About the EAT

The Engineering Advancement Trust (EAT) is powered by a community of proud USask Engineering alumni and students who believe in giving back.

For more than 40 years, this dedicated group has carried forward a strong tradition of generosity within the college. They are volunteering their time, contributing resources and investing in the next generation of engineers the world needs. 

Thanks to the generous support of alumni and students, the EAT is:

Investing in student experience

 

Equipping labs with industry-leading technology

 

Funding transformative projects

History

A USask Engineering Legacy

In 1978, under the leadership of Dean Peter Nikiforuk, the College of Engineering launched its first national fundraising campaign to equip the newly renovated and expanded engineering building. The goal was ambitious: raise $1.2 million over five years.

The campaign exceeded expectations. It reached the halfway mark after only one year and wrapped up two years ahead of schedule, in 1981, raising more than $2 million.

Many alumni remember Dean Nikiforuk visiting their graduating classes and encouraging students to make a pledge, reminding them that they had benefitted from alumni support and could help continue that tradition. New graduates responded, and the idea that would later become the Engineering Advancement Trust began to take shape.

After the success of the campaign, the Class of 1982 launched its own initiative: the Engineering Equipment Advancement Fund. Alumni support grew quickly and by 1986 the fund evolved into the Engineering Advancement Trust (EAT).

What began as a one-time fundraising campaign has grown into an alumni-led initiative that brings together the USask engineering community to support the next generation. Hundreds of alumni contribute each year, and dedicated trustees help guide these gifts so the college can continue to offer innovative, up-to-date programs, facilities and learning experiences.

Across the College of Engineering, EAT-branded footsteps create a walking tour highlighting equipment funded by alumni through the Engineering Advancement Trust. These footsteps symbolize the path alumni have forged for future USask engineers.

In more than 30 years, the Engineering Advancement Trust has provided more than $3.5 million in support, benefitting thousands of USask engineering students throughout their educational journey.

EAT Board

Meet the alumni board

Our Engineering Advancement Trust Board is made up of proud USask Engineering alumni who continue to shape the future of the college long after graduation. As industry leaders, community builders and champions of philanthropy, they bring insight and a shared passion in supporting of the next generation of engineers the world needs.

Through their stewardship and generosity, these dedicated volunteers strengthen opportunities for students, advance innovation and help ensure the college remains a place where bold ideas take root and grow.

An engaged USask Engineering alumnus since graduation, Ian has stayed connected to the Engineering Advancement Trust through every stage of his career. In 2025, he took on the role of Chair, bringing with him industry experience from a successful career in oil and gas, including leadership roles at Talisman Energy and Encana.

Rod built his entire career at Associated Engineering, retiring as chief operating officer in 2016. A long-time champion of giving back, he has volunteered with the Engineering Advancement Trust for 15 years and continues to serve his community through the Rotary Club of Edmonton.

A long-serving member of the EAT, Lesley has contributed as both Chair and a board member of the Calgary Alumni Chapter. Her career spans the energy and minerals sectors, with roles at the Saskatchewan Research Council and March Consulting. Today, she serves as executive director of the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII), helping drive innovation and collaboration across Canada’s mining and minerals industry.

The newest member of the EAT, Phil brings real-world mining experience to the board. Over his career, he has led teams across mining operations, maintenance and engineering, building a strong foundation in how large-scale projects come together. Today, he is the director of mine development at Nutrien. Passionate about mentorship and giving back, Phil is committed to fostering safe, inclusive workplaces where people and ideas can thrive.

A proud USask Engineering alum, Karen brings senior leadership experience from a range of C-suite roles across the energy sector. She joined the Engineering Advancement Trust in 2021 and is a strong advocate for advancing women into leadership roles within profit centres and technical fields. Today, she serves on the board of directors of Headwater Exploration in Calgary.

Jason joined the EAT Board in 2019. Since graduating, he has built a strong career in the energy sector, spending much of it with Bonavista Energy, where he held a range of leadership roles, including president and chief executive officer. In 2020, Jason took on the role of chief operating officer with Lucero Energy Corp. He is a firm believer in collaboration, perseverance and the value of continuous improvement, values that continue to guide both his professional leadership and volunteer service.

Heather has been involved with the EAT since graduating. She brings a leadership perspective shaped by the belief that the strongest engineers combine creativity with technical expertise. Based in Calgary, Heather is an independent director with Helium Evolution Inc. and the owner of Square 1 Advisory Services, where she helps clients turn ideas into practical, actionable solutions.

Al has been part of the EAT since its founding in 1978, championing alumni engagement and inspiring others to give back. After a successful career in Canada’s oil and gas industry, he continued his support for USask Engineering through the Calgary Alumni Chapter and the EAT. In recognition of his dedication, Al was named an honorary lifetime trustee in 2019 and has been celebrated as a C.J. Mackenzie Distinguished Lecturer and a USask Alumni Achievement Award recipient.