine and space exploration.
Dr. Eugenia Duodu, Chemist and STEM Advocate
Eugenia Duodu, born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, is a chemist and the CEO of Visions of Science, an organization dedicated to empowering youth in marginalized communities through STEM education.
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Holds a PhD in chemistry from the University of Toronto
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Leads initiatives that provide hands-on STEM learning opportunities
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Works to increase diversity and inclusion in science fields
Her efforts help ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to quality science education and mentorship.
Dr. Julielynn Wong, Physician and Aerospace Engineer
Dr. Julielynn Wong, from Toronto, Ontario, is a physician, scientist, and aerospace engineer who uses 3D printing technology to solve medical challenges in remote areas and space exploration.
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Founded 3D4MD, a company that creates 3D-printed medical tools for use in isolated locations
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Works with astronauts to develop medical solutions for space missions
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Promotes innovation and problem-solving in medical technology
Her work demonstrates the power of combining engineering and medicine to create life-saving solutions for people worldwide.
Dr. Jennifer Gardy, Infectious Disease Expert and Science Communicator
Jennifer Gardy, originally from Langley, British Columbia, is an epidemiologist who studies infectious diseases and how they spread. She is also known for making science accessible to the public through books and television.
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Uses genetic sequencing to track and stop disease outbreaks
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Works with global health organizations to prevent pandemics
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Hosts science shows to engage young audiences in STEM learning
Her research and outreach efforts show how science can protect communities and improve public health.
Dr. Donna Strickland, Nobel Prize-Winning Physicist
Donna Strickland, hailing from Guelph, Ontario, is a physicist whose contributions to laser technology earned her the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physics, making her only the third woman in history to receive the honor in this field.
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Developed chirped pulse amplification (CPA), a technology that makes lasers more powerful and precise
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CPA is used in laser eye surgery and industrial cutting tools
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Advocates for gender equality in STEM education and research
Her discoveries continue to impact medical and industrial applications, proving that scientific breakthroughs can change everyday life.
The Role of OISE in STEM Education
The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto plays a vital role in advancing STEM education and training future educators.
Many of the scientists and innovators mentioned above benefited from strong education systems and dedicated teachers, many of whom trained at institutions like OISE.
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OISE provides specialized training for educators in STEM subjects, ensuring teachers have the skills to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
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Faculty members at OISE conduct research on effective STEM teaching strategies, making science and technology more accessible to students.
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OISE promotes equity and inclusion in STEM education, helping to bridge the gender gap in science and technology fields.
Aspiring teachers who want to support students in STEM can benefit from education programs, including OISE TEFL's certification course, designed to enhance instruction with its unique specializations, in classrooms worldwide.
Celebrating Women in STEM, Building a Better Future
Recognizing the achievements of Canadian women in STEM is more than just a celebration—it is a step toward creating a more inclusive and innovative future.
By sharing their stories, teachers can inspire students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with confidence and curiosity.
For more resources on teaching English as a second language and inspiring young minds, explore OISE University of Toronto's online TEFL certification courses.
Banner Image Credits (From Left to Right)
Roberta Bondar
By JSC/NASA - Image ID: S91-51633 https://images-assets.nasa.gov/image/S91-51633/S91-51633~medium.jpg
Eugenia Duodo
By Joshua Best Photography - TEDXToronto, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=73911952
Julielynn Wong
By Helen Tansey - Published with author's permission, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79383642
Jennifer Gardy
By Simon Fraser University - University Communications - https://www.flickr.com/photos/sfupamr/23757057273/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48843922
Donna Strickland
By Bengt Nyman from Vaxholm, Sweden - Donna Strickland EM1B5760, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=74952615