For the 11th year in a row, McMaster University has been recognized as one of the region’s top workplaces in the 2026 Hamilton-Niagara Top Employers ranking.
Over the past year, McMaster has focused on building the skills, connections and support employees need to thrive in a rapidly changing university environment — from digital capabilities and mentorship to well-being benefits and cross-campus collaboration.
“Our people are the engine behind everything we do,” says Saher Fazilat, vice-president (Operations and Finance). “We work hard to create a supportive, inclusive and collaborative environment where employees can thrive. When our teams feel empowered, they deliver their best work and that benefits our students, our research and our community.”
A year of innovation and collaboration
McMaster’s 2026 Hamilton-Niagara Top Employers recognition reflects a year of bold initiatives and meaningful progress.
- The university launched the Digital Capability Learning Hub, a curated resource designed to help employees build digital skills and explore emerging technologies like generative AI.
- Collaboration was front and centre at the inaugural Operational Excellence Forum, where hundreds of staff came together for a day of learning, networking and idea-sharing to improve processes and strengthen connections across departments.
- McMaster also introduced MentorLink, a mentorship program supporting racialized employees through group and one-on-one connections, fostering career growth and community.
- McMaster continued to grow its world-class learning and development offerings, with the inaugural Organizational Leaders Program — with personalized growth plans, collaborative peer interactions and curated learning experiences.
“This recognition is a testament to the incredible people across campus who show up every day with purpose and passion,” says Wanda McKenna, Associate Vice-President and Chief Human Resources Officer. “Every employee plays a role in making McMaster a welcoming and supportive community.”
Looking ahead
With the beginning of Susan Tighe’s tenure as President and Vice-Chancellor in July 2025, McMaster has entered its next chapter with a clear focus: strengthening the employee experience while delivering on its academic and research mission.
From competitive total rewards packages to inclusive leadership programs and health, training and skills development, the university remains committed to employee experience and remaining a top destination for talent. Click here to learn more about working at McMaster.
Hamilton-Niagara’s Top Employers is an annual ranking organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers. Click here to learn more.