Calgary's Women in Tech Program Faces Criticism Over Job Placement

In Calgary, a personal account from a participant in the Making Changes Association’s Women in Technology (WIT) program has sparked a critical conversation about the program's effectiveness in job placement. The experience shared by one former student suggests a significant gap between the program's promises and the employment outcomes for its graduates.

Promises vs. Reality

The WIT program, designed for immigrant and Indigenous women, offers free technical training with the aim of empowering women to launch tech careers. Despite rigorous coursework and repeated assurances of improved job prospects, the participant reported that only a few in her cohort secured employment, primarily those with prior tech experience.

Criticism was also directed at the career support provided, including inexperienced consultants and a lack of effective job placement services. The program's promise of internships and job opportunities appeared unfulfilled, leaving many feeling disheartened.

Mixed Outcomes and Broader Challenges

While the post highlights challenges, the Making Changes Association cites a 75% employment rate among graduates and shares success stories of individuals who transitioned into tech roles. This contrast raises questions about the consistency of program outcomes.

The broader landscape for women in Calgary’s tech industry remains challenging, with women underrepresented and often leaving tech roles at higher rates. This underscores the need for programs like WIT to align more closely with the job market's realities, ensuring equitable success for all participants.