IPE Kingston Sub-Branch (grand opening) held at the OLG's 1000 Island Casino, February 17th, 2011

The grand opening and inaugural meeting of the IPE Kingston Sub-Branch was well attended last Thursday.  Historic... and obviously a worthwhile event.  Thank you for coming out.  John Coulter, Chief Officer and Manager of TSSA gave an insightful presentation leaving in my opinion, an important message regarding our profession.  It appears that a shortage of Power Engineers will soon be upon us.

The average age of the 2nd Class Power Engineer in Ontario is 52.  As many of you know, the 2nd Class is viewed as today's working license.  He suggested that we (IPE) take action as a group, as well as individually to prevent this future problematic issue.  This is raised in Mr. Coulter's presentation.  View attached document.  The presentation is also on our IPE web site. Link: http://www.ipe-ottawa.ca/en/ArticlesPublications_46/

From 1953 to 1974, Kingston had an IPE Branch.  Meetings were held at Queens University in those days.  A number of other IPE branches were also established back then.  To name a few, Brockville, Cornwall, Bay of Quinte and Pembroke.

Today...  It's about bringing pride back to our profession.  Already, 22 members have signed-up, we're always looking for more.  Membership application and brochure attached. 

Welcome back IPE Kingston..!"

At the meeting the following members (only 3 positions in a sub-branch) were elected:

Pete Chamberland - Chairman: With 30 years of experience in Power Engineering, Pete brings knowledge and organizational skills to the IPE.  He has been with the IPE for 15 years.  Presently, he is with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) Lennox GS as the Chief Operating (Power) Engineer.

Doug Campbell - Secretary: Obtained his 1st Class Power Engineering certificate in 1974.  Previously held the Chief Operating (Power) Engineer's position at OPG's Lennox GS.  In retirement, Doug manages a consulting service that offers clients sound knowledge and expertise.

Dieter Schonwandt - Treasurer: Dieter has worked as a Power Engineer for over 30 years.  He is currently the Chief Operating (Power) Engineer at Goodyear Canada in Napanee.  He brings approximately 7 years of experience as an IPE member.

   "Congratulations...!"   They are your IPE Kingston Sub-Branch Executives.

With the interest shown last Thursday, we have plenty to look forward to.  This week I plan to contact Mr. Coulter for clarification on the topic of "Approved Training Providers" for colleges and the new O.E. regulations before the Authorities.  Following this, as representing the IPE, I plan to contact the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to lobby them for better funding for Power Engineer programs at our colleges.  I would invite you to do the same.

Finally, at our meeting in Gananoque, we announced a tour scheduled for Plasco Energy, Trail Road Facility.  This is an emerging technology (pilot project) in dealing with garbage from landfill sites.  A Plasma Arc technology is used to gasifies garbage into fuel.  This fuel is then supplied to internal combustion engines for electrical generation.  See the attached tour brochure (print both sides) and post at work.  Bring a co-worker, a fellow Power Engineer and/or associate.  All are welcome..!

Regards,

Gilles Leclair

Area Representative

IPE Ontario, Education Committee