Innovation Spring 2025

Foundation independence | BCSEG update | CE ineligible activities

INNOVATION ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA SPRING 2025

OUR VALUED VOLUNTEERS

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Innovation Spring 2025

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Spring 2025

Innovation

CONTENTS

COMMENT 4 Viewpoint NEWS 5 Firms and use of title 6 Board report

7 Permit to Practice renewal 8 Foundation independence 9 Firms CAP guide 10 BCSEG update 14 CE ineligible activities 40 Remembering Connie Kerr-Woods FEATURES 18 Our volunteers 24 Benefits of biofuels 32 Climate resource modelling 38 Metalized coatings DEPARTMENTS

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Volunteers: the heart of our organization

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Communities benefit by producing biofuels

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12 Professional Practice 16 Continuing Education: Speaker Spotlight 41 Discipline and enforcement 43 Display Advertisers’ index 46 In memoriam

Modelling for climate resources 32

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Digital Innovation View the digital version by scanning the QR code or by going to egbc.ca/Innovation. Interested in receiving Innovation digitally instead of by mail? You can change your preferences in your online account, under General/Overview/ Communication Preferences.

ON THE COVER Samuel Ndegwa, P.Eng., P.Geo. is one of Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s many valuable volunteers. P hoto : W endy D P hotography

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V I EWPO INT

SPRING 2025 | volume 29 number 1 INNOVATION

Our volunteers are critically important

ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS BRITISH COLUMBIA Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC Canada V5C 6N2 Tel: 604.430.8035 | Toll free: 1.888.430.8035

Email: info@egbc.ca | Web: egbc.ca

BOARD 2024/2025 Chair: Mark Porter, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., FEC Vice Chair: Karen Ling, P.Eng. Immediate Past Chair: Michelle Mahovlich, MEng, P.Eng., P.Geo., FCSSE BOARD MEMBERS Bill Chan, CPA, CGA, MBA, ICD.D; Veronica Knott, P.Eng.; Cathy McIntyre, MBA, C.Dir; Matthew Salmon, P.Eng.; T.J. Schmaltz, JD, FCPHR, SHRM-SCP, ICD.D; Malcolm Shield, P.Eng.; Colette Trudeau, MA; Jens Weber, P.Eng.; Dr. Gordon Zhou, P.Eng. EXECUTIVE TEAM Heidi Yang, P.Eng., FEC, FGC (Hon.), Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Cho, CPA, CGA, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer David Pavan, R.PH., Chief Regulatory Officer and Registrar EDITORIAL ADVISORY GROUP Ryan Bird, P.Eng.; Roozbeh Nemati, PMP, P.Eng.; Ian Rodriguez, EIT; Raya Smertina, P.Eng.; Aman Tanvir, P.Eng.; Stefano Vitucci, P.Eng. Innovation is published quarterly by Engineers and Geoscientists BC. As the official publication of the organization, Innovation is circulated to all registrants of Engineers and Geoscientists BC as well as architects, contractors and industry executives. The views expressed in any article do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Board or Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Sales Representative: Wing-Yee Kwong Tel: 604.681.1811 Email: advertising@egbc.ca For information see: www.egbc.ca/About/Publications/Innovation/How-to-Advertise SUBMISSIONS Innovation does not accept unsolicited articles or photos, but we do welcome article proposals and ideas. Proposals should be of interest and relevant to our readers and recognize the regulatory role of Engineers and Geoscientists BC in ensuring public safety and environmental protection. They should not be a "sales pitch" for a company or organization. Send suggestions to: innovation@egbc.ca . LETTERS Innovation welcomes letters from our readers. All submitted letters may be subject to editing for length, clarity or accuracy. We reserve the right to reject unsuitable letters and we do not publish open letters to third parties. Send letters to: innovation@egbc.ca. REPRINTS & COPIES All material is copyright. For reprint permission or extra copies, contact: innovation@egbc.ca. SUBSCRIPTIONS All registrants with Engineers and Geoscientists BC receive Innovation in print or digital form. Registrants can update their communication preferences for Innovation in their accounts at egbc.ca/account. Send print or digital subscription requests to: innovation@egbc.ca. MANAGING EDITOR Shelley Nicholl Printed in Canada by Mitchell Press Ltd. on recycled paper. ADVERTISING SALES

During the last couple of months, I have had the privilege to connect with several Engineers and Geoscientists BC registrants. Many of those with whom I have spoken with are volunteers within the engineering profession

and, like me, are passionate about upholding high standards. Volunteers are a critically important part of our ability to self regulate; we need your expertise and insight to assist us in many aspects of our work as we continue our path towards modern regulation. (Read about some of our volunteers on page 18.) As I reflect on my own volunteering with Engineers and Geoscientists BC, I recognize that it has been incredibly rewarding and has exposed me to aspects of the profession that go far beyond my own structural engineering field. I have met and continue to meet so many amazing people who contribute to engineering and geoscience. For those of you who are already volunteering for us or for the BC Society of Engineering and Geoscience (BCSEG) or other affiliated and connected organizations, I thank you. For those who are interested or just curious, I encourage you to contact Engineers and Geoscientists BC and discover how you might be able to get involved. Ensuring accountability through use of title A part of upholding high standards and being accountable is our use of title. Recent amendments to our Bylaw (5.12, section 22) have clarified expectations of registrant firms in their role and responsibility to ensure that appropriate titles are being used in their organization. Using the titles of “engineer” and “geoscientist” indicates more than a designation; it signifies accountability, competence, and ethical practice. It assures the public and our peers that we adhere to rigorous standards. Engineers and Geoscientists BC wants to work with our registrant firms to target compliance on this by January 2026. In closing, I would remind you of our need to maintain our professional competence and hold ourselves accountable. Yet, be passionate about our profession, which contributes in so many meaningful ways across all our communities.

Mark Porter, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., FEC Board Chair info@egbc.c a

WEBSITE & DIGITAL EDITION www.egbc.ca/About/Publications/Innovation

ISSN 1206-3622 Publications Mail Agreement No 40065271. Registration No 09799. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Innovation , Suite 200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, BC V5C 6N2.

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REGULATORY NEWS

Firms now responsible for ensuring correct use of title P hoto : U nsplash

The responsibility for addressing misuse of title is now extended to registrant firms to ensure compliance by their staff. Bylaw amendments approved by the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Board on November 29, 2024, clarify the responsibility of registrant firms to prevent misuse of title when assigning job titles and roles. While the requirements regarding individual title use have not changed, registrant firms will now have the responsibility to ensure reserved titles have not been assigned to non-registrants in breach of the Professional Governance Act ( PGA ). Engineers and Geoscientists BC will work with firms to comply by January 1, 2026. “We recognize there will likely be a variety of complexity with regard to compliance across firms and we will be working with firms to help them achieve compliance during an extended window with a target for compliance of January 1, 2026,” said Kelly Dayman, P.L.Eng., Associate Director, Regulation of Firms at Engineers and Geoscientists BC. “Resources and consultation will be available for Responsible Officers and Responsible Registrants with frequent communications planned this year.”

Engineers and Geoscientists BC has a statutory duty under the PGA to protect the public interest by taking action to stop non-registrants from misusing reserved titles or other names, titles, descriptions or abbreviations that express or imply that they are registrants or are entitled to practice the professions of engineering or geoscience in BC. To align, Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Board amended Bylaw 5.12, section 22, to clarify registrant firms are now responsible to ensure titles are used correctly as outlined in that bylaw and the PGA . Firms will be required to address this responsibility in their Professional Practice Management Plan (PPMP), which will enable proactive discussion with Engineers and Geoscientists BC assessors to prevent misuse of title. Please contact firms@egbc.ca for answers on how this change affects you or your firm. Scan the code to read the Regulation of Firms bulletin.

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BOARD NEWS

Board meeting highlights: November 29, 2024

Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Board of elected registrants and public representatives meets throughout the year. The following are the highlights of its November 29, 2024, meeting. Bylaws amended The Board approved a series of amendments to Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Bylaws. The amendments: • clarify privacy processes for sharing information between the Audit and Practice Review Committee and the Investigation Committee; • reflect Registrants’ ability to practice through Limited Liability Partnerships and confirm related requirements; • address Registrant Firms’ roles in assigning proper titles and practice areas for employees and contractors; • add provisions for how to proceed if a panel member for the Investigation or Discipline committee cannot continue; and • apply minor housekeeping updates. Following the meeting, the Bylaw amendments were submitted to the Office of the Superintendent of Professional Governance for

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review and will be published once they are approved. Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Bylaws are available at: egbc.ca/ About/Governance/Legislation Bylaws . Nomination committee terms updated The Board approved updates to the Nomination Committee’s Terms of Reference in line with the upcoming transition of the Branch program to the BC Society of Engineering and Geoscience (BCSEG). The Terms of Reference previously included a designated position for the Branch Representatives’ Chair. Because the Branch program is transitioning to BCSEG, this dedicated role has been removed.

The composition of the Nomination Committee will remain the same at five to seven people, with the previously dedicated position now being filled by a regular Committee member appointed by the Board. Other reports presented The Board received reports from staff and representatives on the following additional topics: • Progress on the organization’s Year 3 projects within its Strategic Plan. • An update on the organization’s Q1 financial results and forecast. • The Board’s leadership model and succession planning considerations. • An update on Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s organizational Climate Change Strategy development. Appointments Nomination Committee: Carol Park, P.Eng., FEC

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REGULATORY NEWS

Get ready to renew your firm’s Permit to Practice

This year’s Permit to Practice renewal process for registrant firms opens on April 1, 2025. An email reminder will be sent to registrant firms in the first week of April with information and links to access the Permit to Practice renewal information. Registrant firms have until May 31, 2025, to complete the renewal process. To renew, the Permit to Practice must be in compliance with the requirements, which include having all Responsible Registrants complete the Regulation of Firms Permit to Practice training within the timelines required and have a Professional Practice Management Plan (PPMP) in place. The purpose of the PPMP is to document the policies and procedures that indicate how the registrant firm will meet ethics, quality management, and continuing As part of the renewal, registrant firms are required to update their information and pay an annual fee. A Responsible Registrant must log in to their account through the Engineers and Geoscientists BC website ( egbc.ca ) and access their firm profile from their Account Dashboard to update their firm’s information. Specific criteria to update includes: • office location • industry and area of practice • names and contact information including email addresses of the Responsible Officer and Responsible Registrant • the firm’s roster of registrants and number of individuals who are registrants of each regulatory body under the Professional Governance Act with the exception of Engineers and Geoscientists BC education requirements. Update information

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This information can only be completed by a Responsible Registrant. Registrant firms are required to renew their Permit to Practice annually.

Scan the QR code for the Permits to Practice webpage.

Penalties after May 31

June 1

A 15 percent late fee will be applied to the annual fee

July 1

Firm will be prohibited from practice

September 1 Permit to Practice is cancelled

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Foundation moving toward independence Foundation scholarship recipient Yasmin Dibai, EIT, second from left, poses with her father, Ryan Dibai, P.Eng., far left, along with Foundation Chair Dr. John Clague, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon.), and Director Karen Savage, P.Eng., FEC. P hoto : G raeme N ix P hotography

The Engineers and Geoscientists BC Foundation is embarking on a new chapter as an independent organization, with a new name: Engineering & Geoscience Education Foundation BC. The change enables the Foundation to enhance fundraising efforts, streamline operations, and expand outreach initiatives to better support engineering and geoscience students. As an independent entity, the Foundation will have greater flexibility to: • Increase the value of each scholarship to a minimum of $5,000 from the current average of $2,000 in light of increasing tuition costs. • Implement a comprehensive fundraising program and diversify the range of fundraising to boost overall revenue and increase financial stability. • Build deeper connections with donors and supporters to foster long-term partnerships. “By concentrating on these key areas, the Foundation will provide even more valuable support to engineering and geoscience students, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals,” said Foundation Chair John Clague, P.Geo., FGC, FEC (Hon.). “The cost of education in Canada has been increasing, with tuition fees rising faster than inflation. By focusing on fundraising and donor engagement, we look forward to alleviating some of the financial burdens students face.”

While the Foundation has always been an independent charitable organization, Engineers and Geoscientists BC has provided it with administrative support for the past 30 years. The Foundation will now build its own administrative infrastructure, with an increased focus on increasing the value of scholarships awarded by developing a broad fundraising strategy. As the Foundation shifts towards independence, the core activities of administering scholarships, awards, and bursaries will not be affected. During the transition, Engineers and Geoscientists BC will continue to provide administrative and accounting support to the Foundation as it gradually builds its own infrastructure. The Foundation is a registered charity that was chartered in 1993 to provide scholarships and bursaries to post secondary engineering and geoscience students. In 2023-24, the Foundation awarded $120,000 to 41 engineering and geoscience students. It administered nine scholarships and supported 32 awards through BC’s post-secondary institutions and Engineers and Geoscientists BC branches. For more information, please email directors@egefbc. ca. Donations can still be made through the Engineers and Geoscientists BC website or the Foundation’s new website at egefbc.ca .

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REGULATORY NEWS

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CAP guide available for firms To help registrant firms address and resolve any non-conformances identified during a mandatory compliance audit, Engineers and Geoscientists BC published a guide titled “How to Complete Your Corrective Action Plan.” This guide provides a general This guide is not intended to replace any existing policies, procedures, or regulatory requirements specific to a registrant firm’s professional work or industry standards. Instead, it serves as a supplement that aims to provide clear guidance on developing CAPs. And, although

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framework for completing Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) and outlines possible steps that registrant firms can take to rectify non-conformances efficiently and effectively. Registrant firms often face challenges with their CAP submissions by confusing “Correction” with “Corrective Action” and “Preventive Action” with “Corrective Action.” Additionally, registrant firms may struggle with insufficient or unclear documentation, inadequate training on CAP processes, and ineffective root cause analysis. Inconsistent implementation across different departments and tight deadlines can further complicate the submission process.

this guide primarily serves as a component of the Engineers and Geoscientists BC compliance audit process, registrant firms may also find it invaluable as a reference whenever they encounter non conformances in their professional work. The guide, published on February 18, is available on Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Firm Audit Program webpage or by scanning the QR code.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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BCSEG putting pieces together toward full operations

The BC Society of Engineering and Geoscience (BCSEG) continues to make progress toward establishing full operations. Currently, BCSEG is focused on building its internal capacity, developing programming, and preparing to offer membership. Recent work has included: • introducing an Affinity program, which was transferred to BCSEG from Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Program offerings are currently available to Engineers and Geoscientists BC registrants and future BCSEG members; • completing the transfer of the Branch program from Engineers and Geoscientists BC. Currently, BCSEG is working with volunteers from across the province to establish a plan for events and ensuring visibility and engagement within the broader BCSEG community; • completing a program evaluation, which was used in combination with feedback from potential members to propose key focus areas and future initiatives; and • updating the BCSEG website, including more information on BCSEG’s brand and values. Following a thorough recruitment process, BCSEG is also preparing to welcome an executive director who will bring the necessary skills, energy, and passion

to ensure BCSEG’s success. An announcement is anticipated shortly. In the coming months, BCSEG is focused on finalizing and launching a website membership platform, an events platform, and a membership fee structure and campaign. Plans to initiate the transfer of the Career Advertising program from Engineers and Geoscientists BC to BCSEG are also in the works. BCSEG is an independent organization whose mission is to advocate for the engineering and geoscience community, amplify the voices of professionals, connect the professional community, and offer valued member services. Learn more at bcseg.ca .

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PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Newly published professional practice guidelines and advisories

Practice advisory: Diamond Drill Core Logging: Structure Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s practice advisory on Diamond Drill Core Logging: Structure establishes the expectations of professional practice related to logging geological structures as observed in diamond drill core for mineral exploration, mining projects, and related geotechnical engineering studies. Data inputs derived from diamond drill core logging are used to create subsurface geological and geomechanical models that inform mineral exploration, mining projects, and geotechnical engineering studies. It is essential that data are collected in an accurate, reliable, and consistent manner between professional registrants to ensure public safety and environmental protection. This practice advisory describes the expectations of professional registrants engaged in recording diamond drill hole collars, surveys, drill depths, core orientations, obtaining and recording minimum geotechnical data, and logging geological structures in diamond drill core to support mineral exploration, mining projects, and geotechnical engineering studies. This practice advisory should be used in conjunction with the CIM Mineral Exploration Best Practice Guidelines , the Mines Act , and the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in British Columbia .

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Upcoming webinars

Mandatory: Regulatory Learning Module for 2024-2025 Practising registrants must complete this mandatory Regulatory Learning module in the current reporting year (July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025). The course is available on-demand. This year’s module is focused on duty to report. The duty to report requires registrants who become aware of unsafe, illegal, or unethical practices, or risks of significant harm to the environment or to the health or safety of the public or a group of people to make a report to Engineers and Geoscientists BC. This requirement promotes public safety and builds and reinforces public confidence in the professions of engineering and geoscience.

Guidelines and advisories egbc.ca/Guidelines

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PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Professional practice inquiries

How can I appropriately provide remote direct supervision?

The Professional Practice article in the Winter 2024/25 Innovation issue discussed the requirements for registrants when conducting remote field reviews, noting the direct supervision requirements when field reviews are delegated. This article will focus more broadly on how registrants can appropriately provide direct supervision when delegating engineering and geoscience work in a remote context. The direct supervision requirements, outlined in section 7.3.8 of the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Bylaws, assist registrants in meeting their professional and ethical obligations, including public protection and environmental safeguarding. Direct supervision allows work to be delegated properly and appropriately. When done correctly, direct supervision allows registrants to utilize subordinates to assist them in getting their work done, while still being able to take full professional responsibility for that work. A subordinate is any individual who engages in the practice of engineering or geoscience under the direct supervision of an Engineers and Geoscientists BC registrant. The Guide to the Standard for Direct Supervision provides direction for registrants to adequately meet the direct supervision requirements; however, in a remote context there are additional considerations to contemplate. A key principle of direct supervision is the registrant’s ability to be aware of and remain actively involved in the work of any subordinates to whom work is delegated. This can be more difficult when someone is not working in the same office, city, or country as their subordinates. Therefore, before deciding if it is appropriate to delegate work, the registrant should assess whether the adequate degree of direct supervision can be maintained throughout the work cycle based on the requirements of the work and potential barriers that come with remote supervision. Ways to demonstrate appropriate remote supervision include: • Ensuring subordinates clearly understand the scope of work and what the boundaries and limitations of their involvement are.

• Providing clear expectations for when subordinates need to consult with the supervising professional before moving forward. • Reviewing and providing feedback on documents or design work at an appropriate interval. • Providing timely feedback and guidance. • Having frequent virtual meetings, phone calls, and/or email check-ins. The extent of direct supervision should be assessed on a case-by-case basis as it may vary depending on the level of experience of the subordinate and the complexity and level of risk of the work. Inexperienced subordinates may require more frequent check-ins and detailed reviews, and the ability to do this adequately in a remote context should be taken into account. Other considerations could include differing workday schedules and the degree of urgency with which direction or decisions may be required. The best way to demonstrate appropriate direct supervision has taken place, whether remote or otherwise, is through documented records of the communication between the registrant and their subordinate throughout the time of direct supervision. This could include emails, meeting minutes, records of phone conversations, and marked up worked products. If only a final review of the work is recorded, this does not meet the intent of direct supervision and is not sufficient. Firms can assist by including in their documented quality management procedure for delegating work to subordinates, specific requirements around how these obligations can be met and recorded for remote situations. Finally, activities that require a registrant to take overall responsibility for professional work, including document authentication, must not be delegated. For further inquiries and questions, please contact practiceadvisor@egbc.ca . Leane Holloway, GIT Practice Advisor

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CONTINUING EDUCATION Unsure what an eligible CE activity is? Here’s more clarity about achieving your CE Hours requirement

Ineligible CE activities An activity is considered ineligible if it does not help maintain or advance the skills and knowledge needed to perform an engineering or geoscience task or role to the recognized standard expected of a qualified professional. Activities can be considered ineligible if they fall under the following categories. Professional practice hours Activities conducted as part of the registrant’s regular job description do not meet the eligibility criteria to be counted towards the required 60 hours of learning. Examples of professional practice hours include: • Reviewing emails • An engineering consultant entering “consulting work” • A project manager entering “managing projects” • A university professor entering “lecturing” • A supervisor entering “reviewing work of staff” • A supervisor entering “mentorship” for providing supervision to their staff Activities unrelated to professional roles Hobbies and community service activities are not typically eligible for CE Hours because the lessons gleaned from these activities are not directly relevant to the registrant’s competency as a professional engineer or geoscientist. During individual compliance audits and while helping registrants with their Continuing Education (CE) Program reporting, Engineers and Geoscientists BC staff discovered some registrants were recording CE activities that were not eligible. Practising registrants are required to record 60 CE Hours in every three-year rolling period. It is the registrant’s responsibility to evaluate CE offerings and only record activities that meet all the eligibility criteria. During an Individual Compliance Audit or Practice Review, registrants may be asked to demonstrate how the activity is relevant to their practice and provide supporting documentation. WHAT YOU CANNOT USE FOR CE HOURS

However, what constitutes a valid CE activity may be unclear for some. “We recognize that June 30, 2024, was the end of the first three-year rolling period and registrants are still learning the nuances of this reporting model,” said Stuart Nash, P.Eng., Manager, Individual Audits and Practice with Engineers and Geoscientists BC. “It is critical that registrants take the time to understand the eligibility criteria for CE activities so they can properly complete their requirements.”

Examples of activities unrelated to professional roles include: • Coaching children’s sports teams • Volunteering at the community animal shelter • Taking a photography class • First aid training (except where first aid is part of the technical training required to perform the registrant’s professional role) Vague descriptions Registrants must also be specific about the learning activity that they completed when entering new activities into their CE Reporting System. Vague activity descriptions are not eligible and should not be entered. Being specific will also help registrants maintain better records and more easily recall supporting documents if they are requested by Engineers and Geoscientist BC. Here are some examples of vague descriptions and ways to correct them with proper detail: • Communications – could be taking Introduction to Professional Writing course • Leadership – could be conflict-resolution training • Research – could be preparing patent application • Self-directed study – could be reading 7 Habits of Highly Effective People • Volunteering – could be participating in Built Environment Advisory Group meetings

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

Professional or technical presentations, such as those offered at Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Annual Conference, can be used towards CE Hours. P hoto : W endy D P hotography

WHAT YOU CAN USE FOR CE HOURS

CE reporting reminders Review the CE Program page for a detailed list of requirements including a breakdown of requirements for new registrants and registrants who have reinstated practice rights. • Training activities, such as a professional development seminar, course, or workshop • Activities that expand the registrant’s knowledge, skills, and judgment Eligible CE activities Any learning activity can count towards CE Hours as long as it is relevant to the registrant’s area and industry of practice, will help maintain their skills or knowledge, and is outside of their day-to-day work duties. Examples of eligible CE activities include, but are not limited to:

• Activities that promote peer interaction and provide exposure to new ideas and technologies that enhance the profession and serve the public interest • Presentations of a technical or professional nature that are discretionary and outside the registrant’s normal job functions (multiple deliveries of the same presentation count as only one presentation) • Activities that expand or develop the technical knowledge base in the disciplines of engineering or geoscience

Review Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s CE Resources page for more examples of activities that can be used to fulfill CE Hours.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT Moein Manbachi, P.Eng. Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s Continuing Education (CE) program is always looking for qualified speakers who can provide valuable, interesting and relevant information for the practices of geoscience and engineering. With knowledge to share, registrants can be effective speakers. What’s involved? Are you ready? In the following Q&A, one of Engineers and Geoscientists BC’s speakers shares insights and tips to help you decide.

I also try to bring real-world examples and interactive discussions into sessions so the audience can relate to the content. I want to make sure the technical details are clear and that I’m connecting those dots between theory and practice effectively. Q How do you pick your topics? I look for areas where there is a knowledge gap or where new technologies or solutions are changing the overall landscape. For example, smart grid innovations, digital twins, sequential decisions, AI, advanced automation, and cybersecurity are topics that I think are changing the landscape in general. The goal is always to offer something recent and that’s not just interesting, but useful. Q What was a memorable experience from one of your presentations? I remember last year during the course on smart grid technologies that the audience was engaged. We had great conversations before and after the class around how these types of technologies are transforming the power and energy sector. The moment that really stood out was when a participant shared with me how the insight from the

Dr. Moein Manbachi, P. Eng., is one of the highest-rated speakers at CE events, where he speaks on a range of energy infrastructure topics. Manbachi is a project leader with the Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team (SMART) within the Centre for Applied Research and Innovation of BC Institute of Technology. Q What is the value of being involved in CE events? It’s not just about teaching — it’s about being part of a larger conversation in the engineering community. These events let me share the knowledge I’ve gained over the years working in academia and with the industry. They push me to stay current with the emerging technology solutions and trends. I see them as great opportunities to contribute to shaping the future of the industry while I also support the ongoing development of my peers. Q What’s your approach when you’re delivering your presentation ? It’s all about finding the balance between giving people solid, up-to-date knowledge, and making sure it’s delivered in a way that sparks that curiosity in their mind and invites them into conversations.

KNOWLEDGE CENTRE The Knowledge Centre hosts more than 100 on-demand recorded and self-directed courses for educational opportunities.

CALL FOR PRESENTERS Are you an expert in your field who would like to contribute to professional practice? Engineers and Geoscientists BC is seeking registrants to present on a variety of topics.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

A research project leader at BCIT, Dr. Manbachi, P.Eng., offers insights and tips for being an effective CE presenter. P hoto : S ubmitted

UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS Dr. Moein Manbachi, P.Eng., will be presenting on several energy infrastructure topics in the coming months. APRIL 25 Advanced Digital Substations: Elevating Protection, Automation, and Control in Modern Power Grid MAY 23 Virtual Power Plants (VPPs): Building Smart Energy Systems JUNE 13 Smart Cities: Harnessing Advanced Technologies for Sustainable and Resilient Cities

course helped them work better on a smart grid project at their own company. It’s a great feeling to see professionals walk away from a course feeling more confident, informed, and satisfied with what they’ve learned. Q What advice would you give to someone new to giving CE presentations? First, it’s important to be passionate and genuine about the topic because that energy will translate to the audience. The other thing is we need to listen to the people in the room because they have expertise in their own field and have valuable perspective to share that adds value to the session and to discussions. Finally, don’t stress out about being perfect. You will improve with each session as you refine your materials and delivery.

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS The Continuing Education (CE) Program is mandatory and applies to all registrants with practice rights. Participation in the CE Program is optional for Engineers-in-training, Geoscientists-in-training, Non-Practising, Retired, and Life Non-Practising registrants. By June 30 each year, registrants must complete CE requirements in their online reporting system and then submit their CE declaration in the annual reporting system.

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Just come on in and volunteer. Our profession is not going to go anywhere without it. Damineh Akhavan, P.Eng., FEC

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VOLUNTEERS Volunteering with Engineers and Geoscientists BC is more than just a noble endeavour; current and past volunteers attest it’s a journey that intertwines personal growth with community impact. Four of our valued volunteers explain how their experiences are not just about giving back; they’re about forging connections, sharing knowledge, and building a stronger, more resilient professional community. By Brian MacIver

Build skills and community Samuel Ndegwa, P.Eng., P.Geo., is currently a geotechnical engineer with Instratus Monitoring Limited. He also volunteers as a student campus presenter with Engineers and Geoscientists BC, where he speaks with students on the role the organization plays as a regulator and how to become a registered engineer. Ndegwa said he intentionally chose his volunteering experience to build better communication skills and a broader professional network while giving back to the engineering community. “Volunteering with Engineers and Geoscientists BC has always resonated with my personal and also professional values,” he said. “By volunteering, I aim to contribute to governance, the registrants, and knowledge sharing, all to uphold the high standards our industries are known for.” While he did expect to see growth in the areas he intentionally focused on, what surprised him about interacting with students was the impact some of them would make on him. The eagerness he encountered, in particular, reminded him of why he became an engineer in the first place: the continual drive towards improvement.

“As registrants, we sometimes take for granted that it’s a journey for someone to be where they are. The eagerness got my attention and gave me the nudge to continue to be better than what I am at the moment.” Other registrants approach their volunteering as a way to gain experiences that differ from their full time roles. That was a factor for Joshua Kelly, P.Eng., who serves on the Climate Change and Sustainability Advisory Group. As an engineering director at ICLEI Canada working on Climate Insight, a digital platform providing relevant, actionable data and information on building low-carbon, resilient housing and infrastructure, he mostly works on sustainability projects at the local level. His advisory group volunteering allows him to broaden his scope of work. At the time of joining the advisory group, “I was working for the City of Prince George on climate action, sustainability, and energy management,” Kelly said. “Being on this advisory group was another opportunity to deepen that area of practice and area of interest and support sustainability and climate action at the provincial level.”

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I’ve made or strengthened connections through the Engineers and Geoscientists BC volunteer activities... Josh Kelly, P.Eng.

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Another reason Kelly continues to volunteer with working groups is the plethora of opportunities to take on leadership roles. He said his time as chair of the Resources Subcommittee for the Sustainability Advisory group was one of the most cherished experiences of his volunteering. “The Resources Subcommittee was the volunteer body involved with the update to the sustainability guidelines.

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Working through the sustainability guidelines 2.0 and my involvement in leadership with that was probably one of the more memorable experiences so far with my volunteer activities,” he shared. Volunteering with some of the foremost engineers in the province has also opened up career paths for Kelly. “I’ve made or strengthened connections through the Engineers and Geoscientists BC volunteer activities that have helped me have career-related chats and bounce ideas off the different people from the advisory groups,” he added. “My most recent job change, someone from the advisory group flagged the posting for me.” Make an impact Volunteering can also help registrants make a larger lasting impact within and beyond the engineering and geoscience communities. Jaclyn Bowman, MEB, P.Eng., is an environmental engineer and team lead in the Water Resources Group at Stantec Consulting Ltd., working in the company’s Environmental Services Business Unit. She has a long-standing history of volunteering with Engineers and Geoscientists BC, having started volunteering with

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Look at the different opportunities that are available to you and decide what it is that you want to get out of it or learn about. Jaclyn Bowman, MEB, P.Eng.

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the former Division for the Advancement of Women in Engineering and Geoscience (DAWEG) in 2017. She currently serves on the Natural Hazards Advisory Group, a role that she noted helps make her a better resource for her clients. “That was one of my main motivations for working with the advisory group: to understand not only how Engineers and Geoscientists BC is applying changes, but also how ministries that I interact with in my job are interpreting and applying legislative and other changes.” Having an up-to-date understanding of upcoming regulatory changes, guidelines, and practice advisories allows her to better deliver projects for clients. Damineh Akhavan, P.Eng., FEC, is another long-tenured volunteer, having donated her time and expertise since 2008. Akhavan is a senior engineer at De Havilland Aircraft of Canada with more than 20 years of technical experience in the aerospace industry. She has been involved in the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Youth Outreach Program (through which she became the face of the National Engineering and Geoscience Month’s “Be Curious, Stay Curious” campaign), Academic examiners Examiners evaluate the academic qualifications of engineering and geoscience applicants who do not meet the academic requirements set out in the Professional Governance Act . Experience in academia and familiarity with Engineers Canada accreditation requirements and examination syllabi, and/or Geoscientists Canada Geoscience Knowledge and Experience Requirements (GKE) preferred. Competency assessors Assessors evaluate the experience of P.Eng., P.Geo., P.L.Eng. and P.L.Geo. applicants using the online competency assessment system.

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DAWEG, BC 30 by 30 Network Champions Group and the Foundation scholarship. Currently, she is on the Credentials Committee, as well as the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and Truth and Reconciliation (EDIT&R) Committee formed in early 2024.

CURRENT VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Registration Interview Panel Panel members evaluate the experience of P.Eng., P.Geo., P.L.Eng. and P.L.Geo. applicants using a virtual interview. To apply to any of these volunteer positions, or to see more opportunities, follow the QR code below.

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In addition to all the social, professional, and personal benefits there are to gain from volunteering with Engineers and Geoscientists BC, certain volunteering activities may be eligible for Continuing Education (CE) hours. For example, practice advisory group members like Jaclyn Bowman can claim CE hours for attending practice advisory meetings or reviewing materials related to the group’s terms of reference. She also noted how CE-eligible Engineers and Geoscientists BC volunteering opportunities help her balance her hectic schedule as a professional engineer with a young family. “For instance, the volunteer activity I’m a part of is approximately 20 hours of work a year, and I can fit it within my schedule even though I’m currently in a very busy time in my life right now.” For more information on what volunteer actitivies may qualify for eligible CE Hours, see article on page 14. Find your niche While taking on a new responsibility outside your usual role can sound daunting, volunteers suggest finding what works best for you. “Find your niche. Like anything else, Engineers and Geoscientists BC has diverse opportunities,” Ndegwa said. “So, always choose a role that aligns with your interests. For example, I chose to be a campus presenter because I could connect with more people while at the same time I could improve on my communication and also create a network.” That said, Ndegwa stressed volunteers should not always go where they feel most comfortable. “They should always be open to learning,” he said. “Stepping into a new role can feel daunting, but every challenge has its own opportunity to grow.” As Bowman said, “You don’t have to have 10 or 15 years of experience to do some of these things – you can still get really valuable experience out of it and meet a lot of interesting people and learn from other volunteers while making significant contributions.” VOLUNTEERING CAN LEAD TO CE HOURS

Her journey as a racialized immigrant woman in a male dominated aerospace industry greatly influenced her volunteering intentions, which have focused on youth and women outreach and empowerment. “I wish I had a mentor when I was younger,” she said. “I had to find my own way, make mistakes, but I really wish I had a mentor as a child or during my university studies, someone to come and say ‘Hey, don’t put yourself in a box. I know you love space, but there’s a world out there with many opportunities.’ I wish there was someone to guide me, so I try to be that person for others.” Akhavan met a young girl at a busy shopping mall recently and the girl quickly began firing questions about the engineering profession and how to become an astronaut. “I was tearing up as she spoke,” Akhavan said, “because I could see myself in her eyes. This one girl and that short interaction had made all my challenges and hard work worth it.” “I’ve been actually meeting them, the girl and the mom, and we go to the space centre together.” Akhavan continued. “This is the most rewarding part of volunteering. The awards and honours are exciting to look at, but the impact you make on others is priceless.”

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Stepping into a new role can feel daunting, but every challenge has its own opportunity to grow. Samuel Ndegwa, P.Eng., P.Geo.

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She advised registrants, “Look at the different opportunities that are available to you and decide what it is that you want to get out of it or learn about.” Kelly’s advice to those getting ready to start their volunteering is simple: Lean into the experience. “It’s cool to be on the advisory group just to be there,” he said, “but it helps your engagement and involvement if you pick one of those things and lean into it and be more involved than just a voting member at the meeting. You get out what you put in, so put in as much as you can and feel comfortable doing, because then you’ll get the most out.” Much like the advice she offers to children curious about a profession in the sciences, Akhavan reminded registrants to “Always remember to ask questions. Many people that you volunteer with would love to give back to the profession and teach you what they’ve learned along the way. So, make sure to always ask questions and learn from the opportunity.” Akhavan encouraged registrants still on the fence about donating their time and expertise to “Just come on in and volunteer. Our profession is not going to go anywhere without it.”

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