Growing up, Matteo Neville was the kind of kid who spent his time taking apart motors and engines just so he could figure out how they worked.
He was fascinated by robotics and technology, electronics and programming, so when he decided to return to school as a mature student, he was immediately drawn to Cambrian College’s mechatronics program.
“I was always interested in how you could apply technology and computers to that mechanical side,” said the 27-year-old. “So when I was looking at coming back to school, that program just kind of matched exactly with my interest area.”
Now, in the second year of the three-year program, Neville is getting his fill of all things mechatronics.
Working on multiple applied research projects at the school, Neville said he’s been involved in everything from very technical, electronic projects to large-scale mechanical engineering ventures, while also taking on manufacturing technology, 3D printing, CNC machining, and more.
“It’s really exciting,” Neville said. “It’s a really wide range of opportunities I get to be a part of.”
This fall, Neville and students like him will have another state-of-the-art lab at their disposal, one that specializes in battery-electric vehicle (BEV) technology.
Construction is currently underway on the new BEV (battery electric vehicle) lab at the Glencore Centre for Innovation on Cambrian’s Sudbury campus. It’s expected to be complete by September.
Once operational, the 5,600-square-foot facility will serve as a hub for BEV prototyping and testing electric powertrains and batteries. Data gleaned from the work done there is expected to help support BEV manufacturers and end users in the mining industry where widespread adoption of battery-electric vehicle technology is now underway.
To help usher in this new era of education and innovation, Sudbury Integrated Nickel Operations – a Glencore Company, announced on March 2 funding of $350,000 for the lab, which will go toward construction and operational costs, procuring equipment, and bursaries for Indigenous students who are enrolled in technology, engineering and skilled trades programs.
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