As of June 4, more than 2,300 Ontario high school applicants confirmed their offers to Ontario Tech. This marks the fourth consecutive year with more than 2,000 confirmations, and represents a 49.7 per cent increase since 2021, underscoring sustained demand for programs aligned with innovation and emerging industry needs.

“Students are choosing Ontario Tech for its career-connected approach and personalized learning experience,” says Dr. Joe Stokes, University Registrar and Assistant Vice-President, International. “Our programs continue to evolve in response to labour-market demands, supported by an expanding network of partners that enables paid co-ops, internships and research opportunities, many beginning as early as first year, including direct-entry co-op options. Across programs, students are building expertise in emerging tools and AI-enabled technologies, along with critical-thinking and problem-solving needed across a wide range of careers, strengthening the pathway from classroom to career.”

Powering the next generation of innovators, educators and health leaders

Ontario Tech’s most in-demand programs continue to align with critical workforce needs and high-growth sectors, including:

• Engineering, including nuclear, where Canada continues to face a growing talent shortage and demand for applied, job-ready graduates.
• Nursing and health sciences, supporting urgent health-care system needs through practice-ready training and clinical experience.
• Education, preparing future educators and leaders for evolving classrooms and digital learning environments.
• Commerce and business programs, equipping students for data-driven, technology-enabled roles across accounting, finance, marketing and operations.

Why Ontario Tech stands out

Students at Ontario Tech benefit from a comprehensive, future-focused experience:

• Career-connected learning through paid co-ops, internships, practicums, lab work, and capstone projects developed with industry partners.
• Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies across programs, with an emphasis on ethical and applied use in real-world contexts.
• Hands-on learning environments with direct access to faculty and applied research and collaboration.
• Curriculum shaped with the ever-evolving industry in mind to reflect workforce needs across key sectors.
• Personalized student experience where learners are more than a number, with direct access to academic supports, peer mentoring, accessibility services and health and wellness resources.

Momentum with meaning

Ontario Tech’s record first-year confirmations reflect sustained demand for programs that combine hands-on experience with future-ready skills for an AI-driven economy. With increasing enrolment and strong student outcomes, the university continues to evolve its programs in line with industry demand, preparing graduates with the skills needed for today and tomorrow across a wide range of careers.

These issues were at the centre of Learning with AI: Opportunities and Ethical Challenges in Education, a panel at Ontario Tech University’s recent AI Forum. Moderated by Space Canada CEO Brian Gallant, the discussion examined how education systems are adapting to AI, and where they need greater clarity, transparency and responsibility.

What does ethical AI in education mean?

“I think of ethical AI in terms of core human values,” said Dr. Qusay Mahmoud, Professor and Assistant Dean of Engineering Outreach in Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “In academia, those include transparency, fairness, accountability and responsibility.”

For Dr. Amanda Cooper, Dean of Ontario Tech’s Frazer Faculty of Education, ethics begins with openness about AI’s use. “In many professional settings, we're currently hiding AI’s use on all sides,” she said, emphasizing the need for greater transparency.

Sheri Williams, Managing Director, Accenture Industry X Canada, stressed moving beyond the typical ‘human in the loop’ practice, where people step in mainly to review or approve AI output, toward a model where people direct how AI is used from the outset. “We believe ethical AI is ‘human in the lead’, with AI there to support you,” she explained.

Actua’s CEO Jennifer Flanagan tied ethics directly to student impact, emphasizing the importance of using AI to deepen learning while safeguarding well-being and equity.

How will AI fundamentally change how students learn and teachers teach?

“Pre‑AI, students were out gathering information; they found it, retained it and gave it back to us on a test,” said Flanagan. “Post‑AI, the learning has shifted to critically thinking about whether the answer you’re given is right.”

Flanagan acknowledged concerns about declining critical‑thinking skills among students, and rising teacher stress as AI enters classrooms. She also emphasized the technology’s potential to support learners who need additional help.

“The opportunity for personalized learning is very real,” particularly for students who struggle with complex concepts or need to work at their own pace, she said.

What opportunities and challenges does AI present for personalized learning?

AI opens the door to new approaches to teaching and pacing student learning, Dr. Cooper said, noting AI tools can flag problems at a speed that could significantly change how educators intervene when students begin to struggle. This could enable earlier and more targeted support. “Not everyone would have to stay on the same topic for the same amount of time anymore,” she said.

But the reliability of an AI tool’s feedback varies by discipline, Dr. Cooper said, highlighting the need for careful judgment about when and how AI is used to support tutoring.

Dr. Mahmoud spoke to AI’s potential in large classes, where personalization has long been a challenge. He cautioned that issues such as student data privacy, fairness and accountability still need to be addressed.

How can education systems prepare students for an AI‑enabled world?

Williams pointed to industry’s ability to rapidly scale AI training. She encouraged education systems to leverage this work, adding that organizations are eager to collaborate.

She also suggested reframing AI as a tool rather than a threat, and emphasized the importance of teaching students where human judgment fits into AI‑assisted work, starting in elementary years. “Make sure they understand that they, not the AI, are accountable for the output.”

How should educators think about academic integrity in an AI‑enabled world?

Challenging the assumption that academic integrity should dominate the conversation, Dr. Cooper said, “The real question is: what kind of assessment actually promotes learning?”

Traditional assessments must change to reflect the reality that students are going to use AI.  “If I ask for an essay on Lord of the Flies, AI is going to crank that out pretty quickly,” she said. “But if I'm using authentic assessment that deals with a real-world problem and that needs to use content from a course that has been delivered in class, plus students’ own experiences and other sources, it's actually very difficult for AI to triangulate that. This moment is forcing us to rethink assessment, and that’s been a long time coming.”

How do we ensure AI enhances human connection rather than replacing it?

Strengthening human connection requires a shift in how educators approach their role in the classroom. “It’s no longer about showing up and delivering content,” said Dr. Mahmoud. “It’s about designing meaningful learning experiences.”  Students should use AI to explore ideas while applying their own judgment, he added.

Flanagan shared an example of a Grade 12 English teacher using AI to design a collaborative Hamlet assessment. “The students are writing a screenplay together, they’re performing it, and each student has a role they have to embody,” she said. “That’s AI being used to drive human connection.”

What misconceptions persist about AI in education?

“One of the biggest misconceptions educators have is that AI is going to replace them,” said Dr. Cooper. “No one will ever replace the human understanding and connections with students at K-to-12 or higher-education levels. Relationships matter. Humans need to remain at the centre.”

 “Some people think the biggest risk is academic integrity,” added Dr. Mahmoud, noting a related misconception that AI detection tools can reliably and fairly police cheating. “We should not be outsourcing academic judgment to AI detection tools. That leads to false accusations.”

From an industry perspective, Williams said AI’s treatment in the classroom often doesn’t align with the realities students face after graduation. “AI isn’t cheating,” she said, noting that in many workplaces, people are expected to use it from Day 1. While critical thinking remains essential, assessment needs to change to reflect that reality, she said.

Panelists also warned that students themselves can be overconfident in AI’s capabilities. “Many students think AI can replace thinking,” Dr. Mahmoud said. “AI is more of an amplifier. If students ask shallow questions, they’re going to get shallow answers.”

What’s the one message about AI educators should take away?

“Embrace it,” Dr. Cooper said. “Let’s innovate. Let’s fail forward. We’re not going to ‘policy’ AI out of existence.”

Flanagan called for a national strategy embedded in the federal AI approach to provide leadership and move AI literacy forward.

“Bring the outside in,” Williams said, adding that the integration of external perspectives will support critical-thinking skills development. “Real-world problems are messy and complicated, but that's what people are going to have to solve when they enter the workforce.”

That time is over.

The global creator economy is estimated at more than US$250 billion and is projected to approach US$500 billion by 2027. More than 200 million people worldwide identify as creators, and brands are redirecting billions in advertising dollars toward influencer- and creator-led campaigns.

But while this sector has scaled rapidly, the infrastructure around it hasn’t kept pace. Creators are building multi-million-follower audiences without formal business-strategy training, while social media managers are being pushed into executive roles without a clear understanding of how platforms operate. Careers are increasingly tied to algorithms that determine content visibility, with little transparency or stability.

Ontario Tech University is addressing this gap with the launch of the Master of Social Media Communication in Online Creators (The Creator MA), a first-of-its-kind graduate program in Canada designed to professionalize work in the creator economy and prepare its leaders. Welcoming the first cohort in Fall 2026, the program will offer in-person and fully online options, full- or part-time, making it accessible to working professionals stepping into leadership. These include:

• Content creators building sustainable businesses.
• Social media managers moving into strategic and executive roles.
• Digital strategists, creator managers and influencer marketing professionals.
• Entrepreneurs building digital-first ventures.
• Policy and communications professionals.

A program built for the realities of the industry

“The creator economy looks like an industry on the surface, but underneath, it’s still incredibly unstructured,” says Dr. Emilia King, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Science and Humanities (FSSH), and co-director of the program.

Brand deals remain highly unequal, with a small percentage of top-tier creators capturing a disproportionate share of revenue, while mid-tier and emerging creators navigate inconsistent pay, opaque negotiations and limited leverage. Creators from marginalized groups often report less favourable deal terms and fewer opportunities.

At the same time, platforms largely dictate what content gets seen, making success difficult to predict, and influencing what creators choose to produce.

“The Creator MA is about understanding how to build sustainable careers in an environment defined by platforms, data and constant change,” says program co-director Dr. Zenia Kish, Assistant Professor, FSSH.

Students will develop expertise in:

• Content strategy, growth and audience analytics.
• Digital storytelling across platforms, including viral storytelling techniques, narrative design and cross-platform audience engagement strategies.
• Monetization, brand partnerships and campaign execution.
• Platform dynamics, algorithms and discoverability.
• AI tools, policy, regulation and ethical leadership.

“If you don’t understand how the creator economy works, you end up improvising tactics under constantly shifting conditions,” Dr. Kish explains. “We’re training people to recognize those market dynamics and design durable online businesses that can withstand these pressures.”

Beyond coursework, the program is about building shared knowledge in a field where information is often fragmented.

“We’re creating a space where people can actually compare notes in a meaningful way,” says Dr. King. “Where knowledge gets shared, patterns can become visible, and people stop making decisions in isolation.”

Real-world learning with accountability

At the core of the program is a two-semester Capstone project where students launch a real initiative, such as a platform, venture, campaign or policy framework. Each project includes defined goals, public release, and measurable outcomes.

“Rather than analyzing the creator economy from the outside, the students are inside it, making decisions, seeing consequences, adjusting in real time,” says Dr. King. “That’s where the learning actually happens.”

The creator economy influences public discourse, cultural production, political communication and consumer behaviour. With that in mind, Ontario Tech aligns the program with its broader ‘tech with a conscience’ approach, emphasizing innovation and accountability.

“We ask questions that people often avoid because they’re inconvenient,” Dr. King says. “Who holds power here? Who is being extracted from? What are your obligations when you have influence? If you don’t engage with those questions, you’re not really leading, you’re just participating.”

Considering the next step in your career?

Visit The Creator MA web page for program details and admission requirements.

Convocation is more than just a formal milestone. It’s a heartfelt gathering that brings together graduates, their families and the campus community to reflect on academic journeys, celebrate achievements and look ahead to new beginnings. These shared experiences are defining moments for students, highlighting their resilience, growth and relationships formed throughout their time at university.

This year’s ceremonies will also recognize distinguished honorary degree recipients whose leadership and service span business, health care, education, philanthropy, Indigenous economic empowerment and community-building through sport. Their impact reflects Ontario Tech’s spirit of progress, purpose and community.  

• Ms. Tabatha Bull, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, is recognized for her exceptional contributions to economic reconciliation, Indigenous entrepreneurship, public policy and equity in corporate Canada, and her tireless advocacy for Indigenous economic empowerment and equitable business practices.

• Mr. Nick Eaves, Chief Operating Officer at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, is recognized for his strategic leadership, innovative thinking and commitment to enhancing community engagement through sport.

• Mr. Nitin Jain, President and CEO of Sienna Senior Living, is recognized for his leadership, and contributions to Canada’s health and senior living sectors, enhancing the lives of thousands through a philosophy rooted in humility and compassion.

• Mr. Ralph Lean, lawyer, business leader and philanthropist, is recognized for his decades of distinguished service to Canada’s legal, corporate and educational communities, and his strategic counsel, civic leadership and dedication to fostering the next generation of leaders.

• Mr. Mark Mulroney, Global Vice Chair at CIBC and Mrs. Vanessa Mulroney, co-founder of Power of Privé, are recognized for their contributions to business, philanthropy and community development in Canada, and their ability to leverage professional success for the public good.

Additional Convocation information

• Convocation is a ticketed event. All attendees must be registered to attend.
• Guests unable to attend in person can view all ceremonies online on the Convocation ceremonies livestream web page.
• The Ontario Tech Convocation website has the full ceremony schedule, and further details for graduates and guests.

Media contact

Patricia Pickett
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
patricia.pickett@ontariotechu.ca

Today, at Ontario Tech University, Ryan Turnbull, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and National Revenue and to the Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions) and Member of Parliament for Whitby, on behalf of the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial  Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced an investment of $5 million to expand the capabilities of the university's Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) facility into a leading Canadian defence technology hub aligned with Canadian and allied military standards.

Through this project, the university will help strengthen Canadian sovereign capabilities for advanced vehicles, aerospace systems, drones and other emerging defence related technologies, helping manufacturers and innovators commercialize products domestically. As a result, companies will have access to expertise and strategic infrastructure locally to help them compete in domestic and allied markets, while strengthening supply chain resilience, boosting Canada’s defence industrial base, enhancing innovation and supporting high-skilled jobs.

The Government of Canada remains focused on building a strong and innovative defence sector that supports national security, drives economic growth, and delivers real benefits for Canadians.

Quotes

“Ontario Tech University is helping build the sovereign capabilities Canada needs in an increasingly complex global environment. By investing in domestic defence capabilities, we are strengthening Canada’s industrial base, supporting innovation, and ensuring Canadian companies can compete and grow here at home and with our allies abroad.”
- The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“This investment will help position Oshawa and Durham Region at the forefront of Canada’s growing defence and advanced manufacturing sectors. Ontario Tech University is creating opportunities for businesses, researchers and workers while strengthening Canada’s economic resilience and security.”
- Ryan Turnbull, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and National Revenue and to the Secretary of State and Member of Parliament for Whitby

“This investment in ACE significantly expands our testing and research capabilities across the defence, aerospace, and transportation sectors. Upgrades will enable higher-speed and higher-capacity testing, positioning Ontario Tech to better support innovation in military vehicles, heavy-duty transportation, and AI-enabled automotive technologies. As a member of the Controlled Goods Program and a NATO-DIANA designated facility, we look forward to continuing to support Canada’s homegrown defence innovation sovereignty.”
- Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University 

Quick facts

• Ontario Tech University is a research-intensive university located in Oshawa, Ontario. It provides testing, research and development services that support industry partners in mobility, clean technology and advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Ontario Tech University played a pivotal role in Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association (APMA) Project Arrow—Canada’s flagship all‑Canadian zero‑emission vehicle initiative as the primary build and testing site where the vehicle was brought from concept to reality. The university continues to drive innovation in later phases of Project Arrow 2.0 and beyond.
• Delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies, the Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII) is a national $357.7-million investment supporting the growth and integration of businesses into domestic and international defence supply chains. FedDev Ontario is delivering RDII in southern Ontario and allocating additional resources to help businesses seize new defence opportunities and strengthen Canada’s industrial capacity.

Related links

• Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy
• Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII)
• FedDev Ontario

Peter Wall
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation and the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
peter.wall@ised-isde.gc.ca

FedDev Ontario Media Relations
media@feddevontario.gc.ca

Patricia Pickett
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.809.1675 (mobile)
patricia.pickett@ontariotechu.ca 

Simulation plays a key role in training doctors, nurses, first responders, respiratory therapists and other health-care professionals. As demand grows, so does the need for skilled specialists who can design and operate simulation environments. These roles can increasingly be filled by trained non-clinical professionals rather than front-line clinicians.

Laerdal’s gift will strengthen real-world training for health sciences students preparing for specialized roles in simulation-based health-care education and workforce development, areas of growing need across Canada. It also supports the university’s Tech with a Conscience campaign, which focuses on applying human-centred technology and innovation to improve lives.

“Access to advanced simulation technology allows students to build practical skills and confidence in realistic clinical environments,” says Dr. Adam Dubrowski, Canada Research Chair in Health-Care Simulation and Professor in Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Health Sciences. “More importantly, it allows us to train a new type of professional: simulation operations specialists, who can deliver high-quality simulation training at scale. This expands capacity in the system while allowing clinicians to focus on patient care.”

This approach reflects Ontario Tech’s commitment to learning re-imagined through experiential, work-integrated pathways and the thoughtful use of technology to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes.

Laerdal Medical Canada, a global leader in simulation technology, is also partnering with Ontario Tech to support student learning through guest lectures, technical workshops and experiential opportunities at Laerdal Medical. These connections give students exposure to current technologies and practices, strengthening career readiness and expanding professional networks.

“We believe simulation plays a critical role in improving health-care education and outcomes,” says Bruce Karatzoglou, Manager of Educational and Technical Services at Laerdal Medical Canada. “Our partnership with Ontario Tech gives students hands-on experience with advanced technologies while helping build a stronger, more resilient health-care workforce.”

At Ontario Tech University’s recent AI Forum, the Powering the future – Responsible AI for the Energy Transition panel brought together leaders from across the energy sector to examine a critical question: Can Canada’s energy systems keep pace with the rapid growth of AI?

Moderated by Chris Benedetti, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer at Sussex Strategy Group, the discussion explored how energy systems must evolve to support AI-driven demand while maintaining reliability, affordability and sustainability.

How are AI and energy systems evolving together, and what can we expect in the future?

AI is increasing efficiency and overall energy demand, requiring closer alignment between AI needs and energy infrastructure planning.

“We have traditionally trained people in one discipline: engineers on energy systems and data scientists on digital tools,” said Marlene Ramphal, Nuclear Engineer in Residence at Ontario Tech. “What we need is more cross‑disciplinary integration, so people can work across those systems.”

Kshitij Ahuja, Director of Digital Transformation at Nuclear Promise X, emphasized that since AI is here to stay, the key challenge is not the viability or adoption of the technology, but the planning required across energy systems, infrastructure and processes to support it.

“The most important thing we can do here is integrated planning between the rising demand from an energy perspective and how we grow our infrastructure to match that,” he said.

Ahuja also highlighted the importance of maintaining human oversight as systems evolve. “It’s the humans-in-the-lead concept: how do we keep continuing to grow ourselves too?”

What is driving energy demand, and what role will nuclear energy play?

The rapid expansion of data centres, with their significant and continuous electricity-supply requirements, is placing pressure on energy systems.

“It’s pretty consumptive-heavy in terms of the electricity supply,” said Lisa McBride, Country Leader for GE Vernova Hitachi’s Small Modular Reactor Canada business. “We have a lot of outreach from data companies trying to understand how they’re going to meet their energy needs.”

She said nuclear energy will play a key role in meeting that demand, as will other energy sources such as gas. “We all need to figure out very quickly how we’re going to deploy energy that’s scalable in the way that’s required.”

How prepared is Canada’s energy system to meet future demand?

Canada’s energy industry has strong foundations, but meeting future demand will require better co-ordination across technologies, infrastructure and sectors.

“Electricity is a system; it’s not a fuel,” said Susanna Zagar, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Gas Association.

She emphasized that energy planning must move beyond siloed approaches, and that each energy source plays a role and must be integrated into a co-ordinated energy system based on when and how it is most effective. “Use the right fuel for the right job at the right time,” she said.

She added that Canada is well-positioned because of its abundance of natural resources, but “the systems haven’t talked to each other very well for a very long time.” Progress will depend on how quickly systems can be aligned and scaled, she said.

As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates, can energy infrastructure scale quickly enough to meet demand?

While the pace of AI adoption presents challenges, it also creates opportunities to improve efficiency and accelerate processes.

Ramphal highlighted AI’s ability to improve reliability in existing energy assets, and how data‑driven approaches can help operators anticipate issues and optimize performance before failures occur.

The rapid growth in AI‑driven energy demand is “certainly a challenging opportunity,” added McBride. “The demand is growing faster than anybody actually predicted.”

Ahuja pointed to early examples of AI accelerating processes, including regulatory timelines. For example, Austin, Texas-based nuclear startup Aalo Atomics used AI to reduce the time required to secure permits by 92 per cent. He noted that while such examples are not universally applicable, they demonstrate how AI can support faster and more efficient processes when used appropriately.

What risks does AI introduce, and how can they be mitigated?

Panelists emphasized that while AI offers clear benefits, it must be implemented with strong governance and oversight.

“AI can be a stressor and it can be good for us,” said Ahuja. “It’s both, but it needs to be controlled, with some guardrails and governance around it.”

He noted that current applications are deliberately narrow, with clear checks and balances. “We’re not at the point where we can just give an AI agent full liberty,” he said. “We need verification, approvals and the right checks and balances.”

McBride highlighted reliability as a key concern, particularly in safety-critical sectors. “The reliability of the information is important when we think about the safety case for nuclear, as well as public engagement and knowledge, and how we work through different regulatory processes,” she said.

Zagar added that these risks can be managed through accountability, transparency and well-designed regulatory frameworks.

A time-honoured tradition of the Ontario Tech-Durham College collaborative program, the ceremony celebrates final-year students as they prepare to step into professional practice. This year, the ceremony welcomed 145 students, more than 370 guests and 13 faculty members.

As part of the ceremony, each graduate received their 2026 BScN pin—symbolizing professional identity, ethical responsibility and a commitment to caring for others—signifying both their achievement and the beginning of their careers. Graduates also reaffirmed their commitment to providing compassionate and ethical care.

Donors Sharan Swain and Carol Gifford were welcomed as special guests and helped distribute awards to this year’s recipients, further highlighting the community support behind students’ success.

This year’s ceremony also featured remarks from Ontario Tech alumna Anya Dimaculangan, Class of 2014, now a registered nurse, lactation counsellor and Mama Coach for the Durham Region, who shared an inspiring message with the graduating class.

“This year’s Pinning Ceremony was a meaningful celebration of our graduating nursing students’ hard work, resilience and accomplishments,” said Nicole Khalileyh and Solaica Suthagar, Co-Presidents, Nursing Student Committee.

“It was so special to see them mark this milestone surrounded by their loved ones, peers and faculty. We were also grateful for the enthusiastic support of our student volunteers, whose help played a big role in the event’s success. The positive feedback from attendees has been very rewarding and reflects the care and effort put into planning the ceremony.”

Student award winners

Caring Award:

• Sophie Lee

RNAO Leadership Award:

• Hugo Tam

Nursing Student Life Engagement Award:

• Rachel Gonzales

Personal Development Award:

• Rachel Gonzales

Perseverance Award:

• Oluwatobi Shokunbi

Advocacy and Social Justice Award:

• Alina Lakhan

Valedictorian:

• Hugo Tam

Over two semesters, students worked in teams to bring their ideas to life, culminating in project presentations that highlight applied research, technical skill, and solutions informed by industry needs and emerging challenges.

This year, 86 projects were presented. Their work demonstrated innovation, technical excellence and a strong focus on practical impact.

Projects were evaluated by a panel of 16 industry professionals, eight of which are Ontario Tech Engineering alumni. Judges assessed each project based on criteria including innovation, feasibility, impact and professionalism.

The Capstone competition is a milestone in the student experience, reflecting Ontario Tech’s commitment to experiential learning, industry collaboration and preparing graduates to address complex challenges.

This year’s competition was generously supported by the Society of United Professionals.

Awards and cash prizes were presented to the top three teams from each of the following departments:

• Department of Automotive and Mechatronics Engineering (AME) and Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering (MME)
• Department of Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering (ECSE)
• Department of Energy and Nuclear Engineering (ENE)

AME/MME Awards

First place: Design and Evaluation of a Robotic System for Maintenance of Exterior Sensors on Space Stations

• Joey Falconi
• Daniel Jeon
• Shivansh Joshi
• Fiona Kirby
• Claude Wellington

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Aaron Yurkewich

Second place: Design and Development of a 4-Axis Filament Winding Machine

• Bhavik Lad
• Gary Madhan
• Alex Morris
• Israel Ogunmola
• Troy Odia

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Ahmad Barari

Third place: Design and Evaluation of a Robotic System for Assisting People with Upper Limb Paralysis with Everyday Tasks

• Hans Boodhoo
• Ethan Fishlock
• Gabriel Joson
• Peter Marchut
• Paige Roy

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Aaron Yurkewich

ECSE Awards

First place: Design and Development of Wireless Charging System for Fully Electric Wheelchairs

• Shuaib Bamume
• Ethan D'Abreo
• Chris Mbwesse
• Ronald Onyiorah

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Sheldon Williamson

Second place: Design and Development of an LLM-Based IoT Application for Reducing Carbon Footprint

• Zainab Ahmed
• Nuha Tahnia Haq
• Rushda Khan
• Yara Mahmoud

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Akramul Azim

Third place: Design and Development of a Novel Multi-Source Inverter (MSI) Topology

• Dorsheed Abdalla
• Badi Daoud
• Jack Flann
• Emmanuel Ita

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Mohamed Youssef

ENE Awards

First place: Removing Radioactive Material from an Electrostatic Precipitation Device

• Maria Accardi
• Justin Felker
• Klairissa Kucava

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Glenn Harvel

Second place: Automated Inspection System for Fresh Aluminum-Clad Nuclear Fuel

• Nico Kratofil
• Alex Podnar
• Adam Robinson
• Liam Wood

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Matthew Kaye

Third place: Design and Implementation of an Automated Vacuum Control System for Tritium Removal

• Joey Calabria
• Jayden Mirosh
• Samir Nabha Issa
• Tristan Pritchard-Roy

Faculty Advisor:Dr. Lixuan Lu

Thank you to the judges who took the time out of their day to evaluate the Capstone projects. The judge panel included Professional Engineers and alumni.

AME/MME judges

• Lloyd Bailey, Senior Technical Engineer, Ontario Power Generation (OPG)
• Mo Bina, Scrum Leader, General Motors of Canada
• Ralph Chatoor, Executive Vice-President, Society of United Professionals
• Matthew Dlugosz, Manufacturing Engineering Team Lead, BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc
• Amanda Kalhous, Independent Consultant
• Brian Riess, Superintendent, Production, Cameco Fuel Manufacturing
• Uni Lee, Transmission Integrity and Technology Engineer, Enbridge Gas
• Matt Trudel, Mechanical Equipment Engineering Team Leader, BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc

ECSE judges

• Denise Broadhead, E&M Systems Interface Manager, Alstom Group
• Asif Haniff, MTL Manager, E.S. Fox Limited
• Dan Mepham, Engineering Group Manager, General Motors of Canada
• Mehran Reza, Lead Project, Governance and Engineering, CBC/Radio-Canada
• Harsh Singh, Manager Design - Plant Computers, OPG

ENE judges

• Olivia Chung, Senior Design Engineer, OPG
• Jawad Haroon, Program Manager, R&D, Conexus Nuclear Inc.
• Marlene Ramphal, Nuclear Engineer-in-Residence, Ontario Tech University

These considerations were explored during Ethical AI, Building Trust, one of the panels at Ontario Tech University’s inaugural AI Forum, held March 27. Bringing together experts from academia and industry, the panel examined how governance frameworks, regulation and human-centred design must evolve to ensure AI systems are worthy of public trust.

Held under the forum’s theme Building Trust: The Strategic Advantage of Human-Centred AI, the discussion reinforced a clear message: trust is not a barrier to innovation, but a condition for it.

How do we define trust in the context of AI?

“Trust is the decision to put yourself in a situation where the outcome that matters to you depends on the actions of somebody else,” said Dr. Peter Lewis, Canada Research Chair in Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence and Director of Ontario Tech’s Mindful Artificial Intelligence Research Institute. “It’s about being vulnerable when you cannot fully understand, predict or control what the other will do.”

He noted that in the context of AI, uncertainty is amplified. AI systems are complex, not always predictable, and not fully within our control, yet they present enough potential value that many are willing to accept the risk.

Rather than encouraging blind confidence, Dr. Lewis emphasized the importance of trustworthiness. “The aim is not to just have more trust,” he said. Instead, trust should be informed by seeking evidence of whether an AI system has demonstrated that it is worthy of trust in a particular situation.

Are we dealing with a lack of trust in AI, or is the problem that we don’t know when to trust AI?

Dr. Hossein Rahnama, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Flybits, questioned the notion of trusted AI.

“Trust is something that is defined between people,” he said. “If I wear my engineering hat, I think there should be zero trust on machines. Algorithms should be transparent; you must have the ability to audit them.”

Dr. Rahnama said explaining how AI systems work can be difficult, and instead emphasized auditing their decision-making processes. He added that most AI systems today support decisions rather than making them.

“These are built by humans; they’re fine-tuned, structured and created by humans.”

Where are we going as a country with AI regulation and what guardrails do we need to have in place?

Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor of Ontario Tech University, said AI regulation in Canada and the discussion around it is often described as falling somewhere between the American and European approaches. While Europe has been seen as conservative in its regulation of AI, the U.S. has taken the approach of speed to market in the name of innovation.

Dr. Murphy called the perceived regulation-innovation divide a false dichotomy.

“What we need to start thinking about is, how do we innovate in a trustworthy environment? How do we innovate with guardrails around us? It isn't that hard to do. And in fact, the case I make is that there's a real business opportunity for Canadians to be trusted.”

For Amber MacArthur, award-winning podcaster and President of AmberMac Media, meaningful regulation is already past due.

“It’s not a question of if we regulate; it’s how we do it, and how quickly we do it,” she said. “We have a role as Canadians right now to actually introduce regulation that is sensible, that helps our companies thrive.”

What’s a misconception leaders have about AI risks?

Dr. Murphy noted that a key misconception centres on trust and social licence.

Drawing a parallel to Canada’s nuclear sector, he pointed out that trust in nuclear energy is built over time through transparency, public education and clear safeguards.

“We need to be thinking about building social licence,” he said, emphasizing that many people do not trust AI because they do not fully understand it.

Dr. Murphy added that responsibility lies with institutions, not the public. “Why should I trust you and what you have to say? Well, you shouldn’t until I have won your trust,” he said.

The consortium will collaborate on a co-ordinated workforce development strategy including the design, delivery and scaling of education and training programs to prepare learners for careers across the nuclear and renewable energy sectors. As Canada accelerates its transition to a clean energy economy, demand for skilled talent continues to grow. Industry estimates indicate that beginning in 2030, close to 40,000 new workers will be required across Canada’s nuclear sector to support new build, refurbishment, and the broader clean energy transition. The CCEW partnership represents a unified commitment to work closely with industry and government partners, aligning education and training with employer timelines and national priorities. 

Guided by an Industry Advisory Council, the consortium leverages the complementary strengths of each institution to support training and upskilling in priority areas including:

• Artificial intelligence applications in energy
• Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure
• Microgrids and smart grids
• Nuclear operations and small modular reactor (SMR) support
• Renewable energy systems
• Skilled trades

While post-secondary program development can take years to move from concept to scale, the co-ordinated approach of the CCEW Consortium is intended to accelerate program development and responsiveness. This model enables faster program approvals, shared applied research opportunities for industry, and high-quality, experiential, job-ready learning for students.

Domestically, the partnership enables a co-ordinated approach to pursuing funding opportunities, while offering industry and learners a single, streamlined point of access. Credentials, ranging from micro-credentials to graduate programs, will help strengthen workforce pathways in Canada and support broader collaboration opportunities internationally. While CCEW partners are currently Ontario‑based, the consortium expects to expand to include institutions from across Canada.

Internationally, the consortium will develop a capacity-building framework to support emerging nuclear economies including Indonesia and the Philippines, delivering workforce training programs in partnership with Canadian industry.

Quotes

“Canada’s energy transition will require a highly skilled workforce at scale, and more co-ordinated approaches to education and training. Through this collaboration, we are bringing together institutional strengths to deliver industry-informed programs across nuclear and emerging energy technologies, while drawing on Ontario Tech’s leadership in STEM and nuclear education to build clear pathways for learners and support workforce development in Canada and internationally.”
- Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University

“Durham College is proud to partner with Centennial, Georgian, Humber, and Ontario Tech, in a co-ordinated new model of collaboration focused on shaping the future of Canada’s clean energy workforce. Our strength at DC is in hands-on, career-ready education aligned with labour-market demands, and strong employer partnerships. Through the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium, we are building on that foundation—creating new opportunities for students, supporting innovation, and contributing to a resilient, future-ready workforce and ensuring Canada is well-positioned to lead in the transition to a clean energy future.”
- Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College

“Canada’s clean energy future will be built by people—and we need to prepare them at scale. At Centennial, we are developing graduates who are ready to contribute from day one—the boots on the ground powering the energy transition—through industry-connected, applied learning. Through the CCEW, we are aligning education, industry, and applied research to close critical talent gaps and accelerate workforce readiness—for this moment demands more than intent. It demands talent—ready to build what comes next.”
- Dr. Craig Stephenson, President and CEO, Centennial College

"Georgian College is proud to be a founding member of the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium and to collaborate with our post‑secondary partners who share our commitment to building the skilled workforce Canada needs to meet its clean energy and nuclear ambitions. As a member of the Canadian Nuclear Association and a leader in power engineering, skilled trades and applied research, Georgian has a long history of working closely with industry to deliver job‑ready graduates. This consortium strengthens our ability to respond quickly to evolving workforce needs while supporting innovation, economic growth and a sustainable energy future for communities across Ontario, Canada and abroad.”
- Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College

“Humber’s collaboration with founding partner institutions Centennial, Durham, Georgian and Ontario Tech to form the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium will support the development of an end-to-end talent pipeline to power the next generation of clean energy professionals. Humber is leading the way by advancing a more coordinated, industry-aligned approach to workforce development in this rapidly evolving sector. Our industry-responsive approach equips learners with the specialized skills to meet Canada’s growing energy demands, and strengthen our country’s global leadership in innovative clean technology while building a more sustainable future.”
- Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan, President and CEO, Humber Polytechnic

Media contact

Patricia Pickett
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.809.1675
patricia.pickett@ontariotechu.ca

Ontario Tech currently offers the Nuclear Career Accelerator, an 11-week online upskilling program delivered from its Ontario campus, for mid-career engineers and technical professionals who are entering or advancing within the nuclear sector. The program provides foundational training in nuclear systems, safety and regulatory frameworks and is structured to support working professionals through applied, industry-aligned learning.

Under the agreement, Saskatchewan Polytechnic will be the exclusive delivery partner for the program across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

“This new partnership with Ontario Tech University comes at an exciting time as Western Canada advances plans for nuclear energy to support clean, reliable power generation,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, Saskatchewan Polytechnic President and CEO. “We are focused on the future, listening to industry and leading the way in delivering skills-based education. We are here to support Canada’s nuclear workforce.”

As Canada’s only university with an accredited undergraduate Nuclear Engineering program, Ontario Tech brings national leadership in nuclear education and research, supported by specialized infrastructure and long-standing industry partnerships. Saskatchewan Polytechnic complements this expertise through its applied learning model, strong industry engagement and experience delivering customized training solutions at scale.

“Canada’s nuclear future depends on developing a highly skilled workforce at scale,” says Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University. “By partnering with Saskatchewan Polytechnic, we are extending Ontario Tech’s leadership in nuclear education to expand access to high-quality, industry-informed training and support workforce development across Western Canada.”

This is another step towards building Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Western Canadian Nuclear Training Centre, to increase nuclear workforce training opportunities in response to growing national and global demand.

The centre is designed to provide training for mining and energy employees who need nuclear-specific skills, technical professionals looking to transition into nuclear, current students and recent graduates looking for the expertise and skills to thrive in this high-growth industry, and leaders preparing for small modular reactor projects and regulatory compliance.

By offering comprehensive training and compliance support, Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Ontario Tech are positioning themselves as key partners in Canada’s nuclear expansion and a leader in workforce readiness.

Learn more about nuclear skills training at Saskatchewan Polytechnic.   

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves students through applied learning opportunities on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis. Learning takes place at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

About Ontario Tech University

Ontario Tech University advances technology with purpose, guided by ethics, sustainability and human judgment. A leader in artificial intelligence and energy-related education and research, the university applies technology to drive innovation in teaching, research and operations. Our career-ready graduates are equipped with the technical skills, professionalism and adaptability required in a rapidly evolving workforce. Through applied research and strong industry and community partnerships, we deliver solutions that support economic growth, operational effectiveness and resilient communities in Canada and globally.

Explore how innovation and education work together to shape the future at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contacts

Brianna Bergeron
Saskatchewan Polytechnic Communications and Marketing
306.659.3866
306.250.3978 (cell)
brianna.bergeron@saskpolytech.ca

Patricia Pickett
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.809.1675 (cell)
patricia.pickett@ontariotechu.ca

With expertise in energy systems, grid innovation and nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), the university has established itself as a national leader in advancing Canada’s energy priorities.

“Canada is at a pivotal moment in its energy future,” says Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University. “Ontario Tech is helping to build the expert talent and advance the innovation needed to support the country’s energy priorities and long-term economic growth.”

A pipeline for energy talent

Ontario Tech plays a key role in developing Canada’s energy workforce, preparing graduates with the skills needed to support evolving technologies and industry demands.

The university’s Nuclear Engineering program prepares students for careers in an evolving sector, while the Nuclear Career Accelerator supports mid-career professionals transitioning into energy roles and expanding their expertise.

Ontario Tech has partnered to expand its impact through national collaboration, marking a historic moment that calls for broad participation. As a founding partner in the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium, alongside Humber Polytechnic, Centennial College, Durham College and Georgian College, the university is helping advance an Ontario-led, industry-driven approach to workforce development. The consortium focuses on co-ordinated, applied training and capacity-building programs aligned with the evolving needs of the nuclear and broader energy sectors.

Together, these efforts strengthen Canada’s energy talent pipeline, supporting the development of engineers, technologists, technicians and skilled trades professionals needed to power the future.

Hands-on experience where energy happens

Ontario Tech is located in one of Canada’s largest nuclear power regions, with proximity to major generating stations and industry partners. The university also offers specialized training environments, including advanced nuclear simulation and facilities such as the Clean Energy Research Laboratory and ACE, where students explore how different energy systems are tested, operated and optimized.

These experiences provide students with practical, hands-on learning in environments that reflect real-world operations.

Driving research and global collaboration

Ontario Tech’s leadership is strengthened through the Brilliant Energy Institute, which brings together interdisciplinary research, industry collaboration and policy expertise to accelerate solutions across the energy sector.

The university also engages with global organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, contributing to collaboration and the advancement of nuclear and energy systems across the world.

Through a combination of research, talent development and industry partnerships with leading organizations such as Ontario Power Generation and Bruce Power, Ontario Tech continues to drive innovation in the energy sector.

Explore Ontario Tech’s energy leadership

Discover how Ontario Tech is shaping Canada’s energy future. Visit the new Energy website to learn more about Ontario Tech’s programs, research and partnerships.

Award recognition

This year, three third-year Software Engineering students are among nine recipients of the Hydro One Women in Engineering Award, which celebrates academic excellence and leadership within both the university and broader community.

Ontario Tech students include:

• Inshal Chauhdry
• Caren Eissa
• Aliza Rizwan

“This award is incredibly meaningful to me," says Chauhdry. "It represents the hard work, persistence and growth I’ve experienced throughout my journey. It motivates me to continue pushing myself and contributing to my community.” 

“I see this award as both recognition and responsibility," says Eissa. “It allows me to make meaningful contributions wherever I go.”

The university also recognizes Oladipupo Aganga, a second-year Electrical Engineering student and one of five recipients of the Hydro One William Peyton Hubbard Memorial Award. Named in honour of William Peyton Hubbard, Toronto’s first Black Alderman and a champion of public hydroelectric power, the award recognizes outstanding Black undergraduate students studying energy industry-related disciplines. 

Both awards include financial support and a paid work term with Hydro One, providing hands-on industry experience that strengthens their practical skills and career readiness.

Supporting the future of engineers

The partnership builds pathways from classroom learning to careers in the energy sector. Alongside institutions including Ontario Tech, Toronto Metropolitan University, the University of Waterloo and Western University, Hydro One invests in industry connections, professional development, skill-building and networking opportunities for students.

Hydro One’s continued partnership with Ontario Tech University

In addition, the partnership between Hydro One and the WiE Society that has been in place since 2015 has been renewed for three more years, ensuring ongoing support for student achievement and industry engagement.

Volunteers across the university community share a commitment to making a difference. Through mentorship, advocacy, leadership and philanthropy, they enhance academic and student experiences, provide strategic insight and governance, champion Ridgebacks Athletics, and amplify institutional impact. Their efforts advance the university’s mission and Tech with a Conscience campaign, ensuring talent development and innovation are applied ethically and inclusively to improve lives and protect the planet.

“I thank those who generously share their time, knowledge and experience to support our university. Your leadership strengthens our ability to advance innovation with a human-centred approach,” said Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor. “With your support, we’re developing a made-in-Canada approach to AI and technology that is human-led and ethically designed, strengthening industries such as health care, energy and transportation, and helping build more resilient communities.”

The university extends its appreciation to all volunteers for strengthening our community and empowering the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

The investment will help support applied, human-centred research focused on improving happiness and quality of life for older adults and the people who care for them. This significant contribution to the university’s Tech with a Conscience campaign will advance innovation in healthy aging at Ontario Tech by focusing on three priority areas:

• Enhancing well-being: Advancing innovative strategies and applied research to impact the overall happiness and quality of life for older adults living across different settings.
• Empowering people: Supporting training, education and well-being initiatives for caregivers, health-care professionals and senior living team members, with an emphasis on cultivating a culture of compassion, satisfaction and shared purpose.
• Driving insight and impact: Developing evidence-based tools, policies and measurement frameworks to inform the future of senior care.

Experts in aging and health sciences are overseeing the centre’s research. As the centre’s Scientific Director of Wellness and Innovations in NeuroAging,  Dr. Winnie Sun, Ontario Tech Research Excellence Chair in Healthy Aging and Dementia Care, and Associate Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences (FHSc) leads work focused on dementia care, aging in place, and technology-enabled supports. Dr. Shilpa Dogra, the centre’s Scientific Director of Active InnovAging, Research Director of Ontario Tech’s Active Living and Longevity Lab, and Professor, FHSc, advances research on active aging, including fall prevention, sedentary behaviour and community-based programming.

Insights will be gained from research participants who live and work in diverse settings, with findings grounded in lived experiences and community participatory approaches.

“Every day, Sienna’s 15,500 team members serve more than 13,000 seniors across the country, and what we see consistently is that health and happiness are deeply connected,” says Nitin Jain, President and CEO, Sienna Senior Living. “Our purpose, cultivating happiness in daily life, came from those real moments where a resident smiles, reconnects, or feels a sense of belonging, and how that changes their overall well-being. Clinical care will always be essential, but on its own, it’s not enough for people to truly thrive. Ontario Tech and the Centre for Healthy Aging and Happiness are creating the opportunity to study this in depth, moving from what we experience every day to evidence that can shape the senior living sector. This work will build on strong research already underway at the university and continue reframing aging, because when seniors are happy, supported and engaged, we all benefit.” 

“This generous gift reflects the Sienna for Seniors Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of older adults and supporting innovation in care,” says Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University. “Sienna’s continued partnership will help enhance the quality of life and happiness of seniors as they age.”

The latest gift builds on the foundation’s growing partnership with Ontario Tech. The foundation previously contributed $100,000 to support scholarships for the university’s Nursing students.

Dr. Carolyn McGregor AM, Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence for Health and Wellness at Ontario Tech, has played a key role in advancing how astronauts are monitored and cared for on long‑duration space missions. Working with industry partner CGI, she was a co‑lead on one of five national teams awarded $2 million by the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to develop a Connected Care Medical Module (C²M²). The prototype, named Harmony, is a medical ‘health pod’ designed to deliver autonomous, AI‑driven health care for longer‑duration lunar and exploration missions such as Artemis, where crews must operate far from immediate medical support on Earth.

• Watch CGI’s video highlighting the Harmony Medical Module

In addition, Dr. McGregor, who is also Professor and Dean at Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Business and Information Technology, Director, Joint Research Centre in AI for Health and Wellness and two-time Canada Research Chair in Health Informatics, leads the CSA‑funded Space Health study on the International Space Station, where astronauts wear Canada’s Bio‑Monitor smart garments before, during and after flight. The health data is analyzed using an AI platform, also named Artemis, to monitor cardiovascular and physiological changes in space, and to improve health-care solutions on Earth, in settings ranging from hospitals to extreme environments.

Related links and stories

• Connected Care Medical Module (CSA; includes video with comments from astronaut Jeremy Hansen, currently serving as a mission specialist on NASA’s Artemis II lunar flyby mission)
• Space Health study (CSA)
• Ontario Tech’s connection to first‑ever private research mission to the ISS (Ontario Tech News)
• Reaching for the stars: New Ontario Tech research on the health of astronauts in space (Ontario Tech news)
• Ontario Tech researcher developing technologies for astronauts (The Oshawa Express)

Held under the theme Building Trust: The Strategic Advantage of Human-Centred AI, the forum positioned Ontario Tech as a leading academic voice in the national conversation about AI. The event examined how organizations can use AI to improve productivity, support growth and strengthen communities while keeping people, accountability and public confidence at the centre of the conversation.

“As Canada’s AI agenda continues to evolve, universities have an important role to play in advancing these conversations,” said Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University. “This forum marked the first of many critically important generational conversations that will shape our society, economy and world.”

The forum reflected Ontario Tech’s broader leadership in the AI field. The university recently launched the School of AI and the Mindful Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (MAIRI), advancing talent development and research in this rapidly evolving space. The School of AI prepares students through interdisciplinary programs that build the knowledge and perspective needed to design and apply AI, while MAIRI brings together more than 50 researchers and partners across academia, industry and the community to explore its real-world applications and impacts of AI. Ontario Tech is also piloting an in-house AI Learning Agent in undergraduate and graduate courses, with a focus on trust, accountability and academic integrity.

Speakers and panelists examined how Canada can move from broad discussions about AI potential to practical action on governance, ethics and implementation. Throughout the event, they returned to a shared message: rather than slowing innovation, trust enables it.

Dr. Hossein Rahnama’s keynote, Perspective-Aware AI and the Rise of Human-AI Agents, explored how AI can work alongside people by understanding human perspectives and augmenting, rather than replacing, human capability. This people-first approach carried through the forum’s discussions on trustworthy AI, and AI across education and Canada’s critical energy sector, where speakers examined governance guardrails, workforce preparation, sustainability and the infrastructure demands created by AI systems that require significant computing power.

A keynote from Dr. Peter Lewis, Canada Research Chair in Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence and Director of MAIRI, reinforced the forum’s central argument by challenging audiences to think more carefully about what it means to trust AI and how that trust should shape the systems now being designed and deployed.

By convening diverse perspectives across disciplines, the forum demonstrated that AI is as much a human issue as a technological one, raising important questions for leadership, values and public confidence. The AI Forum reflects the university’s broader role as a connector and catalyst, bridging research, policy and practice to ensure AI is developed and deployed in ways that benefit society.

As AI continues to evolve, Ontario Tech remains committed to leading with a human-centred approach, one that ensures innovation is guided by what is possible and responsible.

Ontario Tech University is Canada’s leader in responsible AI innovation. Discover more at ontariotechu.ca/ai.

Media contact:
Patricia Pickett
Communications Specialist
Ontario Tech University
news@ontariotechu.ca
905.809.1675

At 3MT®, grad students present their research and its wider impact in three minutes or less to a panel of non-specialist judges. Participants are challenged to share complex research in an engaging, accessible and compelling way, using only one static slide as a visual prop. The event is organized by the university’s School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS).

In a presentation titled Developmental Patterns of Honesty from Childhood to Adolescence: A Six-Year Longitudinal Investigation, Biasin explored how personality traits such as fairness and modesty develop over time. Her research examined how these traits change from childhood through adolescence, a period often linked to increased dishonest behaviour. By tracking more than 1,100 participants over six years, her findings offer new insight into how these personality traits evolve and how they may influence social development.

Biasin will represent Ontario Tech at the provincial 3MT® competition on Wednesday, May 6 at Brock University.

This year’s 3MT® competition was generously sponsored by belairdirect.

2026 Ontario Tech University 3MT® finalists:

• Janani Balasubramanian, PhD (Material Science) candidate: Listening to Small Molecules: Big Clues for Women’s Health.
• Jessica M. Biasin*, Master of Science (Forensic Psychology) candidate, Developmental Patterns of Honesty from Childhood to Adolescence: A Six-Year Longitudinal Investigation.
• Melissa Handford**, Master of Science (Forensic Psychology) candidate: Does Context Matter? Assessing Victim Decisions to Report Non-Consensual Intimate Image Distribution.
• Sonia Mirza***, Master of Health Science (Community, Public and Population Health) candidate: Code Red for Dementia: Can the quality of our blood play a role in cognitive impairment?
• Hameeda Onigemo, Master of Engineering (Mechatronics) candidate: A Personalized Framework for Real-Time Monitoring of Human Physical State During Physical Activity.
• Amber Rizvi, Master of Health Science (Kinesiology) candidate: Effects of Force Feedback on Brain Activity and Motor Performance in Virtual Reality Medical Training.

* First place ($1,000 and the opportunity to represent the university at the provincial competition).
** Second place ($500).
*** People’s Choice winner (as selected by the audience, $250).

The contest received dozens of submissions from across the province, showcasing a passion for exploring the intersection of law and social change. After careful review, selected finalists were invited to attend an award ceremony at Ontario Tech’s downtown Oshawa campus on March 4.

The Honourable Julie Thorburn, Ontario Court of Appeal Judge and Ontario Tech Honorary doctorate recipient presented the top three finalists with cash prizes and Ontario Tech entrance scholarships.

• First place: Timothy Krantz (Lorne Park Secondary School), Promoting Canadian Democracy with Law Reforms. Awarded $500 and a $2,000 scholarship.
• Second place: Hannah Gordon (Great Lakes Christian High School), Beyond Colonial Law: UNDRIP, Section 35, and Legal Reform in Canada. Awarded $300 and a $1,500 scholarship.
• Third place: Mattea Newallo (the Virtual Learning Centre), A Law that Heals: The Role of Reform in Creating Positive Social Change in the Canadian Healthcare System. Awarded $200 and a $1,000 scholarship.

Runners-up (who received $500 entrance scholarships) included:

• Elsie Bentley (Norwell District Secondary School).
• Mathew Katz (Frontenac Secondary School).
• Rodrigo Navarro (Holy Cross Catholic Academy).
• Madison Turcotte (École Catholique Secondaire Pierre-Savard).
• Sachkaur Chahal (Mentor College).

The attendees participated in an intensive, interactive workshop on socio-legal research, which explores law’s impact on society, society’s impact on law and the complex relationship between the two. Along with a large group of students visiting from Saint Pope John Paul Catholic Secondary School, participants were treated to a series of presentations from Professors Sasha Baglay, Kanika Samuels-Wortley and Jen Rinaldi, who shared insights from their research. A panel featuring Dan Walters, Practicum Co-ordinator; Matt Luchese, Academic Advisor; Sam Brown, Ontario Tech alumna; and Branice Leung and Annissa Baksh, fourth-year, Ontario Tech students.

“It was a very stimulating day—the ideal way to celebrate the achievements of these students. The High School Essay Contest is a wonderful opportunity for students to engage with pressing legal questions that confront all of us as Canadians,” says Dr. Thomas McMorrow, Interim Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. “The essays demonstrated thoughtful perspectives on complex issues of law and justice, and it’s exciting to see these students thinking critically about how legal systems shape society. That kind of curiosity and engagement is exactly what we aim to nurture in our Legal Studies program.”

The annual contest encourages high school students to explore legal ideas, strengthen their critical-thinking skills, and connect with post-secondary Legal Studies programs and the broader legal community.

“We have many students who find in our program an outstanding foundation for further legal study and a career in the law. We have several others who discover how indispensable legal knowledge and critical self-reflection are— both to success as professionals (no matter the field), and to active engagement as citizens. As Timothy’s winning essay suggests, the kind of laws we have in a democracy is a question for all of us. Through their research, writing and discussions, these essay contest participants are actively participating in this vital conversation.”

Learn more about Legal Studies and program offerings at Ontario Tech. 

Dr. Li Yang, an Assistant Professor in Ontario Tech University’s Faculty of Business and Information Technology, researches artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning methods that strengthen cybersecurity across modern digital environments, including smart infrastructure, Internet of Things devices and advanced wireless networks.

“As more technologies that support services such as transportation and energy increasingly rely on interconnected systems, these environments create new opportunities for attackers, and organizations face increasing challenges detecting and responding to cyber threats,” says Dr. Yang. “That makes it important to design solutions that perform reliably in real-world conditions.”

AI approaches for real-world environments

Dr. Yang’s research explores how AI systems can identify unusual activity, adapt to changing conditions and support faster responses to potential risks.

His work includes automated machine-learning approaches that allow models to update themselves and their ability to detect new and evolving cyber threats as networks advance. He also studies methods that make AI models more efficient so they can run continuously on devices with limited computing power.

Protecting emerging infrastructure

One area where this research has immediate application is electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Charging networks connect drivers, service providers, payment platforms and energy systems, creating multiple points where attackers can attempt to compromise a system. Threats can emerge through the network as charging stations communicate with servers that manage sensitive data, and through physical access, such as an attacker inserting a compromised USB device into a charging unit.

Supported by the National Cybersecurity Consortium, Ontario Tech researchers are working to strengthen the cybersecurity of this infrastructure. Dr. Yang’s work plays a key role: his team is developing lightweight AI models (‘TinyML’) that can operate small devices such as Raspberry Pi and monitor charging stations in real time. The next phase of the work will see these models deployed on actual charging equipment to see how well they detect new or unfamiliar threats as they occur.

Training future AI experts

Dr. Yang also supervises more than 10 student researchers who are developing expertise in AI, cybersecurity and responsible computing. Through hands-on research, students gain practical experience designing technologies that prioritize safety, reliability and ethical considerations.

His work has also received international recognition. In 2025, the IEEE Computer Society named Dr. Yang one of Computing’s Top 30 Early Career Professionals.

A master’s student in the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHSc) at Ontario Tech University, Bafagih brought her research on food literacy to national audiences through the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition. Her presentation, What’s on your plate? Examining predictors of food literacy among Canadian adults, earned first place at Ontario Tech’s 3MT® competition in 2025 and a second-place finish at the provincial level. Recently, she went on to present at the 2025 National 3MT® Showcase in Ottawa during the Canadian Association for Graduate Studies Conference.

Her research journey, however, began much closer to home.

“I come from a culture that loves food,” Bafagih says. “The entire cooking process is something that is so important to me and my family.”

Her lived experience, combined with years of volunteering, sparked her interest in public health and nutrition. She saw firsthand how often families struggled to navigate grocery stores, adapt cultural recipes, or manage chronic conditions through diet.

These observations became the foundation of her master’s research, conducted under the supervision of Dr. JoAnne Arcand, Associate Professor in the FHSc. Bafagih’s work explores food literacy—the knowledge, skills and practices that influence food choices—and how it is shaped not only by individuals but also by broader social, industry and policy factors.

“I was shocked to discover just how under-researched food literacy is in Canada,” Bafagih says, adding that other countries, like Australia, have invested heavily in this area of research. “I recognize my research is a small but crucial step in the right direction.”

A commitment to real-world impact defines Bafagih’s experience at Ontario Tech. Through her studies and lab work, she has developed practical skills beyond the classroom including critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability and confidence.

Her time in Dr. Arcand’s lab was filled with mentorship and teamwork, with regular meetings that encouraged open feedback, shared learning and peer support. This supportive environment ultimately gave her the confidence to participate in the 3MT® competition, a challenge she initially found intimidating.

“I would not have participated in the 3MT® competitions if it wasn’t for the support of faculty and peers,” she said. “They motivated me to take risks and put my all into my 3MT®.”

Condensing nearly a year of research into a three-minute presentation pushed Bafagih to rethink how she communicates complex ideas. The experience strengthened her ability to explain her work clearly and authentically. Presenting at the national showcase in Ottawa further expanded her perspective on scholarly communication and networking. Surrounded by graduate students from across the country, Bafagih saw how creative and impactful research storytelling can be, and how genuine conversations can turn into meaningful professional connections.

Looking ahead, she sees her work as a foundation for future innovation and policy change, particularly for underserved and under-researched populations.

“When I see statistics representing these groups, I don’t see it as just a number,” she says. “I see people in my community. I genuinely hope that my research can inform future work so that we can ultimately support people and make healthy eating accessible.”

For Bafagih, the recognition she’s received is both affirming and motivating.

“I’ve come to realize that the only person holding me back from trying new and intimidating things is myself,” she says. “This recognition is not just a reminder of how far I’ve come; it inspires me to believe in how much further I can go.”

Ontario Tech’s 2026 3MT® competition is just around the corner, with heats on Wednesday, March 18 and finals on Thursday, March 19. It’s a great opportunity to see the creativity and impact of graduate research in action.

Learn more about this year’s event on the 3MT® website.

HackHive, Durham Region’s largest hackathon event, created space for that kind of learning, welcoming more than 250 post-secondary students to Ontario Tech University for an intensive weekend of practical, human-centred AI development. Organized by the Ontario Tech Computer Science Club, the event saw a record-breaking applicant surge of more than 550 applicants from more than 24 schools and across three different countries. HackHive challenged participants to collaborate, experiment and turn their ideas into action, while successfully transitioning to a virtual format due to weather conditions.

“HackHive showcased what’s possible when talented students come together with purpose and ambition," says Jun Bin Cheng, fourth-year Software Engineering student and Hackathon Specialist. "The quality of the AI projects, the level of collaboration and the energy throughout the weekend reflect the strength and innovation of our student community.”

AI built for real-world use

Working in teams, students developed more than 50 AI-powered projects designed to address real-world challenges and competed for $6,000 in prizes.

First place – Ontario Tech Software Engineering students:

• Ali Hakkani
• Krishna Mallick 

Their winning project, NeuroDetect, is an AI-powered assistant that helps radiologists analyze brain MRA scans faster.

Several projects explored AI for social good, aligning with Ontario Tech’s commitment to tech with a conscience: using technology to improve lives and communities. One standout solution—TurleTalk—introduced an AI-powered platform to help Indigenous communities preserve endangered languages through interactive lessons, conversational practice, pronunciation feedback, storytelling tools and offline access for communities with limited internet connectivity.

Other notable projects:

• CutOS: AI-powered copilot for video editors that allows creators to describe what they want done, such as adding transitions, cropping clips, or applying green-screen effects, while the system edits the video automatically.
• Brailliant: Hands-on learning device to help users learn Braille through tactile interaction.
• Rosetta: A real-time lecture assistant that translates speech, adds source-linked transcripts and generates structured notes to help ESL and international students learn without language barriers.

Learning, connection and career development

Beyond project development, HackHive offered programming designed to support learning, connection and career growth. Students participated in technical and career-focused workshops, a women-in-tech networking meetup and a mini pitch competition, building their professional communication and collaboration skills.

First place – Mini pitch competition (Ontario Tech students)

• Jedidiah Dennis (Computer Science)
• Manasvi Naik (Networking and IT Security)

Their winning pitch explored the implications of relying on AI weather-prediction algorithms over human prediction.

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HackHive was sponsored by technology companies including Microsoft and Kyndryl, in partnership with Major League Hacking (MLH), a global organization that supports student-run hackathons. In addition, industry mentors, judges and collaborators from across the technology, education and startup sectors played a key role in guiding participants and strengthening the overall experience.

This year, HackHive reached a major milestone by becoming an official MLH affiliate.