NEWS

MAY 2023

11MAY

2023 Draft By-law Proposals

After engagement with practitioners through open engagement sessions and third-party focus groups, and after review by Council's By-law Review Committee, legal counsel has drafted the following by-law changes. In accordance with the By-laws, the By-law Review Committee is seeking feedback from the membership.

10MAY

EngGeoMB on Social Media

Have you followed the Association on social media? Follow EngGeoMB on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to stay up to date with Association news, events, and more!

9MAY

2023 Practitioner Survey

EngGeoMB is seeking input from practitioners on a variety of questions in this year's Practitioner Survey. All practitioners are encouraged to have their say and be heard. This information assists the Association leadership in direction on topics of interest and ongoing projects.

3MAY

Manitoba Moose 2023-2024 Ticket Package Offer for EngGeoMB

The Manitoba Moose Hockey Club offers Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba discounts on their 2023-2024 Ticket Packages.

2MAY

CBHCC Seeking Input on Policy Considerations in the National Model Codes

The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) is seeking input from stakeholders, experts, code users, and the general public on the Wave Two draft policy recommendations for developing and implementing greenhouse gas emissions provisions in the National Model Codes before finalizing the policy framework.

APRIL 2023

19APR

The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer: Deadlines Extended for Expressions of Interest

The Corporation of the Seven Wardens will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer in 2025. Recently, the 100th anniversary committee met on March 16, 2023, and decided to extend the deadlines for the two EOIs.

12APR

Engineers Canada Launches Campaign to Inspire People to Think about Engineers in New Ways

MARCH 2023

30MAR

Spaghetti Bridge Competition - A Smashing Success!

30MAR

Public Review of Proposed Changes to the 2020 National Model Codes

30MAR

Keystone Professional Correction

The Notice on page 4 of the 2023 Spring issue of The Keystone Professional was not an order of the Discipline Committee as was indicated in the printed version of the magazine. The digital version of the magazine has been corrected. Our apologies for the error.

15MAR

PGO: Incidental Practice Registration to Facilitate Short-Term

9MAR

The Our Future Campaign Launch

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba is proud to announce the launch of the new Our Future media campaign. The Our Future campaign features five Indigenous engineering students, interns, and professionals interested in improving infrastructure in Indigenous communities, giving back, and talking about their challenges and successes on their path.

7MAR

Certificate of Authorization Renewals Are Now Open

Companies that hold a Certificate of Authorization to provide engineering or geoscience services in Manitoba must renew annually.

1MAR

Meet Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., FEC: Acting CEO, Registrar, and Secretary of EngGeoMB

Grant Koropatnick has stepped down from the Association after 17 years as CEO & Registrar. As of January 7, 2023, Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., MBA, FEC, has assumed the duties of the CEO, Registrar, and Secretary on a temporary basis.

FEBRUARY 2023

22FEB

Call for Abstracts - 2023 Ingenium Professional Development Seminars

21FEB

Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation & Performance Standards Regulation

The Building Permitting Improvement Act received Royal Assent on May 20, 2021. In order to implement the changes in Schedules A and B of the Act, the Department of Labour and Immigration is proposing the creation of two new regulations:

The Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation, under The Permit Dispute Resolution Act.
The Performance Standards Regulation, under The Buildings and Mobile Homes Act.

15FEB

New Chapter for Queer Engineers and Geoscientists

A group of Association members is working to establish a new membership chapter for queer engineers and geoscientists.

6FEB

Undertaking Notice - R. Sancio

This is notice that on December 21, 2022, Romegio (Romy) Sancio signed an undertaking and acknowledgement regarding fraudulently sealed projects.

JANUARY 2023

7JAN

Association CEO & Registrar Notice

On January 7, 2023, the duties of the CEO, Registrar, and Secretary was taken over by Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., MBA, FEC, on a temporary basis. After 17 years as CEO & Registrar, Grant Koropatnick has stepped down from the Association.

4JAN

Arab Members Chapter 2023 Student Bursaries

DECEMBER 2022

23DEC

Member Renewals Due December 31, 2022

Renewals must be completed and submitted to the Association on or before December 31, 2022. Please note that the Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba office will be closed from Monday, December 26, 2022 - Monday, January 2, 2023 inclusive.

20DEC

2020 Model Code Adoption Stakeholder Feedback

The Province of Manitoba has recently announced it will adopt the 2020 editions of the national model construction codes (building, plumbing, energy, and fire). As the posted proposal was to adopt the 2015 edition of the national model codes, Inspection and Technical Services is enquiring with several key stakeholder groups if there are any questions or concerns specific to adoption of the 2020 edition of the national model codes.

13DEC

Registration Committee Appeal Hearing for A.J. Pudavick

A Registration Committee preliminary appeal hearing for an appeal by A.J. Pudavick is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. by video conference.

8DEC

Association CEO & Registrar Receives Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

At a ceremony held at the Manitoba legislature on November 28, 2022, CEO & Registrar Grant Koropatnick, P.Eng., FEC, was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal for service to her late Majesty and the people of Manitoba.

6DEC

Have Your Say On Climate Resilience Training

The Manitoba Climate Resilience Training Team is seeking input from practitioners about their adaptation and mitigation training priorities and training delivery preferences.

NOVEMBER 2022

23NOV

Seven Wardens Announce Review of the Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer

The Corporation of the Seven Wardens Inc. is a not-for-profit Canadian Corporation, managed by volunteers, whose purpose is to administer and regulate the use of “The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer”. Local groups, or Camps, across Canada are responsible for the delivery of the Ritual to candidates.

2NOV

Geoscientists Canada Offering Complimentary Geocommunication Course

OCTOBER 2022

26OCT

Bill 233 – The Engineering and Geoscientific Profession Amendment Act

Bill 233, The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Amendment Act, was concurred in, read for the third time, and passed at the legislative session on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

14OCT

2022 Annual General Meeting and Annual Awards Ceremony

On Thursday, October 13, 2022, Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba welcomed Ian Smallwood, P.Eng., as the new Council President for 2022-2023. The next day, on Friday, October 14, 2022, nine awards were presented to outstanding individuals at the Annual Awards Ceremony.

20OCT

Request for Proposals - Consultant: Equity and Engagement in Professional Regulation

SEPTEMBER 2022

21SEP

North American Commercial and Industrial Insulation Standards Manual Now Available in Canada

AUGUST 2022

17AUG

Did You Know? - A Record Number of Interns

Did you know that Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has an all-time high number of interns?

10AUG

Did You Know? - The Title of Engineer or Geoscientist

A person cannot call themselves an engineer or geoscientist unless they are a member of EngGeoMB?

JUNE 2022

30JUN

Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal

The 2015 National Model Code Adoption project is posted for 45-days public consultation on the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal.

MAY 2023

11MAY

10MAY

Have you followed the Association on social media? Follow EngGeoMB on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to stay up to date with Association news, events, and more!

9MAY

3MAY

The Manitoba Moose Hockey Club offers Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba discounts on their 2023-2024 Ticket Packages.

2MAY

APRIL 2023

19APR

12APR

MARCH 2023

30MAR

15MAR

9MAR

7MAR

Companies that hold a Certificate of Authorization to provide engineering or geoscience services in Manitoba must renew annually.

1MAR

FEBRUARY 2023

22FEB

21FEB

The Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation, under The Permit Dispute Resolution Act.
The Performance Standards Regulation, under The Buildings and Mobile Homes Act.

15FEB

A group of Association members is working to establish a new membership chapter for queer engineers and geoscientists.

6FEB

This is notice that on December 21, 2022, Romegio (Romy) Sancio signed an undertaking and acknowledgement regarding fraudulently sealed projects.

JANUARY 2023

7JAN

4JAN

DECEMBER 2022

23DEC

20DEC

13DEC

A Registration Committee preliminary appeal hearing for an appeal by A.J. Pudavick is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. by video conference.

8DEC

6DEC

The Manitoba Climate Resilience Training Team is seeking input from practitioners about their adaptation and mitigation training priorities and training delivery preferences.

NOVEMBER 2022

23NOV

2NOV

OCTOBER 2022

26OCT

Bill 233, The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Amendment Act, was concurred in, read for the third time, and passed at the legislative session on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

14OCT

20OCT

SEPTEMBER 2022

21SEP

AUGUST 2022

17AUG

Did you know that Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has an all-time high number of interns?

10AUG

A person cannot call themselves an engineer or geoscientist unless they are a member of EngGeoMB?

JUNE 2022

30JUN

The 2015 National Model Code Adoption project is posted for 45-days public consultation on the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal.

News Archive »

MAY 11, 2023

2023 Draft By-law Proposals

After engagement with practitioners through open engagement sessions and third-party focus groups, and after review by Council’s By-law Review Committee, legal counsel has drafted the following by-law changes. In accordance with the By-laws, the By-law Review Committee is seeking feedback from the membership.

These by-law changes were drafted to support the changes being made to The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act ('the Act'), through Bill 233.

The changes being proposed can be categorized into:

Appeal Committee and Appeals

The changes to the Act establish an Appeal committee to hear appeals of the Registration Committee and of dismissals, cautions, and penalties by the Investigation Committee. Decisions of the Discipline Committee will now be appealed directly to the Court of Appeals.
The proposed update to the by-laws includes establishing the Appeal Committee’s constitution and processes through the new Part XX, and updated wording throughout the by-laws to reflect the Act changes.

Considerations by the Registrar

The changes to the Act allow the Registrar to be able to:
- Approve applications from engineers and geoscientists from other jurisdictions (mobility applications); and
- Approve Certificate of Authorization applications.
The proposed updated wording for the by-laws clarifies in which situations the registrar may decline certain applications, in which case the applicant would then be able to appeal to the new Appeal Committee for consideration.

Professional Development Requirements

The updated definition of 'Practitioner' in the Act now includes a holder of a Certificate of Authorization. Holders of a Certificate of Authorization are not required to complete Professional Development, and the language in the by-laws is updated to reflect that.

Investigation Committee

The change to the by-laws removes By-law 15.3.4, as it will be redundant with the new Act. This will cause minor numbering changes.
By-law 15.3.9 Report of the Committee is updated to say that the report must include the reasons for the decisions of the Investigation Committee as well as the decision.

Receipt and Deemed Receipt of Notices

The Act change includes changes requested by government on when notices are deemed to have been received. The proposed wording aligns the by-laws with the Act change.

Publication

The Act change includes updates to when the investigation committee can publish decisions. The proposed change to the by-laws aligns the by-laws with the Act.

Administrative

References to the Act have been updated to reflect any changes.

The blackline PDF of all drafted by-law changes can be found below. Please note that this is still a draft and changes may be made before the by-laws go to the membership for vote.

Comments and questions can be posted on the member forum, which is accessed through the member login page. Additionally, comments or questions can be emailed to the staff support for the By-law Review Committee, Danielle Unett.

Draft By-law Change Proposals

Discussion Forum

MAY 10, 2023

EngGeoMB on Social Media

Have you followed the Association on social media? Follow EngGeoMB on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to stay up to date with Association news, events, and more!

Instagram: @EngGeoMB
Facebook: @EngGeoMB
LinkedIn: @Engineers-Geoscientists-Manitoba
Twitter: @EngGeoMB

If you have any questions regarding our social media, please contact Cella Lao Rousseau, Communications Coordinator, at CRousseau@EngGeoMB.ca.

MAY 09, 2023

2023 Practitioner Survey

The 2023 Practitioner Survey is available until May 24, 2023, at 9:00 a.m.

One respondent will be randomly selected to receive a $250 gift card of their choice! To be eligible for the draw, you will be requested to go to a Microsoft form link upon completion of the survey where you can enter your information.

Please note that this information is not connected to the anonymized survey data and your name and email address will only be used for the purpose of the draw.

The survey is anonymous and should take no more than ten minutes to complete. We encourage you to be open and honest with your feedback.

We appreciate you taking the time to provide valuable feedback to the Association.

Thank you,
Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba

2023 Practitioners Survey

MAY 03, 2023

Manitoba Moose 2023-2024 Ticket Package Offer for EngGeoMB

Manitoba Moose Hockey Club extends the following ticket offer to all Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba staff, friends, and family for the next season:

Discounts on the 2023-2024 Ticket Packages
For more information on each package and its offerings, please see the link below.

• Full Season Tickets (36 games + 4 playoff games): 50% off 2 seats!

• Mini Package (12 games): 25% off 1-3 seats, 50% off 4+ seats!

• Flex Package (10 games + home opener): 25% off 1-3 packages, 50% off 4+ packages!

*DISCOUNTS EXCLUSIVE TO NEW PACKAGE HOLDERS ONLY*

To purchase, please contact Kyle at kbutchart@tnse.com or by phone at (204) 926-5620 and mention that you're with Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba.

The Manitoba Moose are a professional ice hockey team based in Winnipeg, and a member of the American Hockey League (AHL). The team plays its home games at Canada Life Centre, the home arena of its parent club, Winnipeg Jets of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Ticket Package Information

MAY 02, 2023

CBHCC Seeking Input on Policy Considerations in the National Model Codes

Consultation on wave one policy recommendations began on February 6, 2023, and ended on March 30, 2023.
Consultation on wave two policy recommendations begins on May 1st, 2023, and ends on June 15, 2023.

More information on the consultation is available by clicking on the following link:
Consultation overview document

Instructions for Providing Input
To provide input on the policy recommendations, please follow the steps below:

Open and/or download the policy recommendations by clicking on the following link: CBHCC Policy Recommendations for consultation
Submit comments to the CBHCC Secretary by email and attach any supportive material: CBHCCSecretary-SecretaireCCHCC@NRC-CNRC.gc.ca

Your comments will be reviewed by the Working Group on Climate Change Mitigation who will report to the CBHCC.

For more information, please email the Secretary, Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes at CBHCCSecretary-SecretaireCCHCC@NRC-CNRC.gc.ca.

APR 19, 2023

The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer: Deadlines Extended for Expressions of Interest

The Corporation of the Seven Wardens will be celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer in 2025.

To mark this milestone, the Corporation is seeking to commission two new poems, one in each official language, English and French. The new poems will be used in the Ritual of the Calling of the Engineer. The Corporation is also seeking the production of a historical video: submissions are sought from post-secondary programs and student groups with relevant expertise and training in the creative arts and video production space. Engineering student groups are also encouraged to apply.

The inclusion of these new works is intended to help make the ceremony more inclusive and to reflect the diversity of contemporary society.

The two authors of the English and French poems selected for inclusion in the Ritual will each receive a prize of $3,500. An honorarium of $7,500 will be awarded to the successful individual who produces the historical video, and/or team, chosen by the Corporation.

Recently, the 100th anniversary committee met on March 16, 2023, and decided to extend the deadlines for the two Expressions of Interest (EOIs).

The deadline for the poem is now May 1, 2023.

The deadline for the video is May 15, 2023.

For more information about the competition and how to enter for either the poetry portion or the video portion, please see the links provided down below.

English and French Poems for the Corporation of the Seven Wardens

Historical Video for the Corporation of the Seven Wardens

The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer

APR 12, 2023

Engineers Canada Launches Campaign to Inspire People to Think about Engineers in New Ways

Engineers Canada has launched a new campaign that calls on Canadians to think differently about the value of engineers. Conceived in collaboration with Canada's provincial and territorial regulating bodies and Engineers Canada, the "Building Tomorrows" campaign challenges Canadians to expand their perceptions of engineers—not just as builders of bridges and buildings—but as builders of solutions that make our world a better place.

"This campaign is the product of many years of planning and hard work from our provincial and territorial partners," said Kathy Baig, MBA, FIC, ing., DHC, and President of Engineers Canada. "It helps expand understanding about the central role that engineers play in building solutions to address some of the most daunting challenges we face as a country, including climate change, healthcare, urban planning and safe infrastructure."

The campaign uses building blocks - a familiar and well-understood tool - as a means to call on people to think about engineers as builders that are making the world a better place for us all. Using a series of digitally rendered "builds", the television spot illustrates how engineers use creativity and innovation to develop solutions to everyday problems like energy efficiency and smart city planning, as well as drive extraordinary advances in medical treatments and resilient infrastructure. With this campaign, the profession will broaden people's understanding of the contributions engineers make every single day to the world around us. The campaign includes a :30 second television spot running for seven weeks, a new microsite, as well as a digital and social media campaign.

"This is an exciting opportunity for us to demonstrate who engineers are and the ways in which engineering disciplines are driving solutions to our shared challenges," added Gerard McDonald, MBA, P.Eng., ICD.D, and Chief Executive Officer of Engineers Canada. "It is also an important way to reflect the rich diversity of Canada's engineers and the work they do across the country."

This national awareness campaign, produced in both English and French, will continue throughout 2023 and includes a microsite where people can learn of the many ways engineers are helping create a better world today and tomorrow.

Building Tomorrows website

MAR 30, 2023

Spaghetti Bridge Competition - A Smashing Success!

[Don Spangelo P.Eng.(SM), FEC, breaks spaghetti bridges for students at Kildonan Place Mall]

Over 780 enthusiastic students joined the Association from all over Manitoba to design, build, and smash their bridges during the annual 2023 Spaghetti Bridge Competition in honour of Professional Engineering and Geoscience Week (PEGW).

This year, we returned to Kildonan Place Mall’s Centre Court on Monday, March 20, 2023, for in-person bridge smashing to crowds of eager K-Grade 12 students, teachers, parents, and onlookers. Then, on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, registered groups met at Bruce Middle School to continue this bridge breaking spaghetti spectacle. Finally, on Thursday, March 23, 2023, trusses that were dropped off at the EngGeoMB office were tested and broken virtually for the rest of those who carefully designed and build their bridges this year.

[A crowd of students watch as bridges break at Kildonan Place Mall]

[A crowd of students watch as bridges break at Kildonan Place Mall]

“There really was a buzz in the air," said Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., FEC, Acting CEO and Registrar of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba, regarding being back in-person for the Spaghetti Bridge Competition at Kildonan Place Mall. "From the bridge breaking competition, to hands-on children's activities, our volunteers really engaged with Manitoba's students and made it fun to learn about the professions that are so important to the public's everyday life."

In total, Association volunteers smashed 381 trusses that were designed by Manitoba students. The strongest bridge entered into the competition this year was made by a Grade 10 student from John Taylor Collegiate. This winning bridge held an impressive 129.2kg!

[A truss getting broken during the virtual bridge breaking portion of the competition]

[A truss getting broken during the virtual bridge breaking portion of the competition]

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has partnered with Harvest Manitoba since 1995 to not only make this event a smashing success, but also give back to the charity that helps to distribute food to more than 360 food banks all over Manitoba. This year, we are proud to announce that the Association was able to donate $18,661.50 to Harvest Manitoba.

"It takes a province to feed a province. In a time where Harvest is helping more Manitobans than ever before, we are especially grateful for the long-time support we receive from partners like Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba who are helping us keep food on the table for families in need,” said Vince Barletta, President & CEO of Harvest Manitoba.

The Spaghetti Bridge Competition is part of National Engineering Month, which occurs across Canada in March of each year. Provincial Engineering and Geoscience Week (PEGW) also promotes careers in engineering and the geosciences to young people of all ages.

Spaghetti Bridge Website

Watch 2023 Virtual Bridge Breaking (YouTube)

MAR 30, 2023

Public Review of Proposed Changes to the 2020 National Model Codes

The public review of the second set of proposed changes to the 2020 editions of the National Model Codes is now open. The proposed changes included in this public review relate to the National Building Code of Canada and the National Plumbing Code of Canada. The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC) invites code users, stakeholders and the public to review the proposed changes and provide feedback.

The public review will take place from February 27, 2023, until April 27, 2023.

After the review period closes, members of the relevant code development committees will review the comments received and make recommendations to the CBHCC on the proposed changes. If approved, the code changes will be included in the 2025 editions of the National Model Codes, which are developed by the CBHCC and published by the National Research Council of Canada.

Public reviews for future sets of proposed changes to the 2020 editions of the Codes will also take place later this year and in 2024.

For further information, please contact the CBHCC at CBHCCSecretary-SecretaireCCHCC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca.

Proposed Changes and Feedback

MAR 30, 2023

Keystone Professional Correction

MAR 15, 2023

PGO: Incidental Practice Registration to Facilitate Short-Term

In February 2022, Professional Geoscientists Ontario (PGO) announced the implementation of Incidental Practice Registration for geoscientists registered in other jurisdictions in Canada, which allows them to legally work short-term in Ontario, with a registration process designed to be quick, easy and inexpensive. This new application of temporary registration gives Professional Geoscientists the ability to register with PGO and then renew on a monthly basis, instead of having to apply for a six or 12-month registration.

The Incidental Practice registration is available for a maximum of 36 months within a 48-month period. Once the 36-month period of incidental practice has been used, the registrant will not be eligible for incidental practice during the five years following the most recent registration, but will be able to apply for full practicing registration with PGO.

For more information, please see the incidental Practice memo below.

Incidental Practice Memo

MAR 09, 2023

The Our Future Campaign Launch

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba is proud to announce the launch of the new Our Future media campaign. A presentation about the campaign and an introductions to ENGAP was made to the students and staff of Southeast Collegiate on March 8, 2023. Southeast Collegiate is the only school of its kind in all of Canada. It serves as a campus to First Nations students during the school year – educating students in a beautiful school facility and providing housing in the adjoining lodge.

[James Harper]

The Our Future campaign features five Indigenous engineering students, interns, and professionals interested in improving infrastructure in Indigenous communities, giving back, and talking about their challenges and successes on their path. It is the hope that Indigenous young people can see themselves reflected in the educational path and as a future engineer.

In addition, the Association's Department of Equity and Representation wanted to acknowledge and let youth know about opportunities that exist for assistance with the often rigorous aspects of engineering education. The ENGAP (Engineering Access Program at the University of Manitoba) offers Indigenous students the support and resources to help young people in their journey.

Background [The Outlettes - Father + Daughter Engineering Team]

[The Outlettes - Father + Daughter Engineering Team]

Knowledge is power. The professions of engineering and geoscience for Indigenous peoples provides a wide range of career opportunities which could last a lifetime. Helping to create positive change and solving problems is one of the foundations for pursuing this fulfilling career direction.

The Association’s governance policies are focused on ‘Ends’ or the desired outcomes. One of these adopted in 2017, number five, is that practitioners reflect the diversity of the public—which leads to the imperative increasing of Indigenous membership—together they constitute End 5.1. In pursuing that “End”, the Association’s Department of Equity and Representation is working to understand, track, and effectively address the reasons for the significant underrepresentation of Indigenous practitioners in the professions.

Why The Our Future Campaign is Important [Erin Oulette]

The Indigenous Professionals Initiative Committee (IPIC) within the Association department is under the direction of the Indigenous Professionals Initiative Coordinator, Nicole Everett. The committee recognizes the need for awareness of the industry and knowledge of the educational path and career opportunities in engineering and the geosciences must begin early for young people.

[Panoramara - Our Fututre]

Many Indigenous engineers and geoscientists have reported low awareness of engineering and the geosciences in grade school and early university, and not knowing about the profession and the possibilities it can offer until high school or early university when “chance” instances with career counsellors, teachers, or friends sparked an initial interest. These were rare occurrences and relied on chance rather than intentional, system-supported, and equitable resources to pave a career path in engineering and the geosciences.

[Nicole Everett]

It was also important for the department to highlight the work and faces of current practitioners identifying as First Nations, Metis, and Inuit at the Association.

The Association acknowledges their roles as mentors and leaders for people in a field that is not traditionally diverse.

For more information about the Our Future campaign, keep an eye out for our billboards, bus advertisements, radio spots, and more, or check out the Our Future webpage listed down below.

Our Future

MAR 07, 2023

Certificate of Authorization Renewals Are Now Open

Companies that hold a Certificate of Authorization to provide engineering or geoscience services in Manitoba must renew annually.

Certificates of Authorization are currently renewing for the period May 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. Renewal notices have been mailed to the listed authorized designate.

All companies who hold a Certificate of Authorization must submit their renewal payment by April 10 or complete a cancellation form. Renewal payments may be made online via the link below.

CofA Maintenance and Renewal Information

Renew Online Now

CofA Cancellation Form (PDF)

MAR 01, 2023

Meet Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., FEC: Acting CEO, Registrar, and Secretary of EngGeoMB

Meet Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., FEC: Acting CEO, Registrar, and Secretary of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba

Where are you from? Tell us a bit about your background.
I was born and raised in Winnipeg. A lot of my classmates (both from high school and university) moved away over the years, so there was a significant pull to move away at various times. Family was a big reason for staying here, along with the fact that Manitoba has a lot to offer.

Where did you pursue your education?
I attended the University of Manitoba for all three of my degrees (Architecture undergrad, Engineering undergrad, MBA). It is such a great school, and, for my most recent degree, the ability to attend classes in-person was a major factor.

How did you originally get involved with the Association? When? What was your original role? How have you seen it change over the years?
As an intern, there was a requirement at the time to acquire ‘voluntary service’ hours. The Safety Committee was looking for someone to take minutes, so I signed up! It was a fantastic foray into the workings of the Association and gave me an opportunity to meet some great engineers and geoscientists. In 2008, the Association was looking to hire a “Professional Standards Officer” and I answered the call. I’ve been with the Association since then, in a role that has grown and evolved over the 15 years.

What are some highlights in your career?
The first time a structure that you’ve designed is built is an unforgettable experience. In my case, it was a support structure for an ag-industrial application, so it lacked in the aesthetics department, but it will always remain firmly in my memory bank. Another highlight was the development and implementation of the ProDev Program. It’s rewarding to see the realization of a project developed with input from so many great people. The challenges along the way make it that much more rewarding.

How do you feel about your new role as CEO, Registrar, and Secretary and what are your goals?
At present, I am acting in the role on a temporary basis for an undefined period. As such, the goal is to make sure the Association continues to operate on the current path until Council’s governance review is complete and a permanent CEO is identified. I am excited to fulfill these duties and have the opportunity to take on the responsibilities associated with the role.

How do you manage to find that balance between work life and professional life?
It’s key to be able to have the ability to switch certain modes on and off. Because the demands for a CEO/Registrar can effectively be never-ending, it’s a necessity to be able to stop thinking about work duties. For example, when spending time with the kids, having the ability to keep work issues out of my head is paramount. Having said that, there’s a need to be able to be flexible and dip into time on either side of that balance equation, when necessary. Finally, having an outlet for stress is very important. For me, that usually involves spending 30 minutes going for a run.

When you’re not at work, where can you be found?
Most likely, it’s either playing or coaching soccer. As a goalkeeper, I am still in high demand, despite my … years of experience. As much as I love playing the game, I get equal satisfaction from coaching my daughter’s soccer team.

FEB 22, 2023

Call for Abstracts - 2023 Ingenium Professional Development Seminars

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba will host its annual conference, Ingenium, in a virtual format in October 2023. Ingenium is a premier professional development opportunity for the engineering and geoscience community in Manitoba, with participants representing a cross-section of the 9,200 practitioners who work in the province’s private and public sectors.

The Association welcomes abstracts for presentations on any topic related to engineering and geoscience and the professionals which practise in those fields, for consideration for inclusion in Ingenium’s Professional Development Seminars.

In particular, we welcome presentations which explore:
• Case studies of successful applications of new strategies or technology in Manitoba
• Resiliency and climate change
• Technical presentations on emerging technologies
• Industry trends
• Competency skills benefitting engineering and geoscience professionals

Please submit a half-page abstract, outlining the presentation proposal, along with the presenter’s name, contact information, and brief biography, to Gemma Keatch, Events Coordinator, via email to GKeatch@EngGeoMB.ca.

Abstracts must clearly describe the content of the presentation.

Both Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba members and non-members are invited to submit abstracts.

Deadline for submissions is Friday, April 28, 2023.

FEB 21, 2023

Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation & Performance Standards Regulation

The Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation, under The Permit Dispute Resolution Act.
The Performance Standards Regulation, under The Buildings and Mobile Homes Act.

The Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation
The proposed Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation will allow expert adjudicators to make binding orders respecting decisions made by a permitting authority about the technical requirements of building and standards and complaints that inspections and decisions on permit applications were not conducted or made in a timely manner. The proposed Regulation lays out the processes to apply for a permit dispute resolution hearing, the timeframes for which a hearing must be held by an adjudicator-depending on the nature of the dispute-and the costs associated with the adjudication process (the adjudicator will bill parties directly for their services).

The Performance Standard Regulation
The proposed Performance Standard Regulation lays out the timeframes for which a permitting authority must notify the applicant if their application for a building or occupancy permit is complete, notify the applicant if their application for a building or occupancy permit is approved and, at the request of the applicant, conduct an inspection. This Regulation outlines a phased implementation to assist permitting authorities in meeting these new requirements and to allow them to make the operational changes required to meet more aggressive performance standards, to be phased in after one year.

The proposed Permit Dispute Resolution Regulation and the proposed Performance Standards Regulation have been posted for public consultation on the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal.

This project will be available for public comment until 11:59 pm on April 3, 2023.

For more information, and to read the proposed regulations, please see the link provided below.

Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal (Gov.MB.ca)

FEB 15, 2023

New Chapter for Queer Engineers and Geoscientists

A group of Association members is working to establish a new membership chapter for queer engineers and geoscientists.

The group is currently looking for people interested in joining the chapter with opportunities to help develop the chapter constitution and hold executive positions. The goal of the chapter will be to provide networking opportunities, support, advocacy, and a sense of community for EngGeoMB members with diverse sexual and gender identities, orientations, and expressions (2SLGBTQ+).

Please reach out to Mitchell Haw, P.Eng., at MHaw@EppSiepman.com, or (204) 805-2983, to learn more or to get involved.

FEB 06, 2023

Undertaking Notice - R. Sancio

This is notice that on December 21, 2022, Romegio (Romy) Sancio signed an undertaking and acknowledgement regarding fraudulently sealed projects.

Specifically, Mr. Sancio forged the seal of an Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba P.Eng. member without their knowledge or consent. The undertaking acknowledged that:

Mr. Sancio knowingly forged an engineer’s seal on as many as twenty-six (26) projects to the City of Winnipeg’s Planning, Property & Development department; and,
The forgeries created a significant risk to the public as they had not been reviewed or approved by a professional engineer holding a valid certificate of registration;

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba retains the right to take whatever action it deems necessary in response to the forgeries.

JAN 07, 2023

Association CEO & Registrar Notice

Announced on November 23, 2022, Grant Koropatnick stepped down from the Association after 17 years as CEO & Registrar.

He said "It's been a great run, but it's time for someone else to lead the organization. I'm thankful to the Council for the opportunity of serving this historic, honourable profession. It has been a highlight of my career".

President Ian Smallwood accepted the notice of resignation with sincere thanks for the years of faithful service. Mr. Koropatnick's last day in the position was Friday, January 6, 2023.

On January 7, 2023, the duties of the CEO, Registrar, and Secretary were taken over by Michael Gregoire, P.Eng., MBA, FEC, on a temporary basis.

This follows Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba's current succession plan in the absence of the CEO. All powers and authority of the CEO, Registrar, and Secretary will be assumed by Mr. Gregoire until further notice.

Please send any communication for the CEO, Registrar, and Secretary to CEORegistrar@EngGeoMB.ca.

JAN 04, 2023

Arab Members Chapter 2023 Student Bursaries

The Arab Members Chapter of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba is pleased to announce bursaries for engineering students in the province of Manitoba. A total of four (4) bursaries will be awarded. The deadline to submit the applications is January 12, 2023.

Eligibility:
1. Candidate should be a member of the Arab Members Chapter (you can become a member by filling the application provided in the link below). Candidates must show proof that they are an affiliate of the Arab Members Chapter.

2. Candidate must be a full-time student in any undergraduate or graduate engineering program in the province of Manitoba, has completed the first year of their engineering program, and will be attending their engineering studies in the following year.

3. Previous winners of the Arab Members Chapter bursary are not eligible to apply.

Requirements:
1. Application form (provided in a link below)

2. Proof of registration in a full-time undergraduate or graduate engineering program in Manitoba, has completed the first year of their engineering program, and will be attending their engineering studies in the following year.

Awards:
Four awards (one award per student) of $500 each will be presented to the successful candidates on the Chapter’s birthday - January 21, 2023.

Process:
1. Fill out the online application through the link provided below

2. Send the required documents to the email provided: Contact@AMC-EGM.ca

3. The executive committee of the chapter will assess the applications for eligibility and for selection criteria

4. Deadline to submit the applications is January 12, 2023

5. All applicants shall be present on the day of the ceremony (January 21, 2023) in order to receive the drawn bursary

Confidentiality:
All information collected for this application will remain strictly confidential and will only be accessible to the members of the Executive Committee. This information is to be used to evaluate applications for selection of qualified applicants.

Arab Members Chapter Application Form

Bursary Application Form

DEC 23, 2022

Member Renewals Due December 31, 2022

Renewals must be completed and submitted to the Association on or before December 31, 2022. If your renewal is not received on time, you will be subject to a late fee of $52.50 (including GST) and may be removed from the Association register.

Log into your online profile by clicking the link provided below in order to submit your renewal.

PLEASE NOTE: You are now able to pay for your renewal online with Visa Debit and Debit Mastercard.

Please note that the Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba office will be closed from Monday, December 26, 2022 - Monday, January 2, 2023. We will re-open on Tuesday, January 3, at 8:30 a.m. During this time, phone and e-mail queries will not be answered, however, online renewals will still be available.

Happy Holidays!

Online Profile

DEC 20, 2022

2020 Model Code Adoption Stakeholder Feedback

The Province of Manitoba has recently announced it will adopt the 2020 editions of the national model construction codes (building, plumbing, energy, and fire).

Earlier this year, Manitoba posted a publicly facing proposal to adopt the 2015 edition of the national model codes and solicited feedback on the proposal from June 29 to August 17. Due to overwhelming feedback advising to adopt the 2020 edition of the codes, which were released earlier this year, Manitoba is working towards adopting the 2020 codes on an accelerated timeframe with minimal amendments. The intent is to pass the regulations as soon as possible to give industry adequate notice before requirements come into effect, likely in the fall of 2023. This goal will help Manitoba meet its commitments for harmonized codes under the Canada Free Trade Agreement (see link below).

As the posted proposal was to adopt the 2015 edition of the national model codes, Inspection and Technical Services is enquiring with several key stakeholder groups if there are any questions or concerns specific to adoption of the 2020 edition of the national model codes.

If you have feedback regarding any concerns you may have related to the accelerated adoption of the 2020 national model codes, you are invited to join an online stakeholder engagement session on January 24 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. - please register via the event link at the bottom of the page. Alternatively, please reach out to Info@EngGeoMB.ca in order to submit your thoughts with the subject line 2020 Model Code Adoption.

The 2020 editions of the national model codes make updates in a number of key areas:

Significant changes in the National Building Code 2020

Technical requirements for large farm buildings are added, which address fire protection, occupant safety, structural design, and heating, ventilating and air-conditioning.
Encapsulated mass timber construction is introduced, enabling the construction of wood buildings with up to 12 storeys.
Accessibility requirements are updated to reduce barriers related to anthropometrics, plumbing facilities, signage, entrances and elevators.
Design requirements for evaporative equipment are revised to minimize the growth and transmission of Legionella and other bacteria.
A home-type care occupancy is introduced to allow safe and affordable care in a home-type setting.
Energy performance tiers are established to provide a framework for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency in housing and small buildings.

Significant changes in the National Plumbing Code 2020

Fibrocement pipe and fittings are included as alternatives to asbestos-cement materials, which were removed from the NPC 2015 as an interim change.
Other new plumbing materials are added as options, including polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) tube, cellular core polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe, and their fittings.
The maximum temperature for water discharging from shower heads or into bathtubs is reduced in health-care facilities and seniors' residences to prevent scalding.
Gate valves and screw caps, which require manual intervention, are removed as options for backflow protection to reduce the risk of basement flooding.
Design requirements for non-potable rainwater harvesting systems are introduced to facilitate the collection and use of rainwater.

Significant changes in the National Energy Code for Buildings 2020

The application of the Code is extended to cover alterations, such as tenant improvements, to buildings originally constructed in accordance with the NECB.
Maximum overall thermal transmittance values for opaque building assemblies and fenestration are reduced to improve the thermal performance of the building envelope.
Whole-building airtightness testing is introduced as an option for complying with air leakage requirements.
Lighting power densities are updated to reflect improvements in the efficacy of lighting products.
Performance requirements for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) and service water heating equipment are updated to align them with relevant standards and regulations.
The trade-off compliance paths for HVAC and service water systems, which were complex and not widely used, are removed.
A new compliance path with 4 energy performance tiers is introduced to provide a framework for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency in buildings.

Significant changes in the National Fire Code 2020

Technical requirements for large farm buildings are added, which address the inspection of mechanical equipment and electrical systems, the control of flammable gases and vapours, and the storage of flammable or combustible liquids.
Fire safety plan requirements are consolidated to facilitate compliance and enforcement.
Classifications are established for 5 widely used water-miscible liquid mixtures to ensure that appropriate fire safety measures are applied in their storage, handling, use and processing.
Measures are included to address fire safety during the construction of encapsulated mass timber buildings.

Manitoba Government to Accelerate Adoption of 2020 Standards for National Building, Plumbing, Fire, and Energy Codes

Regulatory Reconciliation and Cooperation Table Success Stories

Stakeholder Engagement Session (January 24)

DEC 13, 2022

Registration Committee Appeal Hearing for A.J. Pudavick

A Registration Committee preliminary appeal hearing for an appeal by A.J. Pudavick is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. by video conference. A subsequent hearing will be scheduled for January 2023.

On September 28, 2022, the Registration Committee revoked Mr. A.J. Pudavick’s Specified Scope of Licence (Eng.L.) based on failing to meet the minimum academic requirements.

Hearings are open to the public. To receive access to the observer stream for this hearing on Zoom, please email Gemma at GKeatch@EngGeoMB.ca.

DEC 08, 2022

Association CEO & Registrar Receives Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

At a ceremony held at the Manitoba legislature November 28, 2022, CEO & Registrar Grant Koropatnick, P.Eng., FEC, was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal for service to her late Majesty and the people of Manitoba. As a lifelong citizen of the province, some highlights of his service include:

30 years of practice as a professional engineer and 17 years as CEO & Registrar of Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba – the licensing body for engineers and geoscientists in the province.

Leading the Association through its Centennial year in 2020 and forward into the next century of service to the public of Manitoba.

Championing strategic initiatives including:

Increasing the number of Indigenous practitioners on the Register.
Striving for gender equity in the profession.
Welcoming more than 1,000 international engineers to Manitoba in the past decade through the EngGeoMB Chapters Program.

Board member of Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation.

To read more about the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee award, please see the link provided below.

Association CEO & Registrar Receives Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

Association CEO & Registrar Receives Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (Manitoba)

DEC 06, 2022

Have Your Say On Climate Resilience Training

The Association has received funding from the Province of Manitoba’s Conservation and Climate Fund to develop and deliver free climate change training to its practitioners and allied professionals. The first step of the 2022 – 2023 Manitoba Climate Resilience Training (MCRT) Project is a practitioner survey to gather input on which climate change training topics are most valuable and how they should be delivered: in-person, online, or hybrid. The 5-minute survey, conducted by Probe Research, will be open until January 6, 2023, and can be completed via the link below.

Last year, as part of the BRACE/MCRT Project, Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba and its partners directly developed and delivered three courses within a nine-course “Foundational and Infrastructure Pathway” recommended for all infrastructure practitioners and decision-makers. The focus of those courses was on climate change adaptation.

This year, those three courses are being updated and re-oriented with an emphasis on climate change mitigation. The Introduction to Climate Change through Codes, Standards, and Regulations course will report on Manitoba’s decision to adopt the 2020 building codes. Two of the three courses will also offer 3-hour workshops so that attendees can practice their analytical, planning, and decision-making skills in small groups working on case studies. These three courses, including workshops, will be offered at no charge in February 2023.

A few new courses will also be developed and piloted in March 2023. The Association is already actively seeking funding to offer the new courses in the 2023 – 2024 fiscal year. Through the survey, practitioners can have their say on their priorities for new topics already under consideration and suggest new topics, to help the project team pick the top three for development.

In addition, the MCRT Project Team is researching external providers of courses consistent with the identified training requirements and to identify training gaps where new courses need to be developed. External climate change training courses will be publicized on the Association’s events calendar so that practitioners can find courses of interest.

Complete the Survey (Closes Dec 21)

Conservation and Climate Fund News Story

EngGeoMB Events Calendar

NOV 23, 2022

Seven Wardens Announce Review of the Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer

For nearly a century, Canadian engineering graduates have been invited to voluntarily participate in “The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer”. Participants make a personal obligation to live by a high standard of ethical conduct regarding their duties and responsibilities towards themselves, other engineers, and society in general. During the Ritual, the engineering graduates are made joyously welcome to the profession of engineering by those that have preceded them. Over 500,000 engineering graduates have attended a Ritual ceremony. An iron ring has been given to each one, serving as a constant reminder to them and others of their obligation.

The original Ritual was conceived in the 1920’s. Since then, Canada has become significantly more diverse. Several revisions have been made to the text of the Ritual regarding gender neutrality and the removal of religious words and phrases. More recently, the age of the Ritual, its old English language, and overtones of colonialism, have prompted the Corporation to initiate a review of the Ritual and the organization to make the Ritual more meaningful and inclusive for all candidates by building on the original intent of the ceremony but reflecting the context of a modern Canadian society.

In early 2022, the Corporation formed a Ritual Review Committee. The Committee’s initial work has been to solicit input and actively listen to newly obligated candidates, Camp volunteers, and other engaged stakeholder communities. A formal case for change and guiding principles will be presented to the Corporation membership prior to the development of specific recommendations. Some stakeholders have expressed urgency in replacing the Ritual immediately. The Corporation wishes to honour principles of the 100-year-old tradition and to respect all stakeholders’ needs. To do so will require thoughtful input and careful consideration. The current Ritual served its purpose for nearly 100 years – the Corporation wishes that the outcome of the Committee’s work be relevant and enduring for the next 100 years.

Feedback about the Ritual can be made in writing by contacting the Ritual Review Committee at Ritual_Review@Corp.IronRing.ca.

The Corporation of the Seven Wardens Inc. is a not-for-profit Canadian Corporation, managed by volunteers, whose purpose is to administer and regulate the use of “The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer”. Local groups, or Camps, across Canada are responsible for the delivery of the Ritual to candidates.

English and French Press Release

NOV 02, 2022

Geoscientists Canada Offering Complimentary Geocommunication Course

Through Geoscientists Canada, Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has acquired a professional development opportunity which allows all our registrants FREE access to Geologize’s critically acclaimed course 'Practical Geocommunication’ - a US$450 per person value. As the course is on-demand, you can sign up now and start at any point that suits you.

The geocommunications training helps geoscientists and engineers become more effective and powerful public ambassadors for geoscience. This skill is more important today than ever as professionals communicate with broad audiences about the effects and mitigation of climate change; impart knowledge concerning critical minerals; communicate with various stakeholder groups; inspire the next generation of geoscientists in the face of declining post-secondary geoscience enrolment; and so many other important topics.

The Practical Geocommunications Course is an approximately 10-hour online course, with the ability to save and return to the course at any time, and with a certificate available upon completion. Clear and appropriate communication of geoscience and engineering to the public is a key element of fulfilling professional ethical obligations. This wonderful professional development opportunity, fully updated December 2021, provides guidance on geocommunication and addresses such topics as:

The importance of communicating the geosciences. Case studies demonstrating the ethical obligation to communicate.
Neurology to orating. The science and practice of effective communication in the geosciences.
The power of analogy and linguistic tools. Geologizing and transposing geoscientific content into everyday concepts.
Identifying distortions in the media and strategies with which to effectively respond to these distortions.
Strategies to promote powerful social media engagement in the geosciences. Case studies and practical strategies.
Strategies for geoparks and geotourism to improve audience demographics and engagement.
Communicating with Indigenous communities.
Bonus material, quizzes, assignments, and a certificate.

To receive information on how to access the course, send an email with the title 'Practical Geocommunication Course' to Info@EngGeoMB.ca stating your Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba ID number. This course will be available until January 5, 2024.

Geologize's Website

OCT 26, 2022

Bill 233 – The Engineering and Geoscientific Profession Amendment Act

Bill 233, The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Amendment Act, was concurred in, read for the third time, and passed at the legislative session on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

Bill 233 was introduced to the House of the Provincial Government as a private member's bill this spring by Ian Wishart, MLA for Portage La Prairie, and was read for the first time on April 21, 2022, followed by a second reading on April 26, 2022. After the bills’ debate in the second reading, the Association met with members of the Legislative Assembly to discuss concerns raised about admission standards, specified scopes of practises, and providing adequate supervision toward specific scope of practice licence holders, all of which were clarified ensuring that admission standards are flexible while remaining accountable for the engineering and geoscience professions. Bill 233 was then referred to and presented at the Standing Committee of Social and Economic Development on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, with all 11 MLAs voting to advance the bill to a third reading. The third reading was completed on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.

Key Changes

Simplifying Administrative Procedures and Language
The Association is proposing amendments that simplify administrative procedures for registration of applicants, restructure the process for appeals, adjust language to simplify licensees and expand their rights, and make consequential by-law changes to ensure council has adequate oversight. The proposed amendments consolidate the appeals process within a new part under The Act and permit faster processing of registration for out of jurisdiction applicants.

Removing Barriers to Practice
Barriers to practice are commonly experienced by practitioners traversing provincial, territorial, and international boundaries. The Association is committed to reducing these barriers by expanding the eligibility of temporary licensees and introducing a new member category for out of jurisdiction applicants. Temporary licenses may now be granted to individuals residing within Manitoba and are professionally registered in another jurisdiction. The establishment of an out-of-jurisdiction membership adds an additional avenue for applicants outside of Manitoba to have their qualifications and competency recognized in order to begin practice in the province within a timely manner.

Increasing Transparency and Enhancing Protection of the Public
The Association is putting forth amendments to enhance the protection of the public through an expansion of investigation rights and to increase public transparency when a professional member is formally charged or does not comply with professional development requirements. The Association is also expanding the list of prohibited titles to include “Eng. L” and “Geo. L” members who will practice with a specified scope of practice license.

OCT 14, 2022

2022 Annual General Meeting and Annual Awards Ceremony

On Thursday, October 13, 2022, Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba welcomed Ian Smallwood, P.Eng., as the new Association President for 2022-2023.

The Association also welcomed four new members to Council at the Annual General Meeting:

Lisa Thomson, P.Eng.
Alan Pollard, P.Eng.(SM), FEC
David Amorim, P.Eng.
Jessica Adelman, P.Geo.

On Friday, October 14, 2022, nine awards were presented to outstanding individuals and companies at the Annual Awards Ceremony. Masters of Ceremonies was Anders Boulanger, and music and entertainment was provided by the Big City All Star Band.

This year, a new award was also given out: The Student Achievement Award.

The Association would like to extend its congratulations once again to all of this year’s award recipients.

Information about each award can be found at https://enggeomb.ca/Awards.html.

OCT 20, 2022

Request for Proposals - Consultant: Equity and Engagement in Professional Regulation

Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has released a request for proposals (RFP) seeking a qualified consultant to develop and consult on implementation of a strategic plan to strengthen gender equity, anti-racism, decolonization and anti-oppression professional development, and accountability measures in the professional regulation of engineering and geoscience practices in Manitoba, both for members and certificate of authorization holders.

The request for proposals can be viewed via the link below.

We encourage practitioners to circulate the RFP within their networks to assist in advertising this initiative.

Proposals are due on Monday, November 14, 2022

Request for Proposal (pdf)

SEP 21, 2022

North American Commercial and Industrial Insulation Standards Manual Now Available in Canada

In late 2021, TIAC finalized an agreement with the Midwest Insulation Contractors Association (MICA) to endorse the 9th edition of that organization’s manual—renamed the North American Commercial and Industrial Insulation Standards (NACIIS) manual.

The NACIIS manual contains updated information related to the design, specification, and installation of thermal insulation on piping, fittings, ductwork, equipment, and vessels found within commercial heating/ventilating/ cooling and plumbing systems.

Industrial power and process systems information on firestopping systems is also included, and refrigeration and cryogenic systems have been added.

“Possibly the most used sections of the manual are the installation detail drawings, referred to as plates, and the Appendix Tables, which are some of the most needed and sought-after points of data when considering a mechanical insulation system,” says Luis Garcia, Chair of TIAC’s Innovators Group, which was instrumental in formalizing the agreement.

“The detail plates are intentionally shown without specifics of dimensions or kinds of materials so that users can include this information relative to their particular desires for the specific project, without predetermined information unduly influencing details or causing unsatisfactory results,” says Garcia. “Leaving these details to the discretion and needs of the user ensures that the specifics will be relevant to the situation at hand.”

This open format also has the benefit of accommodating new materials in the market, for any function—insulation, fastening/attachment, sealing, or finishing. An installation practice detailed in a plate can apply, without the need to develop completely new details specifically for the given material, if the producer is accepting of the plate details. Some material producers specifically refer to the standards as acceptable installation practice details.

Additional Highlights:
This publication represents a continued program of standards revisions and specialized editions, serving the insulation industry and its customers as:

a means of clearer communication between owners, engineers, contractors, and inspectors on projects regarding the intended practices and materials to be used.
an updated source of technical information concerning commercial and industrial insulation products and practices.
a means by which installation practices that are commonly accepted throughout the industry can be understood and followed.

The book is divided into the following sections:
Introduction, Insulation Materials and Properties, Insulation System Design, Specification Writing, Project Coordination, Maintenance, Insulation Thickness Programs, General Application Methods/Illustrations, Specialized Applications Methods/Illustrations, Flashing, Cryogenic Systems, Glossary, and Appendix Tables.

Installation detail plates included:
Piping, Fittings, Valves, Flanges, Mechanical Couplings, Ducts, Plenums, Housings, Vessels, Tanks and Equipment, a Power section including breechings and boiler walls, and Specialized Applications to include Noise, Refrigeration, Removable and Reusable Insulation Blankets or Pads, and Cryogenic.

The manual is published as a service to contractors, engineers, designers, owners, and the mechanical insulation industry in general. This resource has grown to be recognized as the authoritative source for specifying and communicating installation details for mechanical insulation systems across the United States and Canada.

Most of the content is applicable and relevant to both Canadian and American markets, but there is still work to be done.

“We are working on developing a cross-reference document for Canadian users of NACIIS for those instances where practices differ,” Garcia says. “We will be reaching out to members of TIAC to rely on their expertise and experience to help the Innovators group to ‘Canadianize’ the manual.”

“Our industry in Canada now has a fully functional and up-to-date standard that they can refer to when they work on complex projects, or if they simply need a refresher on practices around insulation,” says TIAC President Joey Fabing. “As well, our industry in Canada now has access to combined expertise—this combined initiative elevates the North American industry as a whole and keeps us all up to date on industry standards.”

The NACIIS Manual is currently only available in English. The next phase of TIAC’s agreement with MICA is to have the manual translated to French for use across Canada.

To learn more or to purchase a copy of the NACIIS manual, please email Info@TIAC.ca.

To read the full press release in English or French, please click the links below.

Press Release (English)

Press Release (French)

AUG 17, 2022

Did You Know? - A Record Number of Interns

Did you know that Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba has an all-time high number of interns?

There are currently 2,220 applicants who are working on reporting their professional practice experience to be granted a P.Eng. or P.Geo. license. This is a 29.6 percent increase since just before the pandemic began in 2020. These are the individuals who will guide and shape the engineering and geoscience professions going forward.

They are bright, articulate and eager to serve the public as professional engineers and professional geoscientists in Manitoba, across Canada and worldwide.

AUG 10, 2022

Did You Know? - The Title of Engineer or Geoscientist

Did you know? A person cannot call themselves an engineer or geoscientist unless they are a member of EngGeoMB? The Engineering and Geoscientific Professions Act is the law in Manitoba restricting the use of the words engineer, engineering, geoscientist and geoscience. See Section 58 of the Act linked below.

No matter that a person has graduated from an engineering school or university, they cannot use the title engineer on a LinkedIn profile, web page, business card or in any form, unless first registering with Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba. This is the law in every province of Canada.

Section 58 of the Act

JUN 30, 2022

Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal

The 2015 National Model Code Adoption project is posted for 45-days public consultation on the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal. You can find it at the link below.

The project will be posted and available for public comment until midnight on August 16, 2022.

This project includes the proposed adoption of the 2015 National Model Codes (2017 for Energy) and Manitoba specific amendments under the:

The Manitoba Building Code regulation;
The Manitoba Plumbing Code regulation;
The Manitoba Energy Code for Buildings regulation; and
The Manitoba Fire Code regulation

Please submit your comments and feedback through the portal.

Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal