Margaret-Ann Armour

Academic career and research

Armour served for many years as a professor of chemistry and was active in developing practical approaches to chemical safety. Her work emphasized pragmatic solutions for handling and disposing of hazardous laboratory chemicals. Colleagues remember her for translating technical safety principles into accessible procedures that could be adopted by universities, schools and research laboratories.

Guidelines for hazardous waste

One of Armour’s most influential legacies was the set of guidelines and instructional materials for hazardous laboratory waste disposal. These materials sought to reduce risk by clarifying classification, segregation and disposal practices for common laboratory chemicals. Her guidance helped institutions improve safety culture and comply with regulatory requirements while minimizing environmental impact.

Advocacy and WISEST

Armour was an energetic advocate for expanding opportunities in STEM. She founded the Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology (WISEST) program to encourage young women and other underrepresented students to pursue science and engineering careers. WISEST offered outreach, mentorship and hands-on experiences intended to make scientific study more accessible and appealing. For more about the program see WISEST and for information about Armour’s role consult her professional profile.

Honors, recognition and legacy

Armour received national recognition for her contributions to science, safety and outreach. She was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2006 and was named a Canada 150 ambassador in 2017, honors that acknowledged both her technical work and her commitment to mentorship and public engagement. Notable recognitions include:

• Order of Canada (Member, 2006) — for service to science and education via outreach and safety work; see Order citation.
• Selection as a Canada 150 ambassador (2017) — as part of national celebrations recognizing those who contributed to community life.
• Longstanding leadership at the University of Alberta and influence on laboratory safety practices across institutions.

Armour’s passing on 25 May 2019 was noted widely in the Canadian academic and scientific communities. Her combination of practical safety guidance and sustained advocacy for widening participation in STEM remains an important part of her professional legacy. For context on her early life and background see material relating to her birthplace in Glasgow: Glasgow.