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KITCHENER, ONT. \u2014 Two Conestoga projects are on the receiving end of $568,000 in funding from the provincial government\u2019s Ontario Research Fund (ORF).<\/p>\n
Conestoga received grants for CONSTRUCT: Centre for Ontario\u2019s Network of Skilled Trade Researchers, Unions, Contractors, and Tradespeople ($333,500); and robotic welding and metallurgical analysis ($234,408 from the ORF \u2013 College Fund Ontario First Award).<\/p>\n
CONSTRUCT<\/a> is the latest initiative of the Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness & Performance (CISWP<\/a>) at Conestoga. According to a release, it is focused on sustaining the skilled trades workforce by reducing workplace injuries and improving job accessibility for underrepresented groups. The lead researcher is Dr. Amin Yazdani, executive director of CISWP.<\/p>\n The second project will establish additional capacity in robotic welding and metallurgical analysis, focusing on additive manufacturing, large-scale 3D printing, CAD-CAM, non-destructive evaluation, metallurgy and Industry 4.0.<\/p>\n This research is being lead by the\u00a0SMART Centre<\/a>. Established in 2020, the Conestoga centre is a dedicated hub for applied research, technical services and training with a focus on advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity and advanced recycling technologies, the release continues.<\/p>\n ORF research projects are selected competitive peer-review process. The funding helps institutions cover the costs of research operations and facilities, including building, renovating and equipping research facilities with equipment and laboratories.<\/p>\n The funds are part of $92 million for more than\u00a0200 projects announced<\/a>\u00a0by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities in late 2024.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n