Waterloo Engineering’s Dean Mary Wells joined a panel of engineering leaders to kick off National Engineering Month with a discussion celebrating the centennial of the Iron Ring tradition and the unveiling of a newly modernized Calling of an Engineer ceremony.
Hosted by Engineers Canada, yesterday's virtual event honoured the legacy of the Iron Ring’s obligation ceremony and explored recent updates made by the Corporation of the Seven Wardens to reflect a more inclusive and forward-thinking profession. This new version of the ceremony will take place on April 25, 2025, at McGill University—100 years to the day after the inaugural event.
Wells joined Leonard Shara, chief warden of the Corporation of the Seven Wardens, and Dharminderpal Mann, CEO of Engineers Nova Scotia, to discuss the evolution of engineering ethics and the profession’s ongoing responsibility to maintain public trust.
Reflecting on the personal significance of the Iron Ring, Wells noted its role as a lasting reminder of an engineer’s ethical commitment. “Even though I graduated 35 years ago from McGill, I still go back and touch my ring to remind me of the obligation I made when I face a difficult decision,” she said. “It is an ever-present reminder of our profession’s ethical obligation to the public, and our promise to never compromise on the quality of our work.”
The discussion also highlighted the growing diversity in engineering classrooms and workplaces. Wells spoke about the optimism she sees in the next generation of engineers and how inclusion continues to strengthen the profession. "I am a very proud Canadian engineer, and I continue to wear my ring with pride," she added.
"I look forward to witnessing the new, modernized ceremony next month."