2024 Professional Development Conference - Registration is closed.

Oct 23, 2024 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Pier 21



Engineers Nova Scotia's Professional Development Conference will take place on Wednesday, October 23rd at the historic Pier 21. The event features industry updates, project presentations, and skill-building sessions across three concurrent streams. It's designed to offer valuable insights and ample networking opportunities with other attendees.

Registration opens at 8:00am for conference attendees.  A registration desk team will be available to assist you as you arrive as well as available event staff positioned throughout to provide directional guidance.  

Included within the cost of your registration is

  • A light breakfast 
  • Access to all PD sessions (please select those sessions that you wish to attend)
  • Networking opportunities
  • Keynote speaker presentation (includes seated lunch)
  • Complimentary Access to Pier 21 Historical Museum during your time at the event  
  • The opportunity to have a new profile picture/headshot done at our Portrait Studio Pop-Up.  

Event Detail Inquires:  For all inquiries related to the two-day conference, please reach out to events@engineersnovascotia.ca

Partnership Opportunities Available: If you are interested in partnership opportunities surrounding either the Professional Development Conference Day or the Annual Business Meeting and Celebration of Engineering Gala Event Day, please reach out to communications@engineersnovascotia.ca with your request.

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Schedule

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
The registration desk opens at 8:00am. The registration desk team will be on hand to assist you with check-in. A light breakfast will be available, grab a bite and feel free to filter around the ro... More

The registration desk opens at 8:00am.  The registration desk team will be on hand to assist you with check-in.  A light breakfast will be available, grab a bite and feel free to filter around the room to connect with other conference attendees!

9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Topic: Emerging as a Leader: Guiding the transition to professional leadership and growth in your career Join our leadership panel as we delve deeper into the journey of an emerging professional... More



Topic: Emerging as a Leader: Guiding the transition to professional leadership and growth in your career 


Join our leadership panel as we delve deeper into the journey of an emerging professional and into the life of emerging as a leader in a professional setting. Our panelists, who have successfully transitioned into leadership roles, will share their personal stories, insights, and advice to help grow your own role as a leader. Whether you're aspiring to lead within your current organization or looking to take on new leadership challenges, this discussion will provide the inspiration you need to navigate a challenging aspect of your career with confidence.


Panelist Biographies

Meggie Letman, P.Eng., is a professional engineer specializing in water resources with over 8 years of experience in the field. As a hydrologist, her technical expertise casts a wide net, covering both floods and droughts, as well as shoreline protection, fish passage, and watershed studies. Her favorite part of her job is when she gets to spend the day standing in a stream. 

For the past two years, Meggie has successfully managed a dynamic coast-to-coast team of water resources engineers at Dillon Consulting, connecting team members to the work that fulfills them and fostering a supportive and work environment. Meggie holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in environmental engineering from Dalhousie and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of engineers. 

 

Rachel Scurlock, P.Eng., is currently an Intermediate Civil Engineer and Project Manager working within EastPoint’s Civil Engineering team in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As a member of this team, Rachel acts as a project manager, civil design lead, and project support to both the civil team and EastPoint’s multi-disciplinary teams. She has 7 years of consulting experience working with municipalities, Department of National Defence, Parks Canada, private developers, and industrial clients around Canada.  

She is a dedicated lifelong learner, committed to cultivating strong mentor-mentee relationships that have been instrumental in her growth as an engineer. Professionally recently taken on new roles, including building mentorship programs, establishing new document standards, and supporting the development of an Emerging Leaders group at EastPoint.


Andrew McDonald, P.Eng., is a dual hatted Engineering Manager at Lockheed Martin Canada. From a technical perspective he is the Systems Engineering Team Lead responsible for supporting the Combat System Integration for the Halifax Class Frigates. On the other hand he is a people manager for a multidisciplined engineering team consisting of a group of Mechanical, Electrical and Cyber Security Engineers who support the various programs at Lockheed Martin Canada. 

He was born and raised in Fredericton, New Brunswick and holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Brunswick along with a Master of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering from Dalhousie University. Andrew is a registered Professional Engineer with Engineers Nova Scotia and a certified Project Management Professional.  

Outside of work he is kept busy running around with his wife, Hannah, and their three children. Any time that he can manage to get to himself is spent playing hockey, golf, cycling or running.   

9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The 12 Available Sessions have been filled. If you wish to be added to a waiting list, please reach out to communications@engineersnovascotia.ca _______________ At... More

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  The 12 Available Sessions have been filled.  If you wish to be added to a waiting list, please reach out to communications@engineersnovascotia.ca

_______________

Attention professionals! Whether you’re looking to refresh your corporate image, enhance your personal brand, or simply capture a polished new headshot, our Portrait Studio Pop-Up is the perfect opportunity.

During the professional development conference, Engineers Nova Scotia is offering a unique chance to step into our studio.

Event Highlights:
Tailored Photo Sessions:
Benefit from personalized guidance to capture the perfect look that aligns with your professional goals.
FREE Offer: Your shots will be sent to you in the week following the event free of charge to use as you wish.
Don’t miss this chance to enhance your professional image. Secure your spot today.

Times Available
9:00 - 10:00am
11:00 - 12:00pm

There are a maximum of 12 spot available, if the Studio session is full and you would like to be added to our "wait list" please email communications@engineersnovascotia.ca

Looking forward to seeing you shine!

#LinkedInProfile #ProfessionalPortrait #PortraitPopUp #PersonalBranding

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
As part of the Port Lands flood protection project in Toronto, ON, four new steel arch bridges were fabricated and erected over new and existing waterways. To achieve the desired appearance, mi... More


As part of the Port Lands flood protection project in Toronto, ON, four new steel arch bridges were fabricated and erected over new and existing waterways. To achieve the desired appearance, minimize the amount of work and temporary works
required on site and meet the schedule, it was determined that the best way to build the bridges, was to fabricate, assemble and paint large fully assembled segments at the fabrication shop and transport large, completed steel superstructure segments to site. This methodology minimized the visible field joint and allowed more control over the application of the coatings. 
 

 

All four steel arch bridges were fully fabricated in Dartmouth and shipped by barge to the project site in Toronto, where they were unloaded and erected onto their final bearings. This presentation will focus on the transportation and erection of the two 56.1 m long fully fabricated steel arch bridges at Cherry Street North from Dartmouth to Toronto, while also outlining the methods and challenges associated with the transport and erect the other two bridges as well. Harbourside developed the procedures and designed the temporary works to load the bridge onto the barge, secure the bridge during transit, rotate the bridges on the barge after arriving in Toronto and finally lower the steel superstructure onto the permanent bearings. 

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Engineering Connections: Strategies for Effective Professional Relationship Building Networking in the engineering world requires strategic and nuanced approaches, similar to solving complex pr... More


Engineering Connections: Strategies for Effective Professional Relationship Building


Networking in the engineering world requires strategic and nuanced approaches, similar to solving complex problems.  

 

This presentation will explore 10 proven tactics to enhance your networking success. From embracing the numbers game and crafting compelling openers to practicing active listening and leveraging mutual connections, you'll learn how to build professional relationships, and advance your career with confidence and precision. Integrating these techniques into your networking strategy will unlock opportunities for growth and collaboration, positioning you for sustained success in your personal life and professional career. 

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
This session will cover a number of updates regarding the practice of engineering in Nova Scotia, including information about several updated and new guidelines that will soon be available for con... More


This session will cover
a number of updates regarding the practice of engineering in Nova Scotia, including information about several updated and new guidelines that will soon be available for consultation. A specific focus will be providing information to registrants regarding upcoming changes to modernize and simplify the CPD program.
 

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Details to be confirmed.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Workplace wellness is often reduced to gym memberships or an EAP provider, both valuable, yet limited in scope. This talk will take an engineering approach to wellness, breaking down the barrier... More


Workplace wellness is often reduced to gym memberships or an EAP provider, both valuable, yet limited in scope. This talk will take an engineering approach to wellness, breaking down the barriers and limitations that prevent it from truly working. We’ll explore the cultural climate and dive into the systems and structures needed to design wellness solutions that are not just supportive but sustainable, practical, and built to thrive in complex environments.

 

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
In March 2024, I addressed three essential questions about generative AI that every engineer should understand: 1) How does it work? 2) What is it good at? 3) What should it never do? (You can fi... More


In March 2024, I addressed three essential questions about generative AI that every engineer should understand: 1) How does it work? 2) What is it good at? 3) What should it never do? (You can find the recording on the Engineers NS YouTube channel.)
 

 

Since then, I have worked directly with several clients one-on-one to implement AI in their processes, delivered numerous keynote presentations, and developed AI courses for Digital Nova Scotia, St. FX University, and Impact Organizations of Nova Scotia. Through these experiences, I have curated the best use cases and tools for engineers and knowledge workers. 

  

This presentation will feature live demonstrations of the latest technology, showing how it can save you hours every week with practical use cases I regularly utilize and have successfully implemented for others. There will be time at the end of the presentation to have your generative AI questions answered! 

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Explore how sustainability is fundamental to our mission at TD Insurance. This session offers insights into our ongoing sustainability initiatives and partnerships aimed at addressing climate chan... More


Explore how sustainability is fundamental to our mission at TD Insurance. This session offers insights into our ongoing sustainability initiatives and partnerships aimed at addressing climate change and building resilience in the communities we serve.
 

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
This session will provide an overview of the introduction of a competency-based assessment process; including the phasing out of the Mentor Program, and what applicants and EITs can expect moving... More


This session will provide an overview of the introduction of a competency-based assessment process; including the phasing out of the Mentor Program, and what applicants and EITs can expect moving forward.
 

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Hot Topic Rapid Round! Topics 15 Tables Groups of 10 people 1. AI and Machine Learning in Engineering Applications: AI is revolutionizing fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engine... More

Hot Topic Rapid Round!

Topics – 15 Tables Groups of 10 people

1. AI and Machine Learning in Engineering

Applications: AI is revolutionizing fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering through predictive maintenance, optimization, and autonomous systems.

Rapid Innovation: Machine learning models are being deployed to detect faults in systems, improve design efficiency, and automate complex tasks.

2. Sustainable Engineering and Green Technologies

Energy Efficiency: Engineers are focused on designing energy-efficient systems and products, like electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and smart grids.

Circular Economy: Designing products and systems that reduce waste and facilitate material recycling or reuse is a major engineering challenge.

3. Quantum Computing in Engineering

Next-Generation Processing: Quantum computing is pushing the limits of processing power for simulations, particularly in material science, cryptography, and optimization problems.

New Algorithms: Engineers are creating new algorithms and error-correcting methods to make quantum computers viable for practical applications.

4. 5G and Beyond (6G)

Network Expansion: Engineers are driving innovation in 5G network infrastructure, which promises faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity.

Edge Computing: With 5G, edge computing is becoming more prominent. It enables real-time data processing closer to the source and enhances IoT devices.

5. Autonomous Vehicles and Drones

Advanced Sensors: Engineers are refining LIDAR, radar, and other sensors to improve vehicle safety, navigation, and decision-making processes.

Regulatory Challenges: Autonomous vehicles also pose engineering challenges regarding safety, legal, and ethical standards.

6. Biomaterials and Biotechnology

Tissue Engineering: Engineers are developing biomaterials for organ repair and replacement, which can have enormous implications for healthcare.

Wearable Tech: Engineering advancements in biotechnology are leading to new health-monitoring wearables and implantable devices.

7. Cybersecurity in Engineering Systems

Protecting Infrastructure: As industries become more digitized, engineering systems like power grids, water supplies, and industrial systems are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Resilient Design: Engineers focus on building systems with security as a core design element, especially in IoT and smart city infrastructure.

8. Robotics and Automation

Cobots: Collaborative robots are becoming an essential tool in manufacturing and logistics.

AI Integration: Engineers are developing robots with advanced AI for use in healthcare and agriculture industries.

9. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing

Prototyping: Rapid prototyping with 3D printing is shortening development cycles.

Mass Customization: Additive manufacturing is used for everything from custom medical implants to aerospace parts, pushing the boundaries of traditional manufacturing.

10. Space Exploration and Engineering

Mars Missions: Engineers are developing technologies for long-duration space missions, including propulsion systems, life support, and habitat structures.

Satellite Technologies: Smaller, cheaper satellites are transforming how we collect data on Earth and beyond.

11. Smart Cities and Urban Planning

IoT-Enabled Infrastructure: Engineers are designing intelligent cities with integrated sensors, data analytics, and IoT devices to optimize traffic flow, energy consumption, and public safety.

Sustainable Urbanization: Urban planners and civil engineers are developing solutions for green buildings, smart grids, and efficient public transportation to combat the growing environmental challenges of urbanization.

12. Hydrogen Economy

Clean Energy Source: Engineers are working on ways to produce, store, and transport hydrogen as a clean alternative to fossil fuels.

Fuel Cells: Hydrogen fuel cells for vehicles, industrial applications, and power grids are gaining traction as a critical component in the transition to renewable energy.

13. Energy Storage and Battery Technologies

Next-Gen Batteries: Engineers are developing new energy storage systems like solid-state batteries, which promise higher energy densities, faster charging, and longer lifespans than traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Grid Storage: Advancements in battery technologies are critical for stabilizing energy grids powered by intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar.

14. Nanotechnology and Materials Science

Nanomaterials: Engineers are developing materials at the nanoscale with unique properties for applications in everything from electronics to medicine.

Superconductors and Metamaterials: Advanced materials like high-temperature superconductors and metamaterials are being engineered for more efficient power systems, advanced communication devices, and electromagnetic cloaking.

15. Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 4.0

Smart Factories: Engineers are integrating AI, robotics, and IoT into manufacturing, creating fully automated, data-driven "smart factories" that are more efficient and flexible.

Digital Twins: The concept of digital twins—virtual replicas of