We passionately believe that an inclusive and diverse team is key to the success of our business. We strive to provide an environment which allows individuals from a wide range of cultures, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives thrive. These values are a critical part of the foundation upon which the Cooper Difference is built.
The key initiatives below highlight Cooper’s efforts to increase overall diversity and inclusion within the organization. We are proud of our improvements over the last few years – and continue to strive toward making our company more diverse.
Cooper Equipment Rental’s Commitment to DE&I
At Cooper Equipment Rentals, DE&I drives our company culture and fuels our growth. Hear from our team about the incredible progress we’re making together.
Watch our video to see how our diverse team collaborates safely, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless energy to the table. Explore our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and advancing our industry.
Women in Governance (WiG)
Historically, women have been underrepresented in the construction sector. The concerning statistics on the number of women in senior management positions or on boards across all industries spurred the creation of Women in Governance (WiG).
This non-profit organization was founded in 2010 to support women in their career advancement, leadership development, and ambitions to serve on Boards.
Cooper Equipment Rentals is proud to have achieved the Bronze Parity Certification in 2022 and Silver Parity Certification in 2023 and 2024. We are the only equipment rental company in Canada to be parity certified.
Cooper Bursary for Women in Construction (CBWC)
The construction industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but we’re committed to changing that. Our goal is to attract, retain, and develop more women in both the equipment rental sector and the broader construction industry.
As a proud platinum member of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC), Cooper is offering three $2,000 bursaries to support the education and job skills training of Canadian women in construction. Join us in driving this change.
We are expanding our efforts to help future generations launch their careers in the trades. Learn more below.
Jill Of All Trades (JOAT)
In 2023 and 2024, Cooper proudly became a provincial sponsor of Jill of All Trades (JOAT), supporting their mission to inspire young women in high school to explore careers in skilled trades. Through this initiative, we aim to help break down barriers and empower the next generation of women in trades across Canada.
Supporting Skilled Trades Education
As part of our commitment to fostering a more inclusive construction industry, Cooper Equipment Rentals is proud to offer dedicated bursaries for women-identifying students pursuing skilled trades education in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.
Algonquin College – Cooper Equipment Rentals Bursary
The Cooper Equipment Rentals Bursary at Algonquin College provides $2,000 in financial assistance to support women pursuing careers in the skilled trades. This bursary is awarded to one female student with demonstrated financial need who is enrolled in the Motive Power Technician – Diesel Equipment and Truck program. Open to female students in any year of study and at any Algonquin College campus where the program is offered, the bursary reflects Cooper Equipment Rentals’ commitment to building a strong, diverse future workforce. Funds may be disbursed during the Fall, Winter, or Spring term, helping students reduce financial barriers and stay focused on their technical training. Learn more.
British Columbia Institute of Technology – Cooper Equipment Rentals Bursaries
In 2026, Cooper Equipment Rentals will award two $2,000 bursaries at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, reinforcing our commitment to equity, inclusion, and workforce development in the skilled trades. One bursary will be designated for an Indigenous student, and one bursary will be designated for a student identifying as a woman. These bursaries are intended to support students pursuing technical and trades-related education by helping reduce financial barriers to post-secondary training.
Applications for the 2026 BCIT Cooper Equipment Rentals bursaries will open in April 2026.
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology – Cooper Equipment Rentals Grant
This $2,000 grant is available to women-identifying students enrolled in the Industrial Heavy Equipment Technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement and submit a personal statement outlining their journey to post-secondary education, including barriers faced. Preference is given to students with financial need. Apply here.
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology – Cooper Equipment Rentals Bursary
Female apprentices enrolled at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in either the Gasfitter or Heavy Equipment Technician programs—who are in their second period or higher—may be eligible for a $2,000 bursary. This award recognizes academic achievement and financial need. Applications are due annually by May 30. Learn more.
Find out more about how Cooper gives back to the communities where we do business.