The MIE Showcase Event was a resounding success, marked by a series of inspiring keynote addresses, insightful presentations, and a celebratory awards ceremony.
In a rousing start to the MIE Showcase Event, the Dean of the College of Engineering, Dr. Ronald Harichandran delivered a captivating welcome speech that set an enthusiastic tone for the day. Emphasizing the event’s significance, the dean highlighted the college’s commitment to innovation and academic excellence, including the importance of research in the academic journey.
Attendees were left invigorated, reflecting on the dean’s message about the transformative power of engineering and the importance of fostering a spirit of discovery and innovation.
In a keynote address that underscored the spirit of achievement and collaboration, Dr. Kagya Amoako, provided an enlightening overview of the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE) department’s recent successes.
He began by highlighting the significant milestones of the MIE department, notably the launch of the new MIE website. This platform, he explained, represents a significant step forward in showcasing the department’s activities and connecting with a broader audience. He extended his gratitude to various individuals who have been instrumental in the department’s journey. This included gratitude towards the dean, students, guest speakers, and the entire department for their relentless dedication and contributions.
Dr. Amoako proudly mentioned that this showcase event was a first for the department, marking a new tradition of celebrating and sharing their work with a wider community. Emphasizing the department’s research areas, he spoke of the hands-on work that students engage in, nurturing practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. He commended the remarkable achievements of the students throughout 2023, showcasing the department’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
Another highlight was the introduction of the MIE Newsletter. This new initiative aims to keep stakeholders updated on departmental news, events, and achievements, fostering a sense of community and ongoing engagement.
Dr. Amoako concluded his speech by warmly welcoming everyone to the showcase, encouraging attendees to engage with the presentations and celebrate the collective accomplishments of the MIE community.
At the heart of the MIE Showcase Event were two illuminating keynote speeches by esteemed speakers, Ms. Magdalena Garcia and Mr. Joseph Leveillee, each bringing unique insights into the fields of industrial and mechanical engineering.
Magdalena, a renowned figure in industrial engineering, delivered an insightful talk on the “Role of Industrial Engineer in Modern Corporation.” Her presentation delved into how industrial engineers are pivotal in shaping the efficiencies and innovations within contemporary corporations. She emphasized the evolving role of these engineers in integrating technology, optimizing operations, and spearheading sustainable practices, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities faced in today’s corporate and industrial landscape.
Joe, an illustrious alumnus of the University of New Haven (UNH), captivated the audience with his speech on “Mechanical Engineering at UNH – What Does Success Look Like?” His talk was a blend of nostalgia, personal experiences, and professional insights. Joe explored the key factors that contribute to a successful career in mechanical engineering, drawing from his journey since graduating from UNH. He highlighted the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and innovation, illustrating how UNH’s program equips students with the necessary skills and mindset to excel in a rapidly evolving field.
Poster Presentations: The poster presentations were a highlight, showcasing the creative and analytical talents of the students. Each poster was a window into the diverse research interests within the MIE department, covering topics ranging from the impact of consumer panic buying and stockpiling on supply chain performance, to revolutionizing industrial waste treatment: oxygen separation and ozone integration. The students demonstrated their ability to tackle complex engineering problems with innovative approaches, effectively communicating their findings and methodologies. The visual appeal and detailed content of these posters drew in a large number of attendees, sparking engaging discussions and exchange of ideas.
Oral Presentations: Complementing the poster sessions, several students took the stage to deliver oral presentations. These presentations delved deeper into specific research projects, offering insights into the processes and outcomes of their work. The speakers displayed confidence and depth of knowledge, engaging the audience with their persuasive and well-structured arguments. Topics discussed included the reinforcement learning approach to evaluation and decision support of lockdown policies for epidemic outbreaks and the application of agent-based simulation and game theory in evaluating the implementation of whole genomic sequencing in treating lung cancer. The oral presentations not only highlighted the students’ research skills but also their ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and compellingly.
Together, these presentations underscored the dynamic and forward-thinking environment of the MIE department, with students at the forefront of pushing academic and practical boundaries in engineering.
The MIE Showcase event culminated in a much-anticipated awards ceremony, a fitting tribute to the exceptional talents and achievements in the department. The ceremony not only served as a recognition of individual achievements but also as an inspiration to all attendees, reinforcing the values of excellence, innovation, and dedication that the MIE department champions.
The event concluded on a high note, leaving participants and attendees with a sense of pride and motivation, looking forward to another year of groundbreaking work and achievements.
