EngSpotlight Perspective Series: Mechanical Engineering

Angiza Painda
1st-Year Mechanical Engineering
First-Year Ambassador

I wanted to work in various fields, such as robotics or aerospace. When I learned about mechanical engineering, I realized it’s a very versatile discipline. You can work on anything that involves problem-solving and creativity.

Are there any resources or facilities at TMU that helped you with your transition from high school to university? 

At TMU, we have the First-Year Engineering Office, which hosted three orientation events before the start of the school year, and I met friends there. During the year, we had mentors from upper years who had gone through the same experiences, so that we could ask them for advice. There are also other services available, including the Research Office in the Library and the Co-op and Career Centre, which I frequently visit for questions about internships and co-op opportunities.

Another resource offered at TMU, and what really drew me in, was the design teams. I had looked through their Instagram accounts before applying and saw so many groups where I could get hands-on experience. What I really enjoy is working on things, building them and seeing the results. Now, my team and I are building a plane from scratch.

Owen Taylor
2nd-Year Mechanical Engineering
First-Year Ambassador

I joined Toronto Metropolitan Formula Racing because of my interest in F1 and cars. I gradually worked my way up to junior lead for the electrical powertrain, and it was an incredible hands-on experience. There are so many design teams at TMU where mechanical engineering students can apply what they learn in class.Have you gotten involved with any extracurriculars or any design teams? What team did you choose? What was your role, and what is your experience?

In my first year, I started with TMR, Toronto Metropolitan Formula Racing. I chose this group because of my interest in F1 and cars, so it felt like a natural fit. What I found fascinating was that the team used to focus on internal combustion engines, building F1-style cars with large engines. Now, the team is shifting toward electric vehicles, which reflects where the industry is headed. Designing and engineering an electric vehicle is a bigger challenge, and over a few months, I gradually worked my way up to junior lead for the electrical powertrain.

Although I’m a Mechanical Engineering student, I took on this role because the team offered the most opportunities at the time. Overall, it was an incredible experience. There are also many other design teams at TMU, giving Mechanical Engineering students excellent hands-on opportunities to apply what they learn in class.

Yusuf Varvanil
3rd-Year Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Intern at Voyant Beauty

When I was applying through the portal, I focused more on the position than the company. I wanted something hands-on. For example, in my current manufacturing co-op, I didn’t want to sit behind a desk all day; I wanted to be on the floor solving problems.

What is your current position in your co-op placement, and what kinds of projects do you work on? 

I’m an engineering intern at Voyant Beauty. You might be surprised: what does engineering have to do with beauty? But engineers are everywhere in manufacturing. My role is to improve efficiency within our manufacturing lines. Manufacturing is undergoing significant changes as it adapts to technological advances.

One project I worked on involved transitioning from paper-based data recording to a web application. I studied the current processes and implemented Artificial Intelligence and technology to improve efficiency. Now, people walk around with iPads, inputting data that we use to optimize operations. Another project was more mechanical, a fluid mechanics task. I had the freedom to choose my own projects, which weren’t siloed; I just had to present them in a meaningful way for my manager to approve.

Rhythm Patel
4th-Year Mechanical Engineering
Graduate 

What excites me most is the research and technology. In my fourth year, working hands-on with sensors and learning how to incorporate them into solutions really piqued my interest and made me realize I want to pursue this in my career.How did you prepare for the transition from student to professional in the mechanical industry? 

My experience on the Formula Racing team has been the most beneficial in preparing me for the transition. I’ve been involved with the team since my first and second year of university, working with 40–50 teammates on different parts of the car. It really emulates a real-world engineering environment while still being at school.

The Formula Racing team is what stands out the most to employers. Every interview I’ve had, it’s the first thing they notice on my resume, because you’re literally building a race car. On top of that, the teamwork involved, collaborating with dozens of people each year, shows the kind of time commitment and dedication engineering demands.

Over time, I took on leadership roles, first as project manager and then as team captain. Those experiences directly translated into my co-op and work placements, equipping me with strong time management, scheduling, and project planning skills. The soft skills I began developing on the team prepared me long before I entered the workplace.