There is still a tremendous gender imbalance of students studying science and engineering in universities and colleges. Many female students are unaware of the wide range of careers available to them. This imbalance can be corrected if exciting information and many different choices are presented to students well before they consider a program at a university or a college.

A Pathmaker is a female post-secondary student who is preparing for a career in science, technology, mathematics or engineering.

Teams of Pathmakers from Carleton University, University of Ottawa and Algonquin College visit elementary and secondary schools in Ottawa-Hull from October to May. They are role models who encourage young people to stay in school, to maintain studies in science, technology, mathematics and engineering, and to explore career choices in occupations where there are great job opportunities