A conference in Toronto earlier this month combined two passions for a UWindsor student—engineering and public policy.

"Engineering is not only about applying and implementing sciences and technology," said Ghada Aljannati, a third-year environmental engineering major. "It also involves the consideration of the environment and our society."

She joined fellow student Natalia Bartos representing Windsor at the May 7 conference [2] mounted by the Ontario Centre for Engineering and Public Policy. The pair qualified for award from Women in Science and Engineering which covered the costs of their registration and accommodations.

Aljannati said the event, which brought together nearly 200 of the province’s top engineers, legislators, policy-makers, business and association executives, and university faculty and students, gave her a chance to make connections she hopes will prove valuable once she launches her career.

"The more contacts you have, the faster it is to get things done."

The incoming president of the Windsor chapter of Engineers Without Borders, she said the focus of the conference agenda on leadership and waste management were particularly relevant.

"I enjoy the atmosphere of work in public policy, where you can make a difference," Aljannati said. "Knowing that my work is really important—that's what will keep me going."
 

 

Engineering student Ghada Aljannati won an award to attend a one-day conference connecting the profession to public policy.
 

News story courtesy of UWin Daily News.