BIG on STEM: Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Futures.

Helping youth explore STEM, skilled trades, and future career pathways

For many young people, science, technology, engineering, math, and skilled trades can feel out of reach.

BIG on STEM helps change that.

Through hands-on learning, mentorship, career exploration, and the support of Cenovus Energy, youth across Canada are discovering new possibilities for their futures. They are meeting real professionals, exploring real pathways, and gaining the confidence to imagine themselves in careers they may never have considered before.

What is BIG on STEM?

BIG on STEM is a national partnership between Cenovus Energy and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada.

The program connects youth with engaging experiences that bring STEM (Science. Technology. Engineering. Math.) to life. Local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies host events where youth can explore science, technology, engineering, math, skilled trades, post-secondary options, and career pathways through hands-on activities and mentorship.

These experiences help youth:

  • Discover STEM and skilled trades in real-world settings
  • Meet professionals working in related careers
  • Build confidence through hands-on learning
  • Build confidence through hands-on learning
  • Career talks, panels, and fairs
  • Explore post-secondary and career pathways
  • See new possibilities for their future

2025 Impact

In 2025, BIG on STEM helped youth across Canada explore futures they may never have imagined.

  • 242 youth participated
  • 63 STEM professionals supported events
  • 32 Cenovus staff participated
  • 98% found BIG on STEM to be a positive and worthwhile experience
  • 98% felt inspired to explore more STEM opportunities
  • 97% felt supported in exploring STEM education and career pathways
  • 97% would recommend participating in BIG on STEM

Why it matters

STEM isn’t just about labs and equations. It’s about possibility.

A young person’s future can be shaped by the people they meet and the experiences they have.

When youth meet engineers, environmental scientists, technologists, skilled tradespeople, mentors, and community leaders, they begin to understand that there are many pathways available to them. When they build, test, explore, and ask questions, they begin to see that STEM is not just something they learn about. It is something they can be part of.

BIG on STEM engineering
“I didn’t know STEM could look like this. I want to learn more.”
 — Youth participant

Powered by partnership

BIG on STEM is made possible through the generous support of Cenovus Energy.

Together, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and Cenovus are helping young people build confidence, discover career pathways, and imagine futures in STEM, skilled trades, and the evolving energy sector.

Get involved

Mentorship helps young people discover who they are, what they can do, and where their future can take them.

You can help create more opportunities like BIG on STEM.

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