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X-WR-CALNAME:Vision Conference 2026
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Vision Conference 2026
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T080700
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T090700
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012910Z
UID:10000038-1791965220-1791968820@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Digital Data
DESCRIPTION:The PASCO Sensor Challenge is a hands-on\, team-based science competition where students rotate through three inquiry stations in physics\, biology\, and chemistry. At each station\, teams make predictions\, collect real-time data using PASCO sensors\, and compare their results to their original hypotheses. In physics\, students explore motion by matching graphs using a smart cart or motion sensor. In biology\, they investigate water quality by measuring and ranking the mineral content of tap water samples using conductivity data. In chemistry\, they analyze a reaction by tracking pH changes as an antacid is added to a solution. Each station is a mini-competition\, with prizes awarded to the team that demonstrates the strongest combination of accurate predictions\, high-quality data collection\, and clear scientific reasoning. \n  \nRhonda MacDonald \nRhonda MacDonald is the Marketing Director at AYVA Educational Solutions\, where she works closely with educators to support meaningful\, hands-on\, inquiry-based science learning. She partners with teachers across Canada\, helping them integrate practical experiments and technology into their classrooms in ways that align with curriculum and enhance student understanding. With extensive experience in PASCO scientific solutions\, Rhonda is passionate about making science more engaging\, accessible\, and relevant for all students.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/digital-data/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/pasco-sci.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T080800
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T090800
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012911Z
UID:10000030-1791965280-1791968880@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Empowering Users Through UX Writing
DESCRIPTION:User experience (UX) research can pinpoint when and where people struggle with software as varied as banking apps\, online application forms\, shopping sites\, or even video games. Sometimes\, it’s easy to develop and apply a technical solution to resolve these pain points. When it isn’t easy\, or when trying to fix users’ issues would take too much time or cost too much money (or when the software is actually working as it should\, despite what users think!)\, human-centred UX writing can teach users how to resolve their own issues and enhance brand loyalty. In this hands-on workshop\, we will use real world examples to learn about the fundamental principles of UX writing and how to engage and empower users through well-crafted user interfaces\, instructions\, and error messages. You’ll also learn how central good writing is to UX design and problem solving and the importance of plain language in universal design. \n  \nBruce Gillespie \nBruce Gillespie is an associate professor in the User Experience Design Program at Wilfrid Laurier University\, where he creates and teaches courses about UX writing\, human-centred design\, digital media and journalism. He was named a Laurier Teaching Fellow in 2017 and is interested in designing hands-on learning activities that bridge theory and practice.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/empowering-users-through-ux-writing/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ux-writing.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T080900
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T090900
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012912Z
UID:10000023-1791965340-1791968940@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Enzymes Kinetics
DESCRIPTION:Kinetics is a gas with beans\, beans\, the magical fruit! \nWe often forget how common\, important\, and useful enzymes are for us\, including for our health. For example\, some people only poorly digest vegetables like beans because they have insufficient enzymes to break down carbohydrates in their diet. With poor digestion of complex sugars\, the microbes in our intestinal tracts will metabolize those carbohydrates for us producing gases that we release as “flatulence”.  Beano® is an over-the-counter dietary supplement that contains α-galactosidase\, an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and helps reduce flatulence. In today’s workshop\, we will use Beano® and an extract from peas to determine how quickly the enzymes in this dietary supplement will break down complex carbohydrates to produce small sugars like glucose. \n  \nRosa da Silva\, Elizabeth Weretilnyk & Peter Summers \nRosa da Silva is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at McMaster University\, who teaches courses in the areas of cell and molecular biology and physiology. These are really important courses that give students the knowledge needed to understand how our bodies work\, and how we are able to medicinally help our bodies when we are sick! Rosa is an award-winning professor who welcomes all students in her classrooms\, engaging her classes in thoughtful and supported conversations related to amazing innovations in science. Having previously served as Associate Chair\, Undergraduate Studies for the Department of Biology\, Rosa has since 2023 entered into the role of Associate Dean\, Undergradaute Studies for the Faculty of Science. \nDr. Elizabeth Weretilnyk is a Professor in the Department of Biology at McMaster University. Dr. Weretilnyk’s research examines how plants cope with abiotic stress\, particularly stresses associated with drought\, salinity\, and nutrient deficiencies. She uses physiology\, biochemistry\, and genomics (metabolite and transcriptome profiling) approaches in her work on the extremophile crucifer\, Eutrema salsugineum. Dr. Weretilnyk\, together with colleagues Rosa Da Silva and Peter Summers\, is inspiring the next generation of scientists and supporting high school science teachers with the Department of Biology’s STEM Engagement Project. The long-running STEM Engagement Project by the Department of Biology connects McMaster with hundreds of high school students and teachers each year. \nPeter Summers is a Research Project Manager with the Department of Biology at McMaster University. Peter\, together with colleagues Rosa Da Silva and Elizabeth Weretilnyk\, is inspiring the next generation of scientists and supporting high school science teachers with the Department of Biology’s STEM Engagement Project. The long-running STEM Engagement Project by the Department of Biology connects McMaster with hundreds of high school students and teachers each year. \nMcMaster’s Department of Biology has an active outreach program that includes greenhouse visits and experiential activities. The Enzyme Kinetics Workshop is given by a team of three biologists. Drs. Rosa da Silva is an Associate Professor who teaches First Year Biology courses and is the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies in the Faculty of Science\, Dr. Peter Summers is a Plant Biochemist who co-organizes a Plant Molecular Workshop for high school students with our third member\, Dr. Elizabeth Weretilnyk\, a Professor who studies how plants tolerate extreme environmental conditions.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/enzymes-kinetics/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/enzymes.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091000
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012913Z
UID:10000033-1791965400-1791969000@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Exploring the Invisible: A Hands-On Microscopy & 3D Imaging Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wondered what things really look like up close\, like really close? In this interactive workshop\, you’ll get a crash course in electron microscopy and discover how scientists explore the hidden details of the world around us. We’ll start with a quick\, beginner-friendly introduction to what electron microscopes are\, how they work\, and why they matter in real-world science\, from studying materials to solving problems in engineering. \nThen\, you’ll jump into two fun\, hands-on activities: \n1. See the Unseen with a Scanning Electron Microscope\nTake control of a real scanning electron microscope (SEM) and examine materials at up to 5000× magnification. You’ll explore surfaces and structures in incredible detail—things you could never see with your eyes or a regular microscope. \n2. LEGO X-ray Challenge: Build What You Can’t See\nWork in teams to recreate a hidden LEGO model using a 3D scan from an X-ray CT system. It’s a race against time\, can your team figure out the structure and build it first? \nThis workshop is all about curiosity\, problem-solving\, and getting hands-on with real scientific tools. No experience needed\, just bring your curiosity! \n  \nSamantha Stambula \nDr. Samantha Stambula completed her PhD in Materials Science and Engineering at McMaster University\, where she used powerful electron microscopes to research new materials that could make cleaner energy technologies\, like fuel cells\, more efficient and affordable. \nShe is now the Manager of Education\, Governance\, and Outreach at the Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM)\, a leading research facility with some of the most advanced microscopes in the world. She leads outreach programs that bring real scientific tools into classrooms\, including scanning electron microscopes\, so students can explore and better understand the hidden\, microscopic world around them.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/exploring-the-invisible-a-hands-on-microscopy-3d-imaging-workshop/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/electron-microscope.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081100
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091100
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012914Z
UID:10000016-1791965460-1791969060@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Food Sensory
DESCRIPTION:This activity gives students the opportunity to learn how their five senses influence their experience with food. Students will increase their knowledge of how their olfactory and gustatory systems work together. Students are able to apply their creativity and their enhanced knowledge of sensory perception in a culminating sensory perception test. \n  \nJoe Helterbrand
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/food-sensory/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Food-Sensory-Perception-2026.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081200
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091200
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260605T125710Z
UID:10000022-1791965520-1791969120@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Forensics
DESCRIPTION:Do shows like CSI\, Forensic Files\, Bones and Dexter make you want to know what it’s really like behind the scenes solving murder cases? Join Dr. Nathan Vo in his forensic science lab for an immersive learning experience and step into the role of a forensic specialist. You won’t just watch – you’ll do the analysis yourself! This hands-on experience shows you how your Laurier education will start you on a path to careers in forensics\, criminology\, health sciences\, psychology\, law\, policing\, public safety\, social work\, investigative journalism and more. \nNathan Vo- Assistant Professor\, Department of Health Studies
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/forensics/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/forensics.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081300
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091300
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012916Z
UID:10000028-1791965580-1791969180@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Heat and Chill: The Power of Efficiency
DESCRIPTION:The Heat and Chill workshop is perfect for high school students\, aligning with the country’s focus on clean energy and environmental stewardship. Through hands-on activities and real-world applications\, students gain practical knowledge about energy efficiency and sustainable heating and cooling systems for different kinds of homes. These workshops are fully subsidized for classes in specific regions for the 2025/2026 school year. \nIn Heat and Chill workshops\, high school students will: \n\nExperiment with how heat transfers through conduction\, radiation\, and convection\nUse real tools to uncover where buildings lose energy\nLearn about energy efficiency technologies and practices\nDiscover how saving energy can help the environment and save money\n\n  \nSonja Teichert \nSonja is the SW Ontario Facilitator based in Waterloo. She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Biology and has over 10 years of experience teaching young adults. She is passionate about relationship building\, supporting social good\, and promoting sustainable\, connected\, and healthy communities. Sonja loves Latin dance\, billiards\, and the beach.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/heat-and-chill-the-power-of-efficiency/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/heat-and-chill.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081400
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091400
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012917Z
UID:10000015-1791965640-1791969240@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Material Science
DESCRIPTION:This is an interactive session in which we explore how new materials stimulate important innovation in all fields of engineering. You’ll see some magic tricks which are\, in reality\, cool changes in appearance and properties of the material. You’ll use shape memory alloys\, microscopes\, polymers…. and maybe\, we’ll make things disappear \n  \nHatem Zurob & Dr. Bryan Lee \nDr. Bryan Lee teaches in the first-year engineering program and in the department of Materials Science & Engineering. His teaching interests include biomaterials\, statistics\, and sustainability. \nHis research interests are in understanding the cell-biomaterial interface\, creation of new biomaterials and the development of new evaluation techniques/methods
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/material-science/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091500
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012918Z
UID:10000040-1791965700-1791969300@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Mirrors & Molecules
DESCRIPTION:If you have been introduced to organic chemistry\, you know that arranging atoms in different order allows you to get different functional groups\, each with different properties. Placement of atoms in 3D space also needs to be taken into account. An important idea is chirality\, where a molecule has a mirror image that is non-superimposable. While this sounds very complex\, you can see an example with your hands. You can can “reflect” your hand by placing your palms together but if you stack your hands on top of one another your thumbs will face opposite directions. Your hands are chiral! Chirality of molecules will impact their properties when placed in a chiral environment\, like biological systems. Your body in fact contains many chiral molecules from amino acids in proteins to the building blocks of your DNA (nucleic acids). \nIn this workshop you will learn to identify chiral objects and molecules\, find the relations between them (mirror images or not) and get comfortable building 3D models like a professional chemist would! \nLeanne Racicot \nLeanne Racicot is an organic chemistry laboratory instructor at the University of Waterloo. They obtained their PhD in Chemistry at the University of British Columbia in 2016 for their work on hypervalent iodine molecules. She held a joint post-doctoral Thode fellowship between the University of Waterloo and McMaster University to use hypervalent iodine reagents for 18F-labelling of small molecules. \nThey started teaching in 2019\, spending most of their time offering introductory organic chemistry laboratories for non-Chemistry majors (Biology\, Biomedical Sciences and Engineering programs). Leanne also periodically lectures organic chemistry or first-year chemistry and supervise the delivery of the on-campus high school outreach program and is the resident ‘chemistry magic’ demonstrator.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/mirrors-molecules/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/chemistry-magic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081600
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091600
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012919Z
UID:10000037-1791965760-1791969360@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Mitigating Microplastics
DESCRIPTION:Learn about microplastics and their impact on the environment\, animals\, and us. Discuss plastic as a resource and how microplastic pollution affects and disrupts sustainable ecosystems. Through hands-on activities\, experience what researchers in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Department at UWaterloo are doing to mitigate microplastics. \n  \nCorina McDonald
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/mitigating-microplastics/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/microplastics.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081700
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091700
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012919Z
UID:10000032-1791965820-1791969420@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Nanotechnology
DESCRIPTION:Ever wondered how tiny tests can deliver big answers in minutes? Join us for a hands-on workshop that cracks open the science behind biosensors—tiny\, clever devices that behave like biological detectives. It’s the same science behind blood-glucose tests\, and rapid COVID kits—and in this workshop\, you’ll see exactly how it works. \nThe real showstopper? Optical biosensors powered by gold nanoparticles. When a target such as a bacterium\, toxin\, or antibiotic binds to the biosensor\, the gold nanoparticles shift from red to blue right before your eyes. No bulky instruments. No complicated electronics. Just add a drop of sample and watch the science happen. Simple\, affordable\, and fast—these sensors are transforming testing in homes\, clinics\, and the field. \n  \nProfessor Juewen Liu \nProfessor Liu’s research group applies the fundamental principles of chemistry\, physics\, and biology to produce nanoscale materials\, devices\, and systems to understand basic sciences\, advance technology\, and impact medicine.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/nanotechnology/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nano.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081800
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091800
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012920Z
UID:10000041-1791965880-1791969480@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Oenology & Viticulture
DESCRIPTION:Come learn more about Brock University’s Grape & Wine Science Program with a few interactive activities led by industry experts. Identify blind aromas and put your taste buds to the test! \n  \nMarissa Neuner \nMarissa Neuner began her career in wine in 2013\, studying fermentation in the BC wine industry and earning a Master of Science. After many years working as a winemaker\, she launched her own consulting firm in 2020\, Cellar Door Analytics\, to bridge the gaps between research and development\, academia\, and industry. Now\, she furthers her goals as a science communicator with the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University\, acting as a Sr. Lab Demonstrator and advisor to students within the Applied Grape & Wine Science program. \n  \nTaylor MaGee \nTaylor MaGee started in the wine industry working for the Inn on the Twenty pouring wine for various events locally. From there he made his way to Retail Wine Shop for Cave Spring Vineyard and was later hired to work on the production team making wine and learning the process from start to finish. His first harvest was in 2015 and while studying through WSET and other Professional & Continuing Studies courses offered at Brock he was named Assistant Cellarmaster for the winery and worked every harvest and made wine every year there until CCOVI at Brock University came calling in 2022. Currently Managing the cellar\, coordinating Outreach Events and the day-to-day operations for the Institute.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/oenology-viticulture/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/oenology.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T081900
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T091900
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012921Z
UID:10000019-1791965940-1791969540@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Quantum Computing and Quantum Algorithms
DESCRIPTION:Quantum science studies the rules of atoms\, photons\, electrons\, and more\, and has been used to develop everyday tools like lasers and GPS. Modern quantum research explores what happens when you encode information in individual quantum systems and what kinds of problems computers based on quantum mechanics can solve. In this workshop\, you’ll explore how quantum computers solve problems differently than today’s computers. We’ll investigate the search algorithm and use a board game to examine the advantages and disadvantages of using quantum computers for this purpose. We’ll end with a series of demonstrations showing how researchers are building quantum technologies in the lab today. \n  \nJohn Donoghue \nThe Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a research institute at the University of Waterloo propelling the development of quantum science and technology. IQC’s 30+ research groups and 200+ research students harness quantum properties like superposition and entanglement to develop new kinds of computers\, sensors\, materials\, and communication systems. IQC runs many education programs\, including the annual Quantum School for Young Students (QSYS) for high-school students.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/quantum-computing-and-quantum-algorithms/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/https___d1e00ek4ebabms.cloudfront.net_production_84ef7180-36e4-4880-b7d4-5292bfb60e52.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T082000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T092000
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012921Z
UID:10000026-1791966000-1791969600@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Space Exploration
DESCRIPTION:Where is space exploration headed in the next 10-20 years? Canada is entering a space exploration odyssey with the recent Artemis II mission to the Moon\, participation in the James Webb Space Telescope\, in addition to actively conducting Earth observation. The STEAM career options are endless when it comes to the space exploration sector. We will facilitate discussions in small\, rotating groups to help you answer questions on topics of the future of space exploration\, including careers\, innovations\, research\, and additional resources. \n  \nBhairavi Shankar & Joseph Ulmer \nDr. Bhairavi Shankar is a Planetary Scientist\, a Canadian Space Ambassador\, and entrepreneur. She founded Indus Space\, a social enterprise\, to raise public awareness around Space Exploration and its links to STEAM. She has previously served on the boards of several local not-for-profit organizations that serve both the South Asian and Astronomy community and empower youth. \nJoseph Ulmer is an astrophysicist\, science communicator\, and Curriculum Developer for Indus Space. He designs program activities that engage participants with the exciting world of astronomy and space exploration through discovery-based learning initiatives. He also creates content around space topics intended for our digital platforms.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/space-exploration/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/space-exploration.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T082100
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T092100
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012922Z
UID:10000017-1791966060-1791969660@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:The Subatomic World: Careers and Technologies
DESCRIPTION:Everything around you—from your phone to your own body—is made of tiny building blocks called subatomic particles. But what if you could control these particles individually? Scientists and engineers are now doing exactly that\, unlocking a new world of powerful technologies known as quantum technologies. \nThese breakthroughs are already leading to ultra-fast quantum computers\, incredibly precise sensors\, and even the possibility of quantum teleportation. Around the world\, Canada is recognized as a global leader in these fields. \nIn this interactive workshop\, you’ll explore how the strange and fascinating rules of subatomic particles are shaping the future. Discover real-world applications\, try hands-on activities\, and learn about the wide range of careers you could pursue in this cutting-edge field. \n  \nDamian Pope \nDamian Pope is an Outreach Scientist at Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Canada. He inspires students and teachers with the wonders of science. He holds a PhD in quantum computing from the University of Queensland in Australia\, along with a qualification in science communication. He is passionate about making physics accessible and is dedicated to sharing the joy and beauty of physics with audiences of all backgrounds.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/the-subatomic-world/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/AW.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T082200
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T092200
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012923Z
UID:10000027-1791966120-1791969720@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Viral Vaccines
DESCRIPTION:Take on the role of a scientist working to develop a vaccine for a deadly virus before all of humanity is infected! Students will learn about vaccines\, see herd immunity in action and problem solve to save all of humanity. \n  \nLet’s Talk Science / Science Outreach at the University of Waterloo \nAmanda works for the University of Waterloo as an Educational Resources Coordinator where she specializes in helping others share their science with the community. With a background in biochemistry/pharmacy and healthcare experience during the Covid-19 pandemic Amanda is ready to chat all things germs. \nScience Outreach at the University of Waterloo is dedicated to sharing interactive\, hands-on sciences experiences with members of the community through classroom workshops and events. Volunteers are current undergraduate and graduate students studying in STEM related fields.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/viral-vaccines/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/viral-vaccines.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T082300
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T092300
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T011959Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012924Z
UID:10000018-1791966180-1791969780@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Watts in the Wind
DESCRIPTION:Working in groups\, students will design and build their own electrical wind-turbine and quantify how much voltage can be generated\, all while learning about renewable energy and using the engineering design process!
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/watts-in-the-wind/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GettyImages-1344590880.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T082400
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T092400
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012924Z
UID:10000034-1791966240-1791969840@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Zombie Apocalypse
DESCRIPTION:Working in groups\, students will build a device out of crafting materials to transport zombies from one end of the containment zone to the other in under a minute\, all while using the engineering design process!
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/zombie-apocalypse/
CATEGORIES:Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/zombie-apocalypse.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120100
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130100
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T130110Z
UID:10000042-1791979260-1791982860@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Artificial Intelligence
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/artificial-intelligence/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AI.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120200
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130200
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012925Z
UID:10000049-1791979320-1791982920@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Digital Media
DESCRIPTION:This seminar will look into how technology is used in the creative space\, including visual effects\, post-production\, AI\, and how these tools connect to content we already know\, such as film\, series\, entertainment\, and social media. \nRyan Stasyshyn  \nRyan Stasyshyn brings a wealth of experience leadership\, and a commitment to fostering artistic excellence. He has been a part of the production teams for some of the industry’s most recent and iconic projects\, including WandaVision\, HBO’s Watchmen\, John Wick: Chapter 4\, The Handmaid’s Tale\, 1923\, and priscilla. As head of the Toronto Rodeo FX studio\, he supervised many of its latest creations\, including Mark Wahlberg’s The Family Plan 2\, Bob Odenkirk’s Normal\, and the upcoming Hershey movie. \nThroughout his career\, Ryan has gained invaluable on-set experience serving as the Head of Production\, Head of Operations\, and Managing Director. His tenures at various high-profile studios gave him a deep understanding of virtual production an affinity for leadership roles that challenge the status quo and a contagious enthusiasm.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/digital-media/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/digital-media.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120300
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130300
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012926Z
UID:10000046-1791979380-1791982980@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Discover the Invisible World That's Shaping Your Future
DESCRIPTION:What if the future of medicine\, energy\, AI\, electronics\, and computing all depend on things too small to see or handle? Imagine a technology reaching the infinitesimal and transforming the world from the ground level up – that’s nanotechnology engineering—and it’s driving some of the biggest breakthroughs of our time. \nProfessor Guo-Xing Miao\, Director of the Nanotechnology Engineering Program at the University of Waterloo\, will reveal how working at the nanoscale leads to innovations like nm transistor processes\, ultra fast electronics\, precision drug delivery\, green energy\, and advances in AI and quantum computing. Rooted in chemistry\, physics\, biology\, and materials science\, nanotechnology engineering connects the quantum world with real technologies that shape everyday life. \nIf you’re curious about technologies\, excited by cutting-edge discoveries\, or eager to help solve global challenges\, this talk will show you how the smallest technologies are shaping the future. \n  \nDr. Guo-Xing Miao \nDr. Guo-Xing Miao is Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering\, member of the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC)\, Director of Nanotechnology Engineering (NE)\, and Director of Quantum Information (QI) Graduate program at the University of Waterloo. \nProfessor Miao’s research group concentrates on a specific quantum property of electrons—their spin degrees of freedom. Spin-based information can be stored\, transmitted\, and manipulated across both classical and quantum regimes. In nanoelectronic systems\, the interplay between spins and ions – central to spin-iontronics – offers a powerful platform for precise spin control and dynamic monitoring.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/discover-the-invisible-world-thats-shaping-your-future/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/nanotech.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120400
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130400
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012927Z
UID:10000045-1791979440-1791983040@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Fusion
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Spencer Pitcher \nDr. Charles Spencer Pitcher brings deep expertise in fusion science and technology\, and management of large-scale fusion project delivery. Before establishing Stellarex\, he was Fusion Technology Principal Engineer at the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France. \nDr. Pitcher has held scientific and engineering roles at the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority\, the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics\, the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center\, and the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory\, where he contributed to the first production of fusion power using deuterium and tritium on the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR). \nHe has authored or co-authored over 200 research publications and collaborated on major tokamak and stellarator programs across Europe and North America.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/fusion/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/fusion.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130500
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T122327Z
UID:10000051-1791979500-1791983100@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Smart Lighting and Bug Battles: Inside the World of High-Tech Greenhouses
DESCRIPTION:Learn about how fruits and vegetables are grown in high-tech greenhouses year-round in Ontario. We will discuss state-of-the-art technologies\, including advanced lighting and pest management techniques using natural enemies. \nDr. Fadi Al-Daoud and Cara McCreary \nDr. Fadi Al-Daoud is the greenhouse vegetable specialist at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness. His portfolio includes fruits and vegetables grown in controlled environments\, such as greenhouses and vertical farms. After earning his doctorate from the Department of Biology at McMaster University in Ontario\, Canada with a specialization in molecular plant pathology\, Fadi worked at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the University of Guelph. He has over 20 years of experience conducting applied and fundamental research on horticultural and field crops\, and communicating his research to the scientific community and agricultural producers. Today\, he collaborates with producers\, researchers\, and industry to advance controlled environment agriculture in Ontario. \nCara McCreary is the Greenhouse Vegetable IPM Specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture\, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA) and is working out of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Harrow Research & Development Centre. Cara joined the ministry in January 2015 from a position as a Research Associate in the Edible Bean Program at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus. Prior to joining the University of Guelph\, Cara was the Acting Field Crop Entomologist at OMAFA. She also has several years of experience as a greenhouse scout and supervisor\, and as a horticultural advisor. Cara has a Master of Science in Environmental Biology from the University of Guelph\, a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Administration from the University of Windsor\, and an Associate Diploma in Horticulture from the University of Guelph. During her master’s degree\, she studied the life cycle\, temperature-dependent development and economic impact of an agricultural pest\, the bean leaf beetle. In her current role with the ministry\, Cara has worked extensively on emerging pest issues\, such as pepper weevil and tomato brown rugose fruit virus. Pest management has been her focus and passion through both work experience and education.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/growing-food-in-the-future/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Food.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120600
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130600
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T130014Z
UID:10000053-1791979560-1791983160@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Health Care
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/health-care-artificial-intelligence/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Health-Care.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120700
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130700
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260608T122349Z
UID:10000050-1791979620-1791983220@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Indigenous Holistic Health and Wellness
DESCRIPTION:This seminar will discuss Indigenous approaches to health and wellness and will examine the ways that identity and connection to the lang informs Indigenous health and wellness. This seminar will also explore holistic health and working with Indigenous peoples in healthcare systems. \nJessica Bomberry\, M.Ed.\, Assistant Professor at Wilfrid Laurier University.  \nJessica is from the Cayuga Nation and Turtle Clan family at Six Nations of the Grand River Territory.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/indigenous-holistic-medicine/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IHM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120800
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130800
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012930Z
UID:10000047-1791979680-1791983280@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Life\, Energy\, Environment: Global Solutions Through Chemical Engineering
DESCRIPTION:What if you could help power cities\, develop biomedical devices and vaccines\, clean the planet\, and design the next viral skincare product—all with the same career? Sounds wild\, right? Welcome to chemical engineering. \nEver wonder how your shampoo is made at a massive scale\, or why your snacks stay fresh for months\, or how engineers run entire factories? \nChemical engineering mixes chemistry\, physics\, biology\, math\, and a whole lot of creativity to design the processes that make modern life possible. Chemical engineers don’t just make things—they design safe\, efficient\, eco-friendly ways to turn raw materials (and even waste!) into valuable products. \nIf you want a career that’s hands-on\, world-changing\, and connected to all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals\, this talk will show you how chemical engineers are shaping the future one reaction\, one innovation\, one breakthrough at a time. \nThey dive into everything from thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to biochemical engineering\, materials science\, and process control—the field that uses simulations\, optimization\, and machine learning to solve real-world problems. \nProfessor Mario Ioannidis\, Chair of Chemical Engineering at the University of Waterloo\, will take you inside this world of transformation—where chemical engineers scale up ideas from “cool experiment” to “global impact.” \n  \nProf. Mario Ioannidis \nMario Ioannidis is the Chair of the Department of Chemical Engineering and a Professor at the University of Waterloo. \nProfessor Ioannidis and his students research fundamental aspects of multiphase flow and transport of solutes and nanoparticles in porous materials of different kinds (fibrous or granular\, loose or consolidated\, natural or man-made\, etc.). The ultimate goal of their research is to enable engineering applications ranging from contaminant hydrology\, groundwater remediation and petroleum production to environmental sampling\, fuel cell performance optimization and oil spill response.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/life-energy-environment-global-solutions-through-chemical-engineering/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/chemeng.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T120900
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T130900
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012010Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012930Z
UID:10000044-1791979740-1791983340@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:Quantum Biology
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Nirosha Murugen
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/quantum-biology/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/quantum-bio.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T121000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20261014T131000
DTSTAMP:20260610T185918
CREATED:20260604T012011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260604T012931Z
UID:10000043-1791979800-1791983400@vision-conference.ca
SUMMARY:STEM Cells
DESCRIPTION:The Future of Medicine: How Stem Cells Could Change Everything \nEverywhere we look today — online and in the media\, among patient groups\, families and health care providers — stem cells and regenerative medicine have become synonymous with the promise of better health as people seek out new therapies for what ails them. \nRegenerative medicine is changing the game by unlocking leading-edge treatments for diseases such as\, type 1 diabetes\, retinal degeneration\, muscular dystrophies\, lung and heart disease\, as well as for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. \nTraditionally powered by stem cells\, regenerative medicine focuses on replacing\, repairing\, or regenerating human cells\, tissues and organs. It is considered by investors\, economists\, and health policy experts to be the next frontier of modern medicine. \nThis seminar will dive into the world of stem cells and regenerative medicine\, exploring a future where diseases may be halted or even cured. \nAlexandra Kozlov\, Ph.D. \nAlexandra Kozlov joined the Stem Cell Network (SCN) in 2024. As the Research Specialist\, she supports the delivery of SCN’s research funding programs and the development and roll-out of research symposia and scientific programming. \nPrior to joining SCN\, Alexandra worked extensively with human pluripotent stem cells\, where she researched the relationship between metabolism and cell fate and state. Alexandra holds a Ph.D. in Biology\, with a specialization in Developmental Biology\, from Western University. \nWith almost a decade of experience in life sciences\, Alexandra is dedicated to ensuring SCN’s research program runs efficiently and effectively to power the translation and commercialization of regenerative medicine research in Canada. \nDanielle Spice\, Ph.D. \nDr. Danielle Spice is a Scientist and Science Communicator who\, by day\, drives the development of cutting-edge cell therapies in biotech\, and by night educates her community of over 77\,000 social media followers about cool and interesting science. \nDr. Spice earned her PhD from Western University\, and after a short post-doctoral fellowship at SickKids Hospital transitioned into biotech where she uses her expertise in genetic engineering and human stem cells to develop cell therapies. \nDuring her academic training\, Dr. Spice fell in love with teaching\, and she knew that the best way to reach as many “students” as possible was to start her social media channels: Science with Spice. Dr. Spice loves to bring her love of biology and science to everyday people through short-form videos and podcasting to make science fun and accessible. Dr. Spice proves that science and education don’t just exist in an academic classroom but is out in the real world with real people.
URL:https://vision-conference.ca/event/stem-cells/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://vision-conference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/stem-cells.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR