T h o r o u g h T h o r o u g h T h o r o u g h
Transcription
T h o r o u g h T h o r o u g h T h o r o u g h
Engineering Par tnerships A Tho ugh h oT hf h o m o r r h o rn o r o u gT T r a d i t i To or o w oug Thorough Tho roug h T h o u2010 h January ro g Tho roug h A University of Saskatchewan publication of the College of Engineering Winter 2010 Dean, College of Engineering Janusz Koziński Associate Deans Don Bergstrom, Faculty Relations Nurul Chowdhury, Student Affairs Ajay Dalai, Research and Partnerships College Editor Anne-Marie Cey Associate Editor Sue Martin, Dark Horse Communications Contributors Anne-Marie Cey, writing and photography Colleen MacPherson, writing Doris Wang, writing Debra Marshall Photography Linda Carmichael, photography Kurt Touet, photography Candyce Paul, photography Design and Print Management Dark Horse Communications Advertising Sue Martin, Dark Horse Communications 1-306-652-5086 Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #40683196 In This issue Contact Us: Your comments, views and suggestions are welcome. Please forward them to: Thoughtful Partnerships: A Message from the Dean . . . . . . . . . . 1 Editor, Thorough Magazine College of Engineering, U of S 57 Campus Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9 Thorough, with a circulation of 10,000, is published annually. An electronic version is posted on the College of Engineering website www.engr.usask.ca Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the official position of the University of Saskatchewan. Return Undeliverable Canadian addresses to: College of Engineering University of Saskatchewan Dean’s Office, 57 Campus Drive Saskatoon SK, Canada S7N 5A9 Strategic Alignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accreditation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 George Carter Scholarships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Saskatchewan Centre of Masonry Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Outreach Initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sustainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Happenings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sci-Fi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Aquitard Symposium, CHESS Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 CJ Mackenzie Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Faculty Appointments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 What Our Students Did Last Term . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 And the Award Goes To... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Mark Your Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Thoughtful Par tnerships Dear Friends a n d C o l l e a g u e s, The challenge of the new is always invigorating; it forces us to see and think afresh. Our new challenge is to establish meaningful partnerships with other colleges on campus and beyond, with industry, government, and international institutions. It is, therefore, not a coincidence that the leitmotif of this issue of ‘Thorough’ is partnerships. It is important that universities, all levels of governments, the private sector and community organizations collectively accelerate efforts to encourage innovation, harness and grow brainpower, and turn research and scholarship into applications that can be developed and promoted for societal benefit. All these sectors must engage in a concerted effort to achieve a climate where research and advanced education are encouraged, risks and success are celebrated and rewarded, and politics do not get in the way of optimizing our capacity to succeed. In the past, we have under-leveraged our relationship and contributions to industry, to the private sector and to community building. We now aim to develop a new way systematically looking at what the College ought to be doing in the next decade in those areas. It will expand our knowledge and creativity. I see a leading role for the College to play in this diversified enterprise. I see us challenging our students to consider not only engineering in their studies, but the broader economic and social context in which our profession operates. I envisage us molding new leaders that possess scientific and technological fluency, knowledge of the great religions and cultures of the world, the ability to communicate in more than one language, and an open mind and heart. I fancy our engineering graduates becoming modern beacons, well-rounded with wise judgment and authentic character; people unafraid to make the right choices for the medium and long term, even when unpopular in the short. I invite you to share this dream with me and help us make it happen. It is appropriate for me to comment here on a year of unprecedented economic uncertainty and how it affected our College. Of particular concern for us is the impact the economically volatile period has had on investment income, endowments, trusts, and pensions. The University’s conservative investment policy has protected us from the more substantial losses experienced by many other schools, but the College still faces an approximate 23% decline in endowments and trusts. This decline will be felt because we count on funds from trusts and endowments towards our annual revenue. In addition, Engineering, like many other colleges, was assigned a 2.7% permanent budget reduction. We elected to address the budget reduction as an integral and an intact unit rather than pre-assigning a series of cuts to each academic department. We believe that the current challenge is an opportunity for the College to work together to build sound, long-term strategies for coping with financial problems regardless of their origin. We considered our strategic priorities as guideposts for selecting our options and developed a package of new measures that will make the College even more innovative, qualitydriven and accountable. And it is not lip service to say that we want to rank in a sustainable fashion as one of the top engineering schools in the country. However, what is most important is not where we stand in ‘league tables’ but the originality, substance, and innovativeness of what we do. A new leadership alliance. (L-R) Prof. Nurul Chowdhury, Associate Dean, Student Affairs; Prof. Don Bergstrom, Associate Dean, Faculty Relations; Dean Janusz Koziński; and Prof. Ajay Dalai, Associate Dean, Research & Partnerships What I do want to state unequivocally is my confidence that the College is more than capable of meeting the challenges and, indeed, that it will do so. It is a confidence based upon what I have already seen of the talent of my colleagues in every part of the College; of the outstanding quality of our scholarship; of the extraordinary mixture of rich intellectual diversity, and of unique opportunities to weave those diverse strands together: opportunities in which our alumni, students, and our departments play such an important role. But it is also a confidence based on the loyalty and affection of the worldwide University of Saskatchewan Engineering family; the University of Saskatchewan that is located not on a map but in the hearts and minds of tens of thousands. These are the bonds that do so much to sustain the College, and help also, I hope, to sustain your own sense of what is truly of enduring value and significance. It is clear that for our extended engineering community, a new world of opportunity is awaiting. Janusz A. Koziński, P. Eng. Dean Strategic Alignments Fu r t h e r K n o w l e d g e Tr a n s f e r a n d S h a r i n g When it comes to international research and teaching initiatives the College of Engineering has been leading the way by developing relations with governments and establishing international collaborations with leading universities around the globe. President Geo-Suk SUH, Chonbuk National University, South Korea, signs a partnership agreement with University of Saskatchewan Provost Brett Fairbain. U of S and Chonbuk National University Sign Partnership Agreement Scholars from India Visit the College of Engineering Dignitaries from Chonbuk National University, Jeonbuk South Korea, recently met with Provost Brett Fairbairn to sign a five-year partnership agreement, helping establish and facilitate the exchange of students in Electrical and Computer, Biomedical, Bioprocess and Environmental Engineering. Last fall eight graduate students from India visited the college, advancing their education and learning from a Canadian perspective. Students worked on various projects in the Chemical, Agriculture and Bioresource, Civil and Mechanical Engineering Departments. Geo-Suk SUH, President of Chonbuk National University said “By visiting here and meeting with faculty and staff we are able to better understand your university. We’ve found that the College of Engineering has many areas of research of interest to us such as nanotechnology, energy systems and biotechnology.” U of S Electrical and Computer Engineering Associate Professor Seok-Bum Ko was instrumental in developing the partnership with Chonbuk National University. Srilatha Kalaru, a PhD student from the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology who worked with Dr. Ajay Dalai in the Chemical Engineering Department, said “I’ve learned a lot to take back home. Sharing of different ideas is working and I’ve gotten some good results here.” Grants of $10,000 per student were provided by the Canada-India Commonwealth Graduate Student Exchange Program (GSEP), which encourages Canadian universities to expand their exchange programs. “We are strengthening international relationships to best meet the needs of the province while advancing our joint research and teaching services. We anticipate that this knowledge sharing will contribute to Saskatchewan’s economic prosperity and are pleased to be in the forefront of this transformation.” - Dean Janusz Koziński U of S Delegates Visit China for Joint Clean Coal Symposium Biofuels Tops Agenda with Visiting Delegates In April delegates from the College of Engineering visited China for a China-Canada Joint Symposium on Clean Utilization of Coal in Taiyuan, Shanxi. The symposium was a joint effort between the Key Laboratory of Coal Science and Technology, the Taiyuan University of Technology, the Ministry of Education and Shanxi Province, and the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. Last fall representatives from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) in India toured the Chemical and Agriculture and Bioresource Engineering Departments and met with faculty to discuss biofuel crops and bioenergy issues and technology. “This event marks an exciting milestone for us and our partners in China,” said Dean Koziński. “The symposium speakers were all leading researchers on the topic of clean coal utilization and they presented very interesting processes and technologies. Our delegation also had many opportunities to idea-share and network at the symposium and during visits to a number of the universities and colleges in China. I would like to particularly thank Professor Hui Wang for organizing this event.” “Our department has expertise in the areas of agricultural production system engineering, natural resources and bioprocess engineering, and postharvest technology; therefore, we are collaborating on many projects with TNAU.” said Professor Lope Tabil, Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering Department Head. Professor C. Ramasamy, Vice Chancellor, TNAU said “Coming here and learning is very important to our staff and students. We need to work with institutions like yours to improve our technologies. In five to ten years we will run out of resources if we do not opt for enhancement of our capabilities. The college has helped us in our internationalization efforts.” E n gi n e e r i n g Acc re d i t at i on G ranted The College of Engineering continues to be among few schools in Canada that can claim its programs have received accreditation every year since the oversight process was initiated in 1965. Malcolm Reeves The Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) recently granted eight of the college’s nine programs three more years of accreditation. This designation ensures graduates have all the necessary academic qualifications to be licensed as professional engineers, both in Canada and in many international jurisdictions. “The environmental engineering program was exempt from the October accreditation visit because it is too new to have graduated any students,” explained Malcolm Reeves, the college’s former Acting Associate Dean of Student Affairs, now on administrative leave and a CEAB member. That program will receive an accreditation visit next year. by Colleen MacPherson “The accreditation process is a long one,” he said, requiring about 18 months of preparation. Most of that is in compiling the course information, examination papers, laboratory instruction sheets, project reports, student transcripts – absolutely any material used for the instruction of students, – that is reviewed by the accreditation team. Reeves added that transcripts are reviewed “to check that the institution is following its own rules, and that students complete the program as advertised.” After reviewing the team’s reports on the various programs, which Reeves described as “very clean,” the board awarded the accreditation in June. S u s t a i n i n g the Future: G e o rg e Ca r te r S c h o l a r s h i p s An environmental enthusiast for most of his life, alumnus George Carter recently created a scholarships program at the College of Engineering, ensuring students who share his passion are supported in their own pursuit of sustainability education for years to come. “I decided to sponsor scholarships in the environment and sustainability areas because I have been interested in this for a very long time.” said George. The $250,000 endowment he donated last year translated into a $5,000 scholarship for Civil Engineering graduate student Joel Hilderman. This year George contributed an additional $125,000 in support of the scholarships. Born in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, but raised and schooled in Mozart, George Carter (BE ’62), has been a military man for 37 years. He graduated from the College of Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in Electrical Engineering and worked in communications and computers for the Canadian military. Ever-passionate about the environment and ardently supported by his wife Wilma and son David, George has been involved for many years in the development of an environmentally friendly waste disposal system that uses extreme heat to break down polluting compounds and ensure they don’t recombine. The system is able to convert 99.8% of a municipal solid waste stream (regular city garbage) into useable products with air emission levels substantially below regulated levels anywhere in the world. George Carter Col l e g e R e ce i ve s $1 . 25 M Towards M a s o n r y D e s i gn Ce nt re Making a positive step to ensure a solid foundation for their industry, the Saskatchewan Masonry Institute (SMI) presented the College of Engineering with a $1.25M endowment last February. This partnership between the two organizations will help ensure continuing quality and stability in masonry design education for engineers. possible by the financial investments of Gracom Masonry a JV, City Masonry Contractors Ltd., Scorpio Masonry SK Ltd., Steinhubl’s Masonry Ltd., Koby Masonry Construction, Walchuk Masonry Ltd., Cindercrete Products Ltd., Expocrete Concrete Products Ltd. and the Canada Concrete Masonry Producers Association. “Thanks to the support of the province and the Saskatchewan Masonry Institute, we expect the Saskatchewan Centre for Masonry Design to become a centre of excellence in training engineers in Canada,” said Dean Janusz Koziński at the 2008 Masonry Awards Gala. “This project fits within our College’s grand vision of linking our past with the future. We are pleased to be partnering with SMI and the province on this very important initiative.” “These funds will be the foundation for success over the coming decades,” said Luc Durette, SMI president. “The centre will ensure that masonry is an integral part of training engineers how to effectively and efficiently design masonry systems using all elements of masonry such as brick, stone, concrete block, tile and mortar.” This endowment in the name of the industry’s association, the Saskatchewan Masonry Institute (SMI), was made Below: Dean Janusz Koziński receives a granite cheque representing a $1.25M endowment from the Saskatchewan Masonry Institute (SMI) at the 2008 Masonry Awards Gala. Presenting the cheque are SMI President Luc Durette (right) and treasurer Dominic Iula (left). Photo by Debra Marshall Photography Planning for the centre has begun and will be phased in over the next five years while the current engineering curriculum is being enriched with masonry design. Photo by Debra Marshall Photography Pa s s i n g o n the K nowledge Engaging young people’s interest in math and engineering has always been the driving force behind the College of Engineering’s Office of Outreach and Transition Programs. Two new initiatives, the Northern Science Ambassadors and myWISEmentor programs are aimed to educate middle years and high school students about the various careers available in science and engineering. Last spring, four engineering students travelled to various communities in northern Saskatchewan as part of the Northern Science Ambassador Program. They spent a week at schools in Cumberland House, La Ronge, Pinehouse, Buffalo Narrows, Beauval, La Loche, and Jans Bay, engaging students in activities such as rocket launching and owl pellet dissections. “I’m glad I could share my enthusiasm for science with them,” says Ryan Krug, an Electrical Engineering student. Through the program, the University of Saskatchewan is able to build relationships with schools in the north and provide the science expertise and equipment some schools may not have access to. This also lends the opportunity to promote science and engineering as possible areas of study. “The high school kids look up to the university students as examples of success in science,” says Sally Meadows, Program Administrator. “Hopefully, this will inspire them to pursue a career in the sciences or engineering.” Wehkees Durocher ( front) and his sister Cici of Reclaiming Our Youth Home Front School near Beauval prepare to dissect frogs, an activity they engaged in during the Northern Science Ambassador program. Photo by Candyce Paul. by Doris Wang In the coming years, the outreach office expects to expand the program to include more schools and extend the length of the stay at each location. The University of Saskatchewan recently launched a program called myWISEmentor. Offered by the College of Engineering’s Office of Outreach & Transition Programs and Dr. Julita Vassileva, Prairie Chair for Women in Science and Engineering, the program is designed to increase female presence in ‘hard sciences’ such as physics, computer science and engineering. Girls aged 11-18 are paired with female industry experts, science and engineering faculty members, or graduate students, based on their interests. The program provides one-on-one email mentorship to the participants, and they receive answers to questions about university courses, possible career options or any other concerns they may have. “We want to change the perception of science as a male-dominant field and help these girls realize exciting careers in science,” - Sally Meadows, Outreach Program Administrator Approximately 30 female students across Saskatchewan will be able to participate in the program, and to date a dozen matches have been made. For more information visit www.mywisementor.com Creating the Capacit y to Endure Sustainab i l i t y I n i t i at i ve s Behind the doors of the College of Engineering, the work of faculty, students and staff from all disciplines has one underlying theme, sustainability. From reusing printer paper to creating building materials out of recycled bio-waste materials, the college is working towards reducing its carbon footprint. The Saskatchewan Centre of Excellence for Transportation and Infrastructure (SCETI) entered a strategic alliance to conduct joint research on advanced road building techniques with the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI). Research will encompass all facets of transportation and infrastructure including development of advanced road materials and systems that perform better in the extreme Saskatchewan climate. Footprint Design, a student group focused on promoting and practicing sustainable designs and activities, allows members with ideas for projects to be supported financially and academically. Past projects include a sustainability symposium, biodiesel production, a bike generator, and a canola oil car conversion. Currently, a wind turbine is under construction. Future projects include an energy efficient greenhouse and an electric vehicle. Dean Janusz Koziński is the driver behind the SunFuel Research Project that aims to produce fuel from biomass like straw, paper and pulp waste. An added attraction of the process is that it is also effective in destroying toxic waste. College of Engineering researchers Janusz Koziński, Ajay Dalai, Todd Pugsley, Gordon Hill, Lope Tabil, and Satya Panigrahi were awarded $1.7 million over three years to help develop technologies that will increase the industrial value of surplus cereal straw left out on the field. This is part of an $8.7-million project of Agricultural Biorefinery Innovation Network (ABIN). Engineers without Borders held a benefit concert and Fair Trade Fair to help raise money and awareness about the production and purchase of ethical goods. The Office of Outreach and Transition Programs is working with grade 10 students at Charlebois Community School in Cumberland House on the Pisim Project (Pisim is Cree for sun), where students are working with professional engineers, alternative energy and building specialists and local trades people to build an environment-friendly house. Ian de la Roche, President and CEO of FPInnovations spoke to more than 20 delegates about lignocellulose, the cornerstone of a new bio-economy. Guests attending the lecture represented a wide range of disciplines including the Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering Department, government departments and research agencies. Happeni n g s College of Engineering 100th Anniversary and Reunion Update The 1 0 0 t h An n i ve r s a r y Ste e r i n g Committee has been for med and celeb rat i o n p l a n s a re we l l u n d er way. Your involvement is impor tant to ensu r i n g a s u cce s s f u l a n d we l l -attended event. Here are a few ways for you to b e co m e i nvo l ve d : Mark your calendar and plan to attend: Thursday, Sept. 20th, 2012 Golf Tournament Wine and Cheese Reception & Registration Friday, Sept. 21st, 2012 Golf Tournament Seminar and Tours Individual Class Socials Saturday, Sept. 22nd, 2012 Tailgate Party & Football Game Banquet Sunday, Sept. 23rd, 2012 Brunch Become a Sponsor The Steering Committee would like to offer commemorative souvenirs of the 100th Anniversary and develop a comprehensive advertising campaign however this requires additional funding. If you would like to become a sponsor of the 100th Anniversary please email paula.wichert@usask.ca or call Paula at 1-306-966-2633. Stay Informed and Spread the Word Help the Steering Committee by sharing these plans with fellow alumnus. Visit www.engr.usask.ca/100years/ for up-to-theminute information on social activities, guests attending, photo sharing and more! Special thanks to the volunteers and staff on the 100th Anniversary and Reunion Steering Committee: Urgent Volunteers Needed! The committee is looking for class representatives for each year and discipline to assist in planning the Friday night socials and to encourage participation from their year. If you are interested in volunteering to be a class representative, or know someone who might be, please email paula.wichert@usask.ca or call Paula at 1-306-966-2633. Art Bergan Wayne Clifton Ian Farthing Mel Hosain Janusz Koziński Peter Nikiforuk Greg Schoenau Lynn Danbrook Paula Wichert Jeanie Wills Dave Humphreys Russ Lemcke Andrew Loken Mike Klein Honourary Co-Chair, International Road Dynamics Honourary Co-Chair, Clifton Associates Ltd. College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering College of Engineering, Graham Centre AECOM Engineering H Russel Lemcke Group March Consulting Communications, University of Saskatchewan Calgary Golf Committee Chair Chris Regier Retires SESS President Ian Farthing wins the putting contest using only one hand. The 20th Annual Calgary U of S Engineers’ Alumni Social and Golf Tournament once again experienced a strong turn-out, terrific weather and a fun day was had by all. Held May 22nd at the Lakeside Golf Club, the tournament attracted alumni, students, and representatives from the University of Saskatchewan including Dean Janusz Koziński from the College of Engineering and Doug Clark, Director of Development, University Advancement. Longtime Tournament Chair Chris Regier announced his retirement, and was presented with a Calgary Stampeder cap for all his hard work. He tried to burn it, then a swift collection was taken up to promptly replace it with a (much nicer) Saskatchewan Roughrider hat. A warm welcome goes out to incoming Tournament Committee Chair, Heather Isidoro. Winning Team (Low net, high gross): Gerry Hillis, Don Olafson, Katelyn Frecon & Anne-Marie Cey Tournament Chair Chris Regier receives a Calgary Stampeders hat and a new set of clubs as a retirement gift. The tournament-winning team Longest Putt: Ladies Long Drive: Ladies Closest to the Pin: Men’s Long Drive: Men’s Closest to the Pin: Putting Contest Winner: Katelyn Frecon Katelyn Frecon Rhonda Trueman (approximately 2”) Glen Glass BJ Seaman Ian Farthing (putter in one hand, stein of beer in the other hand) 2 0 0 9 Alumni R eunion More than 50 College of Engineering alumni reminisced with classmates during the 2009 alumni reunion at the University of Saskatchewan. The event paid tribute to the college class years of 1928, 1948, 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964 and 1969. Celebrations included the Chancellor’s Banquet, the President’s Luncheon, and a luncheon at the college for engineering alumni. At the Class of ‘59 Mechanical Engineering 50 year reunion dinner the evening before, an anonymous donor pledged $1,000 per year for each year he has been out of school ($50,000). Other alumnus then stepped forward and donated $5,000 in support of areas with the highest need in the College of Engineering. SCIENCE CAMPS 2 0 Ye a r s o f S C I - F I Fu n by Doris Wang Each year, the SCI-FI Science Camps at the University of Saskatchewan welcome thousands of children. In 2009 more than 2,000 kids enrolled in the week-long summer camps. This is just one of the accomplishments the organizers are celebrating during the camp’s twentieth anniversary. Peter Voldeng, with the help of a few classmates started SCI-FI at the College of Engineering in 1989. Voldeng is both surprised and proud that the camp lasted this long. “I’m glad a lot of kids were excited about learning science and many of them went on to study engineering in university,” he says. Current director Brahm Neufeld says he enjoys greeting the kids on the very first day and doing camp orientation. He attended SCI-FI when he was young and enjoyed interacting with university students and professors. Neufeld says the camp provided him with the opportunity to explore science and technology in a fun way and that’s why he returned to SCI-FI every year, whether it was as a camper or as a volunteer. 10 2years0 0 9 Several kids have followed in his example. Amy Zhou went to SCI-FI last year and is returning this summer. “We did cool experiments and I made a lot of friends,” she says. “I didn’t like science before but I do now.” One of the early goals set by Peter Voldeng was to make the camps affordable by maintaining sponsor support. Today, the mobile camps have expanded to 20 different locations across Saskatchewan and have hosted more than 1,500 kids this summer. The organizers have developed new partnerships with community centres, local schools, and other academic centres such as SIAST College. Looking to the future, the camp organizers hope to maintain their current level of growth and partnerships with the university and other funding organizations. They also hope to reach children who have never participated in SCI-FI camps and provide them with an opportunity to explore science and have fun. S p e cialized Symposium H o n ours Professor I nte rd i s c i p l i n a r y Conference a First for U of S The Symposium on Aquitard Hydrogeology was in honour of Professor John Cherry and his many contributions to aquitard research. Guest speakers included experts in geological and geotechnical characteristics of aquitards, while delegates travelled from across Canada to attend this highly specialized symposium. Conference supporters and sponsors included the Canadian Geotechnical Society (Hydrogeology Division), the Canadian National Chapter of the International Association of Hydrogeologists, the College of Arts and Science, the College of Engineering, the Department of Geological Science, MDH Engineered Solutions, Mosaic, PotashCorp, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment and the University of Saskatchewan. The U of S played host to guest speakers and delegates from around the globe at the first-ever CHESS Interactions Conference. Organized by Physics and Engineering Physics Department Head Professor Chary Rangacharyulu and his multi-disciplinary planning committee, the event inspired guests to consider the links between the various disciplines and explore the fundamental questions that connect them. Above left: Professor John Cherry Above right: Professor Chary Rangacharyulu Department Head of Physics and Engineering Physics, speaks to the crowd at the 2009 CHESS conference wine and cheese reception. 11 Tom Anselm i Prove s “Engin e e r s Ca n D o Anything!” On January 20th Tom Anselmi (BE ’85) spoke to an audience of more than 300 engineering students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests at the annual C.J. Mackenzie Gala of Engineering Excellence. His captivating lecture, Engineers Can Do Anything!, focused on how values, hard work and relationships define your ability to create opportunities, while real life experience and leadership skills define your success. Engineering student Patrick Allen said “It was a really interesting presentation and inspiring to hear how he went from being a cab driver to a successful businessman. It shows that there are no limitations to a certain job, it’s more what you make of it.” In recognition of his lifetime career achievements Tom was recognized on the Alumni Wall of Distinction. This high profile award provides students with role models and creates greater awareness of the outstanding accomplishments and achievements of college alumni. Th e g a l a e ve n i n g also recognized rece nt a cco m p l i s hments of other me m b e r s o f t h e college communit y ◆ Professor Lee Barbour for the 2008 Outstanding Achievement Award from the Association of Professional Engineers of Saskatchewan (APEGS) ◆ Professor Carey Simonson, Professor Robert Besant and Venmar CES Inc. for receiving an NSERC CRD grant and Industry Partnership totaling more than $850,000 ◆ University of Saskatchewan Sled Dogs Quarter Scale Tractor Team for their accomplishments in last year’s ¼ scale tractor competition ◆ SCI-FI Science Camps for receiving an ACTUA award for Leadership and Innovation ◆ Ms. Luanne Sirota for placing first in contest ◆ Professor Ross Welford for being named Educator of the Year by the Saskatoon Engineering Society 12 Photo by Linda Carmichael sponsored by AECOM Engineering and the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) Stu d e nt S u p p o r t Just how vital is student support? Ask one of our 1,572 undergraduate students working in college labs, or any one of the students participating in college student groups. E n gi n e e r i n g D e an’s Fund In 1998, a gift from an anonymous donor established the Engineering Dean’s Fund. The goal was to grow the fund to $1 million. This amount would create an endowment large enough to provide a permanent source of funding to support the College’s highest priority needs. Thanks to continued donor gifts, we are closing in on this goal. It is essential that students be able to learn on up-to-date equipment. The annual support of alumni and friends to the EAT has been vital in making this possible. Student Ac tivities Fund E n gi n e e r i n g Ad vancement Trust The College of Engineering has long been known for its active student body. In fact, the remarkable range of activities outside the classroom is what makes the University of Saskatchewan experience unique. The Student Activities Fund (SAF) provides essential financial support to these various student groups. It was created to ensure College of Engineering students continue to have access to a wide variety of activities – activities that hone their analytical skills, enhance their application of classroom learning to real-life situations, broaden their horizons and build community leadership. The Student Activities Fund enables these groups to operate and also helps to ensure that the college experience is as rich and rewarding for tomorrow’s students as it was for yesterday’s. Since its establishment in 1986, the Engineering Advancement Trust (EAT) has invested close to $3 million in maintaining undergraduate programs. Traditionally, the EAT has been used to upgrade and replace equipment in undergraduate student labs. In today’s evolving engineering sector, technology is driving change at a rapid pace. A postage paid business-reply envelope and donation form are included in this issue of Thorough. You are encouraged to please use this for your donation to the College of Engineering. For more information please contact Lynn Danbrook, Engineering Advancement Office, by phone: (306) 966-1731 or email: lynn.danbrook@usask.ca In recent years, a portion of the Dean’s Fund has been set aside each year to provide immediate support in the form of assistance to student groups and associations representing the College in pre-professional activities, conferences and design competitions. With the support of alumni and friends, these discretionary funds are making it possible for more students to get a taste of life beyond the U of S campus, as they test their knowledge and skills against other universities across Canada and beyond. Alumnus Cre ate s G lo b a l S a fe Wate r S olutions This year’s C.J. Mackenzie Gala distinguished lecturer is a world-renowned expert in irrigation engineering. Acting as a consultant to several international organizations including the United Nations, he has spent much of his time travelling and lecturing across the globe. Dr. David Manz (BE ’72) has lead a successful career at the University of Calgary and now operates a water filtration company that designs, builds and distributes small scale BioSand filters to rural areas and third world countries. In 2001 he established the Center for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST). CAWST and its partners have provided water and sanitation services to more than 60 countries with more than 75,000 BioSand filters in use. In one case, filters installed in two communities in Nicaragua were able to eliminate cholera. In 1976 Dr. Mel Hosain and Dr. Joe Chudobiak started the College of Engineering’s annual Distinguished Graduate Lecture Series in honour of alumni achievements. On its 10th anniversary, the event was renamed after Chalmers Jack (C.J.) Mackenzie, the first Dean of the College of Engineering. This year’s C.J. Mackenzie Gala of Engineering Excellence will be held on Thursday, January 14th, 2010 at TCU Place (Saskatoon). 13 Dr. David Manz On August 1st Professor Don Bergstrom assumed the role of Associate Dean, Faculty Relations. On September 1st Professor Ajay Dalai was appointed Associate Dean, Research and Partnerships for a five-year term. In this new role he will build on the College leadership in research and industrial/international partnerships on campus and beyond. Ajay guides the college’s interdisciplinary research enterprise and stimulates activities focused on expanding partnerships with many stakeholders. His mandate includes the development of a long-term vision for the college’s research portfolio which includes promoting industrial collaborations, leveraging associate funding, strengthening the college’s understanding of intellectual property, encouraging pro-active practices for the commercialization of research results, and developing optimal measures of research performance. He is also helping establish strategic partnerships to increase graduate and postdoctoral admissions, as well as professorial exchanges. Be on In this position he provides leadership and direction on faculty-related matters including the coordination of resources, opportunities, professional development and mentorship. By anticipating emerging needs he plays an important role in shaping policy framework. The appointment is for a five-year term. Along with extensive teaching experience, Don has expertise in administration. Having held various managerial appointments within the College of Engineering, most recently as the Department Head of Mechanical Engineering, he is also a professional engineer. He has accumulated broad administrative skills by serving on various committees including the College Executive and Review Committees. He has served on the Division of Environmental Engineering, University Council, the College of Graduate Studies Executive Committee and the NSERC Grant Selection Committee for Mechanical Engineering. Don’s research interests focus on turbulence, more specifically computational models for turbulent flow. He is one of the leading Canadian researchers working on computational modeling and experimental investigations of turbulent flow, with special expertise relating to turbulent boundary layers. 14 i Pr of. Aj ay Da la str om Associate Dean Research and Partnerships rg Pr of. D Appointments Fa c u l t y As s o c iate Dean Fa c u l t y R elations Ajay is a star researcher, a superb teacher and a creative administrator. He holds a prestigious Canada Research Chair in Bioenergy. His research concerns development of gas-toliquid technologies, biodiesel production and application, hydrogen/syngas production from waste materials, hydroprocessing of heavy oil, value-added products from biomass, solid acid catalysis, and generation and application of carbon nanotubes. He is a professional engineer and maintains memberships in the Indian Institute of Engineers, the Indian Catalysis Society, and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. y ur Pr of. Jim Ev i ich ar d Pr of. R Bu gg tts dh ow Ch ul ur .N of Pr Assoc i ate D e an Stude nt Af f a i r s Acting Depar tment Head Ch e mical Engineering Depar tment Head M echanical Engineering On January 1st this year Professor Nurul Chowdhury was appointed Associate Dean, Student Affairs for a five-year term. He is responsible for ensuring that the College continues to offer superior quality in coordinating undergraduate and graduate programs. On September 1st Professor Richard Evitts assumed the role of Acting Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering. He will serve in this capacity until June 30th 2010. On October 1st Professor Jim Bugg assumed the role of Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering for a five year term. Nurul has a B.E. in Electrical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (1978) and an M.E. from Concordia University (1984). He obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Saskatchewan in 1989. Prior to arriving at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, he taught at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology for many years. Nurul’s research interests are in power system analysis, and power system operation and control and recent work involves analyses and forecast of electricity markets in a deregulated structure. Over the years Professor Chowdhury has devoted thousands of hours to various committees at the college, university and community level. Currently Nurul is an active member of 11 committees and an associate member with six industry related associations. Professor David Dodds, Department Head of Electrical and Computer Engineering said, “I’m pleased to see Nurul selected as our Associate Dean of Student Affairs. As a former member of the faculty association’s negotiating team, Nurul has shown skill in firmness, fairness, and diplomacy. In addition to being an excellent teacher, Nurul is a solid supporter of the collegial process and of our department’s cohesiveness.” Professor Evitts has a B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Regina, and a B.E. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan. From 1994-1996 Richard worked in the consulting industry. He began his career at the college in 1991 as a sessional lecturer, receiving tenure as Associate Professor in July, 2004. Richard’s areas of specialization include corrosion and fuel cell electrochemistry, heat and mass transfer in granular fertilizers, and product quality issues with granular fertilizer. Richard was named as Educator of the Year by the Saskatoon Engineering Society in 2004, and received the USSU Teaching Excellence Award Nomination in 1997. As Acting Department Head, Professor Evitts will be responsible for the academic, research and outreach activities of the Department as well as the management of its faculty, staff, facilities and equipment. Jim received his Undergraduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering at the U of S (1982), Masters from the University of Ottawa (1986) and Ph.D. from the University of Calgary (1991). Professor Bugg has worked at the University of Saskatchewan since 1990. Jim’s current research interests include particle image velocimetry, gas-liquid two-phase flow and wind energy. Jim’s contributions to field of mechanical engineering are far-reaching and extensive. Some projects he has undertaken include authoring or contributing to more than 57 papers, books, abstracts and reports; supervising or co-supervising 18 postgraduate students; participating on 29 departmental, university, professional association and community committees; receiving research grants totalling in excess of $1M and contributing to the education of thousands of students at the University of Saskatchewan. Professor Bugg is responsible for managing faculty, staff, facilities and equipment in the department as well as academic, research and outreach activities. Don Bergstrom, Associate Dean Faculty Relations, said, “Jim Bugg is an exceptional academic, competent in the areas of teaching, research and administration. He is an accomplished instructor who delivers challenging courses that are genuinely appreciated by his students. Overall, he brings a high level of dedication and a quiet sense of humor to all of his endeavours.” 15 What Our Students D i d L a s t Te r m Vehicle Anti-theft Device Receives National Interest Little did they know their design concept would take them to the front page of the StarPhoenix and an appearance on the Discovery Channel! Shea Pederson, Michael Siourounis and Jon Ness, electrical and computer engineering graduates, developed an anti-theft device for vehicles using cellular and GPS technology. Their 2009 Engineering Innovative Design Competition winning entry created a buzz across the country. Most vehicles are equipped with electronic temperature sensors that detect when the engine is overheating and stop fuel from flowing to half the cylinders. A text message to the anti-theft device bypasses the original temperature sensor, telling the computer the engine has overheated and triggers the vehicle to gradually shut down. The device will also reply with GPS coordinates, allowing authorities to track stolen vehicles. The team considered presenting their prototype on Dragon’s Den, CBC Television’s reality show for innovative entrepreneurs seeking investors, however previous commitments didn’t allow them the time. “Companies are showing interest,” says team-member Shea Pederson. “We hope to find a company that can take our prototype and turn it into a product that can be sold.” The Engineering Innovative Design Competition recognizes graduating engineering students who present the most innovative design, process or technological development that has potential for industry applications or as a contribution to society. This annual competition is sponsored by the College of Engineering, the Saskatoon Engineering Society and the University of Saskatchewan. Michael Siourounis, Jon Ness and Shea Pederson display their vehicle anti-theft device. 16 Student Awarded Doctoral Scholarship Prize Eludes USST Blake Erb, University of Saskatchewan Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student, was awarded an NSERC Canada Graduate Doctoral Scholarship valued at $35,000 per year. Blake’s research is on a novel energy exchanger for reducing energy use in building ventilation systems. The U of S Space Design Team showed a valiant effort in the NASA 2010 Space Elevator competition this November. After three years of being the top performer, the USST had high hopes this year. Unfortunately a series of small problems surfaced during the week-long competition which resulted in failure to lift off on most attempts for the $1.1M dollar top prize. The team is already talking about design improvements for next year. Blake Erb won a $35,000 NSERC scholarship for his energy exchanger research. Sled Dogs and Formula SAE Improve Standings The U of S Sled Dogs ¼ Scale Tractor Team placed 12th in a field of 23 competitors at this year’s American Society of Agricultural & Biological Engineers ¼ Scale Tractor Student Design Competition in Peoria, IL, in June. They won the best appearance award and placed fifth in the written design report, an improvement over last year in this category. The U of S team was one of only two Canadian teams participating. The Formula SAE team improved their standings from 55th in 2008 to 36th place this year. The team finished the rigorous endurance event, something that had eluded them in the past. 17 Photo courtesy of the StarPheonix W h a t O u r S t u d e n t s D i d L a s t Te r m Students Association Ratified A Taste of University Life In February the Northern Administration Students Association (NASA) celebrated their ratification. NASA facilitates the transition from small northern town isolation to the urban post secondary environment, providing students with services and support. Physics 20 students from eighteen high schools across the province got a taste of university life last winter when they visited the college to participate in various hands-on experiments in light and sound. What is ENGINEERING? Engineers Without Borders Two hundred high school students gathered at the Saskatoon Inn for What is ENGINEERING?, a comprehensive overview of the engineering industry. Guest speakers included representatives from the University of Saskatchewan, the University of Regina, and industry partners. The Engineers Without Borders’ 2nd Annual Fair Trade Fair November 19th–21st, 2008 provided guests with an education on the fair trade movement, tips on where to buy ethical products, samples and items for sale from local businesses. (L-R) Honourable Lillian Dyck with NASA President John Desjarlais at the NASA ratification. On November 20th, 2008 development expert and Co-CEO of Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Canada George Roter spoke to students about the fair trade model. EWB works overseas with local organizations to help promote human development through access to technology. Pi-Throw Raises over $8,000 The Saskatoon Engineering Student’s Society (SESS) annual PiThrow raised more than $8,000 for Engineers Without Borders (EWB) and Saskatoon KidSport™. Pi-Throw occurs in March during Engineering and Geoscience Week. 18 And the A w a r d G o e s To . . . Left: (L-R, back) Alan Edmunds, Michael Schulte, Kyle Gomke, (L-R, front) Robyn Iverson, and James Tipman are the first-ever graduates of the Professional Communication Option (PCO) at the Graham Centre for the Study of Communication in the College of Engineering. First Graduates of Professional Communication Option Mechanical Engineering Students Win Top Prize Last spring five engineering students graduated from the Ron and Jane Graham Centre for the Study of Communication’s Professional Communication Option (PCO) program. With training in written and oral communication, students develop a comprehensive skill set enabling them to excel in the workplace. No other college or university in the country offers engineering students the option of adding a specialization in communication to their studies. Congratulations to Devin Glennie, Yi Liu and Jon Aydt, fourth year Mechanical Engineering students who won a top poster prize in the Clinical Disease and Diagnostic Science category at the 16th Annual Life and Health Sciences Research Conference last March. This is the first time engineering students have participated in this conference, primarily slated for graduate students in health and life sciences research. Their project - Fall Impact Simulator for Predicting Injury - provided the College of Kinesiology with an experimental design and mathematical model to safely predict wrist and forearm impact forces experienced by the elderly and adolescents during falls. Founded in 2006 through a donation from Ron and Jane Graham, the Graham Centre for the Study of Communication fosters an understanding of human interaction through the study and application of rhetorical theory. Right: (L-R) Mechanical engineering students Yi Liu and Devin Glennie accept congratulations from Dr. William (Bill) Thomlinson, Special Advisor to the VicePresident Research at the U of S. The team won the Diagnostic Science prize at the 16th Annual Life and Health Sciences Research Day Conference. (Missing from the photo is teammember Jon Aydt.) SCI-FI Science Camps Receive $51K Grant The SCI-FI Science Camps at the College of Engineering are expanding thanks to a $51,000 Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) grant to be awarded over the next two years. Kurt Touet, Director of Outreach and Transition Programs says, “We’ve been growing at about 20 per cent a year for the last five years and it’s great to get that support in our banner year. This enables us to grow with confidence, providing funds to maintain quality programming.” The grant was part of NSERC’s PromoScience program that aims to engage young Canadians in science and engineering. 19 A n d t h e A w a r d G o e s To . . . Students Receive Technology Scholarships Environmental Engineering Grad Student Places First at Pork Seminar Engineering students Brahm Neufeld (electrical) and Mike Ehman (chemical) each received a $5,000 scholarship from the Saskatchewan Research Council’s Technology-in-Action (TIA) Fund at a banquet on September 28th, 2009. Brahm is the Director of the college’s SCI-FI Science Camps, and has been instrumental in helping SCI-FI grow into one of the largest elementary science and technology outreach groups in the province. Mike is working to eliminate barriers for people with limited mobility. For a high school science fair project, Mike and a fellow student designed a bolt-on kit enabling wheelchair users to climb a single step with minimal effort and in a very short time. The TIA fund was established by Ian and Pearl Wahn in honor of their Saskatchewan pioneer ancestors. Environmental Engineering graduate student Lyman Moreno placed first in the Graduate Student Research Competition at the 2009 Banff Pork Seminar (BPS). His research focuses on controlling emissions of hydrogen sulphide from swine barns. Initiated in 1972, BPS is an annual event attended by pork producers, researchers, agribusiness representatives, and extension specialists from North America, Europe and Asia. opportunity is mine Your degree. Your skill set. Your growth opportunity. You’ve studied hard for your career. Find rewarding employment with competitive pay, top benefits and a real chance for success. PotashCorp, the world’s largest fertilizer producer, matches your hunger for experience with our appetite for success. Grow your future with our fertilizer business. Visit PotashCorp.jobs, and grow with us. 20 www.potashcorp.jobs M a r k Yo u r Calendar Department of Physics and Engineering Physics Celebrates 100 th Anniversary Established in 1910, the Department of Physics and Engineering Physics is one of the oldest on campus, forming one year after the University of Saskatchewan opened its doors. A reunion is being planned for late September 2010, coinciding with the first official day of classes (September 28th, 1910). This is an open invitation for all former students, professors, and staff to join the celebrations and reconnect with your classmates and teachers to reminisce about the department and learn how it has evolved. You are an integral part of the tradition of excellence established 100 years ago and are encouraged to share this information with your friends, family, and fellow alumni. Planning is underway but it’s not too late to get involved. For more information, please visit http://artsandscience.usask.ca/physics/ or email chary.r@sask.ca Cameco Spectrum 2010 In 1959, Spectrum, then known as The Engineering Show, was started as a showcase for students’ final design projects. It has since grown to become North America’s largest student run exhibition of science and technology, welcoming 10,000 visitors in 2007. Cameco Spectrum 2010 promises to be one of the most successful Spectrums to-date. It will be held on January 14th–17th, 2010 at the College of Engineering. The student planning committee is hard at work creating an exciting exhibit for the whole family. There are going to be several additions to Spectrum in 2010, including a speaker series with talks on computer science to biology. The committee is very pleased to welcome Jay Ingram from Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet who will be delivering a keynote address on Saturday, January 16th, 2010. For more information please visit www.spectrum.usask.ca or email spectrum@spectrum.usask.ca. Important Dates: C.J. Mackenzie Gala January 14th, 2010 January 14th-17th, 2010 Cameco Spectrum 2010 Thursday March 4 th, 2010 Annual Scholarships & Awards Banquet January 27th, 2010 Celebrate Innovation Gala March 4th, 2010 National Engineering Month March 2010 Physics & Engineering Physics 100th Anniversary September 2010 21 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: College of Engineering University of Saskatchewan Dean’s Office, 57 Campus Drive Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9 World skills World World skills skills on onyour on your your amec.com amec.com amec.com doorstep doorstep doorstep mining amec.com mining mining amec.com amec.com AMEC is a recognized of excellence potash and AMEC isAMEC a recognized is acentre recognized centre ofcentre excellence offor excellence for potash foruranium and potash uranium and uranium process studies and design. More thanthan 400 professional and and process process studies and studies design. and More design. 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