Saying yes to leadership: How two UNB engineering students brought a national conference to life
Author: Hilary Creamer Robinson
Posted on Jan 15, 2025
Category: UNB Fredericton
Two University of New Brunswick (UNB) students dedicated much of 2024 engineering an innovative and unforgettable national conference, hosted on the Fredericton campus during the first week of January.
"We were both so hesitant to take this on, but saying yes was one of the best decisions we could have made," said Colby Arsenault, reflecting on his role as co-chair of the 2025 Canadian Engineering Leadership Conference (CELC).
The conference, held from Jan. 1 to Jan. 7, brought together 250 engineering students from across the country for a week of learning, networking and professional development.
Arsenault and fellow student Lauren Dysart were the dynamic student co-chairs of CELC 2025, who worked tirelessly over the past year to organize the event. Their journey began when asked if they would be interested in taking on the challenge. Despite initial hesitations, both Dysart and Arsenault decided to embrace the opportunity.
Their collaboration and teamwork produced not just a successful conference, but a strong friendship as well.
Dysart is a third-year electrical engineering student from Saint John with plans to specialize in biomedical engineering, while Arsenault, also from Saint John, is a fourth-year chemical engineering student with an interest in nuclear power. Both brought their unique perspectives and skills to the conference planning process.
Their shared experiences at CELC 2023 in Calgary, where they first met, fueled their passion for creating an impactful conference.
“We aimed to design the conference to reflect the diverse aspects of engineering that delegates encounter during their undergraduate studies and as working professionals," said Dysart.
The case competitions were a particular highlight. Designed to test leadership and problem-solving skills under tight deadlines, they added an element of friendly competition and fun.
The co-chairs, along with their organizing team, revamped the conference to fit this ethos.
The conference also incorporated visits to UNB's central heating plant and the Engineering Commons at Head Hall, and to the Mactaquac Dam, offering practical glimpses into real-world engineering applications.
Delegates had time to relax and recharge with yoga and Zumba sessions, sewing and crafts and an evening at the Board Game Café.
“The social events were an integral part of the conference,” said Dysart. “They provided delegates with opportunities to connect with each other, explore the beautiful city and unwind."
Reflecting on their experience, both Dysart and Arsenault emphasized the importance of taking on new opportunities and the growth that comes from stepping outside one's comfort zone.
"The leadership skills we've developed through this experience are invaluable,” Dysart said. “It's truly unique to have the opportunity to plan a seven-day conference for such a large group of people.”
"Watching our vision come to life was so inspiring,” said Arsenault. “We worked so hard throughout the year and seeing it all come together made us incredibly proud of our team.”
Arsenault also highlighted the unique culture of UNB engineering students and engineering students from across the country.
“It’s intense, in a good way,” he said. “It’s easy to see and feel the passion behind so many of the students.
“You're part of something beyond yourself."