Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
Research
Menstrual Leave
Western University sociology PhD student Meaghan Furlano conducted research into menstrual leave and flexibility policies across five countries, analyzing how workplace practices affect menstruating employees. Her findings highlight the need for inclusive, non-medicalized approaches that support worker well-being without reinforcing stigma or gender inequality. By advocating for menstrual flexibility—such as remote work options, rest spaces, and equitable health benefits—this research challenges structural barriers and promotes healthier, more inclusive workplaces. It contributes to broader efforts to improve labour conditions, reduce discrimination, and foster decent work environments that support diverse employee needs.
AI-Powered Job Portal
Western University computer science professor Anwar Haque developed an AI-powered job portal for the London Economic Development Corporation, streamlining job posting aggregation across hundreds of employers. The system uses machine learning to automate formatting and updates, reducing manual labour and improving access to employment opportunities. This research enhances regional productivity, supports economic growth, and strengthens workforce development. Hosted at Western’s BioNext incubator, Haque’s Bamboo Innovations bridges academic research with real-world applications, while also training students and advancing responsible AI solutions that improve operational efficiency and expand access to decent work.
Teaching
Virtual Reality Business Education
Western University’s Ivey Business School is pioneering the use of virtual reality to enhance leadership education. Led by Shannon Rawski and Zoe Kinias, the initiative helps students develop perspective-taking skills critical for inclusive and effective workplace leadership. By simulating real-world team dynamics, the program fosters empathy, communication, and decision-making—key competencies for decent work and productive employment. This innovative teaching method prepares students to navigate complex organizational challenges and lead diverse teams in evolving economic environments.
Own Your Future
Western’s Own Your Future program prepares graduate students for diverse career paths through leadership training, career design, communication, and teaching development. Built on frameworks from Ivey and Stanford, it promotes lifelong learning, workplace adaptability, and professional resilience. The program equips graduates to thrive in evolving labour markets and contribute meaningfully to inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
Ivey Executive Education
Ivey Executive Education equips learners with strategic thinking, innovation, and change management skills through immersive case-based learning, coaching, and peer collaboration. Programs blend in-person and virtual formats and participants tackle real-world challenges, empower teams, and lead with impact. Designed for executives across industries, Ivey fosters leadership growth that drives organizational success in dynamic business environments.
Graduate Employability
Western University ranks among Canada’s top institutions for graduate employability, with 93.5% of students employed within six months of graduation. Its strong performance in global rankings reflects employer recognition, alumni success, and robust industry partnerships. Through experiential learning, career development programs, and research-driven education, Western equips students with the skills and adaptability needed for productive employment and contributes to sustainable economic growth and workforce resilience across sectors.
Outreach
Workplace Solutions
Western’s Workplace Solutions program offers research-informed training, policy support, and leadership guidance to help organizations prevent and address workplace harassment and violence. Engaged by teams globally, the program promotes trauma- and violence-informed practices, fosters safer work environments, and strengthens occupational health. Through outreach, education, and collaboration, it empowers employers to build inclusive, respectful, and productive workplaces aligned with sustainable development goals.
The Founder’s Journey
The Founder’s Journey is a free, online course developed by Western University’s Morrissette Institute for Entrepreneurship that expands access to entrepreneurial education across Canada. Created in partnership with RBC and The Globe and Mail, the program reaches aspiring founders beyond traditional academic settings. Through expert-led modules and flexible delivery, it empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore business creation, build economic resilience, and engage in innovation, and facilitates inclusive outreach and broader participation in entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Dialogue with the Dean
Ivey Business School’s Impact Podcast series, Dialogue with the Dean, features Dean Julian Birkinshaw in conversation with leading faculty on topics shaping the future of work, leadership, and business. Covering ethics, AI, sustainability, and inclusion, the podcast shares research-driven insights with global audiences. By translating academic expertise into accessible dialogue, the series fosters public engagement, leadership development, and informed decision-making across sectors.
Operations
Educational Assistance Plan
Living Well @ Western
Living Well @ Western enhances workplace well-being through free fitness classes, mindfulness sessions, and wellness challenges for faculty and staff. By promoting physical and mental health across seven wellness domains, the program fosters a resilient, engaged workforce. It supports operational excellence by reducing burnout, improving morale, and encouraging sustainable work habits across campus.
One of Southwestern Ontario’s Best Employers
Excellence in Leadership at Western
Western’s Excellence in Leadership program strengthens institutional capacity by developing academic and administrative leaders through targeted competencies: self-leadership, team management, service delivery, and innovation. These supports foster high-performing, inclusive workplaces and resilient leadership amid complex change. The program enhances operational effectiveness and aligns leadership development with strategic goals for sustainable growth and decent work.
