Mechanical engineers apply the fundamentals of science and math to create practical, useful solutions for a wide range of mechanical, thermal and biomedical systems and devices, from computer parts to power plants, from manufacturing systems to spacecraft.
This is a broad-based area of engineering, and graduates find work in almost every industrial sector, including high tech, aerospace, manufacturing, automotive, energy, biomedicine and consulting.
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A preview of your studies
Shannon Berry
Fourth year Mechanical Engineering and Computing Technology, Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship option
Outgoing SVP finance of ESS, incoming president of MESS, incoming treasurer of IEEE uOttawa Student Chapter, assistant director for OEC 2018 Organizing Committee
At the beginning of my first year, I began to get involved with multiple groups at uOttawa. I learned about many opportunities for involvement during the student clubs’ fair organized by the Faculty of Engineering during Welcome Week. I then signed up to become an engineering student ambassador, which introduced me to many new people, gave me opportunities to get involved and even lead to a job opportunity. In my first year, I became involved in many activities: I joined the Great Northern Concrete Toboggan Race (GNCT R) Team, began my involvement with the Engineering Student Society (ESS) and became a member of the Gee Gees’ dance team.
As a very shy person, I knew the best way for me to make friends was to get involved. I had a great time working with these groups in my first year, which encouraged me to continue exploring other extracurricular activities. Since then, I have held many roles, including senior VP finance for the ESS, VP social for the Mechanical Engineering Student Society (MESS), a captain for the GNCT R team, a member for both the organizing committee for the Professional Engineers of Ontario Student Conference (PEO-SC) and for the Ontario Engineering Competition (OEC). This year, I will be the president of MESS and the treasurer for the IEEE uOttawa Student Branch.
Being an engineering student can be very challenging but the relationships I’ve developed and the experiences I’ve had through my involvement have greatly contributed to my studies. And when I graduate, I will be getting much more than just a degree.
Jawwad Akbari
Fourth year, Mechanical Engineering, CO-OP
In my first year, I was fortunate to receive the Dean’s Merit Scholarship ($5,000) and the Admission Scholarship ($4,000). In third year, I participated in the UROP program and received $1,000. The scholarships that I have received during my studies have helped alleviate the financial burdens of university, which has allowed me to focus my attention on my studies and extracurricular activities. Out of all the universities I had applied to, uOttawa offered the most generous scholarships. This definitely contributed to my decision to come here, as the scholarships helped give my family and me peace of mind. Having a scholarship that is conditional on GPA also keeps you motivated to succeed academically.
I encourage all uOttawa students to apply and take advantage of as many scholarships and bursaries as possible. Even a small amount can really help. In addition, scholarships are not just given for academic excellence, but for athletic achievements, as well as community involvement. Therefore, getting involved in extracurricular activities is great. Not only will it make you eligible for more scholarships but you will have a more fulfilling university experience.
