GEMinAI

Overview

The GEMinAI (Gender Equity Mentoring in AI) Program seeks to address gender inequity within artificial intelligence fields, where women make up only 25% of AI specialists (World Economic Forum, 2021). GEMinAI aims to narrow this gap by connecting women and gender non-conforming undergraduate and graduate students with like-minded AI professionals for support, encouragement, and assistance along their career journey.

Mission

To empower and support women and gender non-conforming undergraduate and graduate students interested in AI.

Goals

Given this inequity, the GEMinAI Program has identified 3 main goals:

• To improve gender equity among AI professionals.
• To support women and gender non-conforming students who wish to engage with the development and deployment of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
• To give students an opportunity to enhance their professional skills and prepare for their future careers in industry, academia, or non-profit sectors.

Timeline

November 2023: Program launch; mentoring begins

GEMinAI officially launches on November 15 at a networking event at Concordia University. The event will introduce mentors and mentees for the first time, fostering connections and setting the stage for a successful mentoring relationship.

December: 1st check-in held in December

January 2024: Mentoring continues

April: 2nd check-in

May: Final wrap-up event

Structure

Time commitment

Mentees and mentors commit to at least 4 one-hour sessions across two terms (2 in fall and 2 in winter), with a recommended 6 sessions. Meetings can be in person at the mentor's workplace, a nearby location, or virtually, based on mutual agreement.

Referrals

Mentors agree to refer at least 1-2 of their professional contacts to their mentee over the course of the mentoring relationship.

Reporting

Mentors and mentees will be asked to submit 2 brief reports in December and April. The 1st report will provide an opportunity for mentors and mentees to reflect on progress, discuss challenges, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a productive mentoring experience. The 2nd report will allow mentors and mentees to evaluate the outcomes of their mentoring journey, celebrate achievements, and provide valuable feedback for program improvement.

Closing event

A wrap-up Networking and Storytelling Event will be held in May for all GEMinAI Program participants. This event will provide an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and continue to build connections with colleagues in the AI community.