It is truly commendable that Mr. Al-Khudairi received the 2023 SFU Staff Achievement Award for Innovation. His contributions to the School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering (MSE) at Simon Fraser University (SFU) are impressive and have significantly impacted the growth and reputation of the program. As a founding member of MSE and serving as a lab engineer from 2008 to 2013, Mr. Al-Khudairi played a pivotal role in the school's development. Over the course of 15 years, MSE has evolved from a new program to an internationally reputable institution with around 500 undergraduate and 100 graduate students, boasting vibrant education and research initiatives.

Mr. Al-Khudairi's role as the Manager of Instructional and Research Labs highlights his dedication to creating effective teaching laboratory facilities. His innovations in designing lab contents and equipment from scratch have contributed to the success of MSE's programs. One noteworthy accomplishment is his critical role in establishing the Siemens Mechatronics Certification Program (SMSCP) in 2017. This program not only provides students with hands-on training on advanced mechatronic systems but also offers an internationally recognized certificate approved by Siemens, adding value to the students' education. Additionally, Mr. Al-Khudairi's key involvement in launching MSE's Professional Master Program in Smart Manufacturing (Industry 4.0) showcases his commitment to advancing education in cutting-edge fields. His responsibilities in designing the training facility, selecting equipment vendors, and commissioning advanced Smart Factory equipment highlight his leadership and expertise.

In essence, Mr. Al-Khudairi's constant innovation and dedication over the past 15 years have been instrumental in establishing MSE as a leader in mechatronics education. The highly effective teaching laboratory facilities he has contributed to have become a hallmark of SFU's globally renowned mechatronics programs. His recognition through the SFU Staff Achievement Award for Innovation is well-deserved.

Read more: Meet SFU’s 2023 Staff Achievement Award recipients