Ignite Magazine, V.3.

20 Years of Engineering

At Ontario Tech University

This year marks two decades of Engineering at Ontario Tech University and our commitment to graduate well-rounded engineers who are not only strong in the fundamentals of engineering, math, and science, but also in creativity, design, teamwork, and leadership abilities. It is these distinctive qualities that set our graduates apart, and the Faculty continues to be recognized for its commitment to nurturing well-rounded engineers.

As we embark on the third decade of our university’s journey, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on its growth and contributions.

Over the past twenty years, our Faculty has witnessed remarkable expansion. At its inception, it started by offering Manufacturing and Nuclear engineering degrees and gradually expanded to offer a total of ten undergraduate and 12 graduate programs. This year marks another milestone as we welcome the first cohorts of two new programs, Energy and Industrial Engineering. The founders distinguished our Faculty by offering unique accredited programs in Automotive, Manufacturing, and Nuclear engineering. Over the two decades, we continued the vision and set our traditional engineering program apart by offering unique engineering specializations.

Research and development have been our priority since the early days. We offered our first Ph.D. program only four years after the inception of our Faculty and we dedicated our first Canada Research Chair to clean energy. Since then, we have consistently been at the forefront of energy research. More recently, two of our Professors were recognized as the world’s

hosts four Canada Research Chairs, two Industrial Chairs, and three Internal University Research Chairs. Our research facilities are growing bigger and better each day, allowing research efforts to flourish. We are grateful for new funding opportunities to support the ongoing research and development conducted by our departments, which you can read about in the following pages.

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of engineering, regardless of their background or prior experience. Therefore, diversity and inclusion are a large focus area for our Outreach efforts. We work with students from kindergarten to Grade 12, teaching them to build critical skills and confidence by making STEM learning opportunities accessible and inclusive to all youth. Our Engineering Outreach Program began with just two coordinators a few years ago. Today, we are proud to have a dedicated team of over 75 coordinators, instructors, and volunteers who are actively involved in running a diverse range of exciting programs. Our exciting programs and collaborative learning opportunities were designed to kindle curiosity, foster a deep understanding of engineering principles, encourage creative problem-solving for a positive impact, and inspire the upcoming generation of innovators. Within the faculty, we have developed specialized programs, such as Indigenous Youth and Black Youth in STEM, and STEM for girls, to provide a supportive space for underrepresented groups.

Inside Ignite you will learn more about exciting events that took place, Faculty highlights we are proud of, funding grants that will continue to drive our research efforts, and showcase some of Ontario Tech’s students, teams, and alumni. Stay tuned, we have lots on the horizon for Ontario Tech Engineering!

Dr. Hossam Kishawy Dean and Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science Ontario Tech University

New

Faculty Updates

Congratulations to the following faculty members for their promotions!

Ahmad Barari

Promoted to Professor

Khalid Elgazzar

Promoted to Associate Professor, Graduate Program Director, ECSE

Martin AgelinChaab

Promoted to Professor, Department Chair, MME

Jaho Seo

Promoted to Associate Professor Xianke Lin

Promoted to Associate Professor

Mohamed El-Darieby

Appointed Acting Department Chair, ECSE

Vijay Sood

Promoted to Professor

Sayyed Ali Hosseini

Promoted to Associate Professor

Amirkianoosh Kiani

Appointed Acting Graduate Program Director, AME & MME

New Faculty Members

Over the last 20 years our faculty has continued to expand welcoming academics from all over the world. This year we are pleased to warmly welcome five new faculty members in three different departments.

Dr. Aaron Yurkewich is an Assistant Professor in Mechatronics Engineering with a focus on assistive and rehabilitation technology development and evaluation. He has 10 years of experience developing and evaluating stroke rehabilitation technology, such as a lower limb robot for foot drop exercise and gait training, a hand exoskeleton for hand and upper limb motion assistance and home and clinic rehabilitation and a hybrid electrical stimulation and exoskeleton system for accelerated strengthening and motor learning.

Dr. Aydin received her BSc. in Environmental Engineering from Yildiz Technical University in 2006 and her M.Sc. in Energy Science and Technology from Istanbul Technical University in 2009. In 2014, she received her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology. After working as a researcher in Marmara Research Centre, Turkey and teaching math at Seneca College, she worked as the Physics and Engineering Specialist at Ontario Tech from 2018 until joining the FEAS in 2023.

Dr. Mitchell Rushton received his Bachelor’s degree in mechatronics engineering from the University of Waterloo in 2013, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Mechatronics from the same institution, culminating in his Ph.D. in 2022. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechatronics Engineering at Ontario Tech University, with his research in robotics and vibration control.

Dr. Siam is an Assistant Professor in the department of Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering. She is the founder of the Image and Video Understanding (IVU) Lab. Prior to joining Ontario Tech, she was a postdoctoral researcher at York University. She obtained her PhD at University of Alberta. Her research focused on video understanding, video object segmentation and few-shot segmentation where she has published multiple works in top-tier computer vision (CVPR, ICCV), artificial intelligence (IJCAI) and robotics (ICRA, IROS) conferences.

Dr. Zia Saadatnia received his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto in 2019. Prior to working at Ontario Tech University, he served as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Toronto Smart Materials and Structures Laboratory at the University of Toronto jointly with the KITEUHN. His current research is mainly focused on the design and development of smart materials and structures for biomedical sensing, functional electrical stimulation, and smart wearables for rehabilitation applications.

Dr. Aaron Yurkewich Assistant Professor Department of Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering

Dr. Eda Aydin Assistant Teaching Professor Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

Dr. Mennatullah Siam Assistant Professor Department of Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering

Dr. Mitchell Rushton Assistant Professor Department of Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering

Dr. Zia Saadatnia Assistant Professor Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

Faculty Highlights

Faculty Awards Congratulations to our award winners!

Our 2023 FEAS Research and Teaching Awards go out to faculty members making exceptional contributions in their fields and positively impacting our students. In addition, Certificates of Appreciation are awarded to individuals contributing to the faculty. These certificates were awarded to Dr. Akira Tokuhiro for his contributions and leadership as the Dean for the Nuclear Engineering and Health Physics and Radiation Science Programs from 2017 to 2021, Dr. Atef Mohany for his leadership as Department Chair of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, and Dr. Vijay Sood for his leadership as Department Chair of Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering.

Ahmad Barari

2023 FEAS Research Award-Senior Career Category (MME)

Sayyed Ali Hosseini

2023 FEAS Research Award-Early Career Category (MME)

John Froats

2023 FEAS Yuelei (James) Yang Engineering Teaching Award (ENE)

The Yuelei (James) Yang Engineering Teaching Award is named in memory of Dr. Yuelei James Yang. Dr. Yang was a Senior Teaching Professor who was a gifted and dedicated academic, devoted to sharing his passion of engineering with his students.

Dean Dr. Kishawy with the award winners for teaching, research and service.

Left with Mr. John Froats (Teaching); middle with Dr. Ahmad Barari (Research ), Dr. Akira Tokuhiro (Service), Dr. Sayyed Ali Hosseini (Research), and Dr. Vijay Sood (Service); right with Dr. Atef Mohany (Service)

2022 Student Choice Award

The 2022 Student Choice Award was awarded to Dr. Meaghan Charest-Finn. This award goes to studentnominated faculty and instructors who contribute to teaching and learning within the Ontario Tech University Community.

Co-op Corner

406

students on co-op or internship in 2022

143

unique employers hired Engineering students for co-op positions

400+

students completed the Professional Competencies for Engineers course in Fall 2022

Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Engineering

Two Ontario Tech Engineering researchers, Dr. Hossam Kishawy and Dr. Igor Pioro, are elected to the prestigious Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), in recognition of their distinguished contributions to engineering in Canada and their career-long service to the engineering profession.

698

work terms were completed by engineering students in 2022

Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers

Congratulations to Dr. Remon Pop-Iliev for being elected a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, a recognition of his outstanding engineering contributions.

All Engineering programs at Ontario Tech University include co-operative (co-op) education opportunities providing students with transformative learning experiences by alternating study semesters with relevant paid work terms with employers.

Learn more about Co-op and Internships

How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping Engineering Education

Engineering education is experiencing a transformative shift under the influence of Artificial Intelligence which is also revolutionizing the engineering industry. As its impact on engineering education continues to increase, our priority is to adapt our learning opportunities to ensure students are equipped with the relevant knowledge and state-of-the-art tools needed to succeed. We prepare our students to contribute and thrive in a world that’s increasingly driven by technology and its implications on everyday life. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly prevalent, employers will seek candidates with AI skills. Equipping students with these skills will provide them with a competitive advantage, allowing them to adapt to changing technologies and be confident in exploring opportunities outside of their core disciplines.

In May 2023, we held an interactive workshop to create awareness about recent developments in generative AI and discussed their impact on engineering education and research, shared experiences and best practices for what works best. Several faculty members are already integrating AI tools into their courses including Dr. Qusay H. Mahmoud who developed with his team a 24/7 virtual teaching assistant for his Summer 2023 course on ‘Introduction to Programming for Engineers’; the chatbased application powered by AI technology is designed to enhance the learning experience of students and answer questions anytime anywhere.

There are benefits and risks to any technology including generative AI, but the impact on education in general and engineering education in particular is real. We are committed to preparing students to navigate the ethical, social, and economic implications of generative AI and their future careers. Faculty members are designing effective assessment methods that account for utilization of generative AI and the development of essential skills.

Dr. Qusay H. Mahmoud presenting to Faculty members at the Future of Engineering Teaching Workshop

Engineering Events

Each year, we organize a variety of events championed by students and faculty members, creating a vibrant tapestry of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing within the engineering community. These events serve as a testament to our commitment to fostering excellence in engineering education and research, bringing together bright minds, cuttingedge technologies, and groundbreaking ideas.

2nd Annual Design-a-thon

Ontario Tech ‘design-a-thon’ event opens new learning avenues for Engineering students.

“On behalf of the Design League, we want to thank all our participants, volunteers, judges and sponsors for making this event possible. We had a great turnout (despite the storm!) and we’re glad we were able to hold this event during National Engineering Month. We couldn’t have done it without our generous sponsors, and without the support of our all-female panel of judges.”

President,

Run by the Ontario Tech Design League, with the help of National Design League and Ontario Tech Engineering and Applied Science, the annual design-a-thon connects design-minded stuents with our industry partners while simultaneously engaging towards overcoming realworld engineering challenges. The Ontario Tech Designa-thon is a weekend-long, 30-hour competition that allows students to put their design skills to the test. During the event, there were a variety of attendees including faculty members, students, and representatives from partnering companies.

Learn more about the Design-a-thon

Dr. Jana Abou-Ziki, Dr. Ramona (Haniyeh) Fayazfar, Garie Kala-Ananthan, Dr. Shabnam Pejhan, and Dr. Meaghan Charest-Finn

Garie Kala-Ananthan

Ontario Tech Design League

Engineering Demo Fest

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science holds first annual Engineering Demo Fest.

Supported by the Jeffrey S. Boyce Engineering Innovation and Design Studio, the goal of the Demo Fest is to showcase student innovations that aim to solve real-world problems that will have an impact and great potential for commercialization.

Solving problems through the application of engineering design, science and mathematics, and finding innovative ways to make machines, devices and systems work to make life easier, are at the core of the discipline of engineering. Recently, Ontario Tech students presented their real-world engineering applications in a judged competition with a chance to win development support and monetary awards to further suppourt their project development.

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science’s (FEAS) first-ever Demo Fest on March 20th, 2023 showcased student innovations. The teams, predominately composed of FEAS students, developed innovations ranging from software platforms, prototypes, tools, drones and more. Teams had 10 minutes to demonstrate their ideas, followed by a five-minute question-and-answer session with the judges.

1st Place: EZCampus

Daniel Jeon, Jason Manarroo

Difficulties often plague the process of registering for university courses and scheduling campus events, often resulting in frustration and lost opportunities for students and faculty.

EZCampus is a streamlined web platform built using a modern development stack. Our independent solution allows for easy adoption, rapid deployment and the potential for future development.

The winning teams proposed impressive solutions to challenges ranging from technological tools for ending food scarcity to new approaches for improving educational technology. Overall, the event highlighted the creativity and ingenuity of Ontario Tech Engineering students and the university’s commitment to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship. Thank you to judges Tricia Willams, Managing Partner & Client Success Leader at Geekspeak Commerce, Frank Auddino, Angel-inResidence from Brilliant Catalyst, and Joseph Miller, Business Development Officer from Northumberland Community Futures Development Corp..

2nd Place: Moduleaf

Nicholas Varas, Andrew Champ, Mitchell Vella

At Moduleaf, we strive to join the fight against the global food crisis by tackling the many challenges currently faced in traditional farming. Specifically, we aim to use a combination of indoor farming, automation technologies, and machine learning to develop modular and efficient growing environments that provide consistent, year-round production.

3rd Place: M.E.D.T.

Lucci La Rocca, Hassan Trawally

The M.E.D.T. (Modular Electronic Diagnostic Tool) is a device that utilizes different “modules” to function. You plug in the module (i.e. oscilloscope module) and the device turns into a usable version of that tool (i.e. a usable oscilloscope). This allows working professionals to have multiple different tools available in the palm of their hand.

Second Place winners Moduleaf presenting their project

Ignite v03 Engineering Events

2023 Iron Ring Recipients

The Iron Ring ceremony is a symbolic rite of passage dating back more than 100 years.

In March, nearly 400 Ontario Tech University students from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science attended the prestigious Iron Ring Ceremony at the Regent Theatre in Oshawa. The Iron Ring Ceremony, formally titled “The Ritual of the Calling of the Engineer,” a century-old tradition that dates back to the 1920s, is an important rite of passage for engineering graduates and symbolizes the responsibilities that engineers have.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved disassembling and reassembling anything and everything to figure out how it works. Admittedly, this drove my parents crazy; however, it gave me a glimpse of the mechanics and electronics required for items to work. Eventually I found that engineering would provide me with the foundation required to build almost anything from scratch and troubleshoot items when they failed.”

Izzy Cossarin Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineer, Caterpillar

Learn more about the Iron Ring Ceremony

Engineering Research Day

Research Day brings undergraduate and graduate students, faculty members, representatives from government and funding agencies, and industry professionals together in an event that showcases the innovative research activities conducted by the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Ontario Tech University.

Ontario Tech University hosted its annual Research Day on April 11th, 2023. The event is designed to showcase the innovative research being done by faculty and students within the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. The event was open to the public, and attendees saw a wide range of presentations, posters, and demonstrations highlighting the latest advancements in research across various engineering fields. The event included keynote speaker Kasia Izdebska from Ontario Power Generation and panel discussions from experts in the industry. Research Day provides an opportunity for researchers to connect with industry professionals, government officials, and the broader community to foster collaboration and promote innovation.

Learn more about Engineering Research Day

Reverse Career Fair

A panel comprised of Alaa Khamis (General Motors), Anthony Ciccone (Global Nuclear Services), Jennifer McKellar (Ontario Tech University), Jovia Riznic (Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission), Meaghan CharestFinn (Ontario Tech University), and Mona Eghanian (Ontario Centre of Innovation) discussing the Future of Engineering Research and Development. Moderated by Daniel Hoornweg and Horia Hangan of Ontario Tech University.

The Reverse Career Fair is an annual affair at Ontario Tech University in the month of October. It is our largest co-op event and a valuable opportunity for students to showcase their skills, passions and experiences to employers. The Reverse Career Fair is for students seeking a co-op role as well as students who are applying for new graduate opportunities. In October 2022, a total of 69 different industry partners attended our Reverse Career Fair.

Keynote Speaker Kasia Izdebska, Senior Manager, Enterprise Innovation at OPG

Engineering Capstone Systems Design Exhibition and Competition

Engineering students exhibited their innovative projects and competed in the top award categories.

Engineering students at Ontario Tech University are making headlines and culminating their studies with projects that promise to solve real-world problems.

Fourth-year engineering students collaborate in groups to tackle a significant undertaking called a ‘capstone’ project. This eight-month endeavour focuses on developing creative and practical solutions to address real-world challenges. Towards the end of their final semester, students present their research findings and achievements at the annual FEAS Capstone Exhibition and Competition. The event took place in the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre gymnasium and was made possible in part through the generous support of partner sponsor The Society of United Professionals and supporting sponsor SNC-Lavalin.

Award for Outstanding Energy Capstone Design

Sponsored by the Society of United Professionals

New Vertical Wind Turbine Integrated with Electrolyzer for Hydrogen Production

Team Members: Eren Dincer, Alex B. Johnston, Jacob V. Pirillo, Justin E. Posteraro, Reign Sampang

Department of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering & Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

First Place: Design and Development of Internet of Things (IoT) Enabled Vibrating Monitoring Toward Smart Maintenance

Team Members: Ayman K. Abdulkadir, Marc M. Lopez, Ina Shilbayeh

Second Place: Autonomous Weed Control Bot

Team Members: Abigail M. Giesbrecht, Cole H. Levere, Justin J. Smith, Daniel J. Strickland, Jackson J. Whitter

Third Place: Environmental Simulating Fixture for an Automated Running Board

Team Members: Deepikka Ananthamanokaran, Vernon V. Chen, Paheirathan Panchalingam, Qays Sajad, Nilojan Stanley Julius

Department of Energy and Nuclear Engineering

First Place: Design of a Welding and Plasma Torch Diagnostic System

Team Members: Joey C. Almon, Riju Mathew, AJ J. Ayed, Tristan E. Eagleson, Khaushal K. Elangeswaran, Hussein A. Hussein

Second Place: Design for Reduced Heat Flow to Local Water Bodies

Team Members: Emily A. Armstrong, Mark B. Degroot, Adam C. Kourousis, Keegan S. McCaig, Zoe Michanos

Third Place: Design of Nuclear Systems to Enhance Community-Specific Support in Northern Canada

Team Members: Andrea Noce, Nehal Shams, Mark Tsai, Benjamin P. Wang, Luke E. Yurczyszyn

Department of Electrical, Computer, and Software Engineering

First Place: Autonomous Inspection System with Drone for SmartGrid Infrastructure

Team Members: Saro Karimi, Tirth Patel, Vatsal Patel

Second Place: Low-Cost Drone Light Show

Team Members: Michelle Cheng, Rodaba Ebadi, Munazza Fahmeen, Nivetha Gnaneswaran, Tolu Elebute

Third Place: Smart Grid Integrated Digital License Plate

Team Members: Yussef Elzein, Emran Soltani, Walid Ayub, Abdul Bhutta, Kumail Syed

Catching the eye of the Community

This years competition caught the eye of Global News Durham, where reporter Frazer Snowon spoke to several students about Capstone and the impact it had on their education.

Learn more about the Engineering Capstone Exhibition

Faculty Highlights

Engineering Innovation Hub: Student Space to Foster Innovation

The Jeffrey S. Boyce Engineering Innovation and Design Studio, Engineering Machine Shop, and the Engineering Student Design Concept Lab supports student projects and design teams throughout the year. The spaces in the Innovation Hub is designed to provide students with experiential learning opportunities working with software, hardware, and machining and fabricating equipment to assist with their prototyping needs to develop working prototypes.

In the summer of 2023, the Innovation and Design Studio was re-located into the OPG building to help create a localized hub for students to gain more hands-on experience while studying at Ontario Tech. The new home is available for students to expand the opportunity for collaboration on projects and knowledge sharing. Being closer to the Machine Shop

and the Engineering Student Design Concept Lab, the Engineering Innovation Hub will see more students who wish to work on extracurricular projects in a centralized area.

The new lab is greater in size to allow improved student collaboration and access to the state-of-the art technology. The walls have been converted to white boards for visual brainstorming, and the desks have been arranged to increase collaborative work within and between groups.

ENG 2040,

2045, 2050

Home to the new Jeffrey S. Boyce Engineering Innovation Studio

ENG 1045, 1054

Engineering Machine Shop

ACE 1110

Student Design Concept Lab

Nicholas Sion Labs

The Nicholas Sion Labs stand as a beacon of innovation, where researchers, students, and industry leaders converge to shape the future of sustainable energy solutions, fueled by a transformative $3 million legacy.

The Nicholas Sion Labs are a state-of-the-art research facility located at Ontario Tech University’s Brilliant Energy Institute. The facility was established with a generous donation of more than $3 million from the estate of Nicholas Sion to support research in renewable energy and clean technology.

The labs are equipped with advanced equipment and instrumentation to support research in areas such as energy storage, renewable energy systems, and power electronics. The facility provides a collaborative environment for researchers and industry partners to work on cutting-edge research projects and develop innovative solutions for sustainable energy. The Nicholas Sion Labs are an important part of Ontario Tech University’s commitment to advancing research in renewable energy and clean technology. The labs provide students and researchers with access to the latest equipment and technology, allowing them to conduct highquality research and develop practical solutions to address pressing energy challenges. The labs are also a testament to the legacy of Nicholas Sion, whose generous donation will support research in clean energy for years to come.

Learn more about engineering research at Ontario Tech University

Maria Beasley, Dr. Steven Murphy, Victor Sion, and Dr. Les Jacobs at the ribbon-cutting ceremony to honour the late Nicholas Sion

Investing in Engaging Future Generations in STEM

In a significant boost for STEM education and opportunities for Indigenous and Black youth, Ontario Tech Engineering has been granted $600,000 in funding over the next three years through the PromoScience initiative. This funding, provided by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), will empower Ontario Tech Engineering to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education among young Canadians from underrepresented backgrounds.

This significant financial support comes in the wake of NSERC’s generous allocation of $10.3 million to 45 participants across Canada. This underscores the national commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering the next generation of Canadian STEM leaders.

The impact of this funding will extend far beyond the classrooms and laboratories. It will contribute to creating a more diverse and inclusive STEM community, where the talents and potential of Indigenous and Black youth are fully realized and harnessed. Ontario Tech Engineering’s commitment to promoting STEM education aligns with the broader mission of building a strong and innovative Canada.

PromoScience is a program offered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) to support organizations that promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to young Canadians.

Learn more about PromoScience

“This generous grant is a testament to our commitment at Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach to foster STEM opportunities for youth. It empowers us to hire outreach coordinators from the Indigenous and Black communities to provide authentic representation and tailored experiences through programs that resonate with youth from these communities. ”

Dr. Qusay Mahmoud

Associate Dean of Experimental Learning and Engineering Outreach, Ontario Tech University

Inspiring Youth to Pursue Automotive Careers

The Ontario Vehicle Intelligence Network (OVIN) project is a collaborative research initiative aimed at developing and testing connected and autonomous vehicle technologies. The project brings together industry partners, government agencies, and academic institutions, including the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science (FEAS) at Ontario Tech University.

Ontario Tech University Engineering is one of the key

partners in the OVIN project, providing expertise in various areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. The faculty’s research contributions to the project include developing algorithms for autonomous driving, designing communication networks for connected vehicles, and testing the safety and reliability of autonomous systems.

The OVIN project is an important initiative for the

Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science as it provides an opportunity for faculty members and students to work on cutting-edge research projects with industry partners and government agencies. This collaboration also ensures that the faculty’s research outputs are relevant to industry needs and can be applied to real-world problems.

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, in conjunction with Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education (MLFFEd), will develop course content for high school and post-secondary students that focuses on skills for connected and autonomous vehicles.

The joint project led by Dr. Mohamed El-Darieby, Associate Professor, FEAS, and Dr. Roland van Oostveen, Professor, MLFFEd, will receive $485,000 in development funding. The content, co-created by engineering and education research experts, will ensure students at all levels of interest, knowledge and skill can participate and have a fun and engaging experience. The courses also prioritize inclusivity and

accessibility for students across Ontario in high school and post-secondary environments.

Much of the content delivery will be conducted through Engineering Outreach, which offers summer camps (featuring connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) simulators and hardware kits), and a wide range of high school programming during the school year across Ontario through its Mobile Design Lab.

Learn more about OVIN at Ontario Tech University

“We are thrilled to have secured the prestigious NSERC-CNSC Small Modular Reactors Grant. As the only institution in Canada offering a fully accredited Nuclear Engineering undergraduate program, this is a great achievement that current and future students may benefit from. We look forward to the outcomes of the groundbreaking research being conducted by our esteemed faculty experts, which is made possible through this grant.”

Dr. Hossam Kishawy Dean and Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech University

Key Federal Research Grants to Advance Small Modular Reactor Technologies

Ontario Tech Engineering is thrilled to be a recipient of a new, highly prestigious grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

Valued at $938,400 over three years, the NSERC-CNSC Small Modular Reactors (SMR) Research Grant will advance discovery in an expanding area of clean energy development that is poised to be a crucial component of Canada’s future energy supply.

Like traditional nuclear reactors, SMRs use fission to create heat, but their smaller size offers a promising pathway to support Canada’s low-carbon energy transition, thanks to their simplified and cost-effective design.

Dr. Hossam Gaber will investigate innovative designs for digital control rooms in SMR deployments, with human performance considerations. Dr. Glenn Harvel will develop strategies to effectivly manage digital technologies, and address the critical aspect of cybersecurity in SMR operations. Dr. Akira Tokuhiro will enhance safety measures and emergency response protocols for SMR facilities.

New Robotics Equipment Enhances Experiential Learning Environment for Engineering Students

The Targeted and Regional Economic Infrastructure Fund (TERF) is a grant program introduced by the Ontario government in 2021 to provide publicly assisted universities purchase stateof-the-art equipment that supports in-person instruction helping to meet industry standard and supports enrolment growth.

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science was one of the successful recipients of the TERF grant which will support the funding of $650,000 to purchase eight new robot work cells that will give students access to stateof-the-art robotics technology as well as modern methods for programming robot arms. Students will use the systems to develop skills in the area of robotics and automation.

Funded by:

From left: Dr. Hossam Gaber, Dr. Glenn Harvel and Dr. Akira Tokuhiro, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science

Celebrating Student Success Zenith Fellowship Program Emily Lai

Emily Lai, second year Software Engineering student at Ontario Tech University, was recently accepted into the Zenith Fellowship program.

This is Canada’s first space fellowship program. According to the Zenith Canada Pathways Foundation: “The Zenith Fellows were selected for their outstanding community involvement, leadership skills, technical capabilities, and passion for contributing to the Canadian space sector.” As one of eight accepted interns for the fellowship, Emily has been matched with a leading Canadian space company: Magnestar Inc., a satellite platform

company. Emily will be working there as a summer Space Software Engineering Intern. Through this position, Emily will receive mentorship from the Chief Technology Officer of Wyvern Inc., a Canadian data and space imaging company.

Emily was also a Co-President of the Ontario Tech Women in Engineering Society and Vice-President of Finance for Ontario Tech University Engineering Students’ Society this past year.

Project Arrow: Andrew Genovese & Izzy Cossarin

Project Arrow is a Canadian initiative to design and develop an all-Canadian electric vehicle (EV) by the Automotive Parts Manufacturer’s Association (APMA) and various automotive industry partners. The aim of the project is to showcase Canada’s automotive innovation and technology while also creating a more sustainable future by promoting the use of electric vehicles. The project involves collaboration between academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to develop a highly advanced and innovative EV that meets the needs of Canadian drivers. The project is an opportunity to leverage Canadian talent and expertise to drive innovation and growth in the automotive industry, while also supporting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system. Ontario Tech University students are playing a key role in the project, working on the EV’s design, development, and testing at the Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE).

The students are gaining valuable hands-on experience and skills by working alongside industry experts in various areas of the project, including battery development, cybersecurity,

systems integration, and more. Over 50 students from different disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and more, are involved in the project.

The students are contributing to the project in multiple ways, such as designing and developing the vehicle’s battery pack, integrating the EV’s various systems, and testing the vehicle’s functionality and safety. In addition, the students are also leveraging their skills in data analysis and machine learning to optimize the vehicle’s performance and efficiency.

The Ontario Tech students’ contributions to Project Arrow highlight the university’s commitment to providing its students with real-world, handson learning experiences that prepare them for successful careers in the automotive industry and beyond. The project is a testament to the university’s world-class research facilities and expertise in engineering and technology.

Accelerating Success: A Unique Campus Journey

Meet Mac Clark: one of Canada’s top motorsports prospects and Automotive Engineering student at Ontario Tech.

Automotive Engineering focuses on the design and manufacturing of automobiles, including vehicle dynamics, engine design, and analysis. With a passion for car racing, learning the mechanics behind highperformance vehicles provides Mac with a competitive edge on and off the race track.

Mac’s motorsports journey began in 2014 when he was just ten. What started as a fun way to spend Saturdays with his father, Stuart, soon blossomed into competition at a national level. Rising quickly through the ranks gave Mac the confidence he needed to pursue a career as a professional racing driver.

With an impressive track record of wins and awards, he’s certainly on a trajectory of success. Some of Mac’s more recent notable accomplishments include; The 2020 F1600 Canadian Championship, being crowned the 2022 Road to Indy USF Juniors Champion, as well as most recently being presented with the 2023 Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame’s “Rising Star” Award.

Mac also debuted at the Honda Indy Toronto in July 2023. Despite being one of the youngest competitors on the track, the local kid was on course for reaching the podium, and possibly even grabbing his third win of the season, before another driver’s mistake devastatingly took him out of the running. A disappointing outcome in the city he was born in, but the Ontario native kept his head high and was quoted as “grateful” for every opportunity given.

Being a competitive motorsports racer while studying Canada’s only accredited Automotive Engineering program is no small feat. Mac has a unique campus journey ahead of him. We can’t wait to see where his path will lead him in the automotive industry.

Three Minute Thesis People’s Choice

Bismark Addo-Binney, a PhD student in Mechanical Engineering, was one of the 2023 Ontario Tech 3MT® finalists, and awarded the People’s Choice award as selected by the audience. AddoBinney’s presentation centred around his research about “Cold Climate Heat Pump”, a high-efficiency energy transferring device.

Are you a current Ontario Tech engineering student with a success story to share? Submit your

Chancellor’s Scholars in Engineering - It Runs in the Family

Isaac and Isabel Smith have more in common than their last name. Besides being siblings, the pair are both engineering students, Isaac in Software, Isabel in Electrical. In addition, they were both recipients of the prestigious Chancellor’s Scholarship, valued at $36,000 over four years. Their stories exemplify the outstanding caliber of students who choose to study engineering at Ontario Tech University.

Isabel Smith, who received the Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2020, has consistently demonstrated her commitment to leadership and community involvement. During her high school years, she held the role of President of the STEAM Club, showcasing her passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Her dedication to community service extended to volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and at a local retirement home, where she touched the lives of those in need. In university, Isabel continued to shine as the Internal Engineering Competition Co-Chair, taking on the responsibility of organizing students, industry professionals, and judges for the event. Her involvement with the Academic Appeals Committee as an Undergraduate Representative further

exemplified her advocacy for positive change.

Isaac Smith, who followed his sister’s footsteps, was awarded the Chancellor’s Scholarship in 2023. During his high school years, he exhibited a remarkable passion for nurturing young minds in the field of engineering. As the founder of “Brain ‘n Body Club” he introduced young students to the fascinating world of robotics and sports, instilling valuable learning habits that would benefit them in high school and beyond. Isaac’s innovative approach, using Lego Mindstorms to engage students in building, programming, and designing robots, demonstrated his dedication to handson learning. His commitment extended to the soccer field, where he blended sports and technology, encouraging young minds to explore their own creative and physical potential.

Isaac and Isabel Smith are now paving their paths to success at Ontario Tech University. Isaac, looking ahead to his university journey, is excited about making meaningful connections. He envisions a future where he can gain valuable experiences and knowledge about potential careers after completing his engineering studies. His enthusiasm for learning and adapting to new technologies reflects his

commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation.

Isabel, currently on co-op at OPG as a project manager, is preparing to graduate next year. Her journey, which began with two years of online learning, took an exciting turn when she transitioned to in-person classes. Being close to campus has enriched her academic experience, allowing her to fully engage in laboratory work, a transformative aspect of her education. Both siblings acknowledge the invaluable support they have provided each other. Isaac, in particular, appreciates having an older sister like Isabel to guide him through the complexities of university life, making the transition from high school to university less daunting.

The exceptional accomplishments of Isaac and Isabel Smith serve as a testament to the caliber of students who choose to study engineering at Ontario Tech University. Their unwavering dedication to leadership, community involvement, and the pursuit of knowledge inspires future generations of engineers and leaders. With their promising futures ahead, we can only imagine the innovations and positive changes they will bring to the world.

Racing Laps and Attending Class

Ontario Tech University prides itself on its exceptional experiential learning, and the Ontario Tech Racing Team provides one of the best opportunities for students to apply their skills in a collaborative, exciting environment.

Ontario Tech Racing is an Formula Society of Automotive Engineers (FSAE) team made of 70 Engineering and Business students who meticulously design, manufacture, and market a Formula-electric style race car while ensuring the project remains within a tight budget. This team aims to empower each member with enriching, hands-on, real-world experiences that complement their academic pursuits.

Annually, the team showcases their engineering and business skills at the Formula SAE competition held in Michigan, USA. This student design competition involves teams across America to participate in an intense evaluation not only based on

their vehicle’s design and build quality, but also on their team management, business operations and strategic planning. This year the team has been organized into a technical side, lead by Joseph Caruana - the team’s Technical Director, and by Maya Edison - the team’s Business & Operations Director. Both Directors work together to ensure the operation of the team runs as smoothly as possible while prioritising member safety, student education (in both engineering and business realms), while ensuring a rules compliant, fully electric FSAE vehicle that can compete by the end of the year.

The team includes eight technical departments, encompassing Aerodynamics, Analysis, Chassis, Electric Drivetrain, Suspension, Vehicle Dynamics, Hardware & Electronics, and Embedded Software. These technical departments are further supported by three business departments focused on Finance & Sponsorship, Logistics, and Marketing. This dynamic blend ensures an efficient approach to successfully running a team and in turn, success at competition.

“Joining OTR was the best decision I ever made. Not only does it give purpose to all the material I learn in class but it also gives me the opportunity to gain industry skills and knowledge in my undergrad”

The current 2022 vehicle has become the testing instrument to prepare and improve for the 2024 vehicle. This vehicle showcases impressive stats which include; A top speed of 141 km/h, a peak power of 80 kW, an accumulator that is comprised of 384 Li-Ion 21700 cells (arranged as 96s4p) divided into four modules, a 4130 Steel Tubular Spaced chassis frame, a front and rear pushrod suspension accompanied by Ohlins TTX25 MkI spring dampers, and more!

The team has been fortunate to collaborate closely with the Automotive Center of Excellence (ACE) to utilize their oncampus, state-of-the-art facilities. These include the Mustang Dynamometer, the 4-post, and the wind tunnel—essential tools that enable precise testing and innovation.

Beyond the vehicle’s development, the team is also committed to educating and nurturing upcoming engineers, business and formula racing enthusiasts. They regularly conduct seminars, informational sessions, and events on and off campus to teach others about the team and electric vehicle developments. To support more student education at Ontario Tech University, this team is also highly involved in capstone and research projects all over campus.

Currently, the team is on the cusp of a significant milestone. They are wrapping up their second electric FSAE vehicle for the 2024 competition which will compete in June. With an eye on the future, this team’s plans are already underway to kickstart the development of the next iteration aimed with more innovation.

Fiona Kirby Aerodynamics Team, Ontario Tech Racing

Soaring to New Heights

Ontario Tech Space and Rocketry Team soars to new heights as the newest Engineering Design Team.

In the ever-evolving landscape of student design teams, Ontario Tech Space & Rocketry (OTSR) stands out as a shining example of passion, dedication, and innovation. This group of driven individuals has accomplished an awe-inspiring feat - the development and launch of a 13-ft high-powered rocket that soared to an impressive altitude of 11,200 ft in the prestigious Launch Canada Competition.

The roots of OTSR trace back to a chance meeting in June 2022 between Dylan Bender, a dedicated individual currently pursuing his PhD, and Israel Ogunmola, a third-year Mechanical Engineering student. Their shared enthusiasm for aerospace engineering sparked the idea of forming a rocketry team at Ontario Tech University. As their vision took shape, Benjamin Wang, a recent Nuclear Engineering graduate, and Khalil Balde, a thirdyear Mechatronics Engineering student, joined forces to help lead the burgeoning team.

In the short span of one year, OTSR achieved remarkable growth. The team swelled to 21 members, and seven distinct departments were established, each specializing

in critical aspects of rocketry: Aerostructures,Propulsion, Avionics, Business, Payload, Recovery, and Outreach.

This growth was a testament to the dedication and determination of OTSR members who worked tirelessly to build an ambitious project from the ground up. Their commitment was rewarded with a successful launch in Timmins on August 28th, 2023. In their very first year of competition, OTSR not only took flight but also delivered a scientific payload to an astounding altitude. This achievement left an indelible mark on the Launch Canada Competition and earned them praise from all quarters.

For OTSR, this journey is far from over. The team’s vision extends beyond competition victories; they aspire to expand their reach within the Ontario Tech community. They aim to engage more passionate individuals in the field of engineering, providing them with invaluable skills that will shape their future careers. OTSR’s story is a testament to the boundless potential of student-driven innovation and the remarkable achievements that can be unlocked when passion meets purpose.

Learn more about the Engineering Clubs, Teams, and Societies

Innovation Under Pressure

Testing the bounds of their education, students take to the labs to create a funlly functioning robot. The catch? They only have 3 days to complete it from the ground up.

Every year, the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) releases a brandnew robotics challenge to teams located all around the world. This year’s game, titled “Charged Up”, was themed around energy generation and challenged teams to develop a robot that could retrieve a selection of cones and cubes located in “Substations”, score them on a matrix of pegs called the “Grid”, and balance themselves on a teeter-totter platform called the “Charge Station”.

Because the FIRST Robotics Competition is designated only for high school students, there were a handful of post-secondary FRC Alumni in the United States who decided to take the challenge to the next level and develop what is known today as the “Robot in 3 Days (Ri3D)” challenge. This Ri3D challenge quickly became popular to many university students and other alumni around the world who were still interested in participating in the competition challenges but were now ineligible to compete. While competing high school teams normally have

anywhere from 6-8 weeks to design, build, and program their robots, teams participating in the Ri3D challenge have only a mere 3 days to complete theirs.

The Ri3D competition (presented by Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach) began on January 7th in the OPG Engineering Building, and just 72-hours later, Trident the robot was born.

In the “Charged Up” challenge, the scoring grid consisted of two outer grids and a coopetition (co-op) grid, each of which are divided into three rows (top, middle, and bottom). Within each grid, game pieces can be placed on nine “Nodes”, with two Nodes reserved for cubes and four Nodes reserved for cones. The remaining three Nodes, known as hybrid nodes, can accept either game piece.

Through the use of an elevator and a pneumatic-actuated arm and gripper, the team’s robot was designed to score both cones and cubes on all scoring pegs and shelves, as well as climb up and balance aboard the charging station for the endgame bonus.

Alumni Updates

Our alumni may have graduated, but their journeys are far from over. Here, we profile some of their amazing accomplishments!

Matthew Mairinger

Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, 2016

Following an internship, Matthew was hired through the Engineering New Grad Program at Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in the nuclear field following graduation. He is now working as the Program Coordinator/Advisor for the Canadian Centre for Nuclear Sustainability. He is also the President of the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for a young generation of nuclear enthusiasts to develop strong leadership and professional skills, create life-long connections, engage with the public and inspire today’s nuclear technology professionals to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Bilal Ansari

BEng, Automotive, 2022

Victoria

Uchida

BEng, Mechanical, 2022

Emil

Ilnicki

BEng, Software, 2021

Bilal received three prestigious job offers from Magna International, General Motors, and Pratt and Whitney. He accepted the position with Pratt and Whitney as an Aerospace Engineer, where he still works today. Bilal plans on pursuing to get a MEng in Aerospace Science and Engineering in the coming years.

Shajeevan Ranjan

BEng, Mechatronics, 2023

Victoria is currently working as a project engineer on the Bruce Power site. Her role is to provide technical oversight in the planning and execution of projects. She has been enjoying learning more about the nuclear industry in her time there.

Hamza Farhat Ali

BEng, Software, 2022

Emil’s Capstone Team was awarded the “Most Innovative Engineering Design Award” for his capstone “OccuTracker: Occupancy Tracker Using IBM’s Open Liberty Framework”. Emil now works as a Cloud Engineer at ThoughtExchange, an engagement and survey platform prioritizing innovation and privacy.

Natalie

Shears

BEng, Mechanical, 2023

Shajeevan completed his Mechatronics Engineering degree as an international student from Sri Lanka and is currently working at Ford Motor Company. His advice to FEAS students looking to pursue Mechatronics is to “Take one step at a time. Mechatronics is a rapidly evolving field, so it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. Stay curious and be willing to learn new things throughout your career.”

Hamza had the special opportunity of following his two older brothers to Ontario Tech, who graduated in Nuclear Engineering (2017) and Mechatronics Engineering (2021). Upon graduation, Hamza decided to backpack in Western Europe and UK for a month prior to starting a position as Software Developer with InfoSys, where he is currently working full time.

Natalie completed her mechanical engineering degree and went on to work for AtkinsRealis (formerly known as SNC-Lavalin) as a project coordinator. She is now part of a global team working on the Darlingotn small module reactor that is expected to begin construction in 2024.

Sahil and Rabi, founders of FERMI Solutions, attended Ontario Tech University in the Nuclear Engineering program where they first met. At the time, the program was rather small, so the first-year students were a tight knit group. Upon graduating, Sahil and Rabi got a job at the same company (Kinectrics) where they advanced to becoming Bruce Power Site Managers, furthering their connection with similar visions and goals. With a shared passion for starting something of their own and through connections they had made along the way, Sahil and Rabi built the confidence they needed to pursue their own endeavour.

FERMI Solutions (named after Enrico Fermi, creator of the world’s first nuclear reactor), delivers quality, cost-effective and technologydriven engineering services that range from technical consultations to field delivery and implementation. Their office in Port Elgin, Ontario, has grown to approximately 30 employees,

Rabi Yari

BEng, Nuclear, 2012

Sahil Gupta

BEng, Nuclear, 2012 MEng, Nuclear, 2013

with many being Ontario Tech alumni.

They attribute much of their success to their Ontario Tech professors who influenced them towards entrepreneurship, including Dr. Matthew Kaye, Dr. Glenn Harvel, Dr. Igor Pioro, John Froats and Peter Schwanke. These professors were said to have tied personal experience to their teachings, emphasizing that there was much innovation to be capitalized upon within the industry.

When asked what advice they would give to current engineering students, they shared:

“Try to find a job in an area that you’re interested in, even if it’s not the most financially lucrative. Chase after the experience. Work hands-on with machines and equipment – the more you do, the more and quicker you’ll learn. Keep at it, work hard, absorb as much as you can from feedback and mentors, and the financial aspect will come with time.” -

Sahil

Share Your Alumni Success Story

Riju Mathew

BEng, Nuclear, 2023

After starting at Ontario Tech in Mechanical Engineering, Riju soon realized that it may have not been the best fit for him. After careful consideration (and despite some pushback from friends and family), Riju transferred into Nuclear Engineering where he thrived. His team won 1st place in his category for the Annual Engineering Capstone and Design Exhibition and Competition for their design of a welding and plasma torch diagnostic system. Upon graduating, Riju secured a position as Design Project Engineer with Lockheed Martin.

Nicholas Varas

BEng, Mechatronics, 2023

Nicholas began a full-time position as Assistant Technical Officer at OPG with plans to continue his studies at Ontario Tech for a part-time Master of Applied Science (MASc) degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Mechatronics. He is also continuing to grow his start-up company, Moduleaf, through Brilliant Catalyst in which they are looking to develop an energy-efficient greenhouse featuring autonomous robots to combat food insecurity issues on campus.

Diversity and Inclusion Engineering Outreach

Engineering Outreach is built off the passion within its staff and instructors, determined to provide accessible, inclusive, and fun hands-on STEM learning to youth and teachers.

In the ever-evolving landscape of STEM education, Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach stands as a beacon of innovation and inclusion. This year, their commitment to empowering youth within the Durham Region and its surrounding areas through accessible, engaging STEM

content reached new heights. What sets this year apart is the organization’s profound dedication to forging accessible meaningful connections with the youth, parents, and educators. These connections are the cornerstone of their mission, enriching the quality of their programs and leaving

an indelible mark on the journey of STEM discovery within the community. With inclusivity at the core of their vision, Engineering Outreach continues to bridge the gap between curiosity and comprehension, propelling the next generation towards limitless possibilities in STEM.

Learn More About Engineering Outreach

Program

Highlights for 2022-23

29, 100 Engagements reached through our programs

80 High school undergraduateand Staff

91% of Youth reported a better understanding of STEM

250 Programs presented

140 Volunteers and mentors

740 Teachers engaged

Connected North is a Canadian non-profit organization that aims to improve access to education in remote and underserved communities through digital technology. The organization partners with schools, community organizations, and businesses to provide virtual learning experiences and opportunities for students and teachers in these communities.

Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach is a partner of Connected North, providing expertise and support for the organization’s initiatives. Engineering Outreach supports Connected North’s goals of using technology to enhance education and learning opportunities for students and teachers in remote and underserved communities.

This collaborative partnership provides valuable educational opportunities and fosters cultural exchange and respect of ancestral traditions. It unites communities across the territories, empowering Indigenous youth to embrace their heritage while embracing the boundless possibilities of STEM education.

Connected North Future Cities

This year, Engineering Outreach, in partnership with Engineers Canada and Engineers of Tomorrow, welcomed over 1600 youth to participate in the virtual Future Cities Experience Showcase and the French vitrine City event. Students from all over Canada were tasked to share their Zero-Waste Cities. Over 80 mentors and judges attended and gave feedback. Ontario Tech University Professer Daniel Hoornweg helped start their journey as the moderator to the KickOff event panel.

This year Engineering Outreach also worked in partnership with the Durham Catholic District School Board to host an in-person Showcase for 20 classrooms in the Energy Systems and Nuclear Science Research Center.

Actua Partnership

Since 2018 Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach has been a Network Member of Actua. This partnership has been a key part of the success and growth of Engineering Outreach over the last few years. Through this partnership, the youth K-12 within Durham Region have developed confidence and digital skills to prepare them for future STEM careers. We cherish this partnership based on our aligned goals to become leaders for inclusive and accessible STEM education.

Instructor Excellence

Actua honours Hunter Johnson’s commitment to encouraging young people to explore STEM disciplines.

Ontario Tech Engineering Outreach is dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive STEM learning opportunities to inspire youth to pursue STEM careers.

Hunter Johnson, an Indigenous STEM instructor in the program, has been recognized with the Actua Instructor Recognition Award for 2022 for his commitment to teaching STEM to youth. The award recognizes Hunter as a valuable member of the Engineering Outreach team and a positive influence on participants. Hunter works to develop and deliver STEM content

that incorporates Indigenous perspectives and participates in community outreach events to engage both Indigenous and nonIndigenous youth.

Hunter has gone on to fufill the InSTEM Coordinator position, leading the Indigenous youth team.

The Engineering Outreach program collaborates closely with Actua, Canada’s largest STEM outreach organization, to engage youth from all over the country in transformational STEM learning experiences.

“The past two years working with Engineering Outreach has been such a rewarding experience. Receiving the 2022 Actua Instructor Recognition Award means a lot to me as it exemplifies my dedication and commitment to science, technology, engineering and math education, especially when it comes to Indigenous youth in STEM. I look forward to continuing the progress we’ve made to equip youth with skills and experience in STEM.”

Hunter Johnson

Indigenous STEM Instructor, Engineering Outreach, Ontario Tech University

Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth Visits Ontario Tech

Ontario Tech Engineering was proud to host the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth at an Engineering Outreach Conference for Black Youth on February 11, International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

Organized by Ontario Tech University Engineering Outreach, Ontario Tech’s National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and Actua, Canada’s leading STEM education outreach organization, the conference was an opportunity for grade 9 to 12 Black youth from Durham Region high schools to learn more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, attended the conference and spoke with students and faculty about the importance of encouraging more women and girls to choose STEM careers.

The conference is just one of many events and programs organized by the Engineering Outreach team that promotes STEM to girls, Black youth and Indigenous youth through community partnerships and education.

With a focus on providing accessible and inclusive opportunities to underrepresented communities, the Engineering Outreach team developed programs specifically for Black youth in grades 1 to 12. Designed by Black STEM students, the program provides Black youth with a communityoriented and accessible learning environment to explore different areas of STEM, coding, and engineering design. With the intent for students to develop skills critical for the future, the program highlights Black role models, promotes academic pursuits, and encourages growth in STEM literacy. We are proud to offer these programs at no cost to families with the generous support of Actua and the Government of Canada’s CanCode program.

Advocating for Change

Ontario Tech Engineering honours womens lives lost on December 6th, 1989.

Every year, on December 6th, Canadians come together to observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Established in 1991 by the Canadian Parliament, the day serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic events that transpired on December 6, 1989, at the École Polytechnique de Montréal. On that fateful day, 14 innocent women lost their lives in a horrifying act of gender-based violence, leaving an indelible scar on the nation’s conscience.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a solemn occasion for Canadians to remember those who have suffered from gender-based violence, honor the memory of those we have lost, and

reaffirm our commitment to collective action against such violence.

As Madeline Sialtsis, Women in Engieering and Outreach Coordinator, notes, “When gender-based violence happens, and it does happen in the modern day, it is really important we don’t shy away from it, that we don’t let ourselves forget it, because that is when you repeat history.” These words underscore the importance of acknowledging the dark realities of gender-based violence and working tirelessly to prevent its recurrence.

In a powerful gesture of remembrance and advocacy, this year, Ontario Tech Engineering has installed a memorial outside of the Ontario Power Generation Engineering Building. This memorial, a stone monument, serves as both a reminder of history and a

symbol of our collective progress in the fight against gender-based violence.

The stone’s presence on campus serves as a constant reminder of the lives lost on that tragic day in 1989 and the countless others who have been affected by gender-based violence. It stands as a testament to our determination to create a safer and more inclusive society for all.

While we have made significant strides in raising awareness and addressing gender-based violence, there is still much work to be done. The stone memorial at Ontario Tech Engineering not only acknowledges how far we have come but also highlights how far we have yet to go in eradicating gender-based violence from our society.

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