As an Indigenous engineering student at Queen's, you will be part of a welcoming community, with access to a wide variety of supports and services designed to help you thrive. Primarily run by our Indigenous Futures in Engineering team (InEng), as well as Queen's STEM Indigenous Academics (STEMInA), you will benefit from holistic support, with academic, sociocultural, and professional development services.
As an Indigenous engineering student, you will have access to tailored resources to support your academic goals.
Free Tutoring Services
We offer free tutoring services for Smith Engineering Indigenous students. Our dedicated program staff will collaborate with you to find a tutor that is fitted to your needs. Whether you're looking for help with coursework, or additional study support, we are here to help you succeed. As an Indigenous student in engineering, you will have a wealth of valuable resources and support to help you in your academic journey.
Indigenous Engineering Study Space
InEng has a dedicated Indigenous engineering student study room. It's more than just a place to study - it's the perfect space for group projects and quick breaks between classes. Stocked with snacks during exam time, and a steady supply of coffee, this welcoming space will be a home base during your academic journey.
InEng provides exclusive opportunities to help our aspiring engineers prepare for their careers.
Industry Connections
Our dedicated Indigenous Transitions Coordinator works with on-campus partners like Career Services and Corporate Relations to connect Indigenous engineering students with opportunities in industry. Their mission is to create meaningful connections and pathways to success, helping you in your search for career and professional development opportunities.
Conferences and Networking
We support our Indigenous engineering students by offering financial assistance for student travel to attend conferences, and by organizing networking events. Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your skills and develop connections in the engineering industry.
Research Opportunities
Our Indigenous engineering students are eligible to receive a research fellowship and are connected with esteemed faculty members, allowing them to contribute to meaningfully and gain valuable research experience. This unique opportunity invites you to explore and make informed decisions about your future career path, whether in the industry or pursuing graduate studies in the field of engineering.
InEng and STEMInA collaborate to offer dynamic programs and services, cultivating a close-knit community through tailored events, outreach, and leadership opportunities.
Transition Week
First-year Indigenous engineering students have the opportunity to move to campus one week ahead of the general move-in. You'll be invited to participate in Transition Week, an on-campus orientation that also welcomes families/supporters for the first two days. Families/supporters will learn about programs and services, help you move in, and meet the program staff. After the first two days, you are left to participate in a week-long orientation to campus, getting to know each other and the city of Kingston.
Social Gatherings
Indigenous engineering students are invited to join their peers in STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) at our STEMInA social gatherings. These events provide a unique space for students to come together, enjoy local takeout, engage in meaningful conversations, study, and socialize.
Indigenous in STEM
We continuously seek opportunities to connect our students with Indigenous perspectives in STEM. Whether it's linking you with leaders, curating specialized programming, or helping you find opportunities, our goal is to bring Indigenous experiences and viewpoints in STEM subjects to you.
Indigenous Application Pathway
Indigenous Scholarships and Bursaries
Already received an offer? Congratulations! Here are the next steps in accepting your offer.
Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre (4D) is the home away from home for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students on campus! They offer a variety of services to Indigenous students across campus, from social and cultural activities to study spaces and even free laundry facilities.
Smith Engineering has a chapter of AISES, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society. Q-AISES participates in many opportunities through the AISES network, including conferences and competitions. Recent and most notably, the Q-AISES Rocket Team is the 2023 International Champion (Canada and USA) in the NASA-sponsored First Nations Launch competition!
Queen’s Native Students Association
The QNSA is an AMS-ratified student club that brings together undergrad, graduate, and professional students who share an interest in Indigenous culture and traditions. The QNSA, in collaboration with Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre, organizes Indigenous Awareness Week activities every year.
Office of Indigenous Initiatives
The Office of Indigenous Initiatives builds community, advances reconciliation/conciliation and integrates Indigenous ways of knowing and being into the fabric and life of the university.
Melanie Howard
Director, Indigenous Futures in Engineering
Phone: 613-533-6000 ext. 78563
This presentation highlights the wide range of supports and services that Indigenous Smith Engineering students have available to them, including resources to support their academic, cultural, and professional growth.
We are excited to feature a student perspective from one of the team leads from our Indigenous rocket team, the Q-AISES Rocket Team, providing valuable insights and experiences from within our community.