"I am a strong believer that it is crucial to always take pride in your work, be thorough and pay attention to the details."
Joel Hunter
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- Grad year: 2020
- Program:
- Campus: Okanagan
After completing a diploma in mechanical engineering technology from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Joel Hunter knew that he had found an area of interest to pursue further. Joel went on to Camosun College, where he received an advanced diploma to bridge into an engineering degree. He completed his two final years of post-secondary education at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus.
Joel was a dedicated member of the Advanced Thermofluidic Laboratory (ATFL).
His work involved the prototyping of various gas detection devices, with his primary project involving the detection of aqueous hydrogen sulfide in sewers.
Joel often participated in presentations for industry partners and was a lead operator during two separate field-testing visits to a Vancouver facility. Joel was a leader in his laboratory and was often working with new undergrads to inspire and encourage future work on this project.
Undergraduate research completely changed Joel’s engineering education experience. By applying his knowledge to relevant engineering problems, he built the confidence that he felt was necessary to be ready to enter the workforce. This experience led to Joel receiving an EIT position immediately upon graduating.
What has made your time at UBC memorable?
There were two defining memories from UBCO: undergraduate research and the Engineering Capstone Project. Undergraduate research was a gratifying endeavour that connected me to an amazing community and helped develop my problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach. The Engineering Capstone Project required the application of fundamental concepts from many fields of engineering. This project both summarized my engineering studies and put the finishing touch on the five-year long journey.
One of the commonalities between these two memories are the people involved. In both cases the projects consisted of highly motivated and driven students who all held the project to a high priority. We had a diverse mix of skills and access to accomplished professors as leaders and mentors. These mentors displayed passion and dedication that we all desired to follow. It is immensely exciting and rewarding to work with a team of people who all have the same goals in mind.
Tell us about your experience in your program. What have you learned that is most valuable?
The most valuable skill that I have acquired through this program is the ability to process new information.
In essence, I have learned how to learn. This skill was not intentional but rather developed as a by-product of a commitment and care to my studies. I am a strong believer that it is crucial to always take pride in your work, be thorough and pay attention to the details. There were times throughout the degree where I questioned the practicality of the subject matter — and sure, in some cases I may never see or need this information again — but I approached these situations as an opportunity to hone my skills. The true test that my academic career prepared me for only begins after graduation.
What advice would you give a student entering your degree program?
Make sure that your heart is in it. If you are completely committed, have passion and determination, then you will manage the engineering degree just fine.
Also, I would have liked to become involved with undergraduate research earlier on in my studies at UBCO. I highly recommend it as a flexible and engaging medium to develop your engineering skills. Either through volunteering or a work-study position, there are many resources to further explore topics of interest with a hands-on approach. There is a strong graduate community to become a part of and much to be learned from the more experienced students. It is also a community of inspiring people with similar interests where life-long friends can be made.
Where do you find your inspiration?
My parents and brother have been strong supporters throughout my studies. I am always driven to make them proud. I have been surrounded by an inspiring group of friends who I admire for their thoughtfulness and creativity. I have also met many great people while working with my peers in this team-oriented discipline.
Working under Dr. Mina Hoorfar at the Advanced Thermofluidic Laboratory was nothing but inspiring. Her passion and dedication drove us to always go the extra mile. On one such occurrence, many late nights led up to a field-testing visit in order to finish the development of two gas detection prototypes. She stands strong behind her students and always has their backs. It has been a pleasure and I certainly look up to her as a mentor.
What are your future plans to make a difference in our world?
At some point in the future, I would like to come back to any of my three post-secondary schools (SAIT, Camosun College or UBCO) to speak to the students. Perhaps I will be able to offer guidance or answer questions. It would be an honour to pass on information to these future generations.
As a student, I valued the time I spent with professionals — whether that was during a keynote speech or a simple networking event.
The internet is continuously providing more and more information regarding the engineering profession; however, I find that there is something different and captivating about listening to someone speak in person.
