Waves of Change: Innovators and Pioneers Celebration to Take Place March 7, 2026

Fort McMurray, AB — Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta is proud to announce Katie Runnalls as the fifth and final Woman of Inspiration for the 2026 Women of Inspiration Series. Katie will be honoured at this year’s celebration for her transformative leadership in STEM education, her commitment to equity and inclusion, and her work expanding access to innovative learning opportunities for girls and underrepresented youth across the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

Katie Runnalls is the Programs and Community Manager for BrainSTEM Alliance in the Wood Buffalo region, where she has played a key role in reshaping the local STEM engagement landscape. Since joining the organization in 2025, Katie has championed intentionally inclusive, community-rooted programming that invites girls and youth to see themselves as innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in fields where they have historically been underrepresented.

One of Katie’s most impactful contributions has been her leadership and coordination of Operation SMART, a Girls Inc. program designed to spark girls’ curiosity and confidence in STEM. Through this work, Katie curated a diverse network of STEM ambassadors representing fields such as architecture, biology, mining, game design, and engineering, ensuring girls were exposed to role models who reflect a wide range of lived experiences and career pathways.

“During Operation SMART, Katie connected, innovated, and breathed life into the program, inspiring the girls with real-life pathways to a lifelong relationship with STEM,” shared Jayna McMillan, Program Coordinator at Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta.

Katie also supports the READesign Functional Literacy Program in partnership with the Wood Buffalo Regional Library, blending literacy and engineering through hands-on design challenges. Her approach prioritizes accessibility, welcoming learners with different strengths, interests, and learning styles, and reinforcing the idea that STEM belongs to everyone.

Katie’s passion for equity is deeply informed by her background in Global Health Systems and her experience in community-based development and health promotion, including work in rural Masaka, Uganda. These experiences have shaped her understanding of systemic barriers and the importance of creating learning environments that do not simply include girls, but actively empower them.

Katie embodies the Girls Inc. values of being Strong, Smart, and Bold:

Strong: Through her commitment to equity and inclusion, Katie builds programs that challenge systemic barriers and create safer, more welcoming spaces for girls in STEM.

Smart: By blending literacy, engineering, and community partnerships, she delivers thoughtful, evidence-informed programming that meets learners where they are.

Bold: Katie challenges traditional STEM norms by centering representation, mentorship, and belonging, ensuring girls know they have a right to be in the room, and at the table.

Reflecting on her nomination, Katie shared, “I was really honoured. I love seeing women-centred initiatives in our community, especially ones that celebrate innovation and impact. Being recognized for creating inclusive spaces is incredibly meaningful.”

When asked what advice she would give to girls, Katie offered a powerful message grounded in lived experience: “Do whatever you want. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. People will try to speak for you or tell you what they don’t see for you — but your choices are yours, and they will shape who you become.”

“Katie Runnalls is a true innovator and community builder,” said Katlin Okonkwo, Interim Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta. “Her work demonstrates how inclusive program design and strong partnerships can expand opportunities for girls and youth. Katie’s leadership inspires girls to imagine themselves in STEM and to believe they belong there.”

Katie Runnalls will be celebrated at the Women of Inspiration Gala on March 7, 2026, as part of the Waves of Change: Innovators and Pioneers series. Get your tickets today!