This first summit, hosted by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and supported by Engineers Canada and RIM, brought leaders from academia and the private sector together with policy makers and students to identify current best practices and generate innovative solutions for attracting and retaining women to careers in science and engineering. The primary goals were to examine what is currently being done in the business world and on campuses to attract women to these fields, discuss what is working and outline concrete actions to foster greater participation and retention of women in scientific careers.

A report entitled Women in Science and Engineering in Canada was presented at the summit.

At the conclusion of the summit, NSERC President Suzanne Fortier, and several other leaders in science and engineering, met with The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, and shared some of the outcomes that emerged from the day of brainstorming, dialogue and presentations.