By Jennifer Moore

Dal students celebrate their victory at the IIE Student Conference. (Photo: provided)

Dalhousie Industrial Engineering students have been having a phenomenal year.

Over 30 engineering students represented Dalhousie at the Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) Annual Student Conference at Ryerson University earlier this term.

Across four different competitions — theoretical (written examination), technical paper, case study and simulation competitions — the Dal students performed exceptionally well, and finished first in both the technical paper and theoretical competitions.

John Blake, Industrial Engineering professor, accompanied the students to the conference.

“We have always believed that our students are amongst the brightest, most capable and most accomplished in Canada,” says Dr. Blake. “It’s gratifying to see our opinions confirmed through the results of a national competition.”

Eldon Gunn (MA (Math)’75), also a professor of Industrial Engineering, echoes those sentiments: “If you can get bright students, give them exposure to good ideas and turn them loose, good things will happen.”

A thrilling performance

The Dal team’s spirit was evident in its being awarded the coveted Golden I trophy. The trophy is awarded to the delegation that best displays dedication towards individual and team growth.

Team members Jillian Withers (DipEng’11) and Kevin Conrad (DipEng’11) were both thrilled with how well the group performed.

“There was so much energy and excitement when we arrived at the conference,” says Conrad. “Everyone was serious and winning, and super competitive. It was an awesome experience, and one we won’t forget.”

Dal will defend its Golden I title at next year’s conference in Montreal.

The team’s sponsors this year included: Richard Florizone, Dal President; Josh Leon, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering; Faculty of Industrial Engineering; Dalhousie Student Union; Dalhousie Undergraduate Engineering Society; Wilsons; Engineering Nova Scotia; and Michelin North America (Canada) Inc.