Kanya Shah

This summer, I participated in the esteemed Fulbright Canada-Mitacs Program as a Globalink Research Intern with a focus on the “Experimental Evaluation of Passive Protection Systems for Solar Panels against Snow and Ice Accumulations” project under Dr. Derek Harvey’s guidance at the Anti-Materials Icing Laboratory (AMIL). My work involved conducting intensive literature review and performing a comprehensive gap which significantly deepened my understanding of the project. Utilizing my literature review findings, I designed, conducted, and analyzed experiments on the solar panel in a cold climate chamber in AMIL with the support of the laboratory’s faculty members.

This international research experience highlighted the intersections between mechanical and aerospace engineering studies and environmental sustainability, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of cutting-edge research. This program not only honed my analytical and laboratory skills but also provided invaluable cultural and professional networking opportunities, fostering a global perspective essential for addressing complex engineering challenges. My thesis will be based on this research, and I will either pursue higher education or an industry career. I am also planning to present my research at the Source Symposium. Overall, this experience was excellent and I am so glad I had the opportunity to uncover the topics I am passionate about.