Two Conestoga projects received nearly $568,000 in funding from the provincial government’s Ontario Research Fund dedicated to supporting made-in-Ontario innovation at colleges, universities, research institutes and research hospitals.
Conestoga received funding for two research infrastructure projects from the provincial government’s Ontario Research Fund.
The funds are part of $92 million for more than 200 projects announced by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities in late 2024.
Conestoga received grants for two research infrastructure projects - CONSTRUCT: Centre for Ontario's Network of Skilled Trade Researchers, Unions, Contractors, and Tradespeople ($333,500); and robotic welding and metallurgical analysis ($234,408 from the ORF - College Fund Ontario First Award).
CONSTRUCT, the latest initiative of the Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness & Performance (CISWP) at Conestoga, is focused on sustaining the skilled trades workforce by reducing workplace injuries and improving job accessibility for underrepresented groups.
The lead researcher is Dr. Amin Yazdani, executive director of CISWP. Building capacity for productive and sustainable work is the aim of the institute, which works closely with stakeholders to conduct cutting-edge research and develop evidence-informed products, tools and services.
The second project will establish additional capacity in robotic welding and metallurgical analysis, focusing on additive manufacturing, large-scale 3D printing, CAD-CAM, non-destructive evaluation, metallurgy and Industry 4.0.
This research is being lead by the SMART Centre. Established in 2020, the Conestoga centre is a dedicated hub for applied research, technical services and training with a focus on advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity and advanced recycling technologies.
“When we invest in research, we invest in our province’s future,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “These critical investments will ensure Ontario’s researchers can continue making discoveries that drive key sectors, create good-paying jobs, and improve the lives of all Ontarians.”
Research projects supported through the Ontario Research Fund are selected through a rigorous and competitive peer-review process. The funding helps institutions cover the costs of their research operations and facilities, including building, renovating and equipping research facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories.
Find out more about Conestoga research at research.conestogac.on.ca.