Engineers Nova Scotia's Annual General Meeting and Engineering Conference

Sep 14, 2017 - Sep 15, 2017

Engineers Nova Scotia is pleased to present two days of events associated with our Annual Business Meeting on Friday, September 15th, 2017 at 9:45 AM.


The Annual Engineering Conference on Thursday, September 14th will include industry updates, project presentations and skill building sessions at the World Trade and Convention Centre (1800 Argyle St, Halifax). With three concurrent streams and nineteen sessions overall, the conference has been designed to offer learning opportunities and provide ample time to meet other members. The earlybird cost of the conference is $70 and includes lunch, coffee and snacks throughout the day. Earlybird registration will end August 31st, register now!

Use our Conferencing App!  

In today’s busy workday, with the knowledge that everyone stays connected using their mobile devices, Engineers Nova Scotia has you covered in order to keep you informed about all things Conference related with the use the conferencing App called EventBase.  The EventBase App will provide you with a detailed itinerary of the two day event including presentation timelines, speakers biographies, room mapping and even Award Recipient biographies as well as Sponsor promotion.  Our goals is to help provide a more user friendly environment for our conference attendees.  Updates regarding the EventBase App availability will be provided on our website, in THE ENGINEER as well as future Email Communications. 

Download the App from the App Store (Android or IPhone) and stay connected!

 

Schedule

Sep 14, 2017
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Chris Zinck, P.Eng., President of Engineers Nova Scotia, will welcome attendees and provide a brief update on the Association. He will then introduce our esteemed speaker, Past-President of Enginee... More

Chris Zinck, P.Eng., President of Engineers Nova Scotia, will welcome attendees and provide a brief update on the Association. He will then introduce our esteemed speaker, Past-President of Engineers Canada, Chris Roney, P.Eng., who will speak to the importance of ethics in engineering, providing a national perspective of recent issues that have impacted our profession.

Following Chris Roney's presentation, the 2017Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Engineering winners will present on their project. 

Alisdair McLean, P.Eng., OpenHydro Country Manager - Canada, will provide the latest information on Cape Sharp Tidal, OpenHydro's joint venture with Emera Inc. Cape Sharp Tidal deployed Nova Scotia's first grid-connected in-stream tidal turbine in November 2016 and successfully retrieved the device in June 2017. Learn about some of the lessons and challenges from that operation, and find out what plans Cape Sharp Tidal will pursue in the months to come.

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
The Sable Offshore Energy Project (SOEP), Canadas first offshore natural gas development project, has been producing natural gas and natural gas liquids since 1999. While the Sable project continue... More

The Sable Offshore Energy Project (SOEP), Canada’s first offshore natural gas development project, has been producing natural gas and natural gas liquids since 1999. While the Sable project continues to provide significant employment and economic benefits to Nova Scotia, it is a mature field and decommissioning activities are approaching.

These activities include:

  • Plug and abandonment of offshore wells

  • Facilities transition (de-inventorying and removals preparation)

  • Pipeline abandonment (onshore and offshore)

  • Offshore facilities removals, dismantlement and disposal

  • Onshore plants removals, dismantlement and disposal

Presentation will provide background on SOEP and discuss key aspects of decommissioning. It will also outline the challenges associated with managing a project of this size while ensuring it is done in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.

Presenter Bio:

Brent Fischer, P.Eng., is a graduate from the Mechanical Engineering program at Dalhousie University, and has worked with ExxonMobil for the past 10 years.  Brent has supported facilities in offshore Newfoundland and Labrador as well as onshore assets in Texas.  He is currently a project engineer on the Sable Decommissioning team.

 

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
The ability to speak with confidence, clarity, and influence is critical to leadership success. Attend this engaging workshop to discover how the best leaders deliver their messages with purpose an... More

The ability to speak with confidence, clarity, and influence is critical to leadership success. Attend this engaging workshop to discover how the best leaders deliver their messages with purpose and impact.

  • Speaking with Confidence
  • Body Language for Leaders
  • Communicating with Clarity
  • Relating to Your Listener

Presenter Bio:

Derrick Whalen is Managing Partner with PowerTalk Communications. PowerTalk is specialized in leadership development, communication training and team building.

Previously the Vice President Information Technology and Operational Risk with ING Real Estate Canada. Derrick is a results-oriented leadership consultant with experience leading executive level IT strategy and enterprise system initiatives. Derrick works with corporate clients, business leaders and industry professionals to facilitate high-impact leadership and team building workshops with a collaborative and pragmatic approach.

PowerTalk has been developing leaders through the power of communication for the past 20 years. Over 10,000 Atlantic Canadian clients have participated in PowerTalk programs and workshops.

PowerTalk can help you become a more confident and engaging leader.

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Through the implementation of the new Computer Aided Dispatch/Automated Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) solution, Halifax Transit is transforming the way customers interact with the transit system. In... More

Through the implementation of the new Computer Aided Dispatch/Automated Vehicle Location (CAD/AVL) solution, Halifax Transit is transforming the way customers interact with the transit system.

In April 2014, the CAD/AVL project, the core foundational project of Halifax Transit Technology Program, was kicked off. The scope of the CAD/AVL project scope includes both customer-facing and behind-the-scenes changes. Some of these changes include: automatic vehicle location tracking, public interfaces/traveler information (such as the Departures Line and GTFS real-time data), automated vehicle announcements, automated passenger counters, and destination sign integration for the Halifax Transit fixed-route fleet.

While the benefits of this new system are easy to see, planning the implementation of such a large technological change was no easy task. The general public was quick to adapt to the new features made available by the CAD/AVL project, but significant planning and preparation work was completed prior to launch and continues to be done to ensure the system is stable and functioning as expected.

 

Presenters:

Marc Santilli – Manager, Technical Services (Halifax Transit)

Bio: Marc Santilli is the Manager of Technical Service for Halifax Transit. He leads a team of technical professionals responsible for supporting all technology solutions utilized by Halifax Transit as well overseeing the implementation of a number of projects to upgrade or introduce new technology to Halifax Transit. Prior to joining Halifax Transit in October 2016, Marc served as a Project Manger for IBM where he was responsible for overseeing the implementation of technology infrastructure and software projects for various clients of IBM. Before that, Marc served as a Senior Consultant for NTT Data, specializing in change management. Prior to that, Marc spent 8 years at Research In Motion in various roles within their Customer Support Organization, ultimately spending his final 4 years at RIM as a Support Operations Manager.

 

Kevin Flemming – Project Manager, Halifax Transit Technology Program

Bio:  Kevin Flemming is a Senior Consultant with Barrington Consulting with over eighteen years of experience leading and implementing medium to large scale IT-enabled business solutions. His experience working on large transformational projects spans across a wide spectrum of industry verticals and technology domains, including extensive experience in project management, business analysis, process improvement, quality assurance, change management, and operational transitioning.  Over the past 4 years, Kevin has worked in the Public Transit sector helping clients define and implement ITS solutions (Intelligent Transportation Systems).  Most recently Kevin managed a 3 year multi-phase CAD/AVL implementation for Halifax Transit, and earlier this summer started managing Halifax Transit’s approved Fare Management initiative. 

 

Mark Hawes – Solution Architect, Halifax Transit Technology Program

Bio:  Mark Hawes is a Solution Architect with Barrington Consulting Group with over sixteen years of extensive experience in the Information Technology industry concentrating in system application delivery.  This encompasses all phases of application design and development including project management, team leading, solution architecture, business analysis, business modeling, and testing.  Mark’s experience has provided him with the opportunity to demonstrate his versatility, efficiency, and excellent client management as well as his strong communication skills.  Some of his recent projects include:

  • Solution Architect on the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Strategic Technology Roadmap;

Solution Architect on the Halifax Transit Technology Program; and Solution Architect on the Moncton Codiac Transpo Strategic Technology Roadmap

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
The Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) is involved in the research, design and construction of reproductions of the Dartmouth Inclined Plane / Marine Railway, part of the Shubenacadie Canal in Nov... More

The Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) is involved in the research, design and construction of reproductions of the Dartmouth Inclined Plane / Marine Railway, part of the Shubenacadie Canal in Nova Scotia that connects Halifax Harbour to the waters of the Bay of Fundy. The project is designed to reconstruct key elements of the Inclined Plane, located at the Halifax Harbour end of the canal. The Inclined Plane transported vessels between the Harbour and Sullivan’s Pond, a distance of 1300 feet with an increase in elevation of 65 feet.

The Shubenacadie Canal Waterway connects seven lakes with the Shubenacadie River over a distance of 72 miles. Nine locks and two inclined plane systems (Dartmouth and Porto Bello) were required to make the waterway navigable.

The two Inclined Planes constructed on the Shubenacadie Canal were among the first in British North America and were patterned after those in use on the Morris Canal in New Jersey. The first attempt to overcome the heights of land in Dartmouth and Porto Bello was carried out between 1826 and 1831. In Dartmouth the canal initially involved the use of six locks, sections of which remain buried on the site. In 1860 and 1861 an Inclined Plane system was constructed to replace the lock system. The Turbine Chamber / Flume House was constructed using the two walls of the former Lock 3 as the east and west walls of the underground turbine chamber.

The SCC, in cooperation with the Halifax Regional Municipality, is presently reconstructing the key elements of the Dartmouth Inclined Plane. In 2015, a life-size reproduction of the Boat Cradle was completed and is on the site. In 2016, the turbine chamber was rehabilitated and the Flume House constructed using the same specifications as the original. The timber structure was constructed using 8 x 8 inch and 8 x 12 inch timber with mortise and tenon joints throughout. The Flume House also included a partial reconstruction of the elevated water flume. In early 2017, the SCC plans on having reproductions of the steel turbine, cable drum an associated shafts and gears installed in the Flume House. The project is expected to be completed in September, 2017.

Literally thousands of hours were spent by volunteer members of the SCC in determining just how the original systems worked and how they could be fabricated. Our local Community College provided great support with detailing / drafting as well as fabrication of the steel turbine. The folks at the Morris Canal have been extremely supportive and without their assistance it would have very difficult to undertake this work.

Our presentation will include a brief history of the canal, a review of the research and detailing undertaken, and the reproduction construction techniques used. The presentation will include a wealth of photos, graphics and some striking animation videos.

Of note; the Shubenacadie Canal Marine Railway project received international recognition at the 2016 World Canals Conference in Inverness, Scotland.

Presenter Bio:

Douglas Brownrigg is a Professional Civil Engineer with over 42 years of experience at CBCL Limited in the design and project management of a wide variety of civil and municipal projects. His expertise for the past 20 years has been in the field of potable water system master planning, hydraulic analysis of water distribution systems and related infrastructure, including the design of large diameter watermains, flow and pressure control infrastructure and water storage reservoirs.

He is semi-retired and spends a good deal of his spare time as a volunteer with the Shubenacadie Canal Commission, as both a Commissioner and Chair of the Canal Greenway Park Project, the site of the Shubenacadie Canal Marine Railway. Doug’s experience in engineering detail design and production of construction contract documents are valuable skills applied to the Canal Greenway Project. Doug lived all his life in Dartmouth and takes great pride in helping promote and improve all aspects of the Shubenacadie Canal. He is an avid amateur photographer of which many of his photos will be included in the presentation.

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Sustainable Development: The most widely accepted definition of sustainable development is that of the Brundtland Commission: Sustainable development is development that meets the social, econom... More

Sustainable Development:

The most widely accepted definition of sustainable development is that of the Brundtland Commission:

“Sustainable development is development that meets the social, economic, and environmental needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.”

Environmental Stewardship:

Stewardship means to take care of something even if it does not belong to you.  For the purposes of this guideline, Environmental Stewardship is defined as:

“Environmental Stewardship is the prudent use of the finite resources in nature to produce the greatest benefit while maintaining a healthy environment for the foreseeable future”.  

 

Role of the Professional Engineer in the Delivery of a Sustainable Future

Environmental stewardship is about keeping what we have while sustainable development is about getting what we need.  We cannot fully satisfy one without satisfying the other. 

Engineers are usually neither the ultimate decision maker for a project nor do they necessarily reflect the perspective of the local community.  But engineers can have significant influence in the pursuit of sustainable development and environmental stewardship within their area of practice. 

The level of awareness, understanding and value of sustainable development and environmental stewardship is still low across much of society and their application is still evolving.  They are not well integrated into engineering practice.   For the purpose of this guideline, these concepts are discussed as two complementary themes, and then integrated into a single comprehensive framework.  

 

Presenter Bio:

Chris Feetham, MBA, P.Eng., FEC is the Senior Compliance Promotion Officer with Environment and Climate Change Canada-Atlantic Region.  He is a designated CEPA Analyst under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, works on regulation development and compliance promotion in the Chemicals, Transportation and Energy sectors, and supports environmental enforcement actions.  He has 35 years of experience in energy systems, environmental accounting and sustainable development and has worked in private industry, as a consultant and for all levels of government in Canada.  He holds a B.Sc. in Mathematics, a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, and a Masters of Business Administration.  He is actively involved in the governance of the engineering profession via various committees of Engineers Nova Scotia and Engineers Canada and has worked with the World Federation of Engineering Organizations.  He is a Fellow of Engineers Canada.  

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Jeff Dahn is recognized as one of the pioneering developers of the lithium-ion battery that is now used worldwide in laptop computers and cell-phones. Dahn's recent work has concentrated on increas... More

Jeff Dahn is recognized as one of the pioneering developers of the lithium-ion battery that is now used worldwide in laptop computers and cell-phones.  Dahn's recent work has concentrated on increasing the energy density, improving the lifetime and lowering the cost of lithium ion batteries.  He is the author of over 640 refereed journal papers and co-inventor of 65 inventions with patents issued or filed.

Jeff Dahn was born in Bridgeport, Conn. in 1957 and emigrated with his family to Nova Scotia, Canada in 1970.  He obtained his B.Sc. in Physics from Dalhousie University (1978) and his Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia in 1982.  Dahn then worked at the National Research Council of Canada (82-85) and at Moli Energy Limited (85-90) before taking up a faculty position in the Physics Department at Simon Fraser University in 1990.  He returned to Dalhousie University in 1996.

Jeff Dahn has always interacted strongly with industry.  During his years at Simon Fraser University (90-96) he collaborated strongly with the R+D team at NEC/Moli Energy Canada (Now E-One/Moli Energy Canada).  Dr. Dahn took up the NSERC/3M Canada Industrial Research Chair in Materials for Advanced Batteries at Dalhousie University in 1996 and held that position until 2016.  In June 2016, Dr. Dahn began a 5-year research partnership with Tesla Motors/Energy as an NSERC/Tesla Canada Industrial Research Chair. 

Jeff has received numerous awards including: International Battery Materials Association (IBA) Research Award (1995); Herzberg Medal, Canadian Association of Physicists (1996); ECS Battery Division Research Award (1996); Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2001);  Medal for Excellence in Teaching (2009) from the Canadian Assoc. of Physicists, The Rio-Tinto Alcan Award from the Canadian Institute of Chemistry (2010), the ECS Battery Division Technology Award (2011), the Yeager award from the International Battery Materials Association (2016) and the Inaugural Govenor General's Innovation Award (2016).

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Scott Kyle, P.Eng., LEED AP, Partner at Dillon Consulting Limited, will share his insights on the engineering profession and the challenges and opportunities we face. Scotts career has included man... More

Scott Kyle, P.Eng., LEED AP, Partner at Dillon Consulting Limited, will share his insights on the engineering profession and the challenges and opportunities we face.  Scott’s career has included many accomplishments, such as receiving the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Engineering and being President of Consulting Engineers of Nova Scotia.  Scott is an accomplished speaker, presenting on a variety of topics for local and national audiences.

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
2017 has been dubbed the year of artificial intelligence (AI). Once considered the realm of science fiction, and more recently of kids and gamers, AI is set to be a game changer for organizational... More

2017 has been dubbed the year of artificial intelligence (AI).  Once considered the realm of science fiction, and more recently of kids and gamers, AI is set to be a game changer for organizational leaders and Human Resource Management (HRM) systems, processes, and people.   
 
AI and Robotics are often referred to as “exponential technology” – a phrase that reflects both the speed and the scope of their potential – and signals the speed and scope of their impact on us and on our organizations.  For example, within the area of jobs and job creation, exponential technology is set to a] drastically reduce the current number of jobs; and b] create new categories of jobs requiring skills and training we are not prepared for.  This is a small example of the wave-like impact we will experience over the next few years.  
 
In this workshop, we consider the developments in exponential technology and the predictions of its impact on future work, skill development, and the role of HRM. We will explore: 
 
a] Disruption – the impact of AI & Robotics on the nature of work and skills required for jobs 
 
Conventional organizational change tends to be a controlled, phased process designed around incrementalism.  AI will require a different kind of organizational response – perhaps best imagined as a kind of organizational morphing – a rapid, flash of change that affects multiple systems at the same time in unpredictable, fluid ways. We will consider current predictions and offer a balanced assessment of the factors influencing the scope and speed of change and the impact on work. 
 
b] Getting Creative – challenging thinking and getting creative   
 
Both the structures and systems in which we educate and create the career mindset of future workers will require a dramatic overhaul that demands creative innovation, experimentation, and new ways of thinking. We will consider ways to overcome cognitive biases using a variety of techniques. 
 
c] HR’s role in Disruption – Future directions and approaches to adapt  
 
AI demands a complete paradigm shift in the ways we think about the job classification process – from a kind of vertical, hierarchical model to a more horizontal kaleidoscope. We will consider the implications of the job and skill change and the ways in which transformative HR (big data and analytics) is facilitating strategic HR decision-making.

 
Objectives: 
 
During this workshop, we aim to:  

  •  Provide an overview of the role of exponential technology in redefining work and the implications for future jobs.
  •  Discuss the current thinking on future skills for the labour force, including conceptual competency models and the “skills revolution”.
  •  Explore questions about how these changes impact the field and role of human resource management.
  •  Make connections to the role of engineering to these changes as well as the impact of exponential technology on the engineering profession. 

Outcomes: 
 
At the end of our session, we will have:  

  • Knowledge of the AI & Robotics impact on the nature of work
  • An understanding of the types of skills that are being predicted for future jobs.
  • The possible ways in which the role of HRM will change and adapt to these future challenges. 

Join us to explore some of the ways that HR decision-makers are preparing to deal with the fourth-wave of technological integration and disruption to work! 

About the Facilitator: 
 
Wendy R. Carroll, PhD 
 
Dr. Wendy R. Carroll is an award-winning teacher and researcher who is the Director of the EMBA Program and associate professor in the Department of Management at the Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary’s University. After a 20-year career working in national and multinational businesses as a senior leader and executive, Wendy joined the academy 10 years ago and researches in the areas of workforce strategies, human resource management, employee and industrial relations, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making. As a practitioner turned academic, Wendy has worked to develop and integrate approaches and techniques for organizational leaders to bring back to their workplaces. For her role as an educator and researcher impacting practice, Wendy has been named one of the Top HR Professionals of 2016 in Canada by Canadian HR Reporter Magazine. 
 
Contact Wendy: wendy.carroll@smu.ca 

 
 

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Abstract Lead in drinking water has always been known to be a serious health issue and water utilities have been working for years to take measures to eliminate sources of lead in their water syst... More

Abstract

Lead in drinking water has always been known to be a serious health issue and water utilities have been working for years to take measures to eliminate sources of lead in their water systems. As a result of the tragic events that occurred in Flint Michigan in 2014/2015, water utilities have come to the realization that more must be done to protect water utility customers from lead in drinking water, including removing lead from distribution systems and premise plumbing. Although Halifax Water has always been working to address lead, prompted by its own research since 2009 and the industry response to Flint, Halifax Water has prepared a business plan to guide our work with a goal of removing all lead service lines by 2050. This includes increasing resources to remove lead services from the system, creating an accurate inventory of lead water services, establishing programs to educate and assist customers, optimizing corrosion control and supporting ongoing research at Dalhousie University.

Biography – John Eisnor, P.Eng.

John Eisnor, M.A.Sc., P.Eng. is the Operations Engineer with the Water Services Department at Halifax Water where he provides engineering support to the operation of the water system. In addition, he is currently the Acting Water Quality Manager where is responsible for managing water quality programs at Halifax Water. Previous to this, John was a Project Engineer in the Engineering and Information Services Department for six years where he managed the design and construction of capital infrastructure projects.

Prior to joining Halifax Water, John spent six years with Nova Scotia Environment and Labour as a Facilities Engineer where he helped develop and implement legislation, standards and guidelines for regulating water treatment facilities in Nova Scotia. He also managed the Water and Wastewater Operator Certification Program in Nova Scotia.

John received a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia in 1999 and a Master of Applied Science from Dalhousie University in 2002. John is an active member of Engineers Nova Scotia serving on several committees and he is a Past Chair (2016) of the Atlantic Canada Water and Wastewater Association.

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Maritime Launch Services Ltd (MLS) in Halifax, Nova Scotia is well on it's way to expanding the Canadian commercial space industry. With the rapidly growing global demand for space launch services,... More

Maritime Launch Services Ltd (MLS) in Halifax, Nova Scotia is well on it's way to expanding the Canadian commercial space industry. With the rapidly growing global demand for space launch services, MLS will bring the long established and mature space launch technology of Ukraine to Nova Scotia. In cooperation with Yuzhnoye and Yuzhmash in Ukraine, MLS will commercially develop and operate a highly competitive launch services company. The launch site area is near Canso, Hazael Hill and Little Dover, Nova Scotia and design activities are underway for both the launch systems and spaceport.

Presenter Bio: 

Steve Matier, President of Maritime Launch Services Ltd.

Steve has a unique blend of experience in commercial spaceport development, rocket propulsion system and facility operation, marketing, business development, and proposal and technical writing. Steve is currently based in New Mexico and will be joining us remotely to present on the project in Canso and answer questions from the audience. 

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
Engineers work on many projects that directly and indirectly affect Indigenous communities. Understanding the context of projects is integral to finding the best solutions, this presentation will o... More

Engineers work on many projects that directly and indirectly affect Indigenous communities. Understanding the context of projects is integral to finding the best solutions, this presentation will offer participants the opportunity to understand the legacy of impact that the Indian Residential School system had (and continues to have) on the Indigenous landscape in Canada. We will use a newly developed framework for treaty education as well as news and events in contemporary society to help deconstruct myths and misconceptions and encourage participants to think about their role in Reconciliation (or ReconciliaCtion!) as Canadians. For educators, the session will also provide the opportunity to learn about emerging work in the field of education focused on Treaty Education.

Presenter Bio:

Wyatt White has proudly called Halifax home for 15 years now, having moved to Nova Scotia from northern New Brunswick back in 2002.  Wyatt completed a Bachelor of Science degree from Acadia University and following some job experience in both in Ottawa as well as back home in his home First Nation (Listuguj), Wyatt was recruited into the Nova Scotia public service through the provincial Office of Aboriginal Affairs. Wyatt’s work at the Office of Aboriginal Affairs focused on Aboriginal policy, intergovernmental affairs, Aboriginal consultation and community relations. 

Ready to step into a leadership position within the provincial government, Wyatt successfully competed for the Director of Mi’kmaq Services position at Education and Early Childhood Development back in 2013.  Having grown up with a mother who taught Mi’kmaq language for many years, he understands the critical nature that Mi’kmaq language and culture promotion play in fostering well-rounded programs and services.  Since joining Education and Early Childhood Development, Wyatt’s main focus has been on fostering partnerships amongst all education partners and while respecting jurisdiction, Wyatt is fully committed to the principle of equity for student achievement. 

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
Note: This is a continuation of the session that starts at 1:45 PM. 2017 has been dubbed the year of artificial intelligence (AI). Once considered the realm of science fiction, and more recently o... More

Note: This is a continuation of the session that starts at 1:45 PM.

2017 has been dubbed the year of artificial intelligence (AI).  Once considered the realm of science fiction, and more recently of kids and gamers, AI is set to be a game changer for organizational leaders and Human Resource Management (HRM) systems, processes, and people.   
 
AI and Robotics are often referred to as “exponential technology” – a phrase that reflects both the speed and the scope of their potential – and signals the speed and scope of their impact on us and on our organizations.  For example, within the area of jobs and job creation, exponential technology is set to a] drastically reduce the current number of jobs; and b] create new categories of jobs requiring skills and training we are not prepared for.  This is a small example of the wave-like impact we will experience over the next few years.  
 
In this workshop, we consider the developments in exponential technology and the predictions of its impact on future work, skill development, and the role of HRM. We will explore: 
 
a] Disruption – the impact of AI & Robotics on the nature of work and skills required for jobs 
 
Conventional organizational change tends to be a controlled, phased process designed around incrementalism.  AI will require a different kind of organizational response – perhaps best imagined as a kind of organizational morphing – a rapid, flash of change that affects multiple systems at the same time in unpredictable, fluid ways. We will consider current predictions and offer a balanced assessment of the factors influencing the scope and speed of change and the impact on work. 
 
b] Getting Creative – challenging thinking and getting creative   
 
Both the structures and systems in which we educate and create the career mindset of future workers will require a dramatic overhaul that demands creative innovation, experimentation, and new ways of thinking. We will consider ways to overcome cognitive biases using a variety of techniques. 
 
c] HR’s role in Disruption – Future directions and approaches to adapt  
 
AI demands a complete paradigm shift in the ways we think about the job classification process – from a kind of vertical, hierarchical model to a more horizontal kaleidoscope. We will consider the implications of the job and skill change and the ways in which transformative HR (big data and analytics) is facilitating strategic HR decision-making.

 
Objectives: 
 
During this workshop, we aim to:  

  •  Provide an overview of the role of exponential technology in redefining work and the implications for future jobs.
  •  Discuss the current thinking on future skills for the labour force, including conceptual competency models and the “skills revolution”.
  •  Explore questions about how these changes impact the field and role of human resource management.
  •  Make connections to the role of engineering to these changes as well as the impact of exponential technology on the engineering profession. 

Outcomes: 
 
At the end of our session, we will have:  

  • Knowledge of the AI & Robotics impact on the nature of work
  • An understanding of the types of skills that are being predicted for future jobs.
  • The possible ways in which the role of HRM will change and adapt to these future challenges. 

Join us to explore some of the ways that HR decision-makers are preparing to deal with the fourth-wave of technological integration and disruption to work! 

About the Facilitator: 
 
Wendy R. Carroll, PhD 
 
Dr. Wendy R. Carroll is an award-winning teacher and researcher who is the Director of the EMBA Program and associate professor in the Department of Management at the Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary’s University. After a 20-year career working in national and multinational businesses as a senior leader and executive, Wendy joined the academy 10 years ago and researches in the areas of workforce strategies, human resource management, employee and industrial relations, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making. As a practitioner turned academic, Wendy has worked to develop and integrate approaches and techniques for organizational leaders to bring back to their workplaces. For her role as an educator and researcher impacting practice, Wendy has been named one of the Top HR Professionals of 2016 in Canada by Canadian HR Reporter Magazine. 
 
Contact Wendy: wendy.carroll@smu.ca 

 

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
Centre for Ocean Ventures Entrepreneurship is a collaborative facility for applied innovation in the ocean sector. Our mission is to propel the ocean economy by providing high quality marine infr... More

Centre for Ocean Ventures & Entrepreneurship is a collaborative facility for applied innovation in the ocean sector.

Our mission is to propel the ocean economy by providing high quality marine infrastructure and a collaborative space in which a community of ocean enterprises can start, grow and prosper. Our primary goal is to support ocean technology commercialization.

This hub of activity will be home to local and global ocean technology businesses, post-secondary institutions, researchers, and marine-based and service businesses that support the ocean sector.

Members of COVE have unparalleled access to the ocean, shared facilities and some of the leading minds in the sector. Start-ups will benefit from mentoring in the Start-Up Yard the on-site incubator.

COVE is at the centre of Nova Scotia’s globally recognized ocean cluster, located in the former Coast Guard facility on Halifax Harbour. The COVE site features extensive marine facilities with two large, deep-water piers, office space, an incubator and space for shops and labs.

COVE is a place where innovations will be developed and brought to market. It’s a place where start-ups will be inspired and guided. COVE is a working facility for ocean enterprises with access to water and testing facilities.

 

Presenter Bio:

Sheila Paterson, P.Eng. joined the IORE team in February of 2016 as COO.  In her role, Sheila builds relationships with industry, researchers, facilitating organizations and governments for the initiation, support, application and commercialization of world-class scientific research. Sheila spent eight years with the Province of Nova Scotia, most recently as a Business Development Executive at the Nova Scotia Department of Energy, working to enhance the capacity of the local energy sector supply chain and advance the province’s international links. She previously worked with International Relations at the province’s Department of Intergovernmental Affairs, with International Commerce strategy at the Department of Economic Development, and with the Air Quality group at Nova Scotia Environment. Earlier in her career, Sheila held process engineering roles with a high tech electronics manufacturer, led a custom electronics product design group, and worked in the aerospace sector in continuous improvement engineering.  She graduated from Dalhousie University with degrees in Chemical Engineering and in Science.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM
Work life balance feeling more like a juggling act? Learn to focus on whats most important and how to manage your time most effectively. This presentation will provide you with practical tips, tool... More

Work life balance feeling more like a juggling act? Learn to focus on what’s most important and how to manage your time most effectively. This presentation will provide you with practical tips, tools, and strategies you can implement right away to get the most out of life.

Biography: Jeana Boutilier

- Director of The Coaching Connection Inc.

- CAN Certified Life Coach

- Certified Birkman Consultant 

- Communication Coach

- Maritime Rep for the Centre for Applied Neuroscience

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM
This presentation reviews the evolution of shipping over the last fifty (50) years, looking at changing trends, and the evolution of vessel sizes including container ships, cruise ships, oil tanker... More

This presentation reviews the evolution of shipping over the last fifty (50) years, looking at changing trends, and the evolution of vessel sizes including container ships, cruise ships, oil tankers, bulk vessels, etc.  It also looks at climate change issues such as sea level rise, superstorms, and rise in sea temperature, i.e. increase corrosion effect, and the effect it is having on port infrastructure and, how this affects the condition of aging port infrastructure.

The effect of all these issues on the port infrastructure, harbour size, channel size, and alignment condition of structural elements, fenders, bollards, elevation of docks with global sea rise, etc. will also be addressed.  The session will identify remedial measures for addressing these issues with existing marine infrastructure, i.e. reinforcing dock structures and breakwater.

Presenter Bio: 

Dan MacDonald, M.A.Sc., P.Eng., FEC., FSSC, has 42-years’ experience in the field of heavy civil and marine engineering.  Mr. MacDonald began his career with Public Works Canada as a Marine Design Engineer for the Atlantic Regional office.  In this position, he was involved in numerous dock and breakwater designs; most notably, the rebuild of the Ferry Terminal Facility in Port aux Basques, Newfoundland.  In his years in the consulting industry, Mr. MacDonald has been involved in the design and construction of major marine structures throughout Atlantic Canada and the Caribbean; most notably, the heavy lift dock for the Confederation Bridge construction, the Point Tupper Marine Coal Terminal, St. John’s Syncrolift Drydock, Point Aconi Generating Station submerged intake cap, and the Bearhead Nova Scotia LNG Terminal.  In addition, Mr. MacDonald authored the Vulnerability Study for the Eastern Caribbean, which invested thirteen (13) ports, for the effects of Category 5 storms, and presented the engineering to reinforce these ports.  Currently, Mr. MacDonald is the Project Manager for the $150 million rebuild of the Marine Atlantic Inc. ferry service infrastructure, and is also Project Manager of a major breakwater design in Trinidad.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM
Discovery Centre is a not-for-profit charitable organization whose mission is to stimulate interest, enjoyment and understanding of science and technology through innovative, exciting, hands-on exp... More

Discovery Centre is a not-for-profit charitable organization whose mission is to stimulate interest, enjoyment and understanding of science and technology through innovative, exciting, hands-on experiences for all Nova Scotians.  Over the last 30 years, the Discovery Centre has evolved from a travelling show to the largest science centre in Atlantic Canada.  Through the substantial generosity and vision of their partners and donors, the New Discovery Centre is now able to have twice as much space for hands-on fun, several galleries, an open atrium, an Innovation Lab, a Travelling Exhibits Gallery and the first Immersive Dome Theatre in the region.

Discovery Centre selected JW Lindsay in July 2015 to develop the new Discovery Centre’s facility following a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) to initially provide construction management services. 

The project consisted of the renovation of an abandoned electrical generation station powerhouse built in the 1950’s, with limited technical information available which was no easy feat.  This powerhouse was adjacent to the Nova Scotia Power headquarters building, and a fully operational call centre.  My role was to lead a team of professionals and contractors through a complicated project that offered many challenges and that always demanded high attention to detail and strategic planning. 

In addition to the coordination required to move all necessary materials and equipment through the sole access point – a 12 ft x 14 ft opening in the basement – the construction of the cage, shell and tilted screen for the Dome Theatre was unlike any project in Atlantic Canada. 

While demonstrating a strong commitment to safety, environmental and quality management, our Team was also very preoccupied with maintaining open communication with all project stakeholders, and utilizing a solution based approach to address all unexpected project challenges.  The new Discovery Centre Project Team completed the site works and structural activities without a single lost time incident, major delays or cost overruns.

I will always remember this project as one of the most enjoyable projects of my career.  I had the fortune to work with a creative and collaborative team of professionals and highly skilled workers, motivated by a project that would offer so much for the community.  I deeply appreciated the hard work, pride and commitment that our workers demonstrated each day.  

Presenter Bio: 

Eva Parada, P.Eng., attended Penn State University where she completed a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering on a full scholarship, after a brief work experience in Colombia working as a licenced Civil Engineer. Eva graduated from one of the most prestigious Colombian Universities, Universidad del Norte, where she obtained a Bachelors’ degree in Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences.

After her finishing her Masters Degree, Eva worked at one of the largest Construction Company in the United States, at Turner Construction for close to 9 years.  While in the United States, she participated in large multi-million dollar projects where we gained valuable experience in contract negotiations, purchasing, scope development, value engineering and coordination of trades.

Results oriented, driven and a self-starter professional Eva has brought this diverse project experience to Atlantica Canada and in 2012, joined Lindsay Construction as a Senior Project Manager.  Eva is skilled in project management, planning, contract language and negotiations, financial risk management, scheduling, scope management and relationship building. References speak for her work ethic, leadership, teamwork and strategic execution.

Eva is currently the Construction Manager for the Dalhousie IDEA Innovation and Design Building Project as well as Dalhousie’s Renovations to Building C and C1 located in the Sexton Campus.

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Join the Young Professionals Committee for Engineering Trivia at the T-Room. Hosted by our very own, Stan Selig,P.Eng. Bring a team or join one that night. Prizes will be awarded throughout the ev... More

Join the Young Professionals Committee for Engineering Trivia at the T-Room. Hosted by our very own, Stan Selig, P.Eng. Bring a team or join one that night. 

Prizes will be awarded throughout the evening and, of course, to the winning team. Come show off your engineering trivia knowledge!

There is no cost to attend this event and registration is not required.

Sep 15, 2017
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Pre-registration for the Annual Business Meeting is not required but will assist us in ordering breakfast for those who attend. There isno costto attend the Annual Business Meeting. Join us befor... More

Pre-registration for the Annual Business Meeting is not required but will assist us in ordering breakfast for those who attend. 

There is no cost to attend the Annual Business Meeting. 

Join us before the AGM for breakfast and meet some of the students and organizations we support through our Student Affairs Committee.

9:45 AM - 11:30 AM
The Annual General Meeting will include a presentation from Engineers Canada, the incoming President of Engineers Nova Scotia, financial statements, introduction of new Council members and an oppor... More

The Annual General Meeting will include a presentation from Engineers Canada, the incoming President of Engineers Nova Scotia, financial statements, introduction of new Council members and an opportunity for members to ask questions regarding the business of the Association. 

There is no cost to attend this event and registration is not required, however breakfast is provided to those who attend so registration will inform the amount of food ordered. Members who attend will have two PD Participation hours added to their Professional Development Program record. 

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Join us after the AGM for refreshments and appetizers. This will also be an opportunity to meet some of the organizations we partner with on various initiatives. There is no cost to attend this ev... More

Join us after the AGM for refreshments and appetizers. This will also be an opportunity to meet some of the organizations we partner with on various initiatives.

There is no cost to attend this event and registration is not required but appreciated. 

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Join us in celebrating our 2017 Award Recipients J.D. Fraser Service Award Robert (Bob) Joseph MacDonald, P.Eng. Citizenship Award Winners; Blair Forbrigger, P.Eng. and Victoria Fernandez, P.Eng... More

Join us in celebrating our 2017 Award Recipients

J.D. Fraser Service Award – Robert (Bob) Joseph MacDonald, P.Eng.
Citizenship Award – Winners; Blair Forbrigger, P.Eng. and Victoria Fernandez, P.Eng.
Engineering Award – Winners; Cheryl Sewell, P.Eng. and Eileen McEwen, P.Eng.
Young Engineer Award – Rebecca Appleton, P.Eng.
Award for the Advancement of Women in the Engineering Profession Dr. Margaret Walsh, P.Eng.

 

Tickets are $50/person
Tables are rounds of 8

If you wish to book a table for this event, please contact Christine@engineersnovascotia.ca

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Join the Young Professionals Committee panel discussion to hear from members about five common career paths for engineers: project management, general management, technical design, business develop... More

Join the Young Professionals Committee panel discussion to hear from members about five common career paths for engineers: project management, general management, technical design, business development and entrepreneurship. 

This event is free to attend. It is being held at the World Trade and Convention Centre in the room across the hall from the Awards Luncheon. 

6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Join us to Celebrate the recipient of our most distinguished award, theF.H. Sexton Gold Medalto be Presented to Chris Huskilson, P.Eng. Reception will be held on the 8th floor of the World Trade... More

Join us to Celebrate the recipient of our most distinguished award, the F.H. Sexton Gold Medal to be Presented to Chris Huskilson, P.Eng.  

Reception will be held on the 8th floor of the World Trade and Convention Centre, the Summit Suite, from 6:00-7:00 PM

Dinner and Presentation will be on the 2nd floor in Room 200B from 7:00-9:00 PM

The Aviators have been confirmed to once again provide entetainment following the Award Presentation. 

Tickets are $75 per person
Tables are rounds of 8