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In an era defined by rapid globalization and shifting geopolitical tides, academia can serve as a vital bridge linking countries, cultures, and innovation ecosystems. That role was on display in Hong Kong recently, where Queen’s joined seven other Canadian institutions at a unique gathering of engineering deans, set against the backdrop of evolving Sino-Canadian relations. The meeting highlighted the importance of academic diplomacy and the enduring global impact of Canadian engineering alumni.

The gathering celebrated the , a Canadian engineering tradition that symbolizes the ethical responsibilities and professional standards that engineers uphold throughout their careers.

Engineering deans from Queen’s, University of Ottawa, University of Regina, University of British Columbia, McMaster University, University of Waterloo, McGill University, and University of Toronto convened at the Canadian Engineering Asia-Pacific Conference to mark the centennial and reflect on how Canadian engineering education is evolving to meet the demands of a connected world while preserving time-tested traditions that define the profession. The event was supported by the Consul General of Canada in Hong Kong and Macau, underscoring the role of academic engagement in Canada’s broader international relationships.

“In 2019, Engineering Deans Canada adopted the Calgary Declaration on the Future of Engineering Education, calling on our profession to move beyond viewing engineers as simply utilitarian problem solvers,” said Kevin Deluzio, the dean of Smith Engineering, during a presentation at the event. “At Queen’s, we have taken a leadership role in advancing this vision through our ‘Engineering for Humanity’ approach, which embeds leadership, ethics, empathy, and societal impact at the core of how we educate future engineers. This commitment prepares our graduates to be engaged global citizens and resonates with the principles embodied by the Iron Ring.”

With more than 250 graduates in attendance, Queen’s alumni formed a strong presence at the gathering, reflecting the university’s long-standing engagement and impact in the region. Discussions focused on education and research, especially in fields shaped by large-scale infrastructure and emerging technologies, and on the value of international experiences, including student exchange, that expose students to different approaches to problem-solving and project design and help prepare graduates for global careers.

“Events like this highlight the vital role that global collaboration and cross-cultural exchange play in driving innovation and addressing complex challenges,” says Deluzio. “By connecting educators, industry leaders, and alumni across continents, we are building a stronger, more resilient engineering community prepared to make a positive impact worldwide.”