The Work-Learn Institute’s David Drewery has recently been awarded the prestigious Dr. Graham Branton Research Award by Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada). This national award recognizes individuals or teams whose research initiatives have significantly advanced the field of work-integrated learning (WIL) in Canada, with a particular focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in post-secondary education.
David Drewery, PhD, serves as the associate director of the Work-Learn Institute (WxL) at Co-operative and Experiential Education’s (CEE) and has been a prominent figure in the WIL space for over a decade. His work in EDI began several years ago when he conducted a groundbreaking study on inclusion from the perspective of LGBTQ+ co-op students. This study provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and offered strategies for creating more inclusive co-op environments.
Drewery’s research in EDI has continued to evolve, with recent publications focusing on gender equity in time on tasks at work and identifying barriers faced by students from equity-deserving groups in co-op programs. His contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of EDI in WIL and have laid the foundation for future research in this important area.
Upon receiving the award, Dr. Drewery expressed his gratitude, stating, „It’s an honor to receive this award from CEWIL. I hope it brings awareness to our research that aims to create a difference for those taking part in WIL experiences.“ His impact on the field is evident in his extensive publication record, making him the second most published author in the International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning (IJWIL) since 2018.
In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Drewery is actively involved in promoting equitable WIL experiences and advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. His work has been cited over 500 times, highlighting the significant impact he has had on the field of work-integrated learning.
In conclusion, David Drewery’s award-winning research and dedication to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in work-integrated learning have made a lasting impact on the field. His work continues to inspire and drive progress towards more inclusive and equitable WIL experiences for all individuals.