Increasing the diversity of voices in the sciences.

Operation Minerva is a mentoring series aimed at inspiring girls and gender diverse students in grades 8–9 to feel a sense of belonging in the worlds of science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM).

Through networking, story-sharing, team challenges and site visits with a diverse group of mentors, students get to envision their own future journeys in STEAM disciplines and be part of a community of people who share their passions and interests. Specific focus is placed on recruiting mentors and students who are from groups generally underrepresented in STEAM.

Part 1: Friday, November 2025 (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)  

• Focus: Meet and greet session with mentees and mentors at TELUS Spark Science Centre  
• Location: TELUS Spark Science Centre  

Part 2: February 2026 (one-day experience during the week)  

• Focus: Careers and mentoring. Students will have an opportunity to join a one-day site visit at one of the mentor organizations. During the visits, students meet industry professionals, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the projects mentors are involved with.  
• The site visit coincides with the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11)  
• Location: Mentor workplaces throughout Calgary  

Part 3:April 2026 (half-day)  

• Focus: Team challenge to build stronger connections between students and mentors.  
• Location: TELUS Spark Science Centre 

Curriculum Enhanced:

• Career possibilities within science-related fields
• Career and technology foundations

Operation Minerva is part of Spark's education programs, offering dynamic learning opportunities that can go beyond the curriculum.

Operation Minerva is part of Spark's education programs, offering dynamic learning opportunities that can go beyond the curriculum. It began with the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN) and joined Spark’s suite of programs in 2019.