OSPE - The Voice - Fall 2013 - (Page 2)

VIEWPOINT MESSAGE FROM YOUR CHAIR As engineers, we have become accustomed to a familiar rallying cry from industry. We just can't find the skilled engineering resources we need, they say. There's a shortage of engineers. At OSPE, we have been scratching our heads about this for some time. A significant number of new engineering grads, internationally trained engineers and even experienced P.Engs have spoken to us about the challenges they face securing meaningful employment in their field. As the advocate for Ontario's engineers, OSPE has undertaken pioneering research to determine why this troubling gap persists. In this issue of The Voice, you will see what our investigation has revealed so far, as well as steps OSPE is taking to tackle this critical issue. Identifying issues, conducting research and developing solutions are vital steps in advocating effectively on behalf of the profession. The more we demonstrate to policy makers that OSPE is a trusted resource, the more they look to us for consultation before policy decisions are made. As you will see in this edition, the Government of Ontario is seeking OSPE's input on energy planning, public safety and other key issues. What engineers do not want is to have governments impose policy decisions upon us. This is one of the reasons OSPE advocated with Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) to implement mandatory continuing professional development (CPD) for Ontario's practising engineers. 2 TheVoice Fall 2013 OSPE is pleased that PEO has referred our recommendations to its Professional Standards Committee to develop a CPD program for Ontario engineers. Besides providing policy input, OSPE is continuing to collaborate with PEO on several fronts, from Chapter barbecue events over the summer to technical talks to the upcoming OPEA Gala. I look forward, in particular, to continuing our work with PEO Chapters to provide even more local programming in 2014. I am also very grateful to PEO President Annette Bergeron, P.Eng., for giving me my first job as a cover model! (See Page 4.) In all seriousness, her willingness to share her moment in the Engineering Dimensions spotlight with me testifies to our shared commitment to strengthening the relationship between our organizations. Clearly we are on the right track. Over the past few months, we have seen an increase in membership. In other words, more engineers are supporting the profession by joining OSPE. On behalf of OSPE and our Board of Directors, I thank you, our members, for your continued support. Paul Acchione, P.Eng. President and Chair

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of OSPE - The Voice - Fall 2013

OSPE - The Voice - Fall 2013
Contents
Viewpoint
Newsbytes
Engineers of Influence/WEAC Fall Forum
OSPE-PEO Chapter BBQs
Tom Anselmi, P.Eng.
Profile: Bill and Bob Goodings
The 66th Annual Professional Engineers Awards Gala
Now Hiring Engineers?
Preparing New Grads for Employment
Canada’s Engineering Labour Market
Point & Counterpoint
Tackling Transit
OSPE Political Action Network in Full Swing
Energy Planning
Elliot Lake Inquiry
Intellectual Property
Learn, Develop, Grow Your Career
Grow Your Engineering Team

OSPE - The Voice - Fall 2013