John Makaran wins Mentor of the Year award

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John Makaran, winner of the 2024 CME-SWOB Mentor of the Year (Jacob Arts/Western Engineering photo)

Western Engineering professor John Makaran has been named Mentor of the Year by the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, South Western Ontario Board (CME-SWOB). The award recognizes excellence in supporting skills development and preparing individuals for careers in manufacturing. 

Makaran, a teaching scholar with the department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering (MME), is being honoured for his innovative practices to promote skills development, excellence in mentee and student support and his work to promote community involvement.

Joining Western Engineering in 1992 and then entering his current role in 2022, Makaran has played an instrumental role in the enrichment of the MME capstone design project course. The course deliverables have been modified to match industry standards, and industry partners have been brought in to share in the oversight and evaluation of student projects.

Makaran has also emphasized a focus on community engagement, strengthening the link between Western Engineering and non-profits and other community groups, including Hutton House, Life Spin and PHSS.

Makaran will be honoured at the CME-SWOB Scholarship Awards & Recognition Night in London on May 8.