Advocacy, Public Policy & Outreach Year End Report 2009

In 2009, the activities of the Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) centered on the labour market and economic growth. Both remain priorities in 2010 as Ontario’s economy recovers.

Our campaign to raise awareness of Ontario’s engineering labour market began in Winter 2009, following the release of a comprehensive study by Engineers . OSPE partnered with PEO chapters to deliver results workshops in , Richmond Hill, Burlington and . Workshops included information about the short- term outlook of the labour market by engineering discipline; the evolving role of engineers relative to engineering technologists and technicians; and identified skills shortages and more long-term challenges for the profession, including gender equity and workplace diversity.

As the recession set in, OSPE launched a series of career planning sessions for engineers in transition. Speakers included labour market specialists, industry leaders, HR personnel, career coaches, LEED certified professionals and government officials. With funding from the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI), OSPE delivered PPE Foundation courses in Toronto and London to provide internationally-trained engineers (ITEs) with information on what they need to prepare for the licensure exam.

The economy dominated our government relations agenda. OSPE took part in the pre-budget consultation process, emphasizing the need to invest in public infrastructure, research and innovation, and in alternative energy sources to diversify Ontario’s energy supply mix. These points were reiterated in over 20 meetings held with MPPs, including eight Ministers, and in subsequent correspondence with senior government officials.

OSPE was particularly active in discussions of the Green Energy Act, passed in the spring, to facilitate renewable energy development in our province. OSPE appeared before the Standing Committee on General Government calling for the creation of a research and innovation strategy so Ontario-based companies reap the full benefits of renewable energy projects. OSPE circulated an open letter and gathered feedback from members, published articles in ReNew Magazine and the Ontario Building Officials Association Magazine, and hosted two breakfast seminars on the opportunities and challenges of bringing renewable energy projects online.

Throughout the year, OSPE continued to monitor other areas of importance to engineers. We responded to proposed amendments to brownfields legislation, interim changes to the Building Code and to a review of the Ontario Commercialization Network. OSPE offered feedback on PEO guidelines and policies, participated in consultations on Toronto’s green roof by-law, provincial accessibility standards and the management of spent nuclear fuel.

These are some of the ways we have been advancing the professional and economic interests of our members— and we intend to build on these in 2010. OSPE will monitor the implementation of the Green Energy Act and other initiatives that support Ontario’s green economy, an area in which engineers will play a pivotal role. We will continue to advocate for infrastructure refurbishment, particularly nuclear energy, to underpin future growth. And finally, we will work with PEO, universities and with government to ensure that engineering graduates are prepared for the demands of the 21st century.

As always, we look forward to your input as we shape priorities for 2010. Please visit our website to learn about all of our activities. www.ospe.on.ca

Advocacy, Public Policy and Outreach 2009 Year End Report Page

A. OSPE Contributed Articles 2009 3

B. Public Policy Submissions 2009 4

C. Advocacy Meetings 2009 – 5 Political Action Network (PAN)

D. Public Policy Meetings and Events 2009 7

E. Association Outreach Events 2009 11 Part 1 – Association Outreach Events Part 2 – OSPE Hosted Events

F. Task Forces and Committee Meetings 2009 16

G. Advocacy Correspondence 2009 18

H. Accords 20

Appendix 1: Copies of Contributed Articles 24

Appendix 2: Copies of Policy Submissions 33

2009

A. OSPE CONTRIBUTED ARTICLES 2009

DATE PUBLICATION AUTHOR HEADLINE Jan. 28 Canadian Water Treatment Steven Rose, P. Eng Death to Bacteria Jan. 28 North Bay Nugget Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P.Eng. The Real Cost of the Lowest Bid May/June ReNew Canada Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P.Eng. Engineering An Act Aug/Sept. OBOA Newsletter Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng. Can Ontario’s Green Energy Act Really Work?

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B. PUBLIC POLICY SUBMISSIONS 2009

DATE RECIPIENT AUTHOR PURPOSE Susan Howard, Senior Policy Analyst, Angela Shama, P. Eng., Response to proposed amendments to Brownfields Jan. 27 Ministry of the Environment CEO Legislation Andrea Horwath, MPP Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P. Eng., Mar. 19 Congratulations on election as leader of NDP NDP Leader President and Chair Members of Standing Committee on Angela Shama, P. Eng., Apr. 14 Response to Green Energy Act General Government CEO Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P. Eng., Apr. 14 All OSPE Members Response to Green Energy Act President and Chair Tony Rockingham, Assistant Deputy Response to the release of the Ontario Angela Shama, P. Eng., Apr. 22 Minister, Ministry of Research and Commercialization Network Steering Committee’s CEO Innovation report Hon. John Wilkinson, Minister of Research Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Support for the Ministry’s $250 million fund for May 19 and Innovation President and Chair early stage ventures Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Hon. , Minister of Finance May 27 President and Chair and Responses to economic stimulus spending and Revenue Angela Shama, P. Eng., CEO Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Response to feedback received on Green Energy Act Jun. 5 All OSPE Members President and Chair Open Letter Tim Hudak, MPP Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Jul. 3 Congratulations on election as leader of PC Party PC Leader President and Chair Angela Shama, P. Eng., CEO and Survey on workplace conditions for female Jun. 29 Chantal Guay, P.Eng., Engineers Canada Sue Eastwood, P.Eng., WEAC Chair engineers Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Congratulations on appointment as Parliamentary Sep. 16 , MPP President and Chair Assistant Grant Clarke, Assistant Deputy Minister, Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Dec. 18 Congratulations on appointment as ADM Ministry of Education President and Chair

Bernard Ennis, P.Eng., Manager of Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng., Dec. 18 Feedback on PEO Guidelines and Policies Standards & Practice, PEO President and Chair

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C. ADVOCACY MEETINGS 2009 POLITICAL ACTION NETWORK (PAN)

DATE VOLUNTEER MPP AND PARTY CONSTITUENCY ISSUES DISCUSSED Hon. (Minister of Community and Jan. 19 Wayne Lonsdale Social Services; Minister Ottawa-Vanier Solid waste and energy Responsible for Francophone Affairs) Feb. 20 Mukul Shah Shafiq Qadri (Liberal) Etobicoke North Labour imbalance

Fang Wang and Jason Hon. Peter Fonseca Mississauga- Feb. 20 Labour imbalance and the economy Lukez (Minister of Labour) Cooksville Stormont-Dundas- Qualifications-based selection (QBS) and Feb. 21 Donald McDougald Jim Brownell (Liberal) South Glengarry infrastructure Mar. 6 Costa Kaskavaltzis Julia Munro (PC) York—Simcoe Economy and infrastructure

Mar. 13 Graham Nasby (Liberal) Guelph Economy and labour imbalance

Mar. 18 Tom Eichenbaum Joyce Savoline (PC) Burlington Economy and labour imbalance Hon. Mar. 20 Nitin Koli Don Valley West Economy (Minister of Education) Hon. Kingston and the Mar. 20 Michael Dent Economy and QBS (Minister of the Environment) Islands John Fraser, Executive Assistant Mar. 30 Andy Naoum Ottawa-South Economy, energy and climate change to Premier Dalton McGuinty Lorne Coe Apr. 3 Mehemed Delibasic Whitby Ward 4 East QBS (Whitby Town Councillor) Hon. Prince Edward- Apr. 3 David Brown (Minister of Agriculture, Food QBS and the economy Hastings and Rural Affairs)

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C. ADVOCACY MEETINGS 2009 POLITICAL ACTION NETWORK (PAN)

DATE VOLUNTEER MPP AND PARTY CONSTITUENCY ISSUES DISCUSSED Hon. Gerry Phillips Scarborough- Apr. 3 Bola Otaraki QBS and the economy (Minister without Portfolio) Agincourt Apr. 3 Brian McCran Greg Sorbara (Liberal) Vaughan Economy and energy Hon. Steve Peters Elgin-Middlesex- Apr. 16 Economy and energy Jim Malpass (Speaker of the Legislature) London Chizi Jozi and Bisrat Hon. Donna Cansfield Apr. 24 Etobicoke Centre Economy and climate change Gelan (Minister of Natural Resources) Hon. Michael Chan May 1 Abdul Haruna (Minister of Citizenship and Markham-Unionville Economy and energy Immigration)

May 22 Axel Garcia (Liberal) Ottawa Centre Economy and climate change

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D. PUBLIC POLICY MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2009

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Jan. 8 Propane Safety Report Consultations Gina van den Burg Jan. 11 Fundraiser for Hon. Chris Bentley (Liberal) Robert Hughes, Richard Todd Jan. 13 Economic Club of Canada: Session with David Plouffe Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy Jan. 14 Economic Club of Canada: Session with Hon. George Smitherman Edwina McGroddy Michael Monette, Steven Rose, Angela Shama, Jan. 14 Meeting with Hon. Chris Bentley (Liberal) Edwina McGroddy Jan. 18 Fundraiser for MPP (Liberal) Edwina McGroddy Jan. 18 Fundraiser for MPP (Liberal) Michael Monette Jan. 19 Green Energy Act information session Ted Aubut Jan. 22 Building Code Residential Energy Efficiency Workshop Edwina McGroddy, Gina van den Burg Jan. 22 Economic Club of Canada: Session with Hon. Chris Bentley Edwina McGroddy Jan. 26 Toronto Board of Trade dinner Michael Monette Jan. 29 Fundraiser for Hon. David Caplan and MPP Shafiq Qaadri (Liberal) Derek Pinder Economic Club of Canada: Session with Ken Kobly, President of the Alberta Jan. 29 Angela Shama Chamber of Commerce Joint PEO Chapter/OSPE: Presentation: Engineers Canada Labour Market Study Jan. 29 Edwina McGroddy Richmond Hill Jan. 30 Canadian Urban Institute session on the economy and infrastructure Edwina McGroddy, Gina van den Burg “A New Ontario: Making Sustainable Communities Work” session with ADM Feb. 2 Gina van den Burg Hugh MacLeod Storm Cunningham lecture, ArcelorMittal Dofasco Centre for Engineering and Feb. 4 Lee Weissling Public Policy at McMaster University Feb. 5 Economic Club breakfast with Dr. Richard Florida Lee Weissling Fundraiser for MPP David Zimmer with special guest Hon. Chris Bentley Feb. 12 Michael Monette, Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy (Liberal) Feb. 17 OSPE session on Engineers Canada Labour Market Study – Burlington Edwina McGroddy Feb. 20 Toronto Board of Trade event with Hon. George Smitherman Edwina McGroddy Feb. 23 First reading of the Green Energy Act at Queen’s Park Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy Feb. 26 Council of Ontario Construction Associations AGM Ted Aubut

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D. PUBLIC POLICY MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2009

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Feb. 26 Fundraiser for Hon. Jim Watson and Hon. Michael Bryant (Liberal) Edwina McGroddy, Gina van den Burg Feb. 27 City of Toronto consultation on Green Roof Bylaw Nadine Miller, Ted Aubut Society of Manufacturing Engineers session: “Doing Business with Big Mar. 2 Angela Shama Business” ArcelorMittal Dofasco Centre for Engineering and Public Policy seminar with Mar. 4 Edwina McGroddy Dr. John Luxat on nuclear safety Meeting with Andrew Heintzman, Chair of the Premier’s Advisory Panel on Mar. 5 Nadine Miller, Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy Climate Change Mar. 5 Fundraiser for MPP (Liberal) Edwina McGroddy Mar. 12 Fundraiser: Liberal Party Heritage Dinner Michael Monette Mar. 17 OSPE session on Engineers Canada Labour Market Study – Ottawa Edwina McGroddy John Hogins Lecture featuring Dr. Vicky Sharpe, President and CEO of Mar. 19 Michael Monette, Edwina McGroddy Sustainable Development Canada, at McMaster University Mar. 23 Fundraiser for Hon. Peter Fonseca (Liberal) Derek Pinder Michael Monette, Danny Young, Angela Shama, Mar. 23 Fundraiser for MPP David Zimmer and Hon. George Smitherman (Liberal) Edwina McGroddy Ontario Centre for Engineering and Public Policy session on infrastructure Mar. 24 Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut spending Mar. 26 Workshop on provincial requirements for renewable energy technologies Ted Aubut Mar. 27 Consultation: Solar Energy and the Building Code Danny Young Mar. 27 Ontario Freshwater Institute Symposium: Preserving Ontario’s Freshwater Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy Mar. 27 Toronto Board of Trade post-budget luncheon with Hon. Dwight Duncan Ted Aubut Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Mar. 31 OSPE Partnership launch with Nexient Learning Inc. Ted Aubut Apr. 2 Toronto Board of Trade luncheon with Premier Dalton McGuinty Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Apr. 7 Fundraiser for Hon. John Gerretsen William Goodings, Edwina McGroddy Apr. 9 Toronto Board of Trade 11th annual Mayor’s luncheon Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Apr. 14 Toronto Board of Trade seminar on nuclear energy Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Apr. 21 Toronto Board of Trade Business Builders Networking Breakfast Lee Weissling Apr. 22 National Club breakfast with Hon. Chris Bentley Steven Rose, Angela Shama

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D. PUBLIC POLICY MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2009

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Apr. 23 Information Session on the Green Energy Act Ted Aubut Apr. 23-25 APEGGA Conference – Michael Monette, Angela Shama Apr. 29 Fundraiser for Hon. Michael Bryant Angela Shama Toronto Urban Climate Change Network forum on infrastructure and climate Apr. 30 Edwina McGroddy change Adaptation May 8 PEO’s Policy Day on Engineering and Public Policy Michael Monette, Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy May 9 PEO AGM Michael Monette, Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, May 12 Fundraiser for MPP Julia Munro (PC) Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy May 13 Reception for Queen’s Park Legislative Interns Lee Weissling May 13 Climate Change Technology Conference- Hamilton Annette Bergeron, Edwina McGroddy May 13 2009 OPG Hydro Engineering Conference Lee Weissling May 14 Reception for Hon. George Smitherman Lee Weissling May 19 Fundraiser: Liberal Party’s Annual “Red-Tie” Dinner John Schindler May 19 - Annette Bergeron, Michael Monette, Angela Shama, Engineers Canada Summit 21 Edwina McGroddy, Sonya Agnew, May 27 Fundraiser for Hon. Donna Cansfield Annette Bergeron May 31 - Biomass Conference at Queen’s University Annette Bergeron, Edwina McGroddy Jun. 1 June 5 Toronto Board of Trade luncheon with PC leadership candidate Frank Klees Ted Aubut June 9 Ontario Chamber of Commerce event with Hon. Dwight Duncan Angela Shama June 9 Ontario Centres of Excellence session on smart grids Edwina McGroddy, Blake Lambert June 17 Liberal Fundraiser Alourdes Sully June 19 University of Toronto Engineering Convocation Ted Aubut June 24 Fundraiser for Hon. Bradley Duguid Alourdes Sully June 24 Woodrow Wilson Panel Program Angela Shama June 29 - SAVE International 49th Annual Conference– Detroit, Michigan Edwina McGroddy July 1 July 23 Engineers Without Borders Fundraiser Lee Weissling, Julia Melnikova July 25 PEO Golf Tournament Edwina McGroddy Aug. 26 Meeting with Bill Mantel, Ministry of Research and Innovation Annette Bergeron. Edwina McGroddy, Aug. 27 CEO Golf Tournament Alourdes Sully, Edwina McGroddy Sept. 2 Fundraiser for Hon. Chris Bentley Annette Bergeron, Edwina McGroddy Sept. 16 PEO Queen’s Park Reception Michael Monette Sept. 17 Ontario Liberal Women’s Caucus Golf Tournament Edwina McGroddy

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D. PUBLIC POLICY MEETINGS AND EVENTS 2009

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Sept. 28 Consultation on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Ted Aubut Oct. 26 Green Energy Act Stakeholder Session Ted Aubut Ontario Centre for Engineering and Public Policy session on Ontario’s energy Oct. 29 Edwina McGroddy future Oct. 30 Infrastructure Ontario industry update Edwina McGroddy Nov. 9-10 Toronto Forum for Global Cities conference Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Nov. 17 Board of Trade event with Hon. John Gerretsen Ted Aubut Ontario Centre for Engineering & Public Policy session on Ontario’s automotive Nov. 24 Edwina McGroddy future Nov. 25 Heenan Blaikie Open House Annette Bergeron, Edwina McGroddy Nov. 26 Fundraiser for Hon. Gerry Phillips Edwina McGroddy Nov. 27 Canadian Club of Toronto session with Hon. Brad Wall Edwina McGroddy Nov. 23 Build Toronto stakeholder consultation Ted Aubut Nov. 30 Fundraiser for (PC) John Schindler Dec. 2 Ministry of Revenue HST Presentation Lee Weissling Dec. 2 Ontario Chamber of Commerce session with Tim Hudak Edwina McGroddy Dec. 10 ONEIA session on R&D Grants & Tax Credits Ted Aubut Dec. 11 The Economic Club session on economic growth in Europe Edwina McGroddy Dec. 16 The National Forum session with Mark Carney Edwina McGroddy Dec. 17 Ontario Chamber of Commerce session with Hon. Kathleen Wynne Edwina McGroddy

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E. ASSOCIATION OUTREACH 2009 PART 1 OUTREACH EVENTS

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Canadian Federation of Engineering Students (CFES) Congress, Jan. 7 Ted Aubut University of Ottawa 135th Anniversary Dinner of the 32nd Combat Engineers Regiment of the Jan. 10 Michael Monette Canadian Forces Jan. 19 Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) Awards Gala Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Jan. 23 7th Annual Engineers Without Borders (EWB) conference Edwina McGroddy Jan. 23 PEO Brampton chapter AGM Danny Young, Angela Shama Jan. 24 EWB Gala Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Jan. 29-30 PEO North Bay Chapter symposium William Goodings Feb. 3 Joint Relations Committee (JRC) meeting with PEO Michael Monette, Steven Rose, Angela Shama Feb. 17 National Engineering Month luncheon in Niagara Angela Shama Feb. 17 TRIEC Awards Gala Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Feb. 18 PEO Kingston Chapter AGM Annette Bergeron, Steven Rose Feb. 20 Internationally Educated Professionals (IEP) Conference Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Feb. 21 PEO York chapter AGM and certificate presentation Angela Shama Feb. 25 PEO West Toronto chapter AGM Derek Pinder Feb. 26-27 PEO Council meeting Michael Monette, Angela Shama Feb. 27 Roundtable at Queen’s University Annette Bergeron Feb. 28 Bridge Building Competition Angela Shama Michael Monette, Annette Bergeron, Derek Pinder, Feb. 28 Hamilton/Halton Gala for Engineering Week William Goodings, John Schindler, Angela Shama Mar. 2 Woodrow Wilson Awards Angela Shama Mar. 4 Engineering Innovations Forum OSPE Board members and OSPE senior executives Mar. 5 Skills for Change New Pioneers Awards Gala William Goodings, Angela Shama, Ted Aubut, Mar. 6-7 Commerce and Engineering Environmental Conference (CEEC) Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling

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E. ASSOCIATION OUTREACH 2009 PART 1 OUTREACH EVENTS

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Mar. 12 Engineering Your Future (Skills for Change) advisory committee meeting Edwina McGroddy Mar. 25 Hamilton PEO Chapter AGM Angela Shama Apr. 1 Ontario Consulting Engineers Awards Angela Shama Information session on mentorship program at WoodGreen Community Apr. 15 Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland, Mehemed Delibasic Services Apr. 16-17 PEO Council meeting Michael Monette, Angela Shama Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Apr. 23-25 Michael Monette, Angela Shama Alberta (APEGGA) conference Apr. 29 9th Annual Environment Industry Day William Goodings May 26 PEO Scarborough Chapter certificate ceremony Angela Shama June 2 CEO Awards Gala in Ottawa Angela Shama June 2 Youth Science Ontario Showcase Ted Aubut, Julia Melnikova June 5 PEO Council Meeting Annette Bergeron, Angela Shama June 5 TRIEC Council Meeting Ted Aubut Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Information Session for June15 Lee Weissling managers of bridging programs June 17 National Engineering Month Ontario meeting Angela Shama, Lee Weissling, Julia Melnikova Presentation for Internationally Trained Engineers (ITE’s) enrolled at June 17 Lee Weissling WoodGreen Community Services June 18 Presentation for ITEs enrolled at Polycultural Services Lee Weissling June 19 Presentation for engineering students at ESSCO AGM Lee Weissling June 27 Chinese Professionals Career Fair Lee Weissling June 29- SAVE International Conference Edwina McGroddy July 2 July 7 Engineering Network Meeting – Skills for Change Lee Weissling July 8 Meeting with Six Sigma - Knowledge Management Group Lee Weissling Presentation for ITEs enrolled in Toronto District School Board (TDSB) July 16 Lee Weissling adult education program July 22 Fundraiser: Engineers Without Borders Ted Aubut July 31 Ontario Engineering Competition Lee Weissling Aug. 4 Advisory Meeting for Engineering Your Future program Lee Weissling Aug. 17 Presentation for ITE’s enrolled at Seneca College Lee Weissling Aug. 19 Engineer in Training Session at PEO Lee Weissling

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E. ASSOCIATION OUTREACH 2009 PART 1 OUTREACH EVENTS

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Aug. 26 Display Booth at Canadian National Exhibition Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Sept. 3 ESSCO Executive Luncheon Lee Weissling Sept. 8 Presentation with PEO to University of Waterloo students Lee Weissling Sept. 8 Display booth at University of Toronto Engineering Frosh events Liz Greenland Sept. 8 Display booth at University of Guelph Engineering Frosh events Lee Weissling Sept. 9 Display booth at University of Western Ontario Engineering Frosh events Lee Weissling Sept. 9 Presentation to ITEs enrolled in bridging program at ACCESS, London Lee Weissling Sept. 16 University of Toronto Career Fair Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Sept. 17 McMaster University Career Fair Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Sept. 19 ESSCO Presidents Conference Lee Weissling Sept. 21 Presentation to ITEs enrolled at PolyCultural Services Lee Weissling Sept. 23 Career Fair at Ryerson University Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Sept. 24 Presentation to ITE’s enrolled at COSTI Immigrant Services Lee Weissling Sept. 25 Job Search Seminar, TDSB Lee Weissling Sept. 29 Presentation to ITEs enrolled at COSTI Immigrant Services (Markham) Lee Weissling Sept. 30 Career Fair for students at University of Waterloo and Guelph Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Oct. 2 OACETT Honours and Awards Gala 2009 Annette Bergeron Oct. 6 Presentation to ITEs enrolled in TDSB adult education program Lee Weissling Oct. 6 Presentation to ITEs enrolled in TDSB adult education program Lee Weissling Oct. 8 University of Ottawa Career Fair Lee Weissling Oct. 9 Joint presentation with PEO for Ottawa area ITEs Lee Weissling Oct. 14 National Career Fair Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Oct. 15-17 APEGBC Annual General Meeting Annette Bergeron Oct. 16 Session for 1st year engineering students at the University of Toronto Lee Weissling Oct. 19 Hamilton-Halton annual awards gala and luncheon John Schindler, Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Oct. 20 UOIT Career Fair Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Oct. 21-22 Queen’s University Engineering Week Annette Bergeron, Lee Weissling Oct. 23 Joint OSPE and PEO student presentation at the University of Waterloo Liz Greenland Oct. 26 PEO Mississauga/Brampton Town Hall Meeting John Schindler Oct. 27 Joint presentation with PEO to University of Western Ontario students Lee Weissling Oct. 27 Engineers Without Borders & PEO Chapter Meeting Lee Weissling

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E. ASSOCIATION OUTREACH 2009 PART 1 OUTREACH EVENTS

DATE EVENT OSPE ATTENDEES Nov. 4 Joint presentation with PEO to Ottawa-area ITE’s Lee Weissling Nov. 4 Joint presentation with PEO for students at Lee Weissling Nov. 6 Lakehead PEO Chapter event Annette Bergeron Nov. 12 Joint Relations Committee meeting with PEO Annette Bergeron, John Schindler, Edwina McGroddy Nov. 18 Presentation for engineering students at McMaster University Lee Weissling Matthew Xie, Ed Poon, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Nov.14 Chinese Professionals Association Foundation Awards Gala Weissling Nov. 18 Presentation for engineering students at McMaster University Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Nov. 19-20 PEO Council meeting John Schindler, Edwina McGroddy Nov. 20-21 Career Fair at Chesswood Employment Resource Centre Lee Weissling Nov. 24 Presentation for ITE’s at JVS Immigrant Services, Toronto Lee Weissling Nov. 25 Sponsored PEO Ottawa Chapter and EWB Ottawa Chapter event Lee Weissling Nov. 25 Launch of project with Canadian Association of Professional Engineers Liz Greenland Nov.26 YMCA Job Developer Session, Ottawa Lee Weissling Nov. 26 Certificate Presentation, PEO East Toronto Chapter Alourdes Sully Nov. 26 Réseau des Ingénieures du Québec AGM & 2009 Congress Annette Bergeron Nov. 27-28 ESSCO - PEO Student Conference – Queen’s University Lee Weissling Nov. 28 Mathletics Competition, PEO Scarborough Chapter John Schindler Nov. 28 U of T National Conference on Women in Engineering Annette Bergeron Presentation to students in Engineering and Communications course at Dec. 2 Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Ryerson University Dec. 3 Engineers Networking Group meeting Lee Weissling

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E. ASSOCIATION OUTREACH 2009 PART 2 OSPE HOSTED EVENTS

DATE EVENT Mar. 31 Partnership launch with Nexient Learning Inc. Apr. 28 Breakfast Forum on Green Energy Act May 5 General Assembly and Annual General Meeting May 14 Women in Engineering Advisory Committee (WEAC) Spring Forum June 11 Golf Tournament June 16 Career Planning Session #1 Aug. 10 Career Planning Session #2 Sept. 16 Partnership launch with Intrepid Travel Oct. 1 Career Planning Session #3 Oct. 5 Career Planning Session #4 Oct. 17 Go Eng Girl Oct. 27 Breakfast Forum on renewable energy in Ontario Oct. 28 Salary Survey results workshop Nov. 4 WEAC Fall Forum Dec. 8 Breakfast Forum on proposed changes to Waste Diversion Act

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F. TASK FORCES AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2009

DATE COMMITTEE/TASK FORCE OSPE STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Jan. 19 Women in Engineering Advisory Committee (WEAC) Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova Jan. 28 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Jan. 29 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Feb. 3 Fee Guideline Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Feb. 12 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Feb. 26 OSPE Board of Directors Board of Directors and Senior OSPE staff Feb. 26 WEAC Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova Mar. 5 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Mar. 10 WEAC Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova Mar. 10 Salary Survey Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Mar. 11 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Mar. 23 Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Mar. 30 WEAC Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova Apr. 7 Women in Engineering Task Force – Ottawa Angela Shama Apr. 28 OSPE Executive OSPE Executive, Angela Shama Apr. 30 WEAC Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova May 5 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut May 11 Fee Guideline Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut May 11 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut May 11 Chapter Liaison Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland May 12 Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Farah Eftekhari, May 14 WEAC Spring Forum Julia Melnikova May 28 Complaints and Discipline Process Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut, Blake Lambert June 15 Go Eng Girl Committee Lee Weissling, Kris Light, Julia Melnikova June 18 Membership Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland June 19 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut June 22 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut

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F. TASK FORCES AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2009

DATE COMMITTEE/TASK FORCE OSPE STAFF IN ATTENDANCE June 24 Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut July 23 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling July 27 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling July 28 Membership Advisory Committee Angela Shama, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling July 29 Climate Change/Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Aug. 26 Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Sept. 2 Membership Advisory Committee Annette Bergeron, Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Sept. 2 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut, Lee Weissling Sept. 9 Research and Innovation Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut, Lee Weissling Angela Shama, , Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova, Lee Sept. 10 WEAC Weissling Sept. 14 Professional Development Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Liz Greenland Sept. 14 Engineers Canada Edwina McGroddy, Sonya Agnew Sept. 15 National Engineering Month Ontario Edwina McGroddy, Julia Melnikova, Lee Weissling Oct. 15 Complaints & Disciplines Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Oct. 20 Engineering Innovations Forum Organizing Committee Julia Melnikova Oct. 26 Chapter Liaison Committee Alourdes Sully, Lee Weissling Oct. 27 Nominations Committee Matthew Xie, Val Mueller Nov. 11 Complaints & Disciplines Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Nov. 16 Membership Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Nov. 16 Climate Change Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling, Ted Aubut Nov. 18 Energy Task Force Edwina McGroddy, Ted Aubut Nov. 24 National Engineering Month Ontario Lee Weissling, Julia Melnikova Dec. 3 Go Eng Girl Julia Melnikova Dec. 3 National Engineering Month Ontario Lee Weissling, Julia Melnikova Dec. 8 Green Economy Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling Dec. 22 Membership Advisory Committee Edwina McGroddy, Lee Weissling

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G. ADVOCACY CORRESPONDENCE 2009

DATE MPP AND RIDING PURPOSE OF SUBMISSION Mar. 19 Andrea Horvath, MPP Hamilton Centre (NDP) Congratulations on being elected party leader Rick Johnson, MPP Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock Apr. 8 Congratulation on being elected an MPP (Liberal) Apr. 15 Julia Munro, York—Simcoe (PC) Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative Apr. 15 Liz Sandals, Guelph (Liberal) Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative Apr. 22 John Fraser, Executive Assistant to Premier Dalton McGuinty Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative Apr. 22 Greg Sorbara, Vaughan (Liberal) Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative Apr. 22 Joyce Salvoline, Burlington (PC) Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative Apr. 22 Hon. Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Education Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative May 12 Hon. Donna Cansfield, Minister of Natural Resources Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative May 12 Hon. Steve Peters, Speaker Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative May 12 Yasir Naqvi, Ottawa Centre (Liberal) Follow up on meeting with a PAN representative May 15 Reza Moridi, MPP Richmond Hill (Liberal) Thank you for attending OSPE’s green energy forum Hon. John Wilkinson, MPP Perth-Wellington May 19 Response to announced funding for research and innovation Minister of Research & Innovation June 29 John O’Toole, MPP Durham Thank you for attending OSPE’s golf tournament June 29 Julia Munro, MPP York Simcoe Thank you for attending OSPE’s golf tournament July 3 Tim Hudak, MPP Niagara West - Glanbrook Congratulations for election as leader of PC Party Sept. 16 David Orazietti, MPP Sault Ste Marie Congratulations on becoming Parliamentary Assistance, MNR Sept. 16 Reza Moridi, MPP Richmond Hill Congratulations on becoming Parliamentary Assistant, MRI Sept. 16 Dr. Helena Jaczek, MPP Oak Ridges - Markham Congratulations on becoming Parliamentary Assistant, MoE Ministry of Citizenship & Immigration, Immigration Support of proposed Centennial College program for internationally- Sept. 29 Branch – Review Commission trained engineers Oct. 7 Dr. , MPP St. Paul’s Congratulations for being elected MPP for St. Paul's Congratulations on becoming Minister of Health/Update on WEAC Oct. 9 The Honourable , MPP London North Centre Forum

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G. ADVOCACY CORRESPONDENCE 2009

DATE MPP AND RIDING PURPOSE OF SUBMISSION Honourable John Wilkinson, MPP Perth-Wellington, Minister Thank you for speaking at the 2009 Ontario Professional Engineer Nov. 21 of Revenue Awards Gala Nov. 30 Dr. Helena Jaczek, MPP Oak Ridges - Markham Thank you for attending Ontario Professional Engineer Awards Gala Honourable John Wilkinson, MPP Perth-Wellington, Minister Nov. 30 Thank you for attending Ontario Professional Engineer Awards Gala of Revenue Honourable Dwight Duncan, MPP Windsor -Tecumseh, Dec. 18 2010 budget consultation submission Minister of Finance

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Advocacy, Public Policy and Outreach 2009 Year End Report

H: Accords

Copies of Policy Submissions

2009 20

The Declaration and OSPE

Canada’s first-ever National Engineering Summit, held in Montreal from May 19th to May 21st, tasked itself with defining a vision for the profession’s future. It called on the engineering community to contribute to this country’s quality of life and societal development. With the Canadian Engineering Leadership Foundation as their host, engineers discussed an array of issues, including health, the environment, safety, security and global competitiveness. The summit ended with the “Montreal Declaration” against which the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) initiatives can be measured favorably. OSPE takes a lead role in advocacy, represents the economic and research interests of professional engineers and is committed to increasing diversity.

The Montreal Declaration contains four pledges. One, deliver Canadian engineering innovation domestically and globally. Two, establish engineering capacity that will be needed in the future to improve health and safety, and provide for a cleaner environment and enable greater sustainable development. Three, use advocacy to address areas where the engineering profession can lead to public policy development and directly contribute to the quality of life. Finally, make educational amendments that will encourage wider participation in the profession by the population and foster innovation.

Here’s how OSPE is engaged today. The four pledges are reclassified as: 1) research and innovation; 2) energy and the economy; 3) government relations and public policy; and 4) continuing education and internationally trained engineers.

Research and Innovation

On the first pledge, OSPE has in place a research and innovation taskforce, which has two goals. It works to encourage government to increase public funding for the commercialization of engineering research, particularly among the private sector. The taskforce also proposes solutions for stimulating engineering innovation. This issue is central to OSPE members who say their companies are still facing obstacles with the marketing and commercialization of engineering technology. OSPE is currently planning a research and innovation session in the fall to create awareness of the available resources for engineers. The objective is to outline how to access funding from the Ontario government and to share success stories from professional engineers who have successfully done so in the past

Energy and the Economy

OSPE has been active on this file prior to the Ontario government’s Green Energy Act. OSPE supports the law, which aims to change consumption patterns and to incorporate renewable energy sources into the provincial power grid. However, it has advised the Ontario government to consider the governance and regulation aspects of the Act, specifically calling for arms-length centralized planning authority with limited political interference to oversee the electricity grid and to set energy priorities. On April 28th, a breakfast forum of high-profile speakers discussed the Act’s implications for engineers. Meanwhile, OSPE will be co-hosting its second symposium on engineering and climate change on April 29, 2010. This follows the first symposium on this subject, which was held on Oct. 16, 2008.

On the economic front, OSPE unveiled the results of Engineers Canada’s labour market study at its May 4th General Assembly. Key findings included interpretations of the data such as the relative importance of non-technical skills become more important to engineers as they progress in their careers. The study also suggested engineers have lost ground to other professions on matters of employment opportunity and compensation. During this economic recession, OSPE is keenly aware of the challenges facing its membership. In particular, the steep decline of the automotive and manufacturing sectors hurts engineers employed or previously employed in these areas.

Public Policy and Government Relations

OSPE is committed to building relationships with local and provincial government officials along with non- governmental bodies. A key partnership is with the Dofasco Centre for Engineering and Public Policy at McMaster University, the co-sponsor of the forthcoming symposium on climate change. On the governmental front, OSPE makes submissions to cabinet ministers in order to inform them of the engineering viewpoint on key issues such as the economy, the Green Energy Act and research and innovation,. Those submissions are reinforced by meetings with cabinet ministers and MPPs along with the diligent efforts of the Political Action Network, whose members regularly meet with municipal and provincial politicians. Through consistent engagement and attention to detail, OSPE is demonstrating it can influence policies to benefit professional engineers and its community of engineering graduates.

Continuing Education and Internationally Trained Engineers

Continuing education and supporting internationally trained engineers are core activities for OSPE. The Engineering Continuing Education workshops, known as EPIC, focus on professional development for the profession. OSPE managed programs leverage private sector cooperation with Nexient Learning, Canada’s largest corporate skills development company. Nexient offers OSPE members discounts on project management and technical courses. Cooperation with other companies is currently being explored in order to benefit the membership.

OSPE’s efforts toward internationally trained engineers are equally robust. Its Professional Practice Exam (PPE) Foundations Course provides these engineers with the necessary background material, information, vocabulary, language structures and skills to understand the exam material. The course focuses on the background of regulated professions in Ontario, professional engineering in Ontario, professional practices and ethics, engineering law concepts and writing the Professional Practice Exam. It introduces students to all of the written materials they need to comprehend in order to prepare for the exam. During the Open Forum at the General Assembly, this issue received serious discussion as a limited percentage of internationally trained engineers who move to Canada actually wind up practicing their profession in their new residency. OSPE is certainly working to close that gap.

The society’s efforts to create awareness and interest in the profession for women are also very active. The Women in Engineering Advisory Committee (WEAC) stands at the forefront of this campaign. A 2009 survey by WEAC assessed the conditions for women engineers. It asked questions about school outreach, special events for women engineers, the nomination of women for awards and WEAC-specific activities such as advising and liaising with PEO, the regulatory body. On May 14th, WEAC held a very successful event, mostly attended by female professional engineers, about the variety of opportunities that exist for the profession. The event inspired the crowd and will help promote not only engineering but the opportunities for serving the public good, which motivates many within the under-30 generation.

In summary, OSPE is on the right path in terms of delivering on the commitments outlined by the Montreal Declaration. What’s clear is that OSPE is determined to enhance the profile of the engineering profession, reduce the barriers to innovation, represent members’ interests to governments and is working towards professional enfranchisement of internationally trained engineers and women.

Advocacy, Public Policy and Outreach 2009 Year End Report

Appendix 1:

Copies of Contributed Articles

2009

24

Death to Bacteria http://watertreatment.ca/2009/death-to-bacteria/

Posted on 28 January 2009 Written by Steven Rose

Carbon nanotubes might effectively treat wastewater, but are they dangerous to our health?

In our rush t o use ne w t echnologies i n the improvement of man -made mate rials or to clean u p th e environm ent, som etimes we forget to consider or study po ssible environmental and health implications. Recent studies and reports have shown this to be the case with certain carbo n nanotechnologies and their effects on the organisms we use to clean up wastewater.

Researchers at the University of South Australia are looking at using nanotechnology in the treat ment of wastewater. Thei r solar nano-photocatalytic wa stewater trea tment process can r eplace the n ormal, but le ss effective chl orination disinfection step to disinfect wastewater an d, at the same time, remove o rganic compounds ma king the wastewater suitable as a water resou rce fo r agriculture and aquaculture.

If su ccessful, their p rocess could have far- reaching i mplications for wastewater remediation aro und the world-but what happens wh en the se na notubes e scape int o the ecosy stem? Will they have an adverse effect on aq uatic life or th e proper functioning of our water treatment processes?

What about the nanotechnology used in manufactured goods? What is their ultimate effect on the environment and food chain? Nanosilver, for example, is a bactericide which slows the formation of odour-causing bacteria in socks, shirts and underwear, but it has be en proven too effecti ve. It kills twice the number of bacteria than chlorine bleach does.

The textile industry i s also developi ng a new mate rial spun fro m carbon nanotubes. Ca rbon nanotubes are cylindrical carbon molecules with novel characteristics that make them potentially useful in many applications in electronics, optics and other fields of material science. They exhibit extraordinary strength and unique electrical properties, and they are efficient conductors of heat. Instead of a pplying expe nsive dye s, this fabri c’s thread di ameter dete rmines its colour by refraction, potentially saving millions of dollars for the clothing industry.

The number of patents filed on nanomaterials worldwide reached 1,600 in 2006 and that growth has continu ed expo nentially. Accordi ng to th e Project on Emergin g Nanote chnologies in Washington, D.C., as a partne rship betwee n the Woo drow Wilson International Center for Scholars and the Pew Charitable Trusts, there are at least 600 products on the global market that claim to contain one or more nanomaterials as key ingredients.

Engineers are using nanoparticles in the production of a variety of products including sunscreens, cleaning products, anti-odour treatments for clothes, cosmetics, smart plastics, ceramics, anti-fog and self-cleaning glass, composites, carbon-fibre-based textiles and othe r products, but little is known about the downstream effects of these particles on the food chain.

Initial research into the toxicity of carbon nanotubes has focused on direct human health risks and researchers are beginning to lo ok at t heir impact on natural ecosystems. The ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila has been widely studied by ecotoxicologists because of its role i n the regulation of microbial populations through the ingestion and digestion of harmful bacteria, and because it’s an important organism in wa stewater treatment and an indicator of sewage eff luent quality.

Research and a subsequent paper published co-operatively by the departments of chemistry and biology at the University of Waterloo in 2008 shows that single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) are internalized by T. thermophilia — that may allow the nanotubes to move up the food chain.

The study, entitled the “Impact of carbon nanotubes on the ingestion and digestion of bacteria by ciliated protozoa,” by Xiaowu (Shi rley) Tang and her team showed that the internali zation also causes the p rotozoa to e mit a mucou s-like material and stick to gether, impeding their a bility to ingest and digest their prey bacteria species.

In addition, t he Royal Co mmission on Environmental Pollution i n the U.K. p ublished a report in November 2008 entitled “Novel Material s in the Environment — the Case of Nanotechnology.” It states that produ cts based on nanotechnology are coming to the market witho ut being pro perly tested for their potentially adverse effects on living o rganisms. Most products are tested for their safety on a macro scale, but little is kn own of their effects on a nanoscale-measured in billionths of a metre.

The chairman of the com mission, John Lawton, was quoted in the Ne w Scientist as saying, “We have no me ans of dete cting nan otubes in t he environment right now and the rat e o f nanotechnology innovation now far outstrips our capacity to respond to the risks.”

Clearly, engi neers mu st take a step back and mode rate th e adoptio n of nanote chnology applications in everything from water and wastewater treatment to manufa ctured goods until we can monitor the presence of nanoscale materials in the environment. We also have to accelerate our resea rch into their e ffects at all levels of the food chain and ou r ecosystems. Yes, nanotechnology has the potential to improve our lives and our environment when used properly, but there also exists the v ery real possibility that these “i mprovements” might one day do more harm than good-leaving us with an even greater mess to clean up in the future.

Steven Rose, P.Eng., is the vice-chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers and vice president and co-founder of Malroz Engineering Inc., a Kingston-based company of environmental engineers and scientists.

North Bay Nugget, January 28, 2009

The Real Cost of the Lowest Bid by Michael Monette, P.Eng., MBA, EDP

Most engineering services today, whether they involve massive public works projects or building small manufacturing facilities, are contracted on the basis of “low-fee bidding.” In other words, contracts are typically awarded to the engineering firm that can offer to complete the work at the lowest price.

When the emphasis is on short-term cost versus the long-term value of the project, engineers are forced to focus on immediate financial parameters as opposed to innovative solutions that may make a project more cost-effective in the long term. This process all but eliminates the ability of engineers and engineering firms to innovate. Low-fee bidding encourages the replication of older, cheaper technologies, which may actually cost more over the life cycle of a project.

The ongoing practice of low-fee bidding affects the engineering profession as well as the customer, whether public or private enterprise. Engineers have the knowledge, skill and drive to develop innovative and sustainable solutions that provide long-term value. When we are forced to maintain the status quo of “lowest bid gets the job,” our profile as innovative problem solvers is diminished.

Moreover, the ability of Ontario and indeed all of Canada to be at the forefront of innovation in the global marketplace is severely hampered. While other countries forge ahead, creating new and innovative structures and systems, our engineers, our province and our nation is most often forced to replicate old technology because that’s the way it has always been done.

Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) is recognized and used around the world. In 1972, as part of its efforts to rebuild and revitalize its cities, the United States government introduced legislation requiring engineering and architectural services for federally funded projects to be procured using QBS. Since then, more than 44 U.S. states have adopted QBS.

QBS describes a general competitive procurement process that includes public announcement of projects, full and open competition, and careful review of firms’ capabilities, experience, technical skills and personnel. Once the firm is selected, a detailed scope and description of services are agreed to and an appropriate fee is negotiated. By first agreeing on the scope of the project, the client can make clear the required emphasis on factors such as environmental impact, cost, schedules and social implications before fees are negotiated.

When using the QBS system, the client and the consultant work together to complete a project for a fair fee that reflects the nature of the consultant’s services; allocation of risk; the required effort and commitment from the engineer; and ultimately the long-term quality and value to the client. Many carriers of professional liability insurance view QBS as a sound risk management strategy.

Public health and safety considerations are at stake with public sector projects. There is a responsibility to the taxpayers to obtain the highest quality and safest project design possible.

Ontario’s engineers are uniquely suited when it comes to protecting the public. Under their governing statute, The Professional Engineers Act, engineers have a duty to protect the public. When an engineer stamps a plan, that stamp carries with it the weight of a self-regulating body – Professional Engineers of Ontario -- that has a full disciplinary process in place to deal with those engineers who act in a manner that could jeopardize public health and safety.

Professional engineers must be given every opportunity to remain competitive and innovative. To remain on the cutting edge of new technologies, we must be able to use them, be trained in them and implement them without fear of losing a project because of price. While the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) recognizes that economics should play a role in the bidding process, we believe that innovation, competitiveness and long-term sustainability should be of equal importance. In practice, the QBS approach leads to a lower Total Lifecycle Cost for the project as increased latitude to innovate can yield improvements in project deployment and operations costs.

OSPE advocates the adoption of Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) by all levels of government and private procurers of engineering services. QBS is a general competitive procurement process that includes public announcement of projects, full and open competition, and careful review of each bidding firm’s capabilities, experience, technical skills and personnel.

Once a firm is selected, a detailed scope and description of services are agreed upon. Only then is an appropriate fee negotiated, taking full account of the client’s desired emphasis on factors such as safety, environmental impact, cost, schedules and social implications. OSPE holds that QBS ultimately yields more cost effective, sustainable and successful projects over the long term.

Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P.Eng., is president and chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), the advocacy body for the province’s 70,000 professional engineers.

Letters

TIME TO BUILD HOW THE WEST WAS RUN (OF RIVER) eNew Canada the taxpayer to the private sector, but they readers know that have allowed government to leverage private- read with great interest Mira Rthese challenging sector expertise in building projects faster, Shenker’s March/April 2009 economic times provide opportunities for better and at lower cost. I editorial “The Bad Re.” While governments to partner and take advantage British Columbia has also launched a $14- green energy stocks may have taken a of this slow period to build infrastructure billion transit plan with a goal of doubling drubbing from the recession, in British that will both support communities and keep transit ridership by 2020, and reducing Columbia they are far from down and people working. greenhouse gas emissions by 4.7-million out. I represent B.C.’s largest run-of- For everything from large transportation tonnes cumulatively. The plan includes river hydro developer. The company’s projects, to schools and hospitals, to smaller $10.3 billion for four new rapid transit lines flagship project, the Toba Valley/ water and sewer developments, we can build including the Canada, which is being built Montrose Creek run-of-river hydro public infrastructure at more affordable as a P3. We are also investing $1.2 billion project, is currently under construction rates today than at the height of an economic for a new, energy-efficient, high-capacity north of Powell River, with completion boom. In British Columbia, we are working RapidBus BC service in our urban centres, scheduled for 2010. This project with federal and local governments to invest and investing $1.6 billion for 1,500 new, employs approximately 290 workers on $14 billion in infrastructure. This work is clean energy buses. site and has created more than 889,000 expected to create about 88,000 jobs. By investing today in a wide range of person-hours of employment. However, all governments must find new ways infrastructure projects, we’re not only taking All the best, to stretch taxpayer dollars as far as possible. advantage of better market conditions for In B.C., all public sector capital projects construction, we’re saving taxpayers’ money. Martin Livingston Living Communications Inc. between $20 million and $50 million are We’re also keeping people employed in their , British Columbia screened to determine if they are suitable to communities. This is critically important: be delivered as a public-private partnership when the economy rebounds, the skilled Editor’s Note: Thanks for the positive (P3). To date in B.C. about $10-billion worth workers we depend on will still be here. news. We’re well aware of B.C.’s run-of- of P3 projects are completed or underway, and Communities can ill afford to see workers river projects—in fact, the Toba Valley more than $4 billion in private investment move away or abandon their vocations. project is profiled in our joint editorial is being leveraged through the P3 process. supplement with Alberta Oil magazine Not only have our P3s transferred risk from British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell inserted into this issue (page 22, centre). ENGINEERING AN ACT ntario’s Green Energy Act (GEA) is already established as a strong industry crowded kitchen. The Bill could be revised received Royal Assent on May 14, in other countries. Jobs will only come to to clarify the role of each body: the Ontario O2009. Ontario could become a model Ontario through investment in research, Power Authority should set priorities for for others—but not if it doesn’t develop a best development and commercialization in the adding new green generating capacity to practice. The Ontario Society of Professional province. The Bill should identify measures reflect its supply plan; the Ontario Energy Engineers (OSPE) believes Queen’s Park could to encourage domestic equipment supply Board should administer an appeals process be doing more. OSPE’s new GEA Task Force and the use of local engineering and other of decisions made by the REFO. The Bill has divided the issues into five subject categories resources. Homeowners could contribute to should also clearly identify and provide and come up with recommendations. economic growth by producing energy and an extended mandate to all forms of green 1. Environmental Objectives selling any excess back to the province, but energy production and utilization, not just Adding inconsistent sources of energy like they would first need to make significant electrical generation. wind and solar to an electrical grid that’s investments into the interconnect. 5. Role of the Engineering Profession known to have limited capacity and range of Alternatives such as building code changes Electrical generating companies have operations requires judicious supply-demand to better use passive/active solar energy and traditionally used professional engineers in management and grid analysis. These types thermal storage should be considered. the design, operation and maintenance of of renewables are best used in conjunction 3. Electrical Distribution Challenges their facilities and, consequently, complied with localized power requirements that Supply mix incentives should consider voluntarily with the public safety provisions don’t place demand on the grid transmission distribution impacts and set appropriate in the Professional Engineers Act. Bill 150 network. The government should use targets or limits on the various forms of opens energy generation to individuals who this new Bill to support cogeneration and energy generation. The Bill should also are often neither trained nor accountable geothermal technologies. encourage energy producers and users to under that Act. The Bill should be revised 2. Anticipated Economic Growth reduce air pollution rather than a primary to ensure the provisions of the Act apply to The provincial government estimates the Act focus on the generation of electricity. all green energy production and utilization will create 50,000 new jobs in Ontario. But 4. Governance Implications projects that have the potential to affect successful job creation depends on more than The GEA, particularly the proposed public health and safety. just passing this Act. Production of solar Renewable Energy Facilitation Office Michael Monette and wind energy technology and materials (REFO), may be one chef too many in a Past president and chair of OSPE

6 ReNew Canada May/June 2009 www.renewcanada.net

Advocacy, Public Policy and Outreach 2009 Year End Report

Appendix 2:

Copies of Policy Submissions

2009 33

January 27, 2009

Ms. Susan Howard Senior Policy Analyst Ministry of the Environment Integrated Environmental Planning Division 135 St. Clair Avenue. W. Floor 6 Toronto, ON M4V 1P5

Dear. Ms. Howard,

RE: EBR 010-4642—Proposal for Amending Ontario Regulation 153/04

On behalf of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), I wish to thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed amendments to the Brownfields Regulation 153/04.

As the voice of Ontario’s 70,000 professional engineers, we appreciate the Ministry of Environment’s efforts to include engineers in the consultation process and inviting OSPE to participate in a formal consultation with the Ministry on November 12, 2008 to discuss the suggested changes to the regulation and how they will affect engineers completing Brownfield remediation.

As the proposed amendments relate largely to performance standards and do not stipulate modifications to the standards of qualified persons or credential recognition of engineers, OSPE, does not have any concerns or reservations with the recommended amendments.

We appreciate the Ministry taking our comments into consideration and look forward to collaborating on similar engineering-related issues in the future.

Sincerely yours,

Angela Shama, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer 416-223-9961 ext. 223 [email protected]

200904

March 19, 2009

Ms. Andrea Horwath, MPP Leader of Ontario’s New Democratic Party Room 112, Main Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A5

Dear Ms. Horwath,

As President and Chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), I would like to extend congratulations to you on your election as leader of the New Democratic Party.

OSPE, as the Voice of Ontario’s engineers, promotes and supports excellence in all aspects of engineering. OSPE’s work enhances the profession’s recognition by advocating with governments, particularly at the provincial level, and with employers. We initiate proactive communications programs, offer exemplary continuing education, career advancement services and affinity programs.

OSPE partners with Ontario’s engineers to identify critical issues within the engineering community. On behalf of its membership- which ranges from engineering students to professional engineers- OSPE conducts member research, monitors the political environment and focuses its advocacy initiatives on issues such as climate change, the economy, public infrastructure development and safe drinking water.

We look forward to working with you on addressing many of the key issues that concern professional engineers in Ontario.

Once again, congratulations on your new role.

Yours sincerely,

Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P.Eng. President and Chair

200906

4950 Yonge Street, Suite 502, Toronto, ON M2N 6K1 p 416.223.9961 ext. 227 f 416.223.9963 tf 1.866.763.1654 w www.ospe.on.ca e [email protected]

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Open Letter to all OSPE Members

Re: Proposed Ontario Green Energy & Green Economy Act

The Ontario government recently introduced Bill 150, Green Energy & Green Economy Act 2009 (GEA) with stated goals to build a green economy in Ontario. You can find it here: http://www.ontla.on.ca/web/bills/bills_detail.do?locale=en&BillID=2145

This proposed legislation is part of Ontario’s plan to remove barriers to creating a leading green economy in North America and fostering renewable energy projects. The stated opportunity is to foster growth in clean and renewable sources of energy such as wind, solar, hydro, biomass and biogas in Ontario. It will create the potential for savings and help Ontarians manage household energy expenditures through a series of conservation measures. The government expects the GEA to enable the creation of 50,000 jobs in its first three years of implementation.

As the voice of Ontario’s engineers, OSPE has set up a Task Force to discuss the Bill and provide recommendations. Here are the highlights from this Task Force and some of OSPE’s recommendations.

OSPE’s GEA Task Force first divided the issues into five subject categories: Meeting Environmental Objectives; Anticipated Economic Growth; Electrical Distribution Challenges; Governance Implications; and the Role of our Engineering Profession.

Meeting Environmental Objectives

Maximizing energy efficiency is paramount for reducing energy waste and reducing our impact on the environment. This is especially important for those energy sources that have large environmental impact. OSPE believes that the success of these new energy initiatives should be measured by how much greenhouse gas emissions are reduced across the full process chain and consider the cost expended. Full life cycle and sustainability assessments are necessary to provide a solid basis for supply mix decision- making.

Wind and solar sourced energy is fluctuating based upon resource availability. This requires judicious forward supply demand management and grid analysis to accommodate the appropriate percentage mix of such energy input into the Ontario electrical grid that has limited capability to utilize fluctuating supply. Consequently, wind and solar energy are best employed within the range of grid capability or in applications where storage is readily available to absorb the fluctuations such as for thermal mass buffered space heating, hydro reservoir replenishment or hydrogen production. Co- generation and geothermal technology, including both ground sourced as well as deep sourced thermal reserves, should also play a significant role in reducing the energy required to heat homes and businesses in Ontario. OSPE believes that the government and the Bill should support cogeneration and geothermal technologies.

In Ontario, rapid response supply such as natural gas electrical generation may be required to supplement wind and solar electrical generation when there is no wind or sun and the base load mix is not capable of tracking the demand curve. OSPE recommends that life cycle costing be employed across the full energy supply system including sustainability analysis incorporating all inputs and outputs in the interest of defining the best means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the optimum applications for each energy source. The engagement of qualified professional engineers in these assessments should be considered fundamental to any decision-making processes.

Anticipated Economic Growth

OSPE applauds the job creation aspect of the Bill but is concerned that it will not create the number of jobs anticipated. Solar and wind energy technology and materials production will likely be imported from countries where the production capability is already established. Success in job creation goals will only come from continued investment in research, development and commercialization in Ontario. OSPE requests that the Bill identify measures to encourage domestic equipment supply and the use of local engineering and other resources.

In the case of wind power, in order for manufacturers to create jobs by setting up plants in Ontario, the “buyer” should commit to purchase significant amounts of energy from the renewable energy producers. Purchases of 600MW capacity or more tend to cross the necessary threshold of attracting local domestic production. The Ontario government has not made the level of commitment that Quebec has made as part of its 1,000 MW wind power capacity procurements with minimum domestic content rules. These activities have led to the establishment of wind turbine component manufacturing facilities in Quebec.

The addition of wind and solar power will increase the price of electricity at a rate commensurate with the percentage adoption. Costs for provision of balancing gas-fired power is also a positive contributor to electricity pricing. In one scenario, implementation of the Integrated Power System Plan (IPSP) leads to higher and more volatile electricity prices (1000MWh gas increase would lead to a $9.70/MW rise in hourly electricity prices),1. The higher electricity prices relate to a loss in GDP of 0.7%, increase in CPI of 0.6%, and a loss of 45,000 jobs related to the base case in 2015,2. It should be noted that these studies were done with an increased use of natural gas, $0.09/kwh, whereas alternative energy feed-in tariffs are $0.10/KWh to $0.80/kwh, with wind power at $0.14/kwh -- near double. Thus, the estimates in the referenced studies are conservative.

Selling excess energy into the grid requires significant investment by producers for the inter-connect. The grid was not designed to support this kind of minimal generation. Homeowners generating energy will need to purchase an additional meter and pay additional billing administration charges, while local energy facilities will need to be upgraded to bring small generators online. These additional costs need to be considered in greater detail together with other alternatives such as building code changes to better utilize passive/active solar energy and thermal storage.

OSPE favours activities to foster innovation and research but does remind that thoughtful balance is necessary regarding the scope of feed-in tariff support programs. The feed-in tariff stimulation to reward small and medium energy producers for feeding energy back to the grid should also be considered for encouraging the development of storage systems that would support fluctuating power generation sources.

OSPE also advocates more research into zero carbon cycle energy generation infrastructure linking renewable power generation from wind and solar and other forms of power generation to hydrogen for storage or as a transportable fuel.

Manufacturers have historically settled in Ontario due to the transportation avenues offered by the Great Lakes and highly competitive energy costs. We must remain competitive in the midst of generating the green economy to keep our existing manufacturing base and attract new companies to the Province in the future.

Finally, because the Ontario market itself is not as large as the broader US or European markets, attention will be required to support export opportunities outside of Ontario and Canada.

Electrical Distribution Challenges

As outlined above, there exist significant challenges in connecting small-scale energy projects to the grid because it was not designed for this purpose. Wind and solar are fluctuating sources of energy and as Ontario’s reliance on these sources increases, the ability of the grid to utilize fluctuating sources decreases.

OSPE recommends that the supply mix incentives take into consideration distribution impacts and set appropriate targets or limits on the various forms of energy generation. OSPE also recommends the Bill encourage energy producers and users to reduce green house gasses and other forms of air pollution rather than encourage generating electricity.

Governance Implications

Energy planning in Ontario is complex as there are many bodies with overlapping mandates. OSPE is concerned that the Green Energy & Green Economy Act and, in particular, the proposed Renewable Energy Facilitation Office (REFO), may add to this complexity.

The powers invested in the proposed REFO are of concern to OSPE. An independent appeals process for green energy companies or local distribution companies and ratepayer groups who feel disadvantaged by a decision from the REFO, must be built into the Bill. Asking these entities to appeal to the Office that disadvantaged them in the first place is contrary to good business practice. Proper checks and balances are also not in place to ensure transparency, and effective decision making.

An effective independent appeals process, in the interest of fairness, should be administered by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). Accordingly, the need for OEB remains and should be strengthened.

Ontario needs a strong, centralized planning authority to oversee the province’s electrical energy planning and monitoring needs. This has recently been the role of the Ontario Power Authority. With the proposed changes to the Green Energy & Green Economy Act, the need for a single arms-length, centralized grid planning authority is even more important.

OSPE requests that the Bill be revised to: a) clearly designate the Ontario Power Authority with the responsibility of setting priorities for adding new green generating capacity to reflect its supply plan; b) clearly designate the Ontario Energy Board to administer an appeals process of decisions made by the Renewable Energy Facilitation Office; and c) clearly identify and provide an extended mandate to all forms of green energy production and utilization, not just electrical generation.

Role of the Engineering Profession

The Professional Engineers Act, combined with academic and on-the-job-training, has fostered a culture of professionalism and responsibility within the engineering profession. As engineers, we take our commitment to public safety seriously. Electrical generating companies have traditionally used professional engineers in the design, operation and maintenance of their facilities and, consequently, complied voluntarily with the public safety provisions of that Act.

Bill 150 opens energy generation to individuals who are neither trained nor accountable under the Professional Engineers Act. OSPE requests that the Bill be revised to ensure the provisions of the Professional Engineers Act apply to all green energy production and utilization projects that have the potential to affect public health and safety.

Conclusion

OSPE believes that the Ontario government is moving in the right direction with respect to greenhouse gas reduction and we hope our concerns will be heard and our recommendations will be implemented to help ensure the Bill results in a healthier environment together with a stronger economy.

Make your voice heard. Get involved with OSPE’s Political Action Network or send your comments and recommendations to [email protected]. Together we can shape the future.

Sincerely,

Michael Monette, MBA, EDP, P.Eng., President and Chair, OSPE

References:

1. DR. Sen, A., (2008) Estimating the Determinants of Wholesale Electricity Prices in Ontario: An Economic Analysis, Expert Report, Dept. of Economics, University of Waterloo

2. Stokes, E., (2008) The Economic Impacts on the Ontario Economy of Different Price Scenarios for Natural Gas and Electricity, Centre for Spatial Economics

Submission to the Standing Committee on General Government Sault Ste. Marie, April 2009 Delivered by Angela Shama, P.Eng.

Introduction

The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is the voice of Ontario’s 70,000 professional engineers. As a member services and advocacy body, we support the professional and economic interests of engineers in Ontario.

My name is Angela Shama and I am pleased to have this opportunity to appear before the Standing Committee on General Government to make you aware of the engineers’ perspective of the important initiatives proposed in the Green Energy & Green Economy Act. We support the two-pronged approach taken in this Bill, namely, creating new sustainable sources of energy and promoting energy conservation. Overall, we support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and want the success of the Ontario’s new green economy to be measured on the basis of emissions reductions across the full process chain.

Open Letter to Engineers

In reviewing Bill 150, OSPE’s Energy & Infrastructure Task Force identified four themes of particular interest to the engineering profession. These are summarized in a letter distributed to our membership today and also available on our website. We touch on four themes important not only to engineers but to all who will be affected by the proposed legislation: Anticipated Economic Growth, Electrical Distribution Challenges, Governance Implications, and the Role of the Engineering Profession. We will host a forum on April 28th talking about governance issues of the Act specifically. Instead of spending time on economic growth and distribution challenges topics today, I encourage you to visit our website to read the letter and attend our forum on April 28th. I want to use my limited time today to highlight what we see as crucial to the success of the Act: the Role of the Engineering Profession, Energy Costs, Research & Innovation and Governance Implications.

The Role of the Engineering Profession

First, professional engineers need to be involved at every step of the way in considering the greening of Ontario’s energy and economy. Public safety demands it.

As engineers, we take our commitment to public safety seriously. Electrical generating companies have traditionally used professional engineers in the design, operation and maintenance of their facilities thereby complying with the public safety provisions of the Professional Engineers Act.

The proposed Bill opens energy generation to individuals who are neither trained nor accountable under the Professional Engineers Act. OSPE requests that the Bill be revised to ensure the provisions of the Professional Engineers Act apply to all green

1 energy production and utilization projects that have the potential to affect public health and safety.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

We believe that more research is needed to assess the anticipated rate of return on investment. With the implementation of the Green Energy & Green Economy Act, Minister Smitherman expects that energy costs will increase 1% a year. We also know that hundreds of millions of dollars will need to be invested in energy infrastructure to support renewable energy generation. However, what is still unclear is the extent to which these factors will translate into economic growth. We suggest a detailed analysis is necessary to know if the 1% increase in overall energy production costs will generate more than that return in economic benefit, job creation and reduced health impacts.

Supporting Research & Innovation

Next, we are concerned that the Bill, if enacted, may not maximize development and commercialization opportunities for Ontario-based companies. Solar and wind energy technology and materials production will likely be imported from countries where the production capability is already established.

In the case of wind power, purchases of 600MW capacity or more tend to cross the necessary threshold of attracting local domestic production. Quebec has been successful in this regard. Its 1,000 MW wind power capacity procurements, with minimum domestic content rules, have led to the establishment of wind turbine component manufacturing facilities. The Ontario government has not made this same level of commitment and is urged to do so, to facilitate the commercialization of new Ontario- created innovations.

Governance Implications

Renewable Energy Facilitation Office Energy planning in Ontario is complex as there are many bodies with overlapping mandates. OSPE is concerned that the Green Energy & Green Economy Act and, in particular, the proposed Renewable Energy Facilitation Office, may add to this complexity.

The powers invested in the proposed Renewable Energy Facilitation Office are of concern to OSPE. An independent appeals process for green energy companies or local distribution companies and ratepayer groups who feel disadvantaged by a decision from the Renewable Energy Facilitation Office, must be built into the Bill. Asking these entities to appeal to the Office that disadvantaged them in the first place is contrary to good business practice. An effective, independent appeals process, in the interest of fairness, should, we suggest, be administered by the Ontario Energy Board.

Central Planning Ontario needs a strong, centralized planning authority to oversee the province’s electrical energy planning and monitoring needs. This has recently been the role of the Ontario Power Authority. With the Green Energy & Green Economy Act, the need for a single arms-length, centralized grid planning authority is even more important.

2 In short, OSPE requests that the Bill be revised to: 1. Clearly designate the Ontario Power Authority with the responsibility of setting priorities for adding new green generating capacity to reflect its supply plan 2. Clearly designate the Ontario Energy Board to administer an appeals process of decisions made by the Renewable Energy Facilitation Office; and 3. Clearly identify and provide an extended mandate to all forms of green energy production and utilization, not just electrical generation.

Conclusion

OSPE supports the spirit in which Bill 150 was drafted. Maximizing energy efficiency is paramount for reducing our environmental footprint. And accelerating the integration of renewable sources of energy to Ontario’s electricity grid will help meet the energy demands of our growing population. However, such growth should not be at the expense of the environment, electrical distribution challenges, or good governance in the energy sector.

Ontario needs to explore renewable energy options and, in our view, must do so in the context of full life cycle greenhouse gas reductions.

Ontario needs to devise a research and innovation strategy to ensure that Ontario-based companies reap the full benefits of renewable energy development.

Ontario needs an arms-length centralized planning authority, with limited interference from the Ministry, to oversee the electricity grid and to set energy priorities. A well- supported Energy Board to protect consumers and prospective energy generators alike is also necessary.

And finally, the public needs assurances that suitably qualified professionals are overseeing the grid transformation process.

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April 22, 2009

Mr. Tony Rockingham Assistant Deputy Minister Innovation & Commercialization Division 11th Floor, 56 Wellesley St. W Toronto, ON M7A 2E7

Dear Mr. Rockingham,

As the voice of Ontario’s 70,000 professional engineers, the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) wishes to acknowledge and comment on the release of the Ontario Commercialization Network Steering Committee’s report in February, 2009.

OSPE believes that support for research and innovation will facilitate job growth in the knowledge-based economy and the manufacturing sector. By identifying new innovations and bringing them to market, Ontario can become a hub for cutting-edge, green technology. Engineers will have an important role to play in this regard.

Accordingly, in June 2008, OSPE established a Research & Innovation Task Force to help identify public funding opportunities for the commercialization of engineering technology and to propose solutions for stimulating engineering innovation. Much like the Ontario Commercialization Network (OCN) Steering Committee, our task force recognizes that technological innovation occurs on and off-campus. OSPE encourages the government to extend financial incentives, currently available for academic research, to support development and commercialization efforts in the private sector. These incentives include tax reductions and grant programs to offer more entrepreneurs the resources to market their innovations.

Our task force is similarly of the view that greater cooperation between the federal and provincial governments will render existing innovation programs more effective, all the more important given the current economic climate.

Finally, OSPE is supportive of the committee’s recommendation that an Advisory Board, made up of commercial and technical experts, be established to provide policy advice to the Ministry. OSPE would welcome the appointment of a professional engineer to this board and would be pleased to nominate a candidate. Edwina McGroddy, OSPE’s Executive Director, Annette Bergeron, Chair of our Research & Innovation Task Force, or I will be in touch with you in the near future to discuss this further.

Again, we congratulate the Steering Committee for its submission to Minister Wilkinson and look forward to monitoring the success of the Ontario Commercialization Network

Yours truly,

Angela Shama, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer 416-223-9961 ext. 223 [email protected] 200923

May 19, 2009

The Honorable John Wilkinson Minister of Research and Innovation 12th Floor, Ferguson Block 77 Wellesley Street West Toronto, Ontario M7A 1N3

Dear Minister Wilkinson:

The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is pleased to praise the Ministry of Research and Innovation’s $250 million investment plan for early stage ventures. This fund to drive start-up investment in green technology companies and high-tech businesses is most welcome during this challenging economic period.

OSPE supports this initiative and the speed with which the Ministry intends to make the funds available. Requiring a significant footprint in Ontario as a criteria for eligibility is very important. This money, targeted at companies working on clean technology, life sciences, digital media and information communication technology, should immediately stimulate the economy.

OSPE’s Research and Innovation Task Force is planning an information session later this year to make engineers aware of the funding available, how to access the money and to share stories from engineers who have done so successfully.

As the voice of Ontario’s 70,000 professional engineers, OSPE promotes and supports excellence in all aspects of engineering. Practically everything we rely on to live and work in Ontario is a product of engineering.

Sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, P. Eng., MBA President and Chair Ontario Society of Professional Engineers 200934

May 27, 2009

The Honorable Dwight Duncan Minister of Finance & Revenue 7th Floor, Frost Building South 7 Queen’s Park Crescent Toronto, ON M7A 1Y7

Dear Minister Duncan,

The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is seizing this opportunity to praise the measures you have taken to facilitate this province’s economic recovery. The Ontario government’s Green Energy legislation, the 2009 Budget’s multi-billion dollar investment in infrastructure and the growing support for research and innovation should serve to stimulate the economy. We highlighted these areas in our pre-budget submission of February 15th, 2009.

Green Energy Act

OSPE supports the spirit of the Green Energy Act. Maximizing energy efficiency is paramount to reducing our environmental footprint, while accelerating the integration of renewable energy sources to the energy grid will help meet the growing demand of the population. As much as we welcome the development of a green economy, we request minimum domestic content in the production of the technology. A second concern is that the growth of this economy should not be prejudicial toward good governance of the energy sector.

First, the government should ensure that Ontario-based companies reap the full benefits of energy development. Second, the province requires an arms-length centralized planning authority to oversee the electricity grid and to set energy priorities. An Energy Board with a robust mandate, protecting consumers and energy suppliers, is a necessity. Finally, the public requires assurance that qualified professionals are overseeing the grid’s transformation.

Training Ontario’s Workforce for a Green Economy

We are very pleased to learn that additional funds have been allocated for skills training of newcomers to Ontario. This money is essential for creating a fairer playing field for internationally trained engineers. According to Engineers Canada’s 2009 Engineering and Technology Labor Market Study, Ontario’s internationally trained engineers are underemployed and less likely than Canadian graduates to become licensed. The study also discovered that only a third of new engineering graduates plan to work in engineering.

Infrastructure Spending

OSPE applauds the government’s $32.5 billion in public infrastructure spending. This move recognizes that speedy and strategic projects will yield short and long-term benefits for Ontarians. However, OSPE strongly encourages the province to adopt Qualifications- Based Selection (QBS) as its method of procurement. It fosters competitiveness, innovation and long-term sustainability. After consulting with OSPE and Consulting Engineers Ontario (CEO), the Ministry of Transportation is testing the merits of QBS on a number of pilot studies on various transportation infrastructure projects across the province. The City of London adopted QBS in 2007 following its own pilot studies.

Research and Innovation

On May 14th, we praised the Ministry of Research and Innovation’s $250 million investment plan for early stage ventures. This fund to stimulate start-up investment in green technology companies and high-tech businesses is appreciated during this recession. OSPE applauds the Ministry’s decision to make these funds available, starting next month. However, we strongly encourage the government to ensure companies with significant footprints in Ontario will be the primary recipients of the multi-million dollar package. By doing so, Ontarians will reap long-term benefits of flexible companies who are engaged in production and job creation. OSPE’s Research and Innovation Task Force is planning an information session later this year to make engineers aware of the funding available, how to access the money and to share stories from engineers who have done so successfully.

We thank you for your consideration of our recommendations and hope to participate in the pre-budget consultations for 2010. We encourage you to contact us should you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, P. Eng., MBA Angela Shama, P. Eng. President and Chair Chief Executive Officer Ontario Society of Professional Engineers 416-223-9961 ext. 223 200935

June 5, 2009

Dear OSPE Members,

We have received many responses to the open letter on the Green Energy & Green Economy Act, which appeared on our website on April 14, 2009. Thank you for your feedback. Having reviewed all submissions, we wish to clarify a couple of points which were raised in the responses received.

The open letter marked the first of a number of initiatives undertaken to represent and engage Ontario’s engineering community in a dialogue around this important legislation. In addition to the open letter, OSPE’s CEO, Angela Shama, appeared before the Standing Committee on General Government on April 14, 2009 and OSPE, in conjunction with the McMaster Centre for Engineering and Public Policy of Arcelor Mittal Dofasco, hosted a breakfast forum discussing the governance implications of the Bill. Since being passed into law on May 14, 2009, OSPE continues to monitor and respond to impacts of the new law as it is proclaimed and implemented.

As the Voice of Ontario’s engineers, OSPE aims to enhance the recognition of the profession by advocating to government on issues of professional and economic interest to its membership. OSPE began monitoring the Green Energy & Green Economy Act, then Bill 150, in late February because of its potential to transform the energy sector, which employs a large segment of engineers. OSPE, in keeping with its mandate, then called on its Energy & Infrastructure Task Force and the membership at large for input. Ensuing government affairs and related public policy activities stemmed from issues raised in this process.

Many respondents to the open letter touched on the role of nuclear power in Ontario’s energy supply mix. This is outlined in our policy statement, released in December 2008, where we recognize nuclear power as a core component of baseload energy. It is all the more important in the context of the Green Energy & Green Economy Act because baseload nuclear, when provided with sufficient steam bypass capacity, can be used to stabilize fluctuating wind and solar generation introduced to the grid. Given the economic benefits of domestic procurement, OSPE encourages the maximum use of Canadian technology and other domestic investment for the announced new nuclear build at Darlington.

As the Act is implemented, OSPE will work to ensure that professional engineers, in the interest of public safety, oversee the grid transformation process. We are also calling on the province to introduce measures such that Ontario-based companies reap the full benefits of renewable energy development, including support for the commercialization of green technologies. On both, OSPE welcomes your continued input.

With kind regards,

Annette Bergeron, P. Eng., MBA President & Chair

July 3, 2009

Mr. Tim Hudak, MPP Leader of Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Party Room 416, Main Legislative Building Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1A8

Dear Mr. Hudak,

As President and Chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), I would like to extend congratulations to you on your election as leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario!

As the Voice of Ontario’s 70,000 engineers, OSPE promotes and supports excellence in all aspects of engineering. OSPE’s work enhances the profession’s recognition by advocating with governments, particularly at the provincial level, and with employers. We initiate proactive communications programs that educate the public about the great work that engineers do every day. OSPE offers exemplary continuing education, career advancement services and affinity programs.

OSPE works with Ontario’s engineers to identify critical issues within the engineering community. On behalf of its membership -- which ranges from professional engineers to engineering students -- OSPE conducts member research, monitors the political environment and focuses its advocacy initiatives on issues such as climate change, alternative energy sources, public infrastructure improvement, waste management, the economy, research and innovation, Qualifications Based Selection and safe drinking water.

We look forward to working with you on addressing many of the key issues that concern professional engineers in Ontario. Please note that the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers is available to you and your staff at any time to inform, discuss and help resolve many of the issues of concern to the people of Ontario.

Once again, congratulations on your new leadership role!

Yours sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng. President and Chair

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August 10, 2009

Chantal Guay, P.Eng.,ing.,M.Env. CEO, Engineers Canada 1100-180 Elgin St. Ottawa, ON K2P 2K3

Dear Ms. Guay,

The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), a valued associate of Engineers Canada (EC), places itself at the forefront of researching and reporting trends of engineering employment and labour markets. As the ‘voice’ of Ontario’s engineers, OSPE considers it vital to keep abreast of these trends and characteristics both nationally and provincially.

In this regard, OSPE, through its Women in Engineering Advisory Committee (WEAC) is developing a survey of workplace conditions for women engineers, building on a previous survey produced by WEAC/PEO in 1994. That survey, conducted nationally, covered key issues related to gender and engineering, including career and job satisfaction, access to opportunities and how women and men are viewed in the profession.

WEAC would like to partner with Engineers Canada to cost share the design, development, delivery, and report writing of the new survey, with WEAC covering the fees for an Ontario-only portion and EC contributing the fees for taking the survey nationally beyond Ontario, including all associated translations.

To date, WEAC has made significant progress in developing the survey. We have:

 Established a subcommittee to handle matters related to the survey  Revised the previous survey to include new questions dealing with entering the profession and training (see attached summary)  Solicited quotes from two market research companies, Mercer and Prism (see attached quotes – which only cover Ontario)

WEAC strongly believes that the new national survey will be of significant value to the engineering community. The proposed survey will revisit key questions from the 1994 report, as well as other critical issues to current practice such as retention and the experience of new and foreign-trained engineers.

While recent studies have explored related issues, none has broached the subject in the way we propose. A 2005 Statistics Canada gender-based report included only a small section on engineering. There have been some studies on retention of women in engineering programs, as well as a current study being done at the University of Guelph tracking male and female engineering graduates. Ryerson University is currently conducting a survey of foreign-trained engineers. What we propose is to create a survey that brings together these diverse issues—retention, training, employment experience—in a single instrument that addresses both gender and internationally trained engineering issues in more detail, including questions on licensing, employment experiences, language and training.

The findings of a new survey will be of interest to engineering organizations across the country. We are sure you will agree that this potential partnership will be worthwhile and provide short and long-term benefits to women in engineering.

We look forward hearing from you soon regarding possible areas for our partnership in developing the new national survey.

Sincerely,

Angela Shama, P.Eng. Sue Eastwood, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer Chair, WEAC

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September 16, 2009

David Orazietti, MPP Ministry of Natural Resources Whitney Block, Suite 6522 99 Wellesley St. West Toronto, ON M7A 1W3

Dear Mr. Orazietti,

As President and Chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), I would like to extend congratulations to you on your appointment as Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Natural Resources.

The Voice of Ontario’s 70,000 engineers, OSPE promotes and supports excellence in all aspects of engineering. OSPE’s work enhances the profession’s recognition by advocating with governments, particularly at the provincial level, and with employers. We initiate proactive communications programs that educate the public about the great work that engineers do every day. OSPE offers exemplary continuing education, career advancement services and affinity programs.

I understand that our CEO, Angela Shama, had the opportunity to meet you at a public hearing of the Standing Committee on General Government in Sault Ste. Marie in April 2009. In her address to the committee, Ms. Shama offered an engineering perspective on the Green Energy Act, which we continue to monitor during regulation stage.

OSPE lauds your government’s stance on domestic content requirements for renewable energy projects, which will allow for solar and wind energy technology and materials to be produced in Ontario, instead of being imported from European countries with advanced capacity. We see great opportunities for engineers, whose knowledge and skills are concentrated in the energy sector, to develop and maintain renewable energy technologies and to facilitate conservation programs. We are mindful, however, of the safety implications of small-scale energy generation. We want to ensure that Green Energy Act regulations clearly assign responsibility to suitably qualified professionals such that the public’s safety is not put a risk.

We look forward to working with you to support the implementation of the Green Energy Act. Please note that OSPE is available to you and your staff at any time to inform, discuss and help resolve many of the issues of concern to your constituents and the people of Ontario.

Once again, congratulations on your new role.

Yours sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng. President and Chair 200975

December 18, 2009

Grant Clarke Assistant Deputy Minister Ministry of Education Mowat Block, 22nd Floor 900 Bay St. Toronto, ON M7A 1L2

Dear Mr. Clarke,

As President and Chair of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), I would like to extend congratulations to you on your appointment as Assistant Deputy Minister of Learning and Curriculum.

As the Voice of Ontario’s 70,000 engineers, OSPE promotes and supports excellence in all aspects of engineering. OSPE’s work enhances the profession’s recognition by advocating with governments, particularly at the provincial level, and with employers. We initiate proactive communications programs that educate the public, including high school students, about the great work that engineers do every day. Go Eng Girl and National Engineering Month are two such programs that, through hands-on learning, encourage youth to consider careers in the applied sciences.

Engaging high school students is key to building a more progressive and diverse profession in which under-represented groups are full participants. Despite modest gains in the 1990s, a recent labour market study confirmed that female enrolment in engineering is declining while in law and medicine, female enrolment is soaring.

In light of this, OSPE wishes to launch discussions with the Ministry of Education about strategies to engage young women in math and science. We are taking a two-pronged approach to this issue. Working with the Ministry, we can shape the factors that motivate the post-secondary and, ultimately, the career choices of young women. Working with industry, we can support women as they take on leadership roles within the profession, and celebrate the accomplishments of female role models. The latter is already underway with the work of our Women in Engineering Advisory Committee.

Minister Wynne, with whom we discussed this matter at an event of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce on December 17th, has invited us to contact her for follow-up. We look forward to meeting with you as well to outline how we can work together to spark and sustain excitement for math and science. OSPE’s Executive Director, Edwina McGroddy, will contact you in the New Year to schedule an appointment.

Once again, congratulations on your new role and best wishes for 2010.

Yours sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng President & Chair

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December 18, 2009

The Honourable Dwight Duncan, MPP Minister of Finance 7th Floor, Frost Building South 7 Queen’s Park Crescent Toronto, ON M7A 1Y7

Dear Minister,

As the advocacy and member services body for Ontario’s 70,000 professional engineers, the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is pleased to contribute to the 2010 pre-budget consultation. The purpose of this letter is to expand upon the themes we highlighted at an in- person consultation at which our Executive Director, Edwina McGroddy, attended on December 4th in Toronto.

Job creation remains our top priority for 2010. OSPE is of the view that continued investments in public infrastructure, research, innovation and education will propel Ontario’s economic recovery and underpin the green collar jobs of the future.

Public Infrastructure:

We applaud the significant investments in energy and public infrastructure spending this government has made in 2009. In the short-term, these investments will spur job growth in engineering and the skilled trades and, more long-term, help to meet the infrastructure needs of Ontario’s growing population. Stimulus spending has been allocated, but it is important to continue to invest in public infrastructure projects for the long-term.

Energy:

We also wish to recognize the important steps the government has taken to bring renewable sources of energy online. The Green Energy Act, with its resulting feed-in-tariff program and domestic content provisions, opens up new business opportunities in which engineers will play an important role. However, there is still a need to invest in nuclear infrastructure in anticipation of the phase-out of coal and to offset intermittent wind and solar output. We ask that the government re-launch the RFP process for a new nuclear facility at Darlington to stabilize Ontario’s energy supply.

Research & Innovation:

In 2010, we ask for continued investment in the research, development and commercialization of made-in-Ontario technologies that will underpin the green economy. Sustained and predictable funding for programs that support entrepreneurs--both in getting their products to market and in creating awareness of intellectual property--will propel Ontario towards recovery. Education:

Ontario’s highly-skilled workforce will be instrumental in ensuring that we remain a competitive jurisdiction, nationally and internationally. For OSPE, this means supporting education through the entire lifecycle of an engineer. Engaging math and science education, at the high school level, for instance, will encourage young men and women, to consider careers in the applied sciences. Well-funded post-secondary institutions, offering balanced training in the technical and non- technical skills, will prepare engineering graduates for the demands of the 21st century. Re- training programs, meanwhile, will help engineers fill green collar jobs of the future while bridging programs will assist internationally-trained engineers find meaningful employment in their field.

We ask that funding for education remains a priority for 2010 and that allocated funds be dispersed broadly to meet the needs of our current and future workforce.

Procurement:

Finally, as the government reviews its procurement practices, we ask that it consider instituting qualifications-based selection (QBS) as its procurement method of choice. Lowest-price bidding, which is common place today, stifles a consultant’s ability to innovate. By placing greater emphasis on qualifications and experience and de-emphasizing price, QBS reduces lifecycle costs of a capital project, thereby providing better public service to Ontarians.

Thank you for this opportunity to participate in the budgetary process and for taking our proposals into consideration. We look forward to reviewing your final budget in the New Year. Please do not hesitate to contact us for additional information or for clarification of our submission.

Sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng. President and Chair

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December 18, 2009

Bernard Ennis, P.Eng. Manager, Standards and Practice Professional Engineers Ontario 40 Sheppard Ave. West, Suite 101 Toronto, ON M2N 6K9

Dear Bernard,

Thank you for inviting the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) to provide feedback on PEO guidelines and policies that have reached the final drafting stage. We wish to comment on the guidelines concerning the reporting of drinking water systems and the building code.

Writing Engineering Evaluation Reports for Drinking Water Systems

In both the policy statement and the guideline, the terms guideline and standard are used interchangeably. To avoid any confusion, we suggest consistency, using guideline or standard as appropriate. Similarly, we suggest that a single term be used to describe license holders, who are referred to as professional engineers and practitioners. We are also recommending that the list of legislated requirements for writing an Engineering Evaluation Report (EER) should be identical in each document. As such, section 2 of the policy statement should mirror section 5.1 of the guideline.

Below are additional comments we have with respect to the guideline only:  Many owners of small water systems do not know what is expected of them. The EER is, therefore, a forward-looking document that sets out how the owner can meet prescribed maintenance and monitoring requirements. We suggest that that the guideline be clarified to account for this.  Section 5.1c should take into account that a well record may not be available or may be difficult to locate.  Section 5.1 goes on to stipulate that a site plan should show “the proximity of the intake from the shore.” Water system security experts warn that intake details should not be provided in a plan, particularly if it will be widely circulated. As such, we recommend that this section be reviewed to ensure that the publication of plan details do not put the system at risk.  Section 5.3 indicates that treated water must be checked for chlorine residual. This does not apply to POE UV disinfection. The wording of this section should be modified slightly to reflect this exception.  The guideline should address whether it is necessary for a professional engineer to attach equipment information to the EER.

Building Projects proceeding without Building Permits

We welcome the formalization of this standard. Indeed, we understand that the duty to leave a construction site if a permit has not been issued has been incorporated into practice. Engineers, however, continue to debate whether they need to inform the Chief Building Official of this breach. At issue is whether the commitment form, that is to say, the agreement between the owner and the engineer, places onus on the engineer to report to the municipality if site work is undertaken before the permit comes into effect. We seek resolution and clarity on this matter.

Building Code Compliance Data Matrix

This guideline is desirable as it has the potential to reduce the number of code design errors and will facilitate the speedy review of proposals by building officials. We ask that there is flexibility as to how the data can be presented to accommodate projects with unique design features.

Services for Demolition of Buildings and other Structures

We are supportive of measures PEO is taking to clarify the role of professional engineers with respect to demolition and encourage members to remain firm when confronted with uncooperative clients.

Thank you, once again, for the opportunity to participate in this consultation. We look forward to the reviewing the final version of the policies and guidelines discussed. Please do not hesitate to contact us for additional information or for clarification of our submission.

Sincerely,

Annette Bergeron, MBA, P.Eng. President and Chair

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