TECH TAKES

Hosted by OACETT

Technology Science Education

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Episodes

Latest episode

Sep 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Tech Takes podcast knows what matters to you. Thought-provoking interviews with industry leaders, government officials, academia and influencers on hot topics relevant to the engineering and applied science profession and the technologies that shape the world around us.

Listen to episodes

24 recent

October 1, 2026Episode 2435 min

Click Before You Dig: Ensuring Safety with Ontario Dig Authority

In this episode of Tech Takes , host David Terlizzi explores the critical importance of understanding underground infrastructure before beginning any digging projects in Ontario. From connecting everyday diggers with utility owners to navigating regulatory compliance and prioritizing on-site safety. Joined by Mitch Panchuk , CEO of the Ontario Dig Authority (formerly known as Ontario One Call), they examine the organization's recent rebranding, where modernized processes are needed, and how strategic partnerships and future initiatives can help improve underground infrastructure management across the province. Discover the essential practices shaping Ontario’s excavation sector , the role proactive communication will play, and what it will take to ensure safe construction and infrastructure development. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

September 22, 2026Episode 2351 min

Inside Ontario's Battery Boom

Step into the future of renewable power on this episode of Tech Takes, where guest host David Terlizzi, Director of Member Engagement, Services and Government Relations at OACETT , welcomes Iman Yavari, CEO and Principal Engineer at AI Integrated Systems, Inc., to unpack the critical rise of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). With electric vehicles multiplying on our roads and the electrical grid demanding greater reliability, energy storage technology is advancing at breakneck speed. Drawing on deep insights from his article in The Ontario Technologist magazine , "Inside Ontario's Battery Boom ," Iman navigates the delicate balance between the massive opportunities and the complex safety risks associated with the province's expanding infrastructure, highlighting exactly what engineering professionals must consider to ensure secure deployment. Catch this engaging conversation to explore the cutting edge of energy storage and discover why technicians and technologists need to stay ahead of the curve to safely power tomorrow's grid. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

September 22, 2026Episode 2220 min

Moonlighting Risks: Protecting Your Professional Liability

In this episode of Tech Takes , guest host David Terlizzi and ProLink Insurance practice leader Allison MacLennan explore the growing trend of moonlighting among Ontario's engineering technicians and technologists, and the risks that can come along with it. While economic uncertainty drives many to take on side work, often starting as simple favours for neighbours or small businesses, Allison warns that good intentions won't shield you from unexpected professional liability claims . Tune in to learn the hidden risks of moonlighting and the essential strategies you need to protect yourself. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

September 22, 2026Episode 231 hr 2 min

Tackling Gender Bias in Engineering

Join guest host Jennifer Hazelton, C.Tech., on the latest episode of Tech Takes as she sits down with industrial designer Karen Korellis Reuther and OACETT Women in Technology Network Advisor Sarah Yazdi for a thought-provoking look at gender bias in engineering design. Although technology shapes our everyday routines, Karen, author of Man Made , reveals how underlying design assumptions often result in products and systems that fail to serve everyone equally . Together, the guests unpack the real-world impact of these blind spots and the critical need to champion inclusivity across the industry . Catch this insightful conversation to discover how professionals can better support women in the field and actively contribute to engineering a future built on truly inclusive solutions. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

September 16, 2026Episode 201 hr 0 min

The Power Panel - Watt's Next for Energy

In this special edition of Tech Takes , recorded live at OACETT’s 2026 Conference , guest host David Terlizzi, Director of Member Engagement at OACETT , explores what’s next for Ontario’s rapidly evolving energy landscape—from electrification and clean power innovation to grid modernization, nuclear expansion and growing energy demand. Moderated by Ashan Corea , Founder and CEO of The Strong Link, the Power Panel brings together industry leaders Leonard Kula and Ahmed Maria from the Independent Electricity System Operator, Raj Pattani from the Ontario Energy Board, and Francis Syms from Humber Polytechnic. Together, they examine what’s working in Ontario’s energy system today, where change is needed and how collaboration between academia, industry and the regulatory sector can help prepare the province for what comes next. Discover the opportunities and challenges shaping Ontario’s energy future , the role emerging technologies and infrastructure will play, and what it will take to build a reliable, innovative and adaptable energy system for the next era. Take a listen to The Power Panel – Watt’s Next for Energy . Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

February 6, 2026Episode 1929 min

Protecting Your Career: The Essentials of Professional Liability Insurance

In this episode of Tech Takes , guest host David Terlizzi, Director of Member Engagement at OACETT , explores the often-overlooked but critically important topic of professional liability insurance for technicians and technologists—an essential safeguard in today’s complex professional landscape. Joined by Michael Loeters , Senior Vice President of Commercial Insurance and Risk Management at ProLink Insurance , the conversation uncovers the hidden risks many professionals face, from casual design suggestions to informal advice shared over email. Together, they discuss how liability can arise even without formal contracts or payment, and why understanding your coverage—whether you’re an employee or an independent contractor—is key to protecting your career. Discover how professional liability and general liability insurance work, why defense costs alone can be significant, and when it’s the right time to ensure you’re properly covered—because managing risk isn’t just smart, it’s a fundamental part of responsible professional practice. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

January 30, 2026Episode 181 hr 1 min

The Quiet Achiever: Leading Without the Spotlight

In this special episode of Tech Takes , guest host David Terlizzi, Director of Member Engagement, Services, and Government Relations at OACETT , explores the often-overlooked but deeply impactful concept of quiet achievers. Challenging the idea that great leaders must always be loud, bold, or extroverted. Joined by Linda Raynier, author of The Quiet Achiever , and Dr. Tatijana Busic, from Busic Psychology and Consulting, the conversation uncovers how introverted, reflective leaders bring unique strengths to teams and organizations. Together, they discuss emotional intelligence, resilience , and the power of thoughtful decision-making , reframing quiet leadership as a strategic, highly effective style. Discover how quiet achievers can overcome self-doubt, leverage their observational skills, and lead with confidence. Proving that influence doesn’t require volume, only intention. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

September 11, 2025Episode 1754 min

Infrastructure Challenges and Opportunities in Ontario

In this special edition of Tech Takes , recorded live at OACETT’s 2025 Conference in Windsor, Ontario, host Louis Savard, C.Tech , moderates a discussion on Ontario’s infrastructure challenges and opportunities—and the critical role technicians and technologists play in shaping the province’s future. Panelists Nadia Todorova (RCCAO), Doug Jones, CET (Ministry of Transportation), Stacey McGuire (City of Windsor), and Matt Ashe, CET (GEI Consultants) explore topics ranging from tariff pressures and climate change resilience to skills development and Ontario’s record $200 billion infrastructure investment. Their conversation highlights how major projects like the Gordie Howe International Bridge and Windsor’s Coastal Flood Protection Master Plan are paving the way for stronger, more sustainable communities, and why innovation, investment, and collaboration are essential to building a resilient province. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

August 1, 2025Episode 1647 min

Cybersecurity in Engineering: Building a Secure Future from the Ground Up

In this episode of Tech Takes , host Louis Savard, C.Tech , explores the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity —a discipline that has rapidly transformed from an IT concern into a core strategic priority for engineers and professionals across every industry. Joined by Tim McCreight , CEO and Founder of TaleCraft Security , their conversation uncovers the growing sophistication of cyber threats and the vital need to embed security into the engineering process from the very beginning. Together, they discuss how securing intellectual property, anticipating emerging threats, and designing with security in mind can protect both innovation and infrastructure. Discover how cybersecurity is no longer optional—but a fundamental pillar of responsible engineering , ensuring systems are resilient, trustworthy, and future-ready. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .

July 5, 2025Episode 151 hr 7 min

Inside the Minds of the Next Generation: Flexibility, Purpose, and Mental Well-being

In this episode of Tech Takes , guest host Mladen Ivankovic explores how the next generation is reshaping ideas around work, education, and success. Psychologist Dr. Andrew Wong and David Terlizzi , Director of Member Engagement at OACETT , join the conversation to discuss why flexibility, purpose, and mental well-being are taking priority over traditional career paths. From the influence of social media to the rise of hybrid work and passion-driven careers , learn how young professionals are redefining success —and what organizations can do to better support their evolving values. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on the future of work and the mindset shaping it. Have a topic you’d like to discuss or comments about the episode? Reach us at techtakes@oacett.org .