In honour of National Volunteer Week, we asked Fayez Khan, Mechatronics Engineering alumnus, a few questions about his journey and his volunteer experiences within the University of Waterloo. He shares his story to highlight the importance of volunteerism.
Introduction
I am a 2008 graduate of Mechatronics Engineering. My career has evolved from being an electronics engineer to a product leader. I have had the opportunity of developing and launching products for industries including education, energy, water and event management.
My hobbies include cooking, listening to audio books and playing the ukelele.
How and where do you volunteer your time and how have you been involved with Waterloo Engineering?
I started TronCon (Mechatronics Conference) in 2014 to bring alumni, students and faculty together to share inspiration and learning. Since then, t has become a yearly tradition that has been kept alive by the wonderful UWaterloo Mechatronics faculty and community.
What inspired you to want to volunteer with TronCon and how has your experience been?
I love my fellow Trons (Mechatronics students and alumni). They inspire me and I want to give back to the community. I have found this experience to be absolutely rewarding! Nothing feels better than when graduating students come up to me and mention that they were inspired by one of the speakers at the TronCon event.
Can you share a highlight of your experience?
A recent highlight was at the 2023 TronCon event. I think the faculty did an incredible job putting the event together for the students and alumni that attended. I was impressed by how the students were treated to a wonderful meal and a balloon release congratulations. It really was touching and shows how much the Faculty of Engineering cares about their students and alumni.
Any advice for students who are unsure about getting involved or volunteering their time?
Just do it. The universe will reward you with amazing friends and relationships that will help you in ways you cannot yet imagine.