Putting words into action, one day at a time
At CIMA+, we invest daily in the continuous improvement of our activities, acknowledging that the journey towards a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive company is an ongoing endeavour. In doing so, we celebrate the wealth of every experience and work towards fostering an open environment where all voices can be heard.
Our relentless approach reflects our commitment to progress, to broaden our perspectives, and to evolve.
Today, our efforts towards Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are led by an EDI Framework and through initiatives such as our Reconciliation Action Plan. If you share our vision of taking proactive steps, feel free to contact Fanny, our Senior EDI Advisor.
Our EDI Framework here, at CIMA+
The EDI Framework at CIMA+ is a commitment—an ongoing effort to build a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and representative of all identities and their intersections. Specifically, we want to keep listening to diverse perspectives and lived experiences, and relentlessly rethink, adapt, and reconsider our policies and procedures. Our goal is to ensure that the contribution and success of every person remain at the forefront of our actions.
This Framework is based on three core pillars that guide our decisions, day by day.
- Increase fairness
- Diversifying talent
- Create an affirming culture
Some concrete actions
Scholarships for the next generation of Indigenous students
CIMA+ will award $1,000 scholarships to Kiuna College students, the first Quebec institution dedicated to Indigenous education. Through this initiative, CIMA+ aims to acknowledge the determination of a new generation of students with unique backgrounds who face significant difficulties and challenges.
Concrete actions for the International Women’s Rights Day
In commemoration of the International Women’s Rights Day, CIMA+ organized focus groups in our offices across Canada to discuss their role within the company. Additionally, we spoke with Caroline Codsi, IAS.A., ICD.D., President and Founder of Women in Governance, shedding light on the Parity Certification.
A scholarship for young Indigenous people
CIMA+ has signed a five-year agreement with Indspire, pledging $25,000 in scholarships for Indigenous students. This agreement aims to contribute to Indspire’s mission of enriching Canada through Indigenous education and inspiring success
A scholarship for women in engineering
In September 2023, CIMA+ participated in the IngénieurE au Féminin Conference at the University of Sherbrooke. During the event, we awarded a $2,000 scholarship to Jacty Saenz, a computer engineering student, for her exceptional achievements.
A partnership with EngiQueers Canada
EngiQueers is an organization celebrating, advocating, and promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering. The partnership between CIMA+ and EngiQueers is mutually beneficial: CIMA+ gains valuable training on diversity and inclusion, while EngiQueers members have the opportunity to develop their professional networks.
Recognition for the role of women at CIMA+
CIMA+ is proud to be the first consulting engineering firm in Quebec to receive the Parity Certification from Women in Governance (bronze category). The Certification evaluation includes over 75 quantitative and qualitative criteria that consider the many facets of diversity in women’s careers advancement. In fact, our commitment has been recognized by journal Les Affaires as well.
CIMA+ Action Plan for Reconciliation
At CIMA+, we recognize the legal and constitutional rights of Indigenous peoples. Our actions and decisions are driven by the aspiration to cultivate greater respect for their values, traditions, and ancestral knowledge.
Our Action Plan for Reconciliation is the tangible manifestation of these commitments. Its objectives are to foster a workplace that honours the history of Indigenous peoples and contributes to reconciliation. Our goal is to develop innovative programs that build and strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities. But above all, we envision a world of possibilities where future landmark projects emerge from authentic collaboration, the clash of ideas, and the convergence of knowledge.
The responsibility lies with us to turn them into reality.
Rachel Coombs, civil engineer in training (IEF)
Rachel Coombs has always been passionate about mathematics and physics, but she also wanted to work in a dynamic environment that would enable her to positively influence communities. She continued her studies in civil engineering and then specialized in the design of transmission line structures at CIMA+. Today, Rachel is proud to show that there is room for women in this traditionally male-dominated sector. She hopes to inspire future generations of women engineers. Read more.
Zohra Houam, senior specialist building and structure technician
Zohra Houam’s interest in construction sites goes back to her childhood. She was fascinated by the depth of the excavations, the height of the cranes, and the scale of these projects, capable of changing the face of her city. Inspired by this passion, Zohra pursued a career in engineering, a universal profession that played a pivotal role in her immigration to Canada. Above all, she is delighted to contribute to the construction of more sustainable buildings and to inspire future generations to choose a career in engineering. Read more.
Zoe Redford, transportation engineering project manager
Zoe Redford has found her dream career in engineering, a field she sees as a collaborative effort towards a shared objective: delivering efficient, cost-effective solutions and products respectful of the environment and society. Zoe takes pride in knowing that her work contributes to improving transportation safety and users’ quality of life. Many of her projects help improve active modes of transportation and public transit connectivity, which is close to her heart as a cyclist. Read more.
Jaime Boutilier, field services manager, infrastructure
Jaime Boutilier’s passion for construction and her fascination for mathematics and science, propelled her towards engineering. Today, she is discovering a fascinating field that uses knowledge, creativity, and innovation to solve problems. Jaime finds immense satisfaction in witnessing projects succeed and observing their impact on people. The Rulindo Challenge in Rwanda was a good example, as she helped provide essential water and sanitation services to 330,000 individuals. Read more.
At CIMA+, we firmly believe that equity, diversity, and inclusion must be more than intentions. We recognize that our journey towards continuous improvement is crucial, and we are committed to taking concrete steps to catalyze change.
We understand that the cumulative impact of everyday actions can shape the world, and thus, we actively encourage our employees to take the initiative. Listening, collaborating, helping each other, and continuously improving our structures, processes, practices, and policies are at the heart of our teams’ well-being. Our ultimate objective is to establish an environment where every individual not only fully participates, but also contributes meaningfully, fostering their path to success.
Day by day, we forge the future, and every gesture counts.