Alstom, a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions, has formalized a five-year philanthropic collaboration with the Université de Sherbrooke to advance education, research, and community engagement. This partnership aligns with Alstom’s business objectives and its commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Michael Keroullé, President of Alstom Americas, emphasized, “The future of rail mobility relies on expertise across various technological domains and highly skilled professionals. We are excited to support the Sherbrooke community and the talented students who will shape the industries of tomorrow as engineers, scientists, and leaders.”
Alstom has committed CAD $250,000 to support the University of Sherbrooke’s “Choosing to Change the Future” campaign, reinforcing its dedication to education and sustainability. This partnership will fund several strategic initiatives designed to engage the community, promote environmental awareness, and support academic development. A significant focus will be placed on creating science outreach content that is accessible to the general public, especially younger audiences. These efforts aim to increase understanding of climate change and inspire responsible action.
The funding will also be directed toward supporting student-led projects and fostering a dynamic learning environment. Financial assistance will be provided for scientific activities and events, including the “Createk” innovation competition, which encourages inventive problem-solving among students. Additional support will include organizing lunchtime lectures and mentoring programs to further enhance the academic experience and knowledge-sharing within the university community.
A portion of the contribution will be allocated to encouraging greater diversity within technical fields, particularly in engineering and law. Alstom’s donation will support scholarships under the “Génie au féminin” initiative, which aims to empower and assist women pursuing careers in engineering. This aligns with Alstom’s broader commitment to promoting equity and inclusivity in traditionally underrepresented fields.
Lastly, the agreement includes activities that will raise awareness of career opportunities in the rail sector, showcasing Alstom as a prominent local employer. These programs will help students understand the significance of sustainable transportation and mobility, while highlighting the various professional paths available in this growing industry. Through this collaboration, Alstom continues to invest in the future of innovation, education, and environmental stewardship.
This strategic partnership strengthens Alstom’s position in Quebec’s and Canada’s innovation ecosystem, complementing other collaborations with local educational institutions. The university’s initiatives, particularly with the Centre de technologies avancées de Sherbrooke and its laboratories, enhance hands-on learning, entrepreneurship, and the growth of Quebec-based companies.
Michael Keroullé added, “Alstom’s rail mobility needs demand cutting-edge technological expertise. By partnering with institutions like Université de Sherbrooke, we ensure we have the skilled graduates needed to meet industry challenges. Many of the university’s alumni hold senior roles within Alstom, underscoring the quality of education provided there.”
Professor Jean Proulx, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, expressed gratitude on behalf of the university, saying, “We deeply appreciate Alstom’s support, which reflects their strong commitment to both education and research. This partnership will help our students thrive in dynamic, innovative environments and expand their potential.”
With over 5,000 employees in Canada, Alstom operates across multiple sites, including Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec, and several locations in Ontario. The company is a key player in Canada’s mobility sector and the leading private rail operator in North America.
