This year’s course was led by Liam Page, a graduate of the programme who attended Haver’s first course back in 2016 — setting in motion his hiring with the company as the technical application specialist the same year.
Dieter Takev, vice president of engineering and technology and Duncan High, division manager — process equipment technology for Haver’s North American operation, also presented.
The course included a demonstration of Haver's NIAflow plant simulation software, led by Page.
Page said: “It was an interesting perspective to be on this side of the programme several years after I was one of the first to take part. It’s such a valuable tool to see equipment in person and talk to industry veterans about how things will look outside of the classroom.”
Typically, the course is held in person at Haver’s facilities. However, the event took place virtually due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Sam Marcuson, adjunct professor at the University of Toronto, said: “Opportunities like this give the students a point of view beyond what I can convey in an academic setting. Even in a virtual format — as we had to do this year — students can ask questions and get perspective on the operating world and how it differs from what’s in the textbook. Additionally, I think it’s important for the students to see recent graduates in action.”
Haver plans to continue the partnership with the University of Toronto as well as open the same opportunities to other interested educational institutions.
Karen Thompson, president of Haver & Boecker Niagara’s North American and Australian operations, said: “These students are our future, so it’s our mission to do everything we can to make sure they’re prepared to jump headfirst into this industry. It’s especially rewarding to have Liam present the course, as he was one of the first to take part several years ago.”
