The University of British Columbia

Alumni and members of industry play a significant role at ECE. Our Department’s success is based on meaningful contributions toward improving society through pioneering research and transformative learning experiences. This success is made possible through the strength of our relationships with individuals and organizations within and beyond the University.

There are a number of ways for alumni and members of industry to become directly involved with our students. I would like to invite you to share your knowledge and experience with our students.

Co-op work terms are a tremendously valuable part of our undergraduate education. We would like to increase the number of students that obtain Co-op industry experience prior to graduation so consider joining UBC’s Engineering Co-op Program. Our students are available for 4, 8, 12 or 16 month co-op work terms. The Engineering Co-op Office can help you find a student that will be an asset to your company. For more information on the program, please email eng [dot] coop [at] ubc [dot] ca or phone 604-822-3022.

In their final year, our undergraduates demonstrate their professional competencies through a Capstone Project in which they address an engineering challenge in industry or research. The student works closely with a client/supervisor in all the stages of project development (including requirements identification, solution design, implementation, and testing). The Department encourages Capstone Projects initiated by our industrial partners as they benefit everybody involved, especially our students; if you have a technical issue that would be suitable for senior students to resolve, please contact Dr. Philippe Kruchten to discuss the possibilities.

New Ventures Design is an alternative capstone project course that enables students in engineering and business to design and create a new product or service. These enterprising students need industry mentors who have created their own companies and are willing to chat with some of our teams. Please contact Dr. Philippe Kruchten for more information in how to get involved with New Ventures Design.

ECE hosts many events throughout the year that allow our alumni and industry partners to learn more about the great work our students are doing. The events are an opportunity to for you to provide valuable feedback to the students. You are welcome to join us at any of the competitions or project fairs our students host each semester. Event dates can be found on our calendar.

ECE’s diverse research community offers many exciting ways for you to become involved with the department. Our collaborative relationships with external partners continue to evolve and grow, supporting discovery and resulting in patents, inventions and significant societal contributions. If you have any questions about how to work with the department please contact Dr. André Ivanov.