The future is in our hands

Answering the challenges of tomorrow

Deadlines, assignments, budgets, metrics, reports. It’s easy to get so caught up in what we’ve done and what we’re doing that we forget to look ahead.

But if we, as individuals, organizations and society, are to move forward, anticipating and answering the challenges of tomorrow is imperative. We need to look to the future not just to prepare for it, but to give it shape.

So, when the University of Waterloo launched its 60th anniversary year in January with keynotes Edward Snowden and Kate Darling, in a public event far more focused on the future than the past, it said a lot about our priorities. By the way, you can read an excerpt of Snowden’s address in this issue’s Heard on Campus.

At Waterloo, we’re proud of all that’sStacey Ash been accomplished since our founding in 1957. But we’re even more excited about what’s yet to come.

Beyond 60 was the start of an important conversation, not just about what our future could look like — full of robotics, connected devices and artificial intelligence — but about our responsibility in shaping a successful, technologically advanced society that serves the best interests of all citizens.

Innovation is great, but how do we innovate thoughtfully? What’s the right balance between speed and careful study? Heather Douglas, a professor of philosophy, who holds the Waterloo Chair in Science and Society and was recently named a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, weighs in with We can do it, but should we?

The answers don’t reside in any single space. We’ll only realize the full, inclusive potential of tomorrow by reaching across old boundaries that divide disciplines, institutions and nations. You’ll see some of that breadth of expertise and experience reflected in this issue of Waterloo Magazine, as we explore the future of technology, health, cities, workplaces and higher education. Learn about the innovations that will change your world in the next 10 years, and what you need to know in a series of future-focused mini-features.

Building a smart, sustainable future is no spectator sport. We each have a role to play. Give some thought to what the ideal future looks like to you. What are you doing to make it reality?

On a personal note, this will be my final issue after five years as editor of Waterloo Magazine, as I move on to a new professional adventure. I leave incredibly proud of the stories we’ve shared, the new audiences we’ve reached (including each new graduating class) and the feedback — both positive and constructive — that we’ve received from our readers. Thank you.