Iretomiwa Olukiyesi, P.Eng., FEC

Officer of the Order of Honour, 2026 | London Chapter

Over 17 years of volunteer service, Iretomiwa Ayobami Olukiyesi has made significant impacts on PEO Council, as a Lieutenant Governor Appointee, and the London Chapter, as well as founding Black Engineers of Canada (BEC).

As a Lieutenant Governor Appointee on PEO Council (2017–2020), Iretomiwa championed fiscal responsibility. Recognizing that the existing fee structure was unsustainable, she successfully moved a controversial motion to increase licence fees. This secured PEO’s financial stability, ensuring the regulator could continue to self-regulate effectively.

And during the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped transition Council to virtual meetings, ensuring continuity of governance. 

At the chapter level, Iretomiwa served with distinction with the London Chapter. Beginning as a Government Liaison Program (GLP) member, she quickly became a bridge between the chapter and provincial policymakers. Ultimately serving as GLP Chair, she initiated relationships with key MPPs, ensuring PEO’s mandate was clearly understood.  She also served as an Education Outreach member, Women in Engineering event co-chair and Chapter Secretary—roles that inspired future engineers and reinforced strong governance.

And in 2020, Iretomiwa co-founded Black Engineers of Canada—established in response to the underrepresentation of Black STEM professionals across Canada. It is now  a vibrant, national organization that provides support, mentorship, and advocacy for Black engineers across Canada and engages youth through outreach and education in underserved communities.

Under Iretomiwa’s leadership, BEC has:

  • Built a thriving network of engineers and allies across Canada;
  • Delivered mentorship programs for Black engineering students and early-career professionals; and
  • Partnered with academic institutions and industry leaders to improve diversity, equity and inclusion within STEM fields.

She has volunteered countless hours to ensure that Black voices are heard, opportunities are created, and young people see themselves reflected in engineering leadership.