Convocation ‘23: Shahzaib Ahmed, BSc Mechanical Engineering Co-op

Shahzaib Ahmed, BSc Mechanical Engineering Co-op

A knack for tackling complex challenges leads student to a career in robotic systems development

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Enthusiasm is a key component in Shahzaib Ahmed’s approach to life – whether he’s taking on leadership roles with the University of Alberta’s Aerial Robotics Group or spearheading projects during his co-op stint in British Columbia (and in the process, becoming a mountain hiking devotee!).

“Obstacles become opportunities,” says Shahzaib, who can trace his passion for solving “intricate challenges” to his childhood, where he was captivated by the wonders of science. 

Mechanical engineering was a natural fit, he says, offering a mix of creative and technical skill building in a hands-on setting. 

Post-graduation, Shahzaib will be working as a robotic systems developer for a start-up and, as always, meeting this new challenge with unfailing enthusiasm. 

Congratulations Shahzaib!

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

From a young age, I've been captivated by the wonders of science and the thrill of exploration. My passion for solving intricate challenges, coupled with the enriching experiences offered by student groups and hands-on projects, naturally steered me towards mechanical engineering. 

The University of Alberta, with its storied legacy and unmatched opportunities, seemed like the ideal place to nurture and elevate my aspirations.

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A?

One of the fondest memories from my U of A days? Oh, (during my co-op term at Vicinity Motor Corp. in Aldergrove, BC), I had the absolute joy of being part of a vibrant team in the picturesque province of British Columbia, where we crafted electric vehicles. While there, I had the delightful opportunity to spearhead some pretty cool projects – like giving a makeover to their quality control framework. Plus, I got to champion a few safety campaigns, collaborating with fantastic engineers and regulators from Canada and the US. Not only did this journey kindle my passion for project management and leadership, but it also turned me into quite the mountain hiking enthusiast!

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

My all-time favourite class has to be MEC E 460, our capstone engineering project. Alongside my brilliant teammates, we ventured into transforming traditional hydraulically driven mandrel vehicles into sleek electric versions. We even innovated our own wheel drive and linear actuator system! 

Throughout this journey, I was fortunate to collaborate with an enthusiastic team but also insightful advisors and seasoned industry professionals. It was an incredible experience where learning met creativity.

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student? 

While at U of A, I soared into leadership roles with the Aerial Robotics Group (UAARG). From constructing systems for airborne package delivery as airframe lead, to pioneering towards our club's first vertical takeoff vehicle in the role of VP technical, my journey peaked as president. I revamped our team inspired by my co-op stint at an electric vehicle company. The cherry on top? We developed our club's inaugural multirotor autonomous drone, a first in the club's 20 year history, dazzling at competitions in Alma, Québec! Beyond these heights, I steered social projects, from design courses to guiding vibrant groups like NeurAlbertaTech and the Google Developer Student Clubs. Flying high!

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program?

During my presidential tenure at UAARG in 2022-2023, we ambitiously developed our inaugural drone, PHEON-X 1. Amidst club restructuring and testing on south campus farmland, we faced challenges aplenty. Our climax was in Québec, where PHEON-X 1 soared us into the top three teams before meeting a tumultuous end, crashing before the competition's second phase. However, we embraced this setback as a lesson. By christening our drone "PHEON-X 1", we signified its role as the pioneer in a series of many, turning adversities into growth stepping stones. Obstacles became opportunities for us, setting the stage for a promising future.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Dive into hands-on projects and embrace travel; they shape invaluable experiences. Cultivate deep friendships; they're your compass and engine, propelling you to unimaginable heights. Explore, bond and grow!

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I'll cherish convocation by bonding with family, stargazing at elk, taking Cessna flights, and embarking on exciting work travels. A blend of sky, stars, and shared moments!

What's next after graduation?

Post-graduation, I'm diving into my role as a robotic systems developer for an innovative startup. My aim? Breathing life into intricate projects, while harmonizing work, family, community and savoring life's joys. Onward and upward!