Toronto – (May 2, 2016) – An influential figure credited for providing leadership and developing successful education outreach programs, Syd Van Geel, P.Eng., FEC, of London, has been named a Member of the Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) Order of Honour. He was inducted into the Order at an April 29 gala in Toronto.
In his first year with the London Chapter in 2005, Van Geel assumed responsibility for organizing local National Engineering Month events and was successful in recruiting members to showcase local industries through organized tours and in creating initiatives to teach children about the profession.
“Working with kids to build bridges out of common materials and seeing their enthusiasm was fun and kept me looking for ways to expand the program,” he says.
His outreach efforts led to the establishment of the chapter’s now annual bridge building competition at the London Boys and Girls Club, a non-profit family recreational facility that provides activities for children and youth.
A strong proponent of the value of the P.Eng. licence, Van Geel organized the chapter’s first Engineering Intern (EIT) Information Night, an event at which PEO representatives review the licensing process and provide information to those interested in becoming an engineering intern. As a result of its success, the program has since become a popular annual event.
The value of his leadership to the chapter was confirmed when he was elected to serve as vice chair from 2007 to 2008, and subsequently as chair from 2009 to 2010. He has also supported several major PEO initiatives, including the Government Liaison Program, where he served on his chapter’s committee and played a key role in organizing a local all-candidates debate for the 2011 provincial election.
The Order of Honour pays tribute to individuals who have rendered conspicuous service to the engineering profession. The rank of Member is bestowed upon those who have served the profession by contributing substantially to its operation or improvement in its status.
About Professional Engineers Ontario
Under the authority of the Professional Engineers Act, PEO governs over 85,000 licence and certificate holders and regulates professional engineering in Ontario. PEO’s mission is to regulate and advance the practice of engineering to protect the public interest. Its vision is to be the trusted leader in professional self-regulation. Professional engineering safeguards life, health, property, economic interests, the public welfare and the environment. Professional engineers can be identified by the P.Eng. after their names. Holders of limited licences can be identified by LEL after their names.
For additional information or interviews, please contact:
David Smith, Manager, Communications
Tel: 416-840-1068; 800-339-3716, ext.1068;
Cell: 416-458-4140
Email: [email protected]