Premier Doug Ford witnessed first-hand how provincial support is enabling Brock University to effectively address the needs of the community during a campus visit Wednesday, Aug. 21.

Ford spent the afternoon touring the University’s new Engineering and Science Design Studio which, made possible by a recent grant from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities’ Training and Equipment Renewal Fund, is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to prepare Brock’s Integrated Engineering students for careers in various rapidly evolving fields including artificial intelligence, big data, sustainable agriculture, transportation, green energy and more.

“State-of-the-art technology, like what is available in the Engineering and Design Studio, helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, which is essential in preparing students to tackle complex, real-world, multidisciplinary engineering projects,” said Arja Vainio-Mattila, Provost and Vice-President, Academic.

Brock began building its engineering programming in direct response to local and provincial demand, undertaking significant work since 2018 to establish its first major undergraduate program. The new Bachelor of Engineering in Integrated Engineering program is now set to welcome its first incoming class this September.

“This program not only addresses the demand for skilled engineers locally but also provides students with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in high-demand fields,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg. “It’s a significant step forward for both the University and the community.”

Rigg added that the University’s journey to establishing its Engineering program would not have been possible without government support.

“The funding and resources provided have been crucial in helping us respond to growing demand and in shaping a program that will equip our students to thrive in evolving industries,” she said.

This is not the first time Brock University has successfully responded to regional demand by creating specialized programs. More than two decades ago, Brock recognized the need to support the local grape and wine sector, leading to the creation of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) in 1996.

Since then, CCOVI has focused on research priorities of the Canadian grape and wine industry and the continuing educational and outreach services needs of that community. Through close collaboration with its local and national partners, CCOVI leverages research knowledge and technology to bolster the sector’s $11.6 billion economic impact nationwide.

“We aim to have a similar impact on local and national industry with the new Integrated Engineering program,” said Rigg, emphasizing the University’s ongoing commitment to addressing community needs, this time through the lens of technological and industrial advancement.

Both student interest and labour market demands were carefully considered in shaping Brock’s vision for Engineering, with regional growth considerations at the forefront. Because Integrated Engineering is project driven, students will be working directly with local companies to support their continued growth and success within the community.

“Brock University’s new Integrated Engineering program aligns directly with the evolving needs of businesses and industries in Niagara, ensuring that our region remains competitive in a rapidly changing economy,” said the Honourable Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries and Member of Provincial Parliament for Niagara West.

“I was thrilled to visit Brock University this week to see the incredible work being done by students and faculty across the campus,” said Ford. “From cutting-edge agricultural research to hands-on engineering programs, Brock is driving innovation and equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. We’re proud to partner with Brock as we work to continue building Ontario.”

The Premier’s visit also included a stop at CCOVI for a tour of the winery production floor, an in-depth look at research on invasive species and sustainable pest management, and an overview of the Clean Plant Program – the initial phase of the three-part Clean Agriculture for Sustainable Production (CASP) Field Infrastructure project, which also recently received funding from the provincial government.