Polytechnic graduates use their hands-on, industry-relevant training in a wide variety of in-demand occupations across Canada. In this Q&A series, graduates speak to how they’ve turned their polytechnic education into career success.

Polytechnics Canada sat down with Hargurdeep Singh, a graduate of Sheridan’s Mechanical Engineering Technology – Design and Drafting program. As the Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing at CAD MicroSolutions Inc, he is driving growth and innovation in Canada’s manufacturing sector. During the pandemic, he designed and created 3D printed nasal swabs, face shields and ventilator splitters, developing a made-in-Canada solution to address supply shortages.

Polytechnics Canada: What made you choose Sheridan as part of your learning journey?

Hargurdeep Singh: I chose Sheridan for its focus on applied research and state-of-the-art technologies in the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Design Technologies (CAMDT) lab. The opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and technologies was very appealing to me.

During my time there, I was able to complete two research papers and founded the Sheridan Engineering Association, a multi-disciplinary student engineering club. Later Sheridan became the first Canadian college to be affiliated with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

PC: Polytechnics like Sheridan are known for their hands-on, experiential learning opportunities and vast employer networks. How did these opportunities and resources set you up for career success?

HS: The hands-on learning opportunities gave me the chance to apply what I was learning to real-world situations and make valuable connections in the industry. These experiences helped me develop the skills and confidence I needed for my career and helped me land my first job as a business developer at a company called The Printing House two months prior to graduation. It was an employer connection with Sheridan that helped me land that job.

PC: How does your company, CAD MicroSolutions Inc, fit into the Canadian manufacturing sector?

HS: I am proud to say that our company plays a significant role supporting the growth and success of Canadian SMEs. We are 100% Canadian-owned, specializing in advanced technologies and solutions for businesses across the country. Our team is dedicated to helping our clients stay ahead of the competition and maximize their technology investments.

We offer a wide range of services, including software and hardware sales, implementation and training, and post-sales support. Our team of highly educated and professional experts have been working in design, engineering and manufacturing communities for over 35 years. We are committed to helping our clients challenge the status quo, adopt advanced technologies and deliver superior business results. We believe our company helps Canadian SMEs improve their operations, stay competitive in the market and grow.

PC: How have you embedded lifelong learning into your career?

HS: Throughout my career, I have made a conscious effort to continue learning and growing. I make it a priority to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in my field and I actively seek out new learning opportunities. This includes attending conferences and workshops, networking with industry professionals and seeking out mentorship and guidance from experienced leaders in my field. This is the only way to stay at the forefront of my industry and drive innovation.