Dalhousie University Shines at the IISE Canadian Student Conference
Attending the 42nd Annual Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) Canadian Student Conference at Université Laval was an unforgettable experience for our Dalhousie University team of 25 students. With nine universities and over 400 participants competing in technical, academic, and non-technical challenges, the conference was an exciting test of problem-solving, teamwork, and engineering skills.
The event was packed with keynote speeches, workshops, networking sessions, and intense competitions, all aimed at fostering innovation and collaboration among the next generation of industrial engineers. While the competition was tough, Dalhousie made a strong impact, bringing home a 1st place victory in the Film (Video) Competition, a moment that filled our entire team with pride.
One of the most exciting parts of the conference was the variety of competitions that tested different aspects of industrial engineering. Our team participated in multiple events, tackling challenges that required creativity, technical knowledge, and strategic thinking. The most thrilling moment came when Dalhousie was announced as the first-place winner in the Film Competition, earning a perfect 5/5 score. This achievement showcased our ability to think outside the box, collaborate effectively, and present engineering concepts in a compelling way.
Although we placed 7th overall, we had strong showings in several categories, including the Technical Paper Presentation, where we scored 4.5 out of 15, demonstrating our ability to research and present complex engineering topics. The Theoretical Exam tested our knowledge of industrial engineering principles, where we earned 1.5 out of 15. Other categories, such as the Case Study and Simulation, were challenging, but they provided valuable learning experiences that will help us improve for future competitions.
Beyond the competition, the conference was an incredible opportunity for networking and professional development. We attended workshops led by industry leaders, participated in panel discussions about the future of industrial engineering, and had the chance to connect with recruiters from top companies. Engaging with professionals in the field gave us a deeper understanding of real-world engineering challenges and exposed us to cutting-edge industry trends that we might not encounter in a classroom setting.
Perhaps the most rewarding part of the event was the bonding experience among our Dalhousie team. Competing together, brainstorming solutions, and supporting each other throughout the competition created a sense of camaraderie that strengthened our friendships. Late-night strategizing sessions, team celebrations, and exploring Quebec City together made the experience even more memorable. The connections we built during the conference, both within our team and with students from other universities, will last far beyond the event itself.
Reflecting on the experience, the IISE Canadian Student Conference was not just about competition but about growth, learning, and teamwork. Winning first place in the Film Competition was a proud moment for our team, but the skills we gained and the experiences we shared were just as valuable. This conference reinforced our passion for industrial engineering and provided inspiration for future challenges.
With this experience in hand, we are already looking forward to next year’s competition, where we hope to push our teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and technical skills even further. Dalhousie is ready for the next challenge, and we are determined to come back stronger than ever.