Next week is National Volunteer Week and organizations across the country will be recognizing the difference volunteers make through the theme, “every moment matters.” This theme highlights the importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make at a moment when their support is needed more than ever. The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and wellbeing of Canada’s communities. 

At Engineers Canada, this is a fitting tribute to the countless hours and profound effort our volunteers have contributed to advancing the engineering profession.  

Volunteers are vital to our work. Over the past year, volunteers have been instrumental in helping to re-imagine the accreditation process through the Futures of Engineering Accreditation project, lent their experience and expertise to helping make engineering a more equitable and inclusive profession,  and helped develop new public guidelines, including on consultation with Indigenous peoples.  They’ve also worked with us to craft new national position statements on topics ranging from the role of engineers in getting Canada to net-zero emissions, to licensing requirements for engineering positions in the federal public service.  

These examples are just a few of the many ways volunteers are helping make every moment matter. Their work is often behind the scenes, but their impact is felt in every corner of the engineering profession. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of our volunteers is the diversity of backgrounds and expertise they bring to the organization. Each individual infuses a unique perspective, enriching our projects and programs with fresh ideas and insights. This diversity not only enhances the quality of our work but also reflects the breadth of the engineering profession in Canada. 

The spirit of volunteering at Engineers Canada embodies a powerful aspiration for change, driving work that not only enhances the profession but also addresses pressing societal challenges. As we look to the future, the contributions of our volunteers remain integral to our mission. Their shared time, skills, empathy, and creativity continue to fortify the inclusivity, strength, and wellbeing of our communities. To all the volunteers who have committed their time, energy, and expertise to Engineers Canada, we say thank you. Engineers Canada’s volunteers are the embodiment of the belief that every moment does indeed matter. Their commitment ensures that the engineering profession in Canada remains an inspiration for excellence and innovation.