Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) benefits from the University of Waterloo Innovation Engine

By: Jed Bick

This branch of the Canadian federal government hires innovative and emerging talent from the University of Waterloo.

During their work terms, Waterloo co-op students bring a dynamic set of industry-relevant skills to the government organization.

“I'm always amazed at how many different types of work occur in the department and how lucky we are to have students like these individuals coming to work here at ISED,” says Mary Gregory, industry sector associate assistant deputy manager and champion for students at ISED. “Students always contribute a lot to the department and they’re very much responsible for the success we have across ISED.”

In September, the University of Waterloo and ISED co-hosted a virtual student showcase. The event highlighted the experiences of Waterloo co-op students who worked on various projects for ISED over the summer term. Students elaborated on the problems or initiatives they were working on and how they approached their work to develop innovative solutions.

Five ways Waterloo co-op students can apply their skills and innovative solutions:

1. Using AI to extract and organize data to improve efficiency

During his co-op work term, Waterloo Computer Science student Alex Boden created Large Language Models (LLMs) utilizing AI to extract data from Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files. Boden utilized the programming skills he developed during his studies at Waterloo to help with the project for the Canadian Digital Adoption Program. The AI models Boden created extract and categorize data about business recommendations for future analysis. Much more efficient than a manual review, the new process saves hours of time with similar results.

“Alex’s contributions in the CDAP Extraction Project showcased ISED’s ability to enhance efficiency through LLMs. By leveraging AI, Alex significantly improved the automation of document categorization and analysis, transforming previously uncategorized data into visible insights.” - Kimlee Santos, data analyst, ISED

2. Leveraging machine learning for data analysis and clustering models

Argho Das, a Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence student, spent his work term at the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). Das applied his computer science knowledge and AI development skills to ensure that patent data was up to date and accurate. The objective of the project was to reduce the workload of pattern examiners and ease their efforts when going through the pattern listings and images. Das’s contributions significantly improved the accuracy of patent similarity analysis and ensured the accuracy of patent data.

“Argho brings experience, talent and an honest personality to the workplace. A joy to work with and an indispensable asset to our core team.” - Khadar Hosh, data scientist, ISED

3. Automating price scraping process

Daisy Xiao, a third-year Mathematical Economics student, worked as a junior policy analyst on the Industry Analysis team at the Telecommunications and Internet Policy branch. In her role, Xiao created programs using Python to scrape mobile plan data for various mobile carriers and output the data into an excel file. Xiao’s work reduced the need for future manual data collection time and minimized errors. The branch expects that moving from manual collection to this more automated approach will help to lower costs.

“Following changes in telecom pricing is a vital part of forming policy, but the manual task of recording prices has always been cumbersome and boring. Daisy’s invaluable contribution will make it easier for us to focus on data analysis instead of collection.” - Mallory McGonegal, policy advisor, ISED

4. Developing AI-driven tools for self-service data visualization

Matthew Stebelsky, a Management Engineering student, worked as a data scientist with the Innovation and Analytics Directorate. During his work term, Stebelsky helped to conceptualize the idea of a Data Hub when his team realized they were spending too much time on interpersonal meetings. The Data Hub is a self-serve kiosk to guide users on their data journey. It provides resources like how to create data reporting in dashboards.

“Matthew’s contributions in creating the Data Hub will allow ISED employees to unlock a deeper understanding and new possibilities on their data journey. His contribution is a testament to the power of one individual’s impact on a collective vision.” - Kimlee Santos, data analyst, ISED

5. Developing data-driven analyses

Alian Umali, a third year Applied Mathematics student, worked as a research and development intern at the Communications Research Centre (CRC). Umali developed a data-driven analysis pipeline to simulate potential non-competitive licensing (NCL) applicants in a variety of Canadian settings. Umali adapted the steps in the process to accommodate various user cases so that the CRC could provide recommendations to the telecommunications sector.

“Alian’s contributions propelled the innovative wireless propagation research at CRC and advanced critical efforts on non-competitive local licensing of the spectrum.” - Iustin Nicolaev, computer researcher, ISED

Waterloo students are equipped with industry-related skillsets including data science and analysis, computer programming, information technology, cybersecurity, AI and more. Students combine first-class academic learning with work experiences to bring innovative solutions and diverse perspectives to employers in the public service and government sectors. 

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