Programs and projects awarded at Algonquin College’s Technology Project Showcase

Algonquin College’s Technology Project Showcase on April 10 in the ACCE building was the first time different programs presented together. Previously, individual programs had separate showcases.

The event was massive, covering the entire bottom floor of the ACCE building in projects. The variety was immense. From wildfire drones to cultural event planning websites, there was something for everyone.

“These are projects that students have either worked on for one or two terms,” said Jenn Lexmond, the lead operator for the event.

“I’m excited to see the ones that are outside of the school of advanced technology, like game development and all that… they’ve made a video game as well,” Lexmond said prior to the event.

One of the projects, Operation Phoenix, was a virtual reality drone game designed to serve in wildfires. Developers built a chair specifically for the controls, made a virtual map and designed gameplay simulating how their project would work in real life.

Team member David Cottin said the map they use to simulate the gameplay is based on Jasper National Park’s record-breaking wildfire season in 2024.

Another project at the showcase was created by students in the electrical technology program, which automated the distillation process for a client.

“We fitted a homemade still with temperature sensors, connected those sensors to a microcontroller and programmed the microcontroller so it automatically controls a heated coil, which basically creates a closed loop autonomous system,” said Mike Kelly, one of the team members of the distillation control system.

Most groups were happy with the attention they received from visitors, but it was more than just a fun showcase. It was also a competition.

“We have 68 judges circulating from the industries and college, a big community, and they’re going to be scoring them,” Lexmond said.

Anaya Ramesh, one of the judges, was scouting talent for the government.

“I’m here to see who’s creative, who’s very passionate about technology and innovation because we’re trying to build that at the National Defence,” said Ramesh.

Judges voted on the winning projects, which received awards at the end of the event.