WTS is an international organization dedicated to the professional advancement of women and women-identifying individuals in transportation. WTS exists to raise the profile of the transportation profession and to help women find opportunity and recognition within the industry. WTS stands for Women's Transportation Seminar, which was how it was named when founded in 1977 when women couldn't get subsidized for association memberships unless they were educational. But times have changed, and now joining an association is an opportunity everyone can take advantage of to work together and benefit each other in their careers.

Your WTS Southwest Ontario Chapter extends from Guelph and Region of Waterloo, including the city centers of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, southwesterly to Windsor, Sarnia and beyond. We have members and supports from London, Woodstock, Oxford County, Stratford and everywhere in between. Due to our vast geographical area, we encompass several post-secondary schools such as Conestoga College, University of Waterloo, McMaster University, Fanshaw College, University of Windsor and more. We pride ourselves in our student members and in supporting them in their future success in our industry.

Currently, we host three events each year to bring our members and supporters together to enjoy an active event with friendly competition and lots of time for networking. Our supporters come from the public, private and academic sectors and include all genders. Our events have included curling, canoeing, lawn bowling and skiing. There is no need to be skilled as we include a how-to session for each event. Since we are still a new chapter, we are working towards building awareness that our chapter exists in the SW Ontario area and gaining support in the form of both membership and sponsorship.

Our long term goals are to build the chapter and incorporate as many different sectors of transportation as possible. We are strong in the engineering and planning sector, and are looking to extend to freight, aviation, logistics and more. We strive for diversity and connecting people for a bright transportation future. We are working towards offering a mentorship program and scholarship program as our membership base expands.

Do you want to learn more about WTS-SW Ontario?  Email [email protected] to join our mailing list and receive monthly newsletters.