EngOut is uniting LGBTQ+ engineers

The EngOut (external link)  student group is focused on empowering LGBTQ+ students and advocating for diversity and inclusion in engineering. They have worked closely with the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science (FEAS) to foster a welcoming environment for all. Past collaborations with the Faculty have led to the development of case studies, networking nights, and guest speakers from the LGBTQ+ community. 

Nika Zolfaghari, Manager, Equity and Community Inclusion for FEAS, says her office is dedicated to fostering a culture both inside and outside the classroom that is inclusive of all identities, including race, gender, sexual orientation and disability. 

“We care deeply about supporting our LGBTQ+ community and aim to create an inclusive environment through advocacy, capacity building and allyship,” says Zolfaghari. “We work closely with our EngOut student group to ensure that LGBTQ+ voices and experiences are captured in our education and training workshops.” 

In the past year, EngOut has connected around 90 students with professionals from various industries that all support and recognize the importance of diversity in the workplace. EngOut also hosted their first virtual case competition in collaboration with Advanced Micro Devices (external link)  (AMD), where students had the opportunity to tackle real industry issues regarding diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Over the years, EngOut has marched in the Toronto Pride Parade, creating posters and hosting events on campus to celebrate. Although the 2021 parade has been cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions, EngOut is still working to keep the LGBTQ+ community at Ryerson connected during Pride Month. 

President of EngOut and electrical engineering student, Jerome Rodriguez, says the EngOut team continues to work hard to plan virtual events and celebrations, including a Drag Event collaboration with RyePRIDE to end off Pride Month.

“It is unfortunate that Pride Month will have to be celebrated virtually, but we understand that it is important to keep our community safe,” says Rodriguez. “We are also looking into ways to interact with our community virtually to showcase how everyone, including the EngOut executive team, is showing their pride.” Students can look out for Pride celebrations and updates on EngOut’s Instagram (external link) . They can also check out the account to view the group’s series on the history and importance of Pride Month.