UBC Engineering

UBC has ranked 9th globally in the Digital Leaders 2026 Global Ranking, a benchmark of the universities producing talent that drives entrepreneurship, AI, data science, computer science, and digital transformation.

This recognition reflects UBC's commitment to excellence in research and education, and to preparing graduates to address complex challenges through innovation, collaboration, and real-world impact. It also highlights the university's contribution to strengthening Canada's leadership in the digital and AI-driven economy.

What does it take to help design the technology behind business jets?

UBC Integrated Engineering alum Cynric Li shares how hands-on, multidisciplinary projects at school prepared him for a career as an Electrical Software Cabin Systems Integration Engineer at Bombardier.

From student-led engineering projects to designing and integrating technology for the cabin management systems for business jets, Cynric's journey highlights the value of combining technical expertise with collaboration, communication, and curiosity.

His story is a great reminder that the skills developed through engineering extend far beyond the classroom.

Curious where an engineering degree can take you beyond traditional paths?

Meet Denny Tian, a UBC Engineering alum whose journey from mining engineering to consulting at Boston Consulting Group shows just how versatile an engineering mindset can be.

After graduating from UBC, Denny began his career in the mining industry before transitioning into consulting roles at EY, where he worked on everything from asset management to digital transformation. Today, he partners with global companies to drive strategy, innovation, and growth across industries.

What made the shift possible?

It came down to the core of engineering: problem solving. Through co-op experiences and team-based projects, Denny built not only technical expertise but also skills in communication, teamwork, and navigating complex challenges.

“Engineering is more than applying technical knowledge. It’s about understanding problems from every angle and working with others to solve them.”

From launching a startup to advising major organizations, Denny’s path highlights how an engineering degree can open doors far beyond what you might expect.

Meet Harsh Chhatwal, UBC Electrical and Computer Engineering alum now flourishing as Manager of Technical Growth for New Mines at Teck.

From starting in computer systems at a coal mine near Fernie to overseeing the deployment of BC's first autonomous mining trucks to now supporting the development of a new copper mine in Peru, Harsh's journey demonstrates how technical expertise and collaboration can create meaningful, real-world impact.

His advice for engineering students? Take the time to work on communication and collaboration skills. “As an engineer, you will be talking and working with people from many different areas, and you need to know how to explain technical concepts clearly and accurately.”

Stormy Howard’s path is a great reminder that an engineering degree doesn’t lock you into one direction, it opens up many.

After graduating from Civil Engineering at UBC Engineering - Okanagan, Stormy stepped into a role with Delta Air Lines, leading design and construction projects across 30+ airports in Canada and the US. Today, she’s taken that same foundation and is training to become an airline transport pilot.

What stands out is not just the shift, but the mindset behind it. Engineering builds the ability to break down complex problems, adapt quickly and move confidently into new spaces. As Stormy puts it, it’s a “very versatile degree… don’t be afraid to do something unique.”

Stories like this show how engineering can be a starting point for so much more than you might expect.

As data becomes increasingly important to communications and public safety, Canada's researchers are developing technologies that help keep systems secure.

We’re proud to see UBC Engineering - Okanagan's Mohammad Arjmand and his team advancing ultra-lightweight materials that protect critical electronics from electromagnetic interference, supporting more resilient communications for emergency response and infrastructure.

Read the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) feature: https://n4.nserc-impact.ca/6/

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Mohammad Arjmand et son équipe à la University of British Columbia, en collaboration avec une équipe de la Drexel University à Philadelphie, met au point des matériaux ultralégers pour protéger les composants électroniques des interférences électromagnétiques, et ainsi sécuriser à la fois le matériel militaire et les réseaux civils.

Apprenez-en plus dans IMPACT ▶️ n4.crsng-impact.ca/6

To the UBC Engineering Class of 2026 - Tuum Est. It is yours. 🎓

Every late night, challenge and achievement led to this moment. You’ve earned it and now you step into the world with the knowledge, friendships and memories that will stay with you long after graduation.

Here’s to celebrating this incredible milestone and everything ahead.

Best of luck to all teams taking on The Big Question in New Delhi this weekend!

This case study competition gives high school students in India the opportunity to tackle a challenging real-world problem, find innovative solutions and present to a team of professors and alumni from UBC Engineering and UBC Sauder School of Business.

Learn more: thebigquestion.ubc.ca