With contributions from Carolyn Farrell
A recent EngSci graduate and two instructors of the program’s courses were among teaching staff honoured at the April 14 Faculty Council meeting.
Teaching Assistant Award: Adriana Diaz Lozano Patino (EngSci 2T3, MIE PhD student)
Recognizing a TA who demonstrates excellence in classroom teaching, working with students and the development of course materials.
A PhD candidate in MIE, Diaz Lozano Patino has been a TA for ESC203: Engineering and Society and ESC204: Praxis III since 2023. Across both courses, she has demonstrated a teaching philosophy grounded in community, care and student-centred learning. Her contributions have not only enriched the academic development of EngSci students but have also shaped the learning culture within the program.
Faculty Teaching Award: Matthew Mackay (MIE)
Recognizing a faculty member who demonstrates outstanding classroom instruction and develops innovative teaching methods.
Mackay joined MIE as a lecturer in 2011, was appointed to the teaching stream as associate professor in 2015, and was promoted to professor in 2024. His exceptional teaching is demonstrated by the popularity of his courses and his consistently outstanding student evaluations. In the EngSci program, Mackay teaches MIE 366: Electronics for Robotics.
Sustained Excellence in Teaching Award: Evan Bentz (CivMin)
Recognizing a faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching over the course of at least 15 years.
Since joining CivMin in 2000, Bentz has taught a wide array of courses, including core courses and technical electives as well as the flagship CAMP course, Civil and Mineral Practicals. Bentz taught CAMP from 2000 to 2024 and was deeply involved in developing the content and style of teaching for this unique off-campus field lab course. In the EngSci program, Bentz teaches CIV102: Structures and Materials – An Introduction to Engineering Design, a core course in Year 1.