Welcoming back FAS alumni

May 02, 2022
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We wish a warm welcome to our returning FAS alumni from the School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering, who graduated virtually in 2020 and 2021 to our in-person celebration. Meet our alumni and read how SFU has helped prepare them for their careers!

GORDON WU 

'20 BASc, School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering

Company: AbCellera Biologics | Position: Mechatronics Engineer | Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

What do you do in your current position?
In my current position, I work on developing both the hardware and software of a robotic imaging system that is used to screen antibody secreting cells!

What is a valuable skill or lesson that you have learned since graduating?
After working in multiple positions after graduating, I have learned that my motivation and happiness come from solving engineering problems that I believe can generate meaningful impact. 

How has your experience at SFU prepared you for your career path?
My Co-op experience during my time at SFU is the most valuable aspect of my SFU experience. It gave me a taste of real life engineering problems and helped me understand the skills and knowledge that I need to develop as an engineer. Furthermore, this experience helped me to find my field of passion, which is biotechnology.

What advice would you like to share to students who are preparing for graduation?
Life is endless learning, so is engineering. Always challenge yourself to solve problems that you are not familiar with and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. 

RAMY ELMALLAH

'21 BASc, School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering | Governor General’s Silver Medal

Company: Motorola Solutions | Position: Embedded Software Engineer | Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

What do you do in your current position?
As an Embedded Software Engineer, I develop the firmware that runs state-of-the-art AI-powered security cameras. I collaborate closely with the electrical and software teams to create solutions that integrate seamlessly to provide the right insights at the right time with the goal of making watching video obsolete.

What is a valuable skill or lesson that you have learned since graduating?
I have learnt that role of engineers in ensuring that emerging technologies such as AI and IoT are used to drive society for the better is highly crucial as the scope and impact of these technologies in shaping all aspects of our lives are expanding rapidly.

How has your experience at SFU prepared you for your career path?
The exposure to different industries and technologies during my courses and co-ops has helped me discover my passion. Additionally, I believe that the soft and technical skills I developed throughout my degree have prepared me well for my career.

What advice would you like to share to students who are preparing for graduation?
Never stop learning and carry on discovering your passions. This is an endless journey with the goal of living life to the fullest. On top of that, keep celebrating your achievements! 

TAEIL KIM

'20 PhD, School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering

Company: SFU | Position: Postdoctoral fellow | Location: Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

What do you do in your current position?
Currently, I’m a postdoctoral fellow at SFU focusing on research of 3D printed wireless sensors. Starting from this fall, I’ll be working as an Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Department at Baylor University, Texas US from August 2022. I’m excited to continue my research on integrated biosensor system.

What is a valuable skill or lesson that you have learned since graduating?
I have learned technical skills related to biomedical engineering as well as soft skills on how to collaborate with researchers from diverse backgrounds during my Postdoctoral research period in University of California, Irvine. These skills helped me to be a more interdisciplinary researcher with a more inclusive mind.

How has your experience at SFU prepared you for your career path?
During my PhD program, I especially learned how to do research independently and how to communicate effectively. I really enjoyed working together with other students in the lab. I also appreciate all supports from excellent faculty of SFU regarding great advice on research and career development. 

What advice would you like to share to students who are preparing for graduation?
I know graduation is exciting, but it could also be stressful to find a new position. Try to keep positive attitude and have a grateful heart all the time. Please be prepared and keep on knocking doors to find the opportunity that fits you the best. Best of luck!