Name: Martine McGregor
Program: Biomedical Engineering
Degree you are studying toward: Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering
Expected year of graduation: 2023
Institution: University of Guelph, Western University, University of Waterloo
Email: Send Email
Fun Facts About Me
If your best friend had to describe you in 10 words or less, what would they say?:“Relentlessly curious with everyone’s best wishes and needs in mind.”
Share one fun fact about yourself: In 2014 I competed in the Age Group ITU World’s Sprint Triathlon in Edmonton, AB with women from all over the world.
What do you want to accomplish in the next 10 years?: In the next 10 years I want to be working at an academic institution and helping train the next generation of women in engineering. First, I will have to complete my doctoral degree and obtain my professional engineering designation. I also want to complete an Ironman triathlon and qualify for the Boston marathon.
The most inspiring engineer I know is ....... Because ........?: The most inspiring engineers I know are Dr. Michelle Oliver and Dr. Karen Gordon because they are both brilliant, hardworking, and successful without ever compromising integrity or kindness.
Profile Questions
Why did you choose your program of study?: I chose biomedical engineering as an undergraduate student because it seemed to be the perfect blend of my interests and talents. If I’m being 100% transparent, I didn’t really know what biomedical engineering was when I applied to university. However, I had always been very interested in human health and medical sciences and had natural ability for math and problem solving, so I thought, “hmmm, biomedical engineering sounds like a good fit”. Luckily it was! I found that, for me, biomedical engineering was the perfect blend of classic engineering principals and biomedical sciences.
What has been your favourite course (in Engineering) and why?: My favorite course at an undergraduate student was Biomaterials at the University of Guelph, taught by Dr. Karen Gordon. In this course we learnt about the mechanical properties of biological tissues such as bones and ligaments. There was a wet lab component in which we performed materials testing techniques to biological tissues to determine their mechanical properties and failure mechanisms. The content was interesting, and Dr. Gordon is an incredible teacher.
What has been the best part of your Engineering education to date?: While I enjoyed (most of) the content throughout my engineering education the best part of my engineering education to date has been the wonderful friends I’ve made along the way. I’ve attended three Ontario universities (so far) and have made lifelong friends at each one. University is one of the first times in your life where you’re making friends based on mutual interests rather than geographical coincidence. The bonds that are formed during your undergraduate degree are some of the strongest you’ll make in your life!
What do you hope to do after you graduate?: After graduation I hope to pursue a post-doctoral fellowship in Mechanical or Biomedical Engineering with my ultimate goal being a career at an academic center. Between the completion of my Master’s degree and the beginning of my PhD I worked for a medical device company. While I enjoyed my time in industry it was always clear that my passion was research and teaching.