StepUp: Advancing Energy Sector Gender Equity

StepUp was established in 2019 to address the challenges women face in reaching leadership roles and to drive systemic change in the energy field, ensuring a more inclusive and balanced professional environment. By empowering women and fostering greater allyship, our organizations aims to eliminate gender-based barriers and create opportunities for women to excel. 

One of the critical issues StepUp addresses is the gender disparity in leadership and decision-making positions in the energy sector. As the 2022 Diversity & Inclusion in the Canadian Energy Sector Report shows, women continue to be underrepresented, which limits the diversity of perspectives and ideas in energy management. This gap has significant implications for organizational success and industry innovation. StepUp believes that gender equity not only drives better business outcomes but is also essential for achieving more sustainable and socially responsible energy solutions. The organization’s mission supports the global push toward a greener, more equitable future, aligning with initiatives like Equal by 30, which pledges to advance gender equality in the clean energy sector by 2030. 

StepUp implements a variety of impactful programs to achieve its mission. The organization hosts events such as networking sessions, panel discussions, and workshops, which are aimed at strengthening professional connections and fostering knowledge exchange. These events often feature industry experts who discuss emerging trends and strategies for overcoming barriers in the energy sector. 

StepUp facilitates initiatives that encourage the entire energy community, including men, to be active allies. This approach is based on the understanding that real change requires the involvement and commitment of everyone in the sector. By promoting allyship and inclusivity, StepUp fosters an environment where all voices are heard and valued, driving long-term progress. 

Educational programs are another key component of StepUp’s work. They offer workshops focused on professional development, covering topics like strategic leadership, negotiation, and effective communication. By equipping women with the tools to thrive and lead in the energy industry, these programs ensure that participants are better prepared to take on leadership roles.

StepUp also organizes awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of gender equity and the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workforce. They aim to shift the industry culture by encouraging conversations around equality and pushing organizations to implement meaningful change. They also foster conversations about meaningful change by publishing Feature Thought Pieces, aimed at building awareness and providing transformative tools to supporters all in alignment with the StepUp Mission. 

Additionally, StepUp honours one individual each year who shows a passion for furthering energy sector innovation while also ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion principles are at the forefront through the StepUp Award for Excellence in Innovation and Leadership. Sharing stories of success, like those of the award winners, is a method of shifting the workplace culture in energy management.

Overall, our organization’s efforts are not only about promoting women but also about reshaping the energy sector to be more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable. Through targeted leadership programs, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to diversity, StepUp is paving the way for a future where gender equity is the norm, ensuring a stronger, more resilient energy industry. 

To support StepUp in this goal, please visit www.stepup-energy.comand follow us on LinkedIn.

StepUp is a non-profit organization committed to promoting gender equity, diversity, and inclusion within Canada’s energy management sector.