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Getting There

Interested in becoming an engineer or ENGBEAUT yourself? First of all, that’s awesome. Second, here is a ton of stuff that will give you an idea about what schools offer engineering programs, eng-university life, and different ways to approach engineering.

Engineering Scholarships

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So you’ve decided you want to become an engineer – what’s the next step? Looking at universities and colleges is a good bet, but all the fees attached can sometimes feel overwhelming. To help ease your fears, here are 5 scholarships that exist for helping Canadian high school students just like you pursue a STEM degree!

MPOWER Financing – Women in STEM Scholarship

Targeted at women who want to benefit society through the use of a STEM degree, to qualify you must be accepted to, or currently enrolled full time in a STEM program. The scholarship has 3 awards available, with a $3000 Grand Prize and two $1000 honourable mentions.

Website: https://www.mpowerfinancing.com/scholarships/women-in-stem/?utm_source=swe&utm_medium=link&utm_content=02%2F20%2F2019–scholarship

De Beers Group Scholarships for Canadian Women

These scholarships work to assist women, especially those from Indigenous communities, who are pursuing a future in STEM. They offer 4 $2,175 USD awards with preference given to Indigenous women from the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Northern Ontario, and Southern Alberta

Website: https://canada.debeersgroup.com/building-forever/scholarships-for-canadian-women

Linamar Scholarships for Women in Engineering and Business

The Linamar Scholarships for Women in Engineering and Business will support up to 10 female students entering HBA 1 with the intention of completing the dual degree program in Engineering and Ivey (BESc/HBA) with the following – Half the cost of tuition, Co-op at Linamar, and guaranteed employment upon graduation.

Website: https://www.eng.uwo.ca/women-in-engineering/linamar-scholarships.html

ORBA Scholarships

ORBA offers 4 different scholarships for students pursuing civil engineering at an Ontario college or university. They have two $2000 scholarships for current high school students who will be entering their first year of postsecondary education, and two for university students in their last year of study.

Website: https://orba.org/scholarships/

Toptal Scholarships for Women: Empowering Future Female Leaders to Change the World

This scholarship is open to women age 16 and over who are future leaders that want to change the world for the better. Aspiring engineers have won in the past, and 5 winners receive $10,000 and a one year long mentorship with a Toptal expert.

Website: https://www.toptal.com/scholarships-for-women#eligibility

Schulich Leadership Scholarships

Schulich Leadership Scholarships are one of the most sought after scholarships in Canada. The winning students receive $100,000 towards an engineering degree! One student per high school is able to be nominated, so it’s a good idea to talk to your guidance counselor if you’re interested.

Website: https://www.schulichleaders.com/#slide-top

Applying to a post secondary institution shouldn’t have to be scary, and this is just a starting point for the options available to you out there! Many schools have entrance scholarships based on your academic records and involvement, as well as a number of financial awards you can apply to on their websites. This is just the beginning!

Kickstart your love for Engineering!

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Are you an eager learner, ready to dive into the exciting world of engineering? The good news is it’s never too early to start learning, whether you’re in high school or grade school! There are tons of ways to pique your interest in engineering including various outside of school programs, activities, and games you can play from home. We have made a list of all of these things to help you get a head start.

Apps for Engineers

Apps make our lives convenient every day and help us access the world from our fingertips. Turboviewer is an amazing app for Apple (iOS) and Android users that is perfect for 2D and 3D modeling. This is awesome for anyone who has ever had a great idea for an invention, or someone who simply wants to play around with creating. If you are looking for something more laid back and game-based, Build a Bridge, might be for you. This app is a fun game where you can build and test your bridges in various situations and settings. It is perfect for having some downtime and still practicing your engineering skills. On the opposite side of the spectrum, if you are looking for something more useful and educational Learn Java may be for you. This app has small consumable lessons and engaging activities that will teach you Java script. It’s perfect for anyone looking to get a head start in their education.

Summer Engineering Programs

Summer camps are tons of fun with activities and games to fill your hot days with entertainment and new friends. However, these camps don’t always look the same. Universities and colleges offer a variety of camps including; music, film, drama, and engineering. For example, Ryerson University has Eureka, an annual summer camp designed to bring kids into the amazing world of STEM. Campers can expect to complete a series of crafts and activities every day that teaches them something new about engineering and science. Western University also has a series of STEM-related camps offered including; coding camp, STEAM camp, and maker camps. STEAM camps bring both worlds of creativity and STEM together to create some amazing activities, that show all the fun and innovation that can come from engineering.

In conclusion, there are tons of ways to start satisfying all of your initial curiosities around STEM. The best time to start learning more about STEM is now, no matter your age! Engineering is all about creativity and innovation and that can be accomplished by anyone who is passionate.

Programming… Explained

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Computers are running our world; they help us in school, connect us with our friends and family, and fit in our pockets! But what controls these amazing machines we use every day? Understanding the basics of what makes our computers function the way they do is powerful information. That is where the world of computer programming comes in. Simply put, computer programming is a way to instruct a computer to complete various tasks. Let’s break down this area of STEM a little more so we can understand how a major part of our world works.

The Basics

If we break down a computer, they can really only understand two types of data, on and off. Essentially this means when communicating with this type of technology we are relaying different combinations of on and off switches to result in different outcomes. Confused yet? This might be difficult to understand, but we have a lot more information to help you out.

The combination of on and off switches is known as binary code, which can be written using 1s and 0s. Binary code is grouped into bytes which are groups of 8 digits representing 8 transmitters (the collection of on and off switches).

However, writing code by using solely 1s and 0s is extremely inefficient and unrealistic, that is where coding languages come in. Different coding languages are essentially a set of rules on how code should be written and programmed. Some examples of different coding languages include; JavaScript, Python, HTML and Ruby– each language is designed to work for different purposes. For example, some are better suited to work for development, web design and even game design!

The Difference Between High-Level and Low-Level Programs

Low-level programming languages are closer to binary code and high-level programming languages are a lot less similar to binary code and much easier to work with typically. This means the high-level programming languages are closer to english, so they are easier to work with.  That is why most of the programming languages used by software engineers today are high-level.

How to Create a Command?

How do we take all of this information and turn it into real results? What does this process look like, and can anyone do it? Well the answer is creating a program/line of code to instruct a computer is fairly simple, and yes anyone can do it. In its essence, a code is simply a text file written in a given coding language. This means to write code all you need to do is write the code in a text editor like notepad, and save it to your computer. How you actually implement this line of code into your computer varies depending on the coding language you are working in. Some languages operate under a certain software that will implement the code, and some save a separate accompanying binary code file that your computer can directly run.

Fields that Involve Coding

Coding and computer programming may seem like a faraway and foreign practice, but coding is starting to influence and affect every industry. This includes fields outside of STEM such as art and design. A huge part of the art and design industry includes web design, and this, of course, goes hand in hand with coding. Software engineers and designers collaborate in order to make highly effective and aesthetic websites. This career clearly affects technology in a big way, so there is no surprise that coding is also a huge part of the healthcare industry. The technology and tools behind the health care system are often created and managed in collaboration with software engineers because they involve computers. Finance is also heavily affected by coders, which includes creating the websites in which people complete online banking.

There are so many possibilities when it comes to the beautifully complex world of coding and programming. Every field is evolving and moving the direction to need code. Computers control our future, which means coding will control our future in a big way. Do you want to be a part of that change?

Cosmetic Engineering

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There are no limits with a degree in engineering, instead there is only a multitude of possibilities. Engineering has so many different career paths, so that everyone can make a difference in a field they are passionate about. Some engineers want to use their education towards a creative industry, which is where cosmetic engineering comes in. That’s right, you can be a part of creating several beauty products with an engineering degree. Producing and manufacturing makeup products is a complex process that is very technical, which is why we need engineers. However, with all of this said, there is also a great deal of creativity at play to create a product that follows a cohesive story. A career in cosmetic engineering really does bridge the gap between creativity and technical skills.

Engineers in makeup?

Engineers are involved in developing, researching and creating makeup products. The reason behind this is there is a great deal of research that goes into creating these products since it affects the skin and health of everyone that uses it. Therefore the combination of chemicals and elements used in the product needs to be perfectly balanced and thought out. This process involves chemistry, which means chemical engineers will work with other chemists. Not only do the products need to be tested to be safe for use, but they also need to be crafted in a way that creates the outcome the cosmetics company/designers envisioned. This is where the creative application of engineering comes in. New techniques are tested and used at this stage to create cutting edge products.

How do you get there?

Does this sound like the perfect job for you? Do you live and breathe both creativity and STEM? The first step (like most careers in STEM) is getting a bachelor’s degree. The recommended degree for this career is chemical engineering. Through this degree you will take a deeper look at the process as well as developing materials and the impact of certain ingredients. After you get your bachelor’s degree you will need approximately 1-3 years of experience in product formulation. That doesn’t have to be cosmetic development in particular, it could even be in skin care, or other products.

The most important skill to gain from this work experience is the ability to manipulate different materials and chemicals to create a very specific product. While you are working it is always good to join a professional organization that can help you hone your skills. An example of this is The Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Even though this name includes the term “chemists” engineers are also welcomed, because they all work together in the industry. The advantages of joining, is you will have access to several networking opportunities and conferences, as well as presentations to help develop your professional skills. It is also a great thing to put on your resume to help you stand out when applying to jobs. Once you get your job in the cosmetic engineering industry you can expect to make roughly 78,000 dollars annually.

What soft skills do you need?

Soft skills are essential in every job. These are skills you learn outside of the classroom. These are the skills you use to work better with others and express yourself well. You will need excellent communication and teamwork skills for this career path, because you will 100% need to work with others. You will also need problem-solving skills because there are tons of issues that will surface in product development. Your end goal is to make products that are adaptable and suitable for multiple skin types, and this involves a lot of trial and error. Ultimately for this job you need to have a great rounded set of skills. Overall if you love getting creative and have a passion for makeup, cosmetic engineering may be perfect for you. The great thing about this career path is it shows how STEM has room for everyone! It also proves that joining the STEM community looks different for everyone. Cosmetic engineering is not an easy task, it needs talented, passionate and hardworking STEM leaders, and that leader could be you.

4 Resources for Learning at Home

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Normally we have spaces in which we do our best work. Whether those four walls are confined to your classroom at school, or maybe even your local library. Either way, certain environments have the right combination of factors, to make us work our absolute best. So what happens when we get home? It can be very hard to get any productive work done when we are surrounded by the distractions that come with our bedroom. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. There are tons of opportunities to satisfy your eager mind at home, and exercise your brain for free! So, next time you are tired of the ordinary check out these extraordinary learning resources we have listed!

Coursera

Post-secondary education is very expensive, that’s why it is very important to know you are picking the right school/course. The best part is, you do so much research for this without leaving your home! Well, Coursera is an online platform that makes all of this possible! This website allows users to sign up for free, and access a variety of courses from several Ivy League schools.

You can even specialize and take certain courses, to enhance your learning on a particular subject. This platform offers courses in all areas of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). An example is a course offered by Georgia Institute of Technology on this site called “Introduction to Engineering Mechanics”. Another great asset is that by completing courses you can earn certifications. Since anyone can do this, you can be putting yourself ahead of your classmates by having these under your belt! Coursera also combats procrastination and distraction by giving users a certain time limit to complete tasks and courses. This ultimately increases productivity and focus amongst their students.

Lynda

Lynda is an online library of sorts containing educational and tutorial based videos, meant to teach you various skills. The best part about Lynda is that each video is created by experts. That way you know you are getting the best information, and can learn from a great teacher! Lynda offers many of its services for free, so you don’t have to break the bank learning a new skill! Either your high school or even local library card will get your free access to this resource. Lynda has a lot of great STEM courses like “Engineering Management”. Lynda can also be accessible through mobile platforms which is great news for anyone on the go, or simply wanting to lounge while learning. That way you can be from the comfort of your own home when you explore and learn from these videos, at no cost!

Open Culture

Sometimes online learning can seem daunting or nearly impossible because we all have different learning needs. However, Open Culture tries to combat that issue by providing a multi-media solution to online courses! This website provides several ways to learn course material from home including, online streamable lessons, audiobooks, videos, and writing material. The reason behind this is to make sure that everyone has the very best chance of achieving and gaining skills online. Open Culture offers courses in almost every subject as well, making sure to include everyone in their online learning mission. They also have a variety of STEM classes including “Aircraft Systems Engineering”.

YouTube

That’s right an application you probably open for entertainment or for laughs, can also be very educational. YouTube has millions of videos created daily, and there are definitely a lot of educational options. For example, if you only have a small amount of time daily to dedicate to online learning, you can visit the Crash Course channel. This channel is designed to quickly teach and explain different topics to its audiences. It is perfect because these videos are bitesize keeping audiences watching the entirety of the video. You can also watch creators try various experiments and follow their steps, to recreate them from home. This can turn your kitchen into a science lab! The possibilities are truly endless with this platform, how you use it is ultimately up to you!

Overall, your education doesn’t have to stop when you leave school. Your bedroom or kitchen table can be just as productive of space as your desk! There are tons of very useful tools online that can assist you in exercising your brain no matter where you are. The question isn’t “can I learn from home?”, it’s “when do I want to start?”

Why Not Get Creative?

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Identifying as a “creative” means you can innovate, visualize ideas, make new things and overall seen the world differently. Engineering in particular needs more people who can innovate and create designs that help populations grow and thrive. This field is often associated with solely logic-based thinking, but an “outside of the box” perspective is just as important in the mindset of an engineer. Don’t let your creativity steer you away from a career in engineering, because this field depends on different perspectives and innovation. Behind every life-changing invention is a big imagination, and a great deal of creativity. The concept of innovation and creating new technology itself requires creativity. This outside of the box thinking has lead to the creation of medicine, cars, and electricity. Here are just a few examples of inventions that were a product of creative minds in engineering. 

Bullet trains are Japan’s high-speed trains that run at 200 miles per hour and are earthquake-proof. The idea of such a vehicle is ambitious and required the inventors to draw inspiration from the kingfisher bird to reduce the amount of noise it produced. The invention of this vehicle defied the rules and design of all previous trains. This example of outstanding problem solving and innovation never would have been possible without thinking outside of what was possible at the time. Looking to better the world, in ways that aren’t even possible yet, is essential in engineering.

An example we see in our homes is the bagless vacuum invented by James Dyson. James deconstructed the vacuum to research ways to prevent clogging and loss of suction. Creating a bagless vacuum was the solution, which changed the device forever. The bagless design prevented waste buildup in one central location. 

Since creativity is such a huge part of the job title, engineers often practice this skill inside and outside of their work. Engineers have admitted to playing games outside of work to specifically exercise this part of their brain. Problem-solving games help engineers see their work from a different perspective and implement their ideas more effectively. 

Engineers also practice the art of rapid prototyping, which is making many different versions of a device during the design process. This forces the engineer to imagine their original design differently with each version. Rapid prototyping is especially effective because in the end, there are several devices to compare/contrast and test. In fact, Dyson is known to have built 5127 prototypes before he came upon a successful one. 

Reverse engineering is also an excellent way to understand how something works and reimagine it. Reverse engineering is taking something apart and reassembling it. During this process engineers and everyday people alike, can learn more about each part of the device and how they all work together. Discovering how to change this device can also come across during this process. 

Being an engineer is all about the perfect balance of logical, and outside of the box thinking. Without both mindsets, designs will be lackluster or never exist. Therefore, we need more people to join this industry that see the world differently and can apply that talent to technology. This makes the stereotype of engineers not being creative, officially debunked! If you identify as a “creative” I encourage you to pursue a career in engineering, the world needs more fascinating minds like yours.