The Reservoir Geomechanics Research Group has undertaken a strategic plan to address Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as a team. Working towards the institution-wide goals outlined in the University of Alberta's EDI framework, [RG]2 had begun looking at ways to excel in areas we feel are on the right track, such as our inclusive hiring and recruitment practices, and improving areas in which we recognize deficiencies, such as expanding training and orientation to all staff, students, volunteers, and visitors to include awareness of common avenues where unconscious biases or cultural insensitivity may exist.

The ultimate goal is to provide a research environment where we actively seek and remove blind spots. We are committed to maintaining and increasing the diversity of culture, age, and gender in [RG]2, and hope to be a frontrunner in providing current and future students, staff, visitors, and volunteers with an enriched training environment where barriers and challenges that may deter or hinder individuals from pursuing a career in Geotechnical Engineering have been addressed.

The Reservoir Geomechanics Research Group has had a comprehensive Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) Program since 2008. Modelled to mirror ISO standards, our internal QHSE program is specifically tailored to meet the unique demands and ever-changing challenges we face in our GeoInnovation Environments.

From day one, students, employees, visitors, and volunteers are expected to fully participate in the safety program which begins with safety training and orientation for all team members, regardless of the type or duration of their time with [RG]2. This includes familiarization with rights and responsibilities as outlined by federal and provincial regulatory bodies, common terms and acronyms, and a detailed laboratory tour, followed by individualized and ongoing training during the development of each research program. [RG]2's extensive QHSE program earned the team a University of Alberta Insurance and Risk Assessment Gold Star Award, and continues improving as we strive towards upholding this standard of excellence.