Exploring the intersection between nanotechnology engineering and student governance

Nicholas Pfeifle began his journey as a student in the Nanotechnology Engineering (NE) program at the University of Waterloo in 2018. Pfeifle is part of the graduating class of 2024 and is the newly elected WUSA (Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association) president. Pfeifle reflects on his academic and extracurricular experiences in the NE program, emphasizing the impact they have had on his personal and professional development.

A strong foundation

Pfeifle recalls that in the first week of his undergraduate degree in NE 109, Societal and Environmental Impact of Nanotechnology, Professor Howard Siu taught students about the ethical and environmental standards for engineers. Siu’s lecture had a profound effect on Pfeifle. This course on engineering ethics became a cornerstone of Pfeifle's personal philosophy, instilling a deep sense of responsibility and compassion.

"As an engineer, people will be looking to you to be a good decision-maker. If you don't respect that responsibility, people, the environment and wildlife may be harmed" says Pfeifle. “Siu’s class in many ways set the path for my life going forward.”

Bridging NE and governance

This perspective of compassion and service has been integral to Pfeifle's approach to both his academic work and his role in student governance. This foundation in ethics shaped his approach to decisions.

It's so important, especially with nanotechnology engineering where so many things can impact people for a long time and in substantial ways. Siu’s class made me reflect on the role of an engineer compared to other professions.”

This sense of duty has informed his role in student governance, where he strives to make decisions that serve the public interest and uphold ethical standards.

Experience in the NE Program

Pfeifle's academic journey was marked by achievements and diverse experiences. Pfeifle faced some challenges during his undergraduate degree as he spent two years during the pandemic with online learning. However, he made the most of his opportunities, completing co-op terms in Guelph, Ottawa and even spending a brief period in Australia before the COVID-19 pandemic cut his international experiences short.

One notable project was his work on a novel photoelectric nanoparticle water quality sensor. The skills in aqueous processing he later adapted for his fourth-year design project (FYDP).
 

"It was a nice progression over time, here was a manufacturing technique that was very good for mass production, and then adapting that to a research environment to tune our sensor for my Capstone Design Project was great," he explains. This hands-on experience allowed him to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Thriving in the cohort system

For Pfeifle, the cohort system in the engineering programs at the University of Waterloo played a huge role in his social and emotional life. His journey through the five-year program with the same students was a positive experience.

"I am a huge fan of the cohort system. I think it's one of the best parts of UWaterloo. It helps with a lot of social interactions. Growing with your classmates is really great. It builds a lot of lasting friendships."

Leadership and Future Aspirations

In 2024, Pfeifle took on the role of WUSA president. WUSA is UW's Undergraduate Student Association, running services, cafes and doing advocacy for and by students.  His involvement with the University of Waterloo Senate further demonstrated his dedication to academic governance and advocacy.

Reflecting on his tenure as WUSA president, Pfeifle expresses a desire to create lasting changes within the organization. "I want future students to come and make changes that they want to see. I'm hoping I could be that positive influence," he says.

Looking ahead, Pfeifle is exploring options for further education and research, but he's looking forward to a break at the end of his Presidential term. Regardless of the path he chooses, Pfeifle's experiences in the NE program have equipped him with the skills, knowledge, and ethical grounding to make a meaningful impact in his future endeavours.