• Distinguished Lecturer Tour: From Lab to Marketplace: Bridging Academic Innovation & Photonics Entrepreneurship

    Room: MCLD 3038, Bldg: Hector J. MacLeod Building - MCLD, 2356 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/567452

    Abstract: Drawing on two decades of advancing diffractive optics, computational imaging, and nanofabrication, I share lessons from translating fundamental research into impactful technologies and startup ventures. This talk highlights the interplay between curiosity-driven discovery, interdisciplinary collaboration, and commercialization—showcasing how patents, spin-offs, and industry partnerships can amplify scientific impact. I will discuss strategies for building innovation-ready research teams, navigating technology transfer, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in students. Attendees will gain insights into balancing academic rigor with market realities, and how the next generation of engineers and scientists can leverage both to accelerate societal and technological progress. Room: MCLD 3038, Bldg: Hector J. MacLeod Building - MCLD, 2356 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/567452

  • AI in Action: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Innovators

    350 Legget Dr, Kanata, ON , Kanata, Ontario, Canada, K2K 3N1

    Join IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) Ottawa and IEEE Young Professionals for an engaging afternoon exploring the impact of Artificial Intelligence and the opportunities it creates for the next generation of innovators. The event will feature keynote presentations from industry leaders Sepideh Afsar Doost (AMD) and Fatemeh Banaeizadeh, PhD (CBSA), followed by an interactive Q&A and discussion. Participants will then have the opportunity to take part in an “Ask Engineers Anything” session, where additional mentors and engineers will join the keynote speakers for an open and informal discussion. The event will conclude with acknowledgements, a group photo, and a networking walk with Tech2Step in Kanata, providing attendees with an opportunity to connect with fellow engineers, students, young professionals, and industry mentors. Agenda: - 2:30 PM – Welcome & Introduction – by Maryam - 2:40 PM – Keynote Speaker: Sepideh Afsar Doost – AMD - 3:10 PM – Keynote Speaker: Fatemeh Banaeizadeh, PhD – CBSA - 3:40 PM - Ask Engineers Anything - 4:15 PM – Closing , Acknowledgements, Group Photo, Wine & Cheese break - 4:30 PM – Networking Walk with Tech2Step Location: Hub350, 350 Legget Drive, Kanata, Ottawa Date: Monday, September 28 Time: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM 350 Legget Dr, Kanata, ON , Kanata, Ontario, Canada, K2K 3N1