Sometimes a college education is just one part of a longer, more complicated path. It’s an essential part of it, though, and Stuart Davie is an example of that. He came to Centennial College to take the Mechanical Engineering Technology Design program, and it proved to be an enriching component of his education and career journey that’s still ongoing. Here’s a look at what he’s done so far, and how we helped him be ready for the next leg of his journey.
Coming to Centennial
“I was working as a material handler in the packaging industry through a temporary agency in the Golden Mile area of Scarborough,” Stuart says, about his time before Centennial. “Then I worked as a tire technician at a private organization supplying new and used tires to the automotive industry.” But, like most people, he wanted more stability in his life.
“I wanted a stable professional career and to design and manufacture military equipment like artillery,” he says. “The mechanical engineering design and industrial co-op technology program appealed to me.”
“I was attracted to Centennial College because of their CTAB-accredited engineering technology programs,” he adds, “also because I was living and grew up in Scarborough, and because my mother is an English instructor at Centennial. I felt that it would be a great fit.”
Hands-on Experience
Centennial’s programs are all about giving students practical experience, so they can be ready for their career, and Mechanical Engineering Technology is no exception. About a quarter of the time in the program is spent on project work to simulate workplace assignments.
“Definitely the software courses,” Stuart says, when asked what parts of the program were the most useful to his career, “like Autodesk AutoCAD. This was and is important to me, because I had a job as a junior mechanical designer utilizing Autodesk AutoCAD, designing HVAC and plumbing systems for high-rise condominiums in Toronto.”
“I also picked up volunteer experience during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he continues, “and designed an N-95 respirator, practicing sustainability in the design for economic and environmental considerations.”
“Studying helped me develop skills at handling multiple projects and led to a design on an industrial dust collector for my capstone project,” he says.
“The most rewarding part was excelling in my final year and achieving A grades from all the hard work that I put into the program,” he says, “as well working as a mechanic at Ipex Inc. in Scarborough.” More importantly, it helped him be ready for a career, and it wasn’t just the program. Stuart took the time to earn another credential to augment his diploma.
“The Leadership Academy program at Centennial helped me develop cross-functional project management skills at multitasking various projects that involved extensive networking and intensive communication skills,” he says.
A Continuing Journey
Centennial’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program was just one part of Stuart’s journey, but it helped him get to where he is now.
“I’ve just completed my M.Ed. degree from Lakehead University,” he says, “and I am working as a line technician in the food and beverage industry that supplies Fresh Co and Costco with fresh produce. I carry a large amount of responsibility, greasing bearings and lubricating cylinders and other mechanisms where friction needs to be reduced to prevent downtime in production, then sign off on documentation saying that each of the three dozen production processing machines have had preventive maintenance tasks completed.”
“I am working on my C.Tech designation through OACETT, and that should happen within the year. I am also working on my research proposal for a PhD application at Lakehead University for the 2024 year. I am planning on researching ‘How to increase student motivation in engineering students’ and then hopefully work for the ministry as a long-term career goal.”
Be Engaged!
His career and learning journey may not be over, but Stuart’s got some advice for those following in his footsteps, and it boils down to participating in whatever practical and volunteer opportunities appear.
“Be engaged in governing bodies like PEO, ASHRAE, OACETT, and volunteer and complete leadership training. Earn certificates, take the co-op education route and gain work experience and key contacts. Be grateful and always say thank you!” he says. “Also, when things don't go your way, rebound, but don’t blame people. Practice radical acceptance. And be engaged, and have fun!”
By: Anthony Geremia