Top companies continue to look to the University of Toronto Institute for Multidisciplinary Design & Innovation (UT-IMDI) to find solutions to big industry challenges — from wireless, solar-powered charging stations for delivery drones, to developing a high-accuracy 3D scanner to inspect small manufactured parts.
Founded in 2012 by Professor Kamran Behdinan (MIE), UT-IMDI fosters multidisciplinary collaborations between engineering students and industry partners. Undergraduate and MEng students apply for paid internships lasting several months, providing engineering solutions for companies in a variety of sectors. The students gain exposure to a vibrant experiential learning environment, while partner companies benefit by leveraging innovative new ideas and identifying potential future talent.
This year, 78 companies partnered with UT-IMDI. On Oct. 10, students and industry partners gathered to celebrate the completion of 38 projects at a special dinner reception in the Music Room of the Hart House. The event also recognized Paul Di Benedetto, Chief Technology Officer, Drone Delivery Canada, with the UT-IMDI Recognition Award.
“Through UT-IMDI, and our top-ranked engineering programs, we enable students to develop technical competencies and key engineering qualities,” said Dean Cristina Amon. “These include leadership proficiency, communication excellence, and global fluency. Rich experiential learning opportunities, such as the projects you’ll see tonight, allow students to knit together these qualities and competencies while showcasing their creativity.”
Article originally posted at U of T Engineering News. Article by Liz Do. October 11, 2018.