From vineyards to virtual prototypes, Brock University’s research strengths were on full display as Universities Canada President Gabriel Miller toured two of its flagship institutes.

Miller joined Brock President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg on guided visits to the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) and the Brock-Niagara Validation, Prototyping and Manufacturing Institute (VPMI) on Friday, Sept. 12.

At CCOVI, Miller was welcomed by Director Debbie Inglis, who highlighted the institute’s role as a national leader in grape and wine research, education and outreach.

She explained how CCOVI focuses on advancing Canada’s grape and wine industry and supporting cool-climate producers through research, innovation and training.

At VPMI, Business Director Ivano Labricciosa led a tour of the technology adoption centre, which supports applied research, prototyping and innovation in health, bioscience, agriculture and environmental technology.

Opened in 2023 with federal funding, the facility provides companies with access to advanced lab capabilities, skilled talent and opportunities for collaboration with Brock researchers.

During the visit, Miller also learned about Rowing Precision, a startup launched by a Brock graduate and student researchers that is developing advanced sport performance technology with support from VPMI’s Idea Factory.