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 the Region of Waterloo, including the city centers of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, southwesterly to Windsor, Sarnia and beyond. We have members and supporters 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, Wilfrid Laurier University, McMaster University, Fanshaw College, University of Guelph, Mohawk College, University of Windsor, Six Nations Polytechnic and St. Clair College.

We pride ourselves on our student members and in supporting them in their future success in our industry.

Currently, we host three in-person 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.

We also host virtual learning sessions as part of our Speaker Series. We are proud to have hosted both technical and practical learning sessions such as the Middle Road Heritage Bridge Rehabilitation, the Value of Good Specification and Leadership at Different Ages and Stages. Our Speaker Series continues with a diverse range of presenters.

We have expanded our efforts in mentorship by connecting people within our chapter and expanding beyond our personal networks. In 2025 we were able to offer our very first scholarship to one student pursuing a career in the transportation industry. We hope to grow from that milestone offering and continue to offer scholarships annually with the support of our sponsors.

Our long term goals are to build the chapter through memberships and sponsorships, expand our mentorship and scholarship offerings, and incorporate as many different sectors of transportation as possible in our membership.

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

Image