Big Ideas
Celebrating 60 years of Engineering Excellence (2018)
It started with a Big Idea: Broaden McMaster University's research-intensive mandate to create a full-fledged Faculty of Engineering. In February 1958, under the leadership of the first Dean John Hodgins, it became a reality.
What followed were years of big aspirations to foster a dynamic community, research environment, innovative spirit and premier education. This year, we are honouring some of our faculty, students and alumni who have had #BigIdeas, and want you to share yours. Here's to the next 60 years of excellence in engineering education.
#BigIdeas Spotlights
Meet the students, alumni and faculty who have helped shape McMaster Engineering, and continue to make a big impact on our world through research, education, innovation and community. New stories will be added weekly.
Engineering Explorers
Gianluigi Botton
Performers
McMaster Engineering Musical
Diversity Champions
Vanessa Raponi
A Proud History
In 1956, McMaster named its first Director of Engineering Studies – Dr. John W. Hodgins, a young chemical engineering professor from the engineering faculty of the Royal Military College at Kingston.
Learn more about our founder, the expansion of our facilities and programs and enjoy a comprehensive timeline of our milestones.
Big Ideas: The Gala Event
May 9, 2018
McMaster Engineering celebrates ‘Big Ideas’ at 60th Anniversary Celebration
They could be seen from all corners of the room. Large, bright, colourful wooden letters that spelled, “BIG IDEAS.”
Big Ideas Pitch Week
From October 2nd - 4th we invited students and faculty to come together to share their big ideas during Big Ideas Pitch Week.
#BigIdeas Videos
60th Anniversary Celebration
Youth Programs
Barry Hill
Nonso Amadi
Lacey Wice
Mac Eng Goes West
What's your Big Idea?
Do you have a big idea for improving engineering education, bringing more diversity into engineering, or developing an innovation that will change the world? Whatever your idea may be, we want to hear it.
More #BigIdeas Stories
October 14, 2021 / Department News
Two Mac Eng startups win top prizes at The Forge Startup Survivor Pitch Competition
This past Thursday, four Mac Eng startups pitched their innovative startups for a chance to win more than $30K in prize money.
February 28, 2020 / Department News
‘Big Ideas’ takes home the gold for McMaster Engineering
The Big Ideas event series earned a gold award from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) this week in Baltimore.
October 12, 2018 / Department News
Big Ideas: Two sides of the same coin
How a strong bond has helped two brothers, cellists and McMaster Engineering students find success.