Team Index

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Any stage of the project is the right time to reach out.

Have you found yourself staring at the whiteboard, wondering, ‘How are we going to do this?’ or sitting around the boardroom table trying to find a way to scale your idea and make it profitable? Get in touch and find out how team IDEAWORKS can make your initiative happen without overloading your team, resources or time.

Professional Headshot of Jeff McIsaac

Dean of Applied Research

Jeffrey McIsaac

As Dean of Applied Research at Mohawk College, Jeffrey McIsaac provides leadership in managing all applied research initiatives. His vision for IDEAWORKS is to foster a dynamic community of research experts dedicated to advancing new knowledge, supporting economic growth in Canada, and enhancing societal well-being. Jeff also holds the role of Dean of Engineering Technology and Aviation in addition to this role. 

Jeffrey McIsaac was appointed as the Dean of Engineering Technology in 2023. Jeff was previously the Dean of Applied Research for three years and, before that, worked as the General Manager of the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre. Prior to joining Mohawk College in 2016, Jeff founded two start-up companies, advising five more, and spent five years as a Senior Manager at Deloitte. Jeff holds an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science and a Masters of Applied Science from the University of Waterloo, with specializations in materials science and metallurgy. He also holds two patents for microelectronics materials.

Connect with Jeffrey

Finance and Operations Team

Our Finance and Operations team support the project activities of all of our research areas, supporting the development of project budgets, collaboration agreements and project reporting. 
Mohawk Ideaworks

Sarah Dimick

Director, Applied Research Operations
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jennifer Gascho

Financial Operations Coordinator
Mohawk Ideaworks

Parth Panchal

Financial Operations Coordinator, Applied Research Operations
Mohawk Ideaworks

Anna Pineda

Operations Manager, Applied Research Operations

Business Development and Project Support Team

Our business development and project support team works hand-in-hand with our research experts to ensure your project's success.
Mohawk Ideaworks

Sherif Abdou

General Manager
Business Development
Acting General Manager
m-Health & e-Health Digital Innovation Centre
Mohawk Ideaworks

Andrea Johnson

General Manager, Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives
Mohawk Ideaworks

Julie Florio

Manager, Research Chair Initiatives
Mohawk Ideaworks

Gregor MacLean

Manager, Funding Proposals
Mohawk Ideaworks

Shrishti Sundaram

Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach
Mohawk Ideaworks

Mark McCorkle

Funding and Grant Development Specialist

Team Directory

Mohawk Ideaworks

Majlinda Qarri

Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology
Mohawk Ideaworks

Pal Patel

Software Developer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Maria Jose Leon Amaya

Program Manager, Healthcare Robotics
Mohawk Ideaworks

Rebecca Ellis

Mohawk Ideaworks

Victoria Coffin

Acting Manager, Bay Area Climate Change Council
Mohawk Ideaworks

Sherif Abdou

General Manager
Business Development
Acting General Manager
m-Health & e-Health Digital Innovation Centre
Mohawk Ideaworks

Stephen Adams

Professor, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation
Mohawk Ideaworks

Irene Amog

Professor, School of Engineering Technology & Aviation
Mohawk Ideaworks

Maanas Arora

Team Lead, Fullstack Development
Mohawk Ideaworks

Mariano Arriaga

General Manager, Energy and Power Innovation Centre
Mohawk Ideaworks

Dr. Amin Azmoodeh

Professor of AI Applied Research and Coordinator of the Applied AI Program
Mohawk Ideaworks

Mesut Baltaci

Fullstack Developer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Rutul Bhavasr

Industrial Communications Programmer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Gordon Bond

Solutions Architect
Mohawk Ideaworks

Christine Boyko-Head

Professor, School of Liberal Studies
Mohawk Ideaworks

David Brack

IoT and Sensor Systems Technologist
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jen Burton

Professor, School of Health and Community Services
Mohawk Ideaworks

Ryan Capobianco

Project Lead - Cleantech and SME Solutions
Mohawk Ideaworks

Gabriel Casciano

IoT Development Manager
Mohawk Ideaworks

Beau Cranston

Fullstack Developer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Simon Coulson

General Manager, Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre
Mohawk Ideaworks

Tony Cupido

Gina Fraser Chair in Skilled Trades for the Green Economy, School of Climate Change Action
Mohawk Ideaworks

Erica Daly

Business and Project Manager, EPIC
Mohawk Ideaworks

Sarah Dimick

Director, Applied Research Operations
Mohawk Ideaworks

Colton Donald

Mohawk Ideaworks

Krissy Doyle-Thomas

Professor, School of Health and Community Services
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jesse Elders

Manager, Bay Area Climate Change Council (On Leave)
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jessica Lamers

Operations and Networking Team
Mohawk Ideaworks

Shefaza Esmail

Project Manager, SME Solutions
Mohawk Ideaworks

Andrea Johnson

General Manager, Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives
Mohawk Ideaworks

Julie Florio

Manager, Research Chair Initiatives
Mohawk Ideaworks

Katherine Flynn

General Manager, Centre for Climate Change Management
Mohawk Ideaworks

Ashley Fry-O’Rourke

Professor, Practical Nursing
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jennifer Gascho

Financial Operations Coordinator
Mohawk Ideaworks

Laura Graham

Administrative Assistant
Mohawk Ideaworks

Earl Harroun

Lead, DevOps Team (On Leave)
Mohawk Ideaworks

Ension Kudakwashe Wamambo

Mohawk Ideaworks

Tiffany Leighton

Professor of Biotechnolgy, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation
Mohawk Ideaworks

Gregor MacLean

Manager, Funding Proposals
Mohawk Ideaworks

Gustavo Marcano Valero

Fullstack Developer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Shrishti Sundaram

Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach
Mohawk Ideaworks

Mark McCorkle

Funding and Grant Development Specialist
Mohawk Ideaworks

Patrick McInnis

Electrical Systems Specialist
Mohawk Ideaworks

Fergus McKee

Manager, Digital Health Projects
Mohawk Ideaworks

Julia McLeod

Program Coordinator, Bay Area Climate Change Council
Mohawk Ideaworks

Nasim Mohammad

Professor, Mathematics & Statistics
Mohawk Ideaworks

Jay Mycroft

Chemist
Mohawk Ideaworks

Parth Panchal

Financial Operations Coordinator, Applied Research Operations
Mohawk Ideaworks

Anna Pineda

Operations Manager, Applied Research Operations
Mohawk Ideaworks

Cameron Redsell-Montgomery

Mohawk Ideaworks

Matthew Shelley

Professor, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation
Mohawk Ideaworks

Lyndsay Simmons

Professor & Coordinator Mohawk College / PhD Candidate McMaster University
Mohawk Ideaworks

Alex Slessor

Fullstack Developer
Mohawk Ideaworks

Tyler Sowden

Technologist, Unmanned and Remote Sensing Innovation Centre, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation
Mohawk Ideaworks

Nico Strabac

Project Lead, Centre for Climate Change Management
Mohawk Ideaworks

Babitha Thampinathan

Professor, School of Health and Community Services
Mohawk Ideaworks

Laura Thomas

Associate Dean Medical Imaging Academic Director CIAMI
Mohawk Ideaworks

Saeed Toosizadeh

Professor at McMaster University & Mohawk College; CEO at Pardic; CTO at Startup Wiz
Mohawk Ideaworks

Justin Valenti

Manager, Research Projects
Mohawk Ideaworks

Emily Vis

Manager, Industry Partnerships
Mohawk Ideaworks

Alex Watson

Team Lead, Fullstack Development

We Help Organizations
Who Have Hit a Wall.

Our business-first approach means we focus on your success, finding solutions even when you don’t know which direction to go in. By delving into your organization’s most significant challenges, we provide invaluable insights and solutions across multiple areas of focus, equipment sets and expertise that drive innovation.

Sherif Abdou and other researchers collaborating in a lab at Mohawk College

Ready to get started?

Book a meeting with the IDEAWORKS client success team and connect with our experts about your organization or project.

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Professional Headshot of Sarah Dimick

Sarah Dimick

Director, Applied Research Operations

Sarah Dimick is the Director of Applied Research Operations at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. Sarah provides strategic oversight for Ideaworks operational planning, budget and project management and communications, working across all Ideaworks applied research centres to assure quality, regulatory compliance and financial sustainability.

Prior to Mohawk College Sarah served as Project Manager for the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI) at Niagara College, responsible for network operations and program management.

Sarah has extensive experience at the intersection of analytics, innovation, information services and public policy as Director of Research rel8ed.to, a data analytics firm, and at the Conference Board of Canada within the Technology and Innovation group.

She holds a bachelor’s degree (Law and Political Science) and a master’s degree in legal studies, both from Carleton University in Ottawa and has earned her designation as Project Management Professional (PMP).

In addition, Sarah currently sits on the Board of Directors of the St. Catharines Public Library as the Vice-Chair and has contributed as Committee Member and Speaker for past Niagara Leadership Summits for Women.

Jennifer Gascho

Jennifer Gascho

Financial Operations Coordinator

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Mohawk Ideaworks

Parth Panchal

Financial Operations Coordinator, Applied Research Operations

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Anna Pineda

Anna Pineda

Operations Manager, Applied Research Operations

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Sherif Abdou

Sherif Abdou

General Manager
Business Development
Acting General Manager
m-Health & e-Health Digital Innovation Centre

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Andrea Johnson

Andrea Johnson

General Manager, Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives

Andrea Johnson is the General Manager for the Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. She has been a member of the IDEAWORKS team since 2015. In her current role, she introduces faculty, staff, and students to applied research and oversees research activities in unmanned and remote sensing, materials testing, biotechnology, AI, and healthcare technology. Her portfolio also includes the Applied Research 101 series, that she created and launched in 2022, and well as the IDEAWORKS Catalyst Fund, that she has been managing since 2015.

Andrea holds an MA in Higher and Post-Secondary Administration from Colombia University-Teachers College (NYC, NY), a BA in English Literature from McGill University (Montreal) as well as certificates in Business Design Thinking (Rotman, University of Toronto), Entrepreneurial Mindset and Leadership (Babson College/edX), Corporate Communications (Humber), and Scientific Knowledge Translation (University of Toronto/Sick Kids Hospital). She is a Certified Practitioner of the Entrepreneurial Mindset Profile.

Mohawk Ideaworks

Julie Florio

Manager, Research Chair Initiatives

A skilled manager, project leader and communicator, Julie thrives on delivering impactful solutions for complex challenges. With an impressive record of accomplishment at Mohawk College, Julie has managed over 20 Applied Research projects, co-authored several research and investment fund submissions, led teams in the development and launch of institutional policy, employee tools, templates and resources, and devised communications and training resources on several subjects.   

Previously within the Ontario Government, Julie led numerous projects and initiatives within the Ministries of the Attorney General, Government Services, Culture, and Treasury Board Secretariat. Julie has an interdisciplinary background, graduating from both the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, and believes strongly in new ideas, creative collaboration, and fostering strong communities. 

Professional Headshot of Gregor MacLean.

Gregor MacLean

Manager, Funding Proposals

Gregor MacLean, Manager of Funding Proposals, has led IDEAWORKS in securing over $20 million in federal, provincial, and private sector R&D funding. He helps all IDEAWORKS teams secure funding, ranging from $25,000 for single-partner short-term projects to $3 million for equipment or long-term R&D and innovation service portfolios.  Gregor collaborates with our innovation centres and their partners to identify strategic funding opportunities and provides guidance and input through each step of the funding process. He has supported successful funding proposals across various sectors including heavy manufacturing, electricity distribution systems, mechanical engineering and metals additive manufacturing, medical software, alternative energy storage and distribution, and many more.  

Before working at Mohawk College IDEAWORKS, he worked at Niagara College Research & Innovation, where he was the Program Manager for a portfolio of agriculture, greenhouse and environmental technology R&D. He has worked in the private sector in energy efficiency and conservation program development and delivery and environmental due diligence consulting. Gregor utilizes his wide range of R&D, and industry experience to support IDEAWORKS’ diverse portfolio of partners and achieve funder goals.

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Professional Headshot of Shrishti Sundaram.

Shrishti Sundaram

Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach

Shrishti Sundaram is a strategic communications and events leader currently serving as Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. In this role, she leads high-impact events, outreach campaigns, and cross-sector initiatives that strengthen Mohawk’s applied research presence and deepen industry and community partnerships.

With a background in marketing, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement, she brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to advancing institutional goals through storytelling, campaign planning, and relationship-building. Her expertise spans communications strategy, content development, and team mentorship.

Passionate about inclusive innovation, she promotes equity-informed engagement strategies and supports capacity-building through mentorship and knowledge-sharing. She holds postgraduate diplomas in Social Media Management and Creative Communication (Advertising), along with a Bachelor’s in Marketing.

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Professional Headshot of Mark McCorkle.

Mark McCorkle

Funding and Grant Development Specialist

Mark McCorkle is a Funding and Grant Development Specialist, where he brings his experience in research funding and grant writing to secure funding for Mohawk College’s applied research projects. He holds a Ph.D. in Musicology from Western University (2023). His dissertation research explored the intersection of music and geography with an investigation of historical jazz clubs and heritage spaces in jazz culture. During his graduate studies, Mark worked on numerous successful grant applications, helping to secure a combined $3 million for research and knowledge dissemination in the humanities. For his dissertation research, Mark won grants and scholarships from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), and Western’s School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. 

In addition to experience in funding and grant development, Mark has a background in education and post-secondary teaching and learning. Before coming to Mohawk College, Mark taught music history as an Assistant Professor at Western University. He joined Mohawk College in August 2024 as a program lead in the Learning Support Centre, running the college’s Peer Assisted Study Sessions program. Mark has two forthcoming publications on post-secondary pedagogy and has completed a Certificate in Student Services and Affairs from George Brown College.  

Mark holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Musicology from Western University and a B.Mus. from the University of Windsor.  

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Professional Headshot of Majlinda Qarri.

Majlinda Qarri

Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

Dr. Majlinda Qarri, a faculty member in the Electrical and Energy Systems Engineering Technology program, collaborates closely with EPIC on applied research in power systems—particularly in her area of expertise: protection and control. She contributes to technical case studies on power quality and protection and control, and supports training initiatives with Ontario Power Generation through applying her pedagogical expertise. In addition to her research, Dr. Qarri mentors students in applied research courses focused on industry-driven projects and teaches core subjects including power systems, power protection, and hybrid electric technologies.  

Dr. Qarri holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering (Polytechnic University of Tirana) and brings a deep commitment to bridging academic learning with real-world energy sector challenges.  

Passionate about outreach, she has led hands-on renewable energy workshops for high and middle school students and delivered guest lectures on grid integration of renewables for Women in Trades and Technology events.  

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Professional Headshot of Pal Patel.

Pal Patel

Software Developer

As a Software Developer at EPIC, Pal supports the development of digital tools that enhance project delivery, data management, and decision-making across community-focused initiatives. Her work involves building and maintaining web applications, automating workflows, and contributing to technical solutions that meet diverse user needs.  

Pal’s expertise is grounded in full-stack development, with a strong foundation in React, Node.js, PostgreSQL, and AWS cloud services. She is also expanding her skills in data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, with a growing interest in applying predictive analytics and intelligent automation to real-world challenges. Her experience includes building scalable backend systems, intuitive frontend interfaces, and working with APIs and cloud-based infrastructure.  

She holds an Advanced Diploma in Computer Systems Technology – Software Development with Honours from Mohawk College and recently earned a Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals certification.  

Outside of EPIC, Pal tutors students in programming and web development, helping others build confidence and practical skills in tech. She enjoys experimenting with futuristic user interface designs and interactive interfaces, always seeking opportunities to grow and apply her skills in meaningful and impactful ways.  

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A professional headshot of Maria Jose Leon Amaya.

Maria Jose Leon Amaya

Program Manager, Healthcare Robotics

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Rebecca Ellis

Rebecca Ellis (she/her) is a professor in the School of Sustainability at Mohawk College. She holds a Ph.D. in Human Geography from Western University and a B.A. and M.A. in Anthropology from Western University. She is the author of the book Capitalist Agriculture and the Global Bee Crisis, published by Routledge Press (2023). Her research interests include global agricultural systems; human/animal relationships with a focus on bees; multispecies commoning; and the creation of sustainable and socially just cities in the context of climate change. She is currently a collaborator on a SSHRC-funded research project, hosted at Huron University, about the impact of a municipal urban agriculture policy on urban agricultural initiatives in London, Ontario. Through IDEAWORKS, she plans to conduct applied research about opportunities for and challenges faced by practitioners of ecological beekeeping and farming in Canada. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys gardening, cycling, playing the banjo, and spending time with her family, friends, and dog.

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Victoria Coffin

Victoria Coffin

Acting Manager, Bay Area Climate Change Council

Victoria leads the Bay Area Climate Change Council. She is responsible for the overall management of the collective, including the development and execution of BACCC’s strategic plan, supervision of its staff team, and oversight of its budget and operations. Victoria is a lawyer with experience advising hundreds of clients in private sector, government and not-for-profit.  She has deep experience in leading collaborative efforts, first demonstrated as diplomat with the Canadian foreign service, working as part of Canada’s trade negotiations team.  She has a JD from the University of Saskatchewan and a B.Com from Queen’s University.  In her personal time, Victoria volunteers as a director for two not-for-profit organizations. 

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Sherif Abdou

Sherif Abdou

General Manager
Business Development
Acting General Manager
m-Health & e-Health Digital Innovation Centre

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Stephen Adams

Stephen Adams

Professor, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation

Stephen Adams has been a faculty member at Mohawk College since 2014 where he specialized in bringing challenging and engaging topics to Software Development classrooms. Whether bringing GPT AI to introductory programming courses, using gaming to motivate learning mathematical heuristics and advanced algorithms, or leading student teams on applied research topics including facial recognition, handwriting analysis, object classifiers, and other topics, he brings a love of discovery to each project he works on. 

A graduate of McMaster University (HBSc, MSc in Computer Science) he has worked in industry as a team member developing high-performance math libraries at IBM, and on real-time control systems for robotic steel cutting processes at Linatrol Systems. His applied research interests center on the application of emerging technologies to traditional problems. His projects include work within Digital Humanities demonstrated by projects such as “Between the Lines” and “Remembering Their Faces”. 

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Irene Amog

Professor, School of Engineering Technology & Aviation

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Maanas Arora

Maanas Arora

Team Lead, Fullstack Development

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Headshot image of Mariano Arriaga, the General Manager of the Energy and Power Innovation Center (EPIC).

Mariano Arriaga

General Manager, Energy and Power Innovation Centre

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

A professional headshot of Dr. Amin Azmoodeh.

Dr. Amin Azmoodeh

Professor of AI Applied Research and Coordinator of the Applied AI Program

Dr. Amin Azmoodeh is a data scientist and AI researcher with over a decade of extensive experience in software development and artificial intelligence. He specializes in developing advanced AI solutions, particularly in natural language processing, agentic AI, and deep learning, emphasizing practical implementation and AI safety. Currently, Amin is a Professor of AI Applied Research and Coordinator of the Applied AI Program at Mohawk College, leading innovative projects that apply cutting-edge AI techniques to solve real-world problems effectively. 

Amin holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Guelph, where his research focused on AI safety. He also earned a Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Amin’s academic achievements include several peer-reviewed publications spanning journals, conference papers, book chapters, and U.S. patents. His strong background in both academia and software development industry allows him to effectively connect AI research with practical, impactful software solutions. 

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Mesut Baltaci

Fullstack Developer

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Professional Headshot of Rutul Bhavasr.

Rutul Bhavasr

Industrial Communications Programmer

As an Industrial Communications Programmer at EPIC, Rutul leads the development of custom data acquisition systems that support remote monitoring, control, and analytics for industry partners. He works hands-on with embedded systems, designing and deploying solutions that collect and transmit sensor data from the field to cloud platforms.  

With deep expertise in microcontrollers, single-board computers, and IoT platforms, Rutul builds systems that integrate energy, environmental, and flowmeter sensors—bridging industrial protocols and enabling secure edge-to-cloud data pipelines. He leverages cloud platforms and open-source tools such as AWS, Arduino, Python, MATLAB, and LabVIEW to support system simulation, data acquisition and preliminary data processing and analysis. His work has successfully supported projects in remote Indigenous communities, low-income housing, elevator systems, and the manufacturing industry.   

Rutul holds an Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering from Mohawk College and a Bachelor of Technology in Biomedical & Instrumentation Engineering from Ganpat University, India.  

Outside of EPIC, Rutul enjoys tinkering with electronics and mechanical systems, teaching introductory belay lessons at a local indoor climbing gym and practices amateur photography.  

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A Professional Headshot of Gordon Bond.

Gordon Bond

Solutions Architect

Gord Bond is a Solutions Architect at the Energy and Power Innovation Centre. He works closely with industry partners to design innovative cloud-based solutions that transform complex data challenges into actionable insights. Gord specializes in building custom data pipelines, leveraging Open Source and AWS technologies to collect, store, process, and visualize data from diverse sources, including IoT sensors, APIs, and user-generated content. With extensive experience in software development, Gord has successfully delivered projects across various sectors, including manufacturing, renewable energy, elevator maintenance, and Indigenous community initiatives.   

He holds an Advanced Diploma in Software Development from Mohawk College, a Master of Fine Arts from York University, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts from McMaster University.  

Outside of EPIC, Gord is a professional visual artist whose work is in collections around the world including the United States, the UK, Mexico and Australia.  

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Professional Headshot of Christine Boyko-Head

Christine Boyko-Head

Professor, School of Liberal Studies

Christine Boyko-Head, (Ph.D) is an interdisciplinary writer and scholar with over 25 years of eclectic experiences both within and beyond education. Upon graduating from Brock University, she started Parnassus Theatre, a company dedicated to original social issues plays for young adults and helped form a national arts magazine for and by young people. She taught part-time in Brock’s Drama and Theatre Department and Canadian Studies and administered new Co-op programs in the Humanities (1990-2000). Her full-time tenure with Lesley University’s Integrated Arts Across the Curriculum, Masters of Education Program (2001-11) fed her soul as she taught Arts, Culture and Community, Curriculum Development, the Integrated Arts Thesis course in 21 US states and Netanya, Israel. Dedicated to arts-integrated learning, Creativity, Futures and Possibilities studies, and anti-oppressive pedagogy, she has been a full-time Communications professor at Mohawk College since 2011. A Values Institute and OCQAS auditor and certified in TESOL, Restorative Practice, Creative Problem-Solving, Thinking Preferences, Design Thinking and Futures facilitation, she always challenges herself and learners to minimize the familiar, maximize the diverse and be ever open to new possibilities and ways of being in and for the world.   

During Covid, her theatrical and television experience enabled her to create engaging online learning environments, community-service zoom programming, and The Playground, an online forum celebrating teaching and teachers. Her methodology challenges “the divide between the new knowledge and its application for social benefit and alternative futures” (Bourgeois-Doyle, 2021) and works toward empowering people to (re)discover their voices, passions and futures. She has received research grants from CDAG, Ontario Trillium Foundation, Federal Economic Development Agency of Ontario, Canada Council, ,  ICIE published her Catalyst-funded project, Mind the Gap: Ideas for enhancing creative-critical thinking, authentical communication and empathetic collaboration (2020). Her recent SSHRC (2022-24) research into the metaphors and myths of girls and women through arts-based gamified practices and radical, playful co-creative, feminist facilitation will also be published by ICIE. Always interested in the voices of women, her first novel, Pulse of Courage, celebrates the heroics of women overlooked by the dominate culture. Published in many scholarly journals, she has done keynote presentations and workshops in 12 countries and has been invited to train as a UN IDG Ambassador for Peace (2025).     

David Brack

David Brack

IoT and Sensor Systems Technologist

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Jen Burton

Professor, School of Health and Community Services

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Ryan Capobianco

Ryan Capobianco

Project Lead - Cleantech and SME Solutions

Ryan Capobianco is a Project Lead for the Low Carbon Readiness Program, possessing 8+ years of combined academic and professional experience within the environment field. Within this role as Project Lead, Ryan collaborates with small-to-medium businesses to provide solutions related to the low carbon economy, sustainability, and climate change. This work includes but is not limited to carbon accounting, calculating and setting baselines for carbon emissions, conducting carbon Lifecycle Analyses, and providing recommendations for clients to reduce their environmental footprint. 

Previously, Ryan has worked for Oceana Canada as Plastics Campaign Researcher, focusing on the plastics policy landscape in Canada. He has also led waste audits across Canada with AET Group. Ryan graduated from the University of Waterloo in 2021 with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies, and in 2023 with a Master’s degree in Social and Ecological Sustainability. 

Gabriel Casciano

IoT Development Manager

As the IoT Development Manager of the IIoT and Sensor Systems lab, Gabriel supports staff, students and industry partners in the delivery of applied research projects. An experienced EIT, Gabriel has 5 years of teaching, research and practical experience acquired from a wide variety of projects. Gabriel not only supports the IIoT lab but also the AMIC and EPIC in developing advanced electro-mechanical and computer systems. 

Prior to joining IDEAWORKS in 2022, Gabriel worked at Dr. X Academy a leading private STEM education provider for 4 years training students on how to develop prototypes, approach problems relating to programming, electronics or robotics and how to approach engineering competitions. 

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Beau Cranston

Beau Cranston

Fullstack Developer

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Simon Coulson

Simon Coulson

General Manager, Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre

As the General Manager of the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre, Simon supports staff, students and industry partners on the delivery of applied research projects. An experienced Professional Engineer, Simon has over 15 years of practical, research, and teaching experience within a wide range of industries including Consumer Electronics, Medical Devices, and Advanced Manufacturing. Prior to joining Mohawk in 2015, Simon worked at Blackberry within their Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, and Advance Concept groups. In addition, Simon has provided consulting services to fortune 500 companies and mentorship to entrepreneurs and start-ups on new product innovations. Simon holds a Masters and Bachelors in Materials Engineering from McMaster University specializing in Additive Manufacturing and Nanomaterials respectively.

Professional Headshot of Tony Cupido.

Tony Cupido

Gina Fraser Chair in Skilled Trades for the Green Economy, School of Climate Change Action

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Headshot of Erica Daly, the Business and Project Manager at EPIC.

Erica Daly

Business and Project Manager, EPIC

As Business and Project Manager, Erica oversees projects from proposal to final reporting for each of EPIC’s service areas. With expertise in translating complex industry challenges into practical project scopes, she ensures EPIC’s projects meet partner and industry needs. An advocate for strong stakeholder engagement, Erica helps EPIC connect with a diverse range of partners from startups and major utility companies to remote Indigenous communities.   

Erica holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Integrated Business and Humanities with a double minor in Innovation and Sustainability (McMaster University), and a Masters of Environment and Sustainability (Western University).   

In addition to her work with EPIC, Erica is a Teaching Assistant at McMaster University for a fourth-year community engagement and social entrepreneurship capstone course and sat on the Halton Hills Public Library Board of Directors as Chair of the Advocacy Committee.  

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Professional Headshot of Sarah Dimick

Sarah Dimick

Director, Applied Research Operations

Sarah Dimick is the Director of Applied Research Operations at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. Sarah provides strategic oversight for Ideaworks operational planning, budget and project management and communications, working across all Ideaworks applied research centres to assure quality, regulatory compliance and financial sustainability.

Prior to Mohawk College Sarah served as Project Manager for the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation (SONAMI) at Niagara College, responsible for network operations and program management.

Sarah has extensive experience at the intersection of analytics, innovation, information services and public policy as Director of Research rel8ed.to, a data analytics firm, and at the Conference Board of Canada within the Technology and Innovation group.

She holds a bachelor’s degree (Law and Political Science) and a master’s degree in legal studies, both from Carleton University in Ottawa and has earned her designation as Project Management Professional (PMP).

In addition, Sarah currently sits on the Board of Directors of the St. Catharines Public Library as the Vice-Chair and has contributed as Committee Member and Speaker for past Niagara Leadership Summits for Women.

Colton Donald

Colton Donald

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Krissy Doyle-Thomas

Krissy Doyle-Thomas

Professor, School of Health and Community Services

Krissy Doyle-Thomas is a Medical Neuroscientist and educator with a PhD in Medical Sciences from McMaster University, an MSc in Health Sciences from the University of Calgary, and an Honours BA in Psychology from McMaster University. Her research, funded by CIHR, focuses on mental health and healthcare disparities, particularly for Black Canadians and marginalized communities. She is dedicated to developing culturally-tailored advancements in mental healthcare. In addition, Krissy serves as a Co-Investigator for the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Disorders (POND) Network and Principal Investigator for the POND National Survey Project, where she investigates the impact of race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status on the research participation of neurodivergent children and families. She is also involved in research initiatives supported by the Health Research Council for People of African Descent, which promote Black health and well-being across Canada. 

As the Program Coordinator and Professor for the Brain Disorders Management and Mental Health & Disability Management programs at Mohawk College, Krissy co-developed these pioneering programs to equip community-based health professionals with the skills to support individuals with brain disorders and disabilities. She also co-chairs the Mohawk College Research Ethics Board. 

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Jesse Elders

Jesse Elders

Manager, Bay Area Climate Change Council (On Leave)

Jesse is the Manager of the Bay Area Climate Change Council (BACCC). She is passionate about supporting collective impact work and ensuring that the Hamilton-Burlington Bay Area achieve a thriving, resilient net zero future.  

Jesse is responsible for the overall management of BACCC, including the development and execution of BACCC’s strategic plan, supervision of its staff team, and oversight of its budget and operations.  

Prior to working with BACCC, Jesse practiced law in the private sector, with leadership responsibilities as a partner of a boutique law firm. Outside of her work with BACCC, Jesse serves as a director of several local not-for-profit organizations. 

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Professional Headshot of Jessica Engilina Lamers.

Jessica Lamers

Operations and Networking Team

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Shefaza Esmail

Shefaza Esmail

Project Manager, SME Solutions

Shefaza is the Program Manager for EPIC’s Low Carbon Readiness Program, which provides applied research and technical expertise to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) transition to the low carbon economy. Shefaza brings a strong background in climate change and systems thinking, with technical expertise in energy & carbon emissions accounting, product carbon footprint and lifecycle analyses. Through the program, her team engages SMEs across various sectors, including agriculture, construction, energy and carbon management, information technology, manufacturing, transportation, and waste management. Shefaza and her team provide actionable carbon solutions across these diverse sectors.   

Shefaza has a PhD in Social and Ecological Sustainability (University of Waterloo), an M.A.SC. in Chemical Engineering (Royal Military College of Canada), and a B.Eng. in Bioresource Engineering (McGill University) with over 15 years’ experience conducting research in various environmental disciplines within academia and industry. Shefaza also has extensive teaching experience that lends to strong communication skills for navigating the complexities of the low carbon economy.   

  

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Andrea Johnson

Andrea Johnson

General Manager, Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives

Andrea Johnson is the General Manager for the Centre for Emerging Research Initiatives at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. She has been a member of the IDEAWORKS team since 2015. In her current role, she introduces faculty, staff, and students to applied research and oversees research activities in unmanned and remote sensing, materials testing, biotechnology, AI, and healthcare technology. Her portfolio also includes the Applied Research 101 series, that she created and launched in 2022, and well as the IDEAWORKS Catalyst Fund, that she has been managing since 2015.

Andrea holds an MA in Higher and Post-Secondary Administration from Colombia University-Teachers College (NYC, NY), a BA in English Literature from McGill University (Montreal) as well as certificates in Business Design Thinking (Rotman, University of Toronto), Entrepreneurial Mindset and Leadership (Babson College/edX), Corporate Communications (Humber), and Scientific Knowledge Translation (University of Toronto/Sick Kids Hospital). She is a Certified Practitioner of the Entrepreneurial Mindset Profile.

Mohawk Ideaworks

Julie Florio

Manager, Research Chair Initiatives

A skilled manager, project leader and communicator, Julie thrives on delivering impactful solutions for complex challenges. With an impressive record of accomplishment at Mohawk College, Julie has managed over 20 Applied Research projects, co-authored several research and investment fund submissions, led teams in the development and launch of institutional policy, employee tools, templates and resources, and devised communications and training resources on several subjects.   

Previously within the Ontario Government, Julie led numerous projects and initiatives within the Ministries of the Attorney General, Government Services, Culture, and Treasury Board Secretariat. Julie has an interdisciplinary background, graduating from both the University of Toronto and Sheridan College, and believes strongly in new ideas, creative collaboration, and fostering strong communities. 

Katherine Flynn

Katherine Flynn

General Manager, Centre for Climate Change Management

Kate Flynn is the General Manager of the Centre for Climate Change Management at Mohawk College, where she leads a team of researchers and staff in designing climate change solutions with industry, government, and community partners. Kate has worked in the sustainability field for over 10 years, with a focus on tackling urban and industrial climate change challenges. She also serves on the board of the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton. Kate is a graduate of Queen’s University and the University of Oxford, UK.

Ashley Fry-O’Rourke

Ashley Fry-O’Rourke

Professor, Practical Nursing

Ashley Fry-O’Rourke is a Professor in Nursing Studies and the Coordinator for Level IV BScN learners at Mohawk College. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) from Western University and a Master of Science in Nursing (MScN) from McMaster University. With extensive experience across clinical, academic, and non-profit sectors, Ashley is adept at fostering collaborative partnerships across diverse institutional settings.  

Her clinical expertise spans a range of inpatient and community psychiatry settings, as well as long-term care facilities and hospital medical units across Ontario. This broad experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of the urban and rural challenges facing healthcare delivery.  

Since joining Mohawk College as a full-time faculty member in 2022, Ashley has taught a variety of nursing lectures, labs, and classes in both the BScN and Practical Nursing Programs. Since 2019, Ashley has taught in several departments at McMaster University, including the School of Nursing, the Program for Faculty Development, Continuing Professional Development, Integrated Biomedical Engineering & Health Sciences, and the Program for Interprofessional Practice, Education and Research (PIPER).  

Ashley’s teaching philosophy centers on a strength-based approach, designed to maximize the potential of all learners. In addition to her academic work, she has completed social entrepreneurship programs and has led several non-profit initiatives focused on promoting mental wellness among children and youth.  

Currently, Ashley collaborates with Thrive Centre of Excellence, supporting the delivery of Optimal Models of Care for complex care in Long-Term Care settings. 

Jennifer Gascho

Jennifer Gascho

Financial Operations Coordinator

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

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Laura Graham

Administrative Assistant

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Professional Headshot of Earl Harroun.

Earl Harroun

Lead, DevOps Team (On Leave)

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Ension Kudakwashe Wamambo

Ension Kudakwashe Wamambo

Kudakwashe is responsible for shaping evidence-based, non-partisan public policy that drives equitable climate action in the Bay Area region. He is responsible for leading policy research, conducting in-depth analysis, and engaging with stakeholders to advance strategic climate initiatives. Kudakwashe holds a Graduate Diploma in Computational Data Analytics for the Social Sciences and Humanities and a Master of Public Service in Economics & Public Policy from the University of Waterloo. 

Tiffany Leighton

Tiffany Leighton

Professor of Biotechnolgy, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation

Tiffany Leighton is a molecular biologist specializing in biotechnology and drug discovery. She earned her MSc in Infection & Immunology and her PhD in Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences from McMaster University, where her research focused on disrupting bacterial virulence systems essential for infection in human disease-causing pathogens. This work led her to the drug discovery sector, where she and her team explored small molecule alternatives to antibiotics. Instead of killing bacteria outright, these compounds “disarm” pathogens by preventing them from binding to and infecting cells, a strategy that helps combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by reducing selective pressure on bacterial populations.

Tiffany has worked as a Research Scientist at a point-of-care diagnostic company, developing portable and cost-effective devices capable of detecting multiple bacterial and viral targets within minutes using real clinical specimens. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she contributed to a team at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, screening returning travelers for COVID-19 infections. The data collected from this initiative played a key role in informing travel and quarantine policies for the Greater Toronto Transportation Authority (GTTA) and the airline industry in Ontario.

Most recently, Tiffany has been involved in an applied research project at Mohawk College focusing on molecular pharming—the production of pharmaceutical compounds using biological organisms. In collaboration with an industry partner, she investigated the use of tobacco plants as bioreactors to produce a medically relevant drug commonly administered to patients following chemotherapy. This plant-based biomanufacturing approach offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional drug production methods, eliminating the need for expensive equipment and highly specialized personnel.

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Professional Headshot of Gregor MacLean.

Gregor MacLean

Manager, Funding Proposals

Gregor MacLean, Manager of Funding Proposals, has led IDEAWORKS in securing over $20 million in federal, provincial, and private sector R&D funding. He helps all IDEAWORKS teams secure funding, ranging from $25,000 for single-partner short-term projects to $3 million for equipment or long-term R&D and innovation service portfolios.  Gregor collaborates with our innovation centres and their partners to identify strategic funding opportunities and provides guidance and input through each step of the funding process. He has supported successful funding proposals across various sectors including heavy manufacturing, electricity distribution systems, mechanical engineering and metals additive manufacturing, medical software, alternative energy storage and distribution, and many more.  

Before working at Mohawk College IDEAWORKS, he worked at Niagara College Research & Innovation, where he was the Program Manager for a portfolio of agriculture, greenhouse and environmental technology R&D. He has worked in the private sector in energy efficiency and conservation program development and delivery and environmental due diligence consulting. Gregor utilizes his wide range of R&D, and industry experience to support IDEAWORKS’ diverse portfolio of partners and achieve funder goals.

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Gustavo Marcano Valero

Fullstack Developer

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Professional Headshot of Shrishti Sundaram.

Shrishti Sundaram

Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach

Shrishti Sundaram is a strategic communications and events leader currently serving as Manager, IDEAWORKS Partner Engagement & Strategic Outreach at IDEAWORKS at Mohawk College. In this role, she leads high-impact events, outreach campaigns, and cross-sector initiatives that strengthen Mohawk’s applied research presence and deepen industry and community partnerships.

With a background in marketing, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement, she brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to advancing institutional goals through storytelling, campaign planning, and relationship-building. Her expertise spans communications strategy, content development, and team mentorship.

Passionate about inclusive innovation, she promotes equity-informed engagement strategies and supports capacity-building through mentorship and knowledge-sharing. She holds postgraduate diplomas in Social Media Management and Creative Communication (Advertising), along with a Bachelor’s in Marketing.

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Professional Headshot of Mark McCorkle.

Mark McCorkle

Funding and Grant Development Specialist

Mark McCorkle is a Funding and Grant Development Specialist, where he brings his experience in research funding and grant writing to secure funding for Mohawk College’s applied research projects. He holds a Ph.D. in Musicology from Western University (2023). His dissertation research explored the intersection of music and geography with an investigation of historical jazz clubs and heritage spaces in jazz culture. During his graduate studies, Mark worked on numerous successful grant applications, helping to secure a combined $3 million for research and knowledge dissemination in the humanities. For his dissertation research, Mark won grants and scholarships from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), and Western’s School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. 

In addition to experience in funding and grant development, Mark has a background in education and post-secondary teaching and learning. Before coming to Mohawk College, Mark taught music history as an Assistant Professor at Western University. He joined Mohawk College in August 2024 as a program lead in the Learning Support Centre, running the college’s Peer Assisted Study Sessions program. Mark has two forthcoming publications on post-secondary pedagogy and has completed a Certificate in Student Services and Affairs from George Brown College.  

Mark holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Musicology from Western University and a B.Mus. from the University of Windsor.  

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Headshot of Patrick McInnis, an Electrical Systems Specialist with EPIC.

Patrick McInnis

Electrical Systems Specialist

Patrick is the technical lead for EPIC’s power systems projects. With specialized expertise in electrical protection and control (P&C) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, he works closely with industry partners to develop testing, demonstration, commissioning and validation plans.  

Before joining EPIC, Patrick worked in the field on electrical substation system integration and commissioning across Ontario. Now within EPIC, he draws on this hands-on experience to design field-relevant training programs that prepare students and early-career staff to troubleshoot real-world challenges.  

Patrick is a graduate of Mohawk College’s Electrical Engineering Technologist and Electrical Engineering Technician programs. Outside of EPIC, he is an avid guitar player.  

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Fergus McKee

Manager, Digital Health Projects

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Julia McLeod

Julia McLeod

Program Coordinator, Bay Area Climate Change Council

Julia is a solution-focused leader responsible for overseeing BACCC’s communications, administration, and project management initiatives. She leverages her expertise in sustainability and communications to drive climate action efforts. Julia strongly believes that fostering a collaborative environment is key to achieving the Hamilton-Burlington Bay Area’s target of net zero carbon by 2050.  

Prior to her role at BACCC, Julia worked closely with local businesses and community organizations to implement sustainability strategies and meet greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets.  

Julia holds a Master of Environment and Business from the University of Waterloo and a Bachelor of Science from Western University. 

Professional headshot of Nasim Mohammad.

Nasim Mohammad

Professor, Mathematics & Statistics

A committed scholar and educator, Dr. Nasim Muhammad holds a PhD in mathematics from the University of Guelph. Differential and Integral Calculus, Differential Equations, Laplace and Fourier Transforms, and Computational Modelling of Biological Systems are just a few of the courses that Dr. Muhammad has created and overseen during his more than thirty years of experience teaching and developing curricula in mathematics and computer science. Dr. Muhammad worked at McMaster University for eleven years before returning to Mohawk College, where he was instrumental in developing the BTECH program’s curriculum in mathematics and computer programming.  

In addition to being an educator, Dr. Nasim Muhammad is an active researcher who focuses on using mathematical models to solve real-world problems. His research is divided into two main categories: scientific and pedagogical. In the scientific field, Dr. Muhammad focuses on developing advanced models and analytical tools for biological systems and applies machine learning techniques to uncover complex patterns within biological data. This strategy seeks to advance our knowledge of biological processes and support creative approaches. Dr. Muhammad is committed to enhancing teaching strategies and learning objectives in the field of pedagogy to produce more successful and captivating learning environments. He collaborates with researchers at McMaster University and the University of Guelph and has authored numerous articles in prestigious scholarly journals. Furthermore, Dr. Muhammad also serves as a reviewer for journals, contributing to the advancement of research and scholarship. 

Jay Mycroft

Chemist

Jay Mycroft is a seasoned chemist with expertise in electrochemistry, corrosion science, and analytical chemistry. His work spans metals and coatings, as well as electron and X-ray spectroscopies, alongside traditional light spectroscopies.

With hands-on experience in chemical process simulation, Jay has designed and constructed pilot plants to replicate complex industrial processes. His career includes several years as a uranium chemist, supporting commercial uranium processing through advanced analytical methods.

Jay’s deep technical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills make him a valuable asset in applied research and industrial chemistry, where he continues to drive innovation in material science and chemical analysis.

Mohawk Ideaworks

Parth Panchal

Financial Operations Coordinator, Applied Research Operations

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Anna Pineda

Anna Pineda

Operations Manager, Applied Research Operations

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Cameron Redsell-Montgomery

Cameron Redsell-Montgomery

Cameron Redsell-Montgomerie joined Mohawk College’s Department of Mathematics & Statistics in Fall 2018, specializing in Statistics with research spanning Health Sciences and student success. As a statistical consultant, he applies an educational lens to research, guiding data collection methodologies that strengthen investigations. He also supports researchers in analyzing and presenting data effectively, ensuring they can confidently interpret and defend their findings.

With a pragmatic approach to statistical analysis, Cameron has played a key role in projects such as “Virtual Vitality – Thermo Fisher Scientific and Mohawk College Partnership” with Tara-Lyn Dinyer and “Building Compassionate Practitioners for the Future: Leveraging Simulation-Based Learning in Cardiac Sonography Education” with Babitha Thampinathan. These initiatives required not only strong statistical expertise but also an understanding of the practical challenges researchers face.

Beyond research, Cameron supports faculty and staff across the college in computer systems, IoT, student support, and data science, demonstrating a broad commitment to applied learning and technological advancement.

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Matthew Shelley

Matthew Shelley

Professor, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Lyndsay Simmons

Lyndsay Simmons

Professor & Coordinator Mohawk College / PhD Candidate McMaster University

Lyndsay Simmons is a dedicated medical imaging specialist, educator, and researcher with extensive experience in medical radiation sciences. She is currently a PhD candidate in Radiation Sciences – Radiation Biology at McMaster University and holds a Master of Medical Radiation Science (CT specialization) from Charles Sturt University, along with MRI certification from The Michener Institute. With over two decades of experience in both clinical and academic settings, she serves as an Instructor of Medical Radiation Science at Mohawk College, where she develops and delivers specialized MRI and CT curriculum.

In addition to teaching, Lyndsay is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research and mentorship at McMaster University’s Education Program in Anatomy and Surgical Skills Lab, supporting student research and contributing to innovative projects in medical imaging. Her research focuses on breast imaging diagnostics, exploring innovative techniques to enhance the understanding of breast calcifications.

Beyond academia, Lyndsay has held leadership roles, including Coordinator of the Centre for Integrated and Advanced Medical Imaging (CIAMI) at Mohawk College, where she supported curriculum development, research initiatives, and industry partnerships. Her clinical background as an MRI and X-ray technologist has provided hands-on expertise in advanced imaging technologies, patient care, and protocol optimization.

Committed to advancing the field of medical imaging, Lyndsay is an active member of professional organizations, including the College of Medical Radiation Imaging Technologists of Ontario, the Ontario Association for Medical Radiation Sciences, and the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. She is dedicated to bridging education, research, and clinical practice to drive innovation and excellence in medical radiation sciences.

Alex Slessor

Fullstack Developer

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Tyler Sowden

Tyler Sowden

Technologist, Unmanned and Remote Sensing Innovation Centre, School of Engineering Technology and Aviation

Tyler Sowden is a remote sensing expert with over five years of experience developing, testing, and deploying innovative solutions in land surveying, infrastructure inspection and environmental monitoring using emerging remote sensing technologies. At Mohawk College, Tyler’s primary role is to support the Surveying and Geomatics labs within the Building and Construction Sciences department. He holds an Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology.

Tyler is also the co-lead of the Unmanned and Remote Sensing Innovation Centre (URSIC), where he collaborates with local industry partners to explore and implement survey-grade remote sensing solutions. His core focus is on data acquisition and processing, particularly in LiDAR, SONAR, and Photogrammetry.

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Nico Strabac

Nico Strabac

Project Lead, Centre for Climate Change Management

A capable project manager and skilled communicator who applies a collaborative, solutions-focused mindset to tackle tricky problems.  A Project Lead within the Centre for Climate Change Management, Nico has a passion for helping municipal, community and industry partners achieve climate-solutions through Applied Research projects.  Nico’s skillset includes carbon accounting & emissions baselining, techno-economic & lifecycle assessments, and wrap-around project management supports including project scoping, research funding acquisition, stakeholder management and research communications.  A notable example of Nico’s work in the community is Better Homes Hamilton home energy retrofit program, which was developed for the City of Hamilton.  

Before joining IDEAWORKS, Nico worked within the Sustainability Office at Mohawk College where he oversaw initiatives designed to improve campus environmental performance and led both institutional sustainability and environmental compliance reporting efforts. He holds both a Master’s Degree in Environment & Sustainability (MES) and a Bachelor of Biological Sciences majoring in Ecosystem Health from Western University.   

Babitha Thampinathan

Professor, School of Health and Community Services

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Laura Thomas

Associate Dean Medical Imaging Academic Director CIAMI

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.

Saeed Toosizadeh

Saeed Toosizadeh

Professor at McMaster University & Mohawk College; CEO at Pardic; CTO at Startup Wiz

Dr. Saeed Toosizadeh holds a Ph.D. in Control Engineering and over two decades of experience spanning academia and industry. His expertise lies in applied research, robotics, computer vision, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, with a strong emphasis on bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. As a part-time faculty member at Mohawk College and McMaster University, he has a keen interest and expertise in automation, robotics, computer vision, machine learning, and intelligent systems. 

Dr. Toosizadeh has a strong industrial and applied research track record, having led numerous interdisciplinary projects, including motion capture systems, smart automation solutions, and machine vision. His work has contributed to advancements in real-time 3D tracking, intelligent manufacturing, and cybersecurity applications. With extensive experience in entrepreneurship and consulting for startups, he has successfully guided prototype development and commercialization strategies. His technical expertise encompasses programming, data science, automation, and IoT, complemented by a strong research portfolio in intelligent systems, machine learning, and advanced control methodologies. 

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Justin Valenti

Justin Valenti

Manager, Research Projects

As a Project Manager in the Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre, Justin helps lead a fast-growing team of student researchers to support staff and industrial partners. With a background in Mechanical and Materials Engineering and over a decade of experience in research and development, Justin helps industry partners develop novel solutions to real engineering problems.  Justin has supported companies in a variety of industries including automotive, Advanced Manufacturing, Steel, and Medical devices. Before joining Mohawk College, Justin worked for Smarter Alloys, a company focused on researching and innovating smart materials. As a research engineer at Smarter Alloys, Justin helped design, build and test smart materials for the medical device industry.     

Emily Vis

Emily Vis

Manager, Industry Partnerships

Emily serves as the Manager of Industry Partnerships at the Centre for Climate Change Management at Mohawk College. Her work bridges the gap between academic research and practical implementation to accelerate climate action of project partners. By combining technical knowledge with project coordination, she adds knowledge and dedicated capacity that balance environmental benefits with partner goals and implementation feasibility.  

Before Mohawk, Emily worked within the Hamilton non-profit sector supporting local businesses in identifying and supporting sustainability-related goals. Her technical abilities are a result of her background in micro and molecular biology, which is complemented by a post-graduate diploma in Environmental Management and Assessment. 

Alex Watson

Alex Watson

Team Lead, Fullstack Development

IDEAWORKS bio coming soon. To learn more about our team, please reach out.