At TMU’s Faculty of Engineering & Architectural Science (FEAS), creating spaces where women in engineering can thrive requires more than technical expertise, it takes courage, vulnerability, and community. Leaders like Maiska Spinet (Development Officer of Engagement), Emma Grant (Executive Director of Advancement), and Minakshi Suri (Manager of Equity, Community & Inclusion) are shaping those spaces from the inside. Through mentorship, equity-focused leadership, and intentional engagement, they’re showing that belonging isn’t accidental, it’s built. Their work reminds us that engineering isn’t just driven by innovation, but by the environment that enables it. When women feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead, the whole field moves forward. About ACE & Co. ACE & Co. is a social enterprise recruiting advisory firm committed to helping women and girls as they explore and pursue fulfilling careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). We stand up everyday for women empowerment and gender equality and dream of a day when more women would lead from the front lines of innovation, creativity, and technology. Follow ACE & Co. Website: www.aceandco.ca Instagram: @aceandcoltd Facebook: @aceandcoltd LinkedIn: @aceandcoltd Stay updated with our upcoming programs on our website to see how you can be a part of it!

Alison shared her journey into the energy sector, reflecting on the experiences, decisions, and moments that shaped her path to where she is today. She spoke openly about navigating her career, learning along the way, and building confidence in spaces where women are still underrepresented. There are many pathways into the field, and success isn’t defined by just one skill set. The work draws on problem-solving, communication, creativity, and collaboration just as much as technical knowledge. I’s not all about math and science. She encouraged exploring interests beyond the classroom, leaning into strengths like leadership and curiosity, and remembering that there’s space in STEM for a wide range of talents and perspectives. 🔗 Enbridge: https://www.enbridge.com/ About ACE & Co. ACE & Co. is a social enterprise recruiting advisory firm committed to helping women and girls as they explore and pursue fulfilling careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). We stand up everyday for women empowerment and gender equality and dream of a day when more women would lead from the front lines of innovation, creativity, and technology. Follow ACE & Co. Website: www.aceandco.ca Instagram: @aceandcoltd Facebook: @aceandcoltd LinkedIn: @aceandcoltd Stay updated with our upcoming programs on our website to see how you can be a part of it!

Welcome to the ACE & Co STEAM Speaker Series, Episode 17, where we spotlight inspiring leaders making waves in STEAM fields. Meet Valerie Augustine, founder of Lite It Up, a Toronto-based natural body, skincare, and wellness brand built on creativity, craftsmanship, and care. In this episode, we explore Valerie’s journey from a candle-making hobby to building a full-scale business offering eco-friendly, all-natural products for the skin, body, and hair. She shares how Lite It Up grew through community demand, thoughtful expansion, and a deep commitment to using high-quality natural ingredients like shea and cocoa butters, beeswax, coconut oil, and essential oils. From luxurious whipped body butters and artisan soaps to beard oils and grooming essentials, this conversation highlights how innovation, entrepreneurship, and intention can shape a brand that puts customers first. Whether you’re interested in entrepreneurship, sustainable beauty, or how creativity and STEM skills show up in product development, this episode offers insight into building something meaningful, one product at a time. Discover more about Lite It Up: • Website: https://liteitupproducts.com/ About ACE & Co. ACE & Co. is a social enterprise recruiting advisory firm committed to helping women and girls as they explore and pursue fulfilling careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). We stand up everyday for women empowerment and gender equality and dream of a day when more women would lead from the front lines of innovation, creativity, and technology. Follow ACE & Co. Website: www.aceandco.ca Instagram: @aceandcoltd Facebook: @aceandcoltd LinkedIn: @aceandcoltd Stay updated with our upcoming programs on our website to see how you can be a part of it!

We had the chance to talk to three students at this year’s Dreamer Day to hear about their experience, what stood out to them, and the pathways they’re excited to explore. These conversations highlighted the value of creating spaces where young people can reflect, ask questions, and talk openly about where they see themselves heading. About ACE & Co. ACE & Co. is a social enterprise recruiting advisory firm committed to helping women and girls as they explore and pursue fulfilling careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). We stand up everyday for women empowerment and gender equality and dream of a day when more women would lead from the front lines of innovation, creativity, and technology. Follow ACE & Co. Website: www.aceandco.ca Instagram: @aceandcoltd Facebook: @aceandcoltd LinkedIn: @aceandcoltd Stay updated with our upcoming programs on our website to see how you can be a part of it!