Putting people at the core of everything we do is paramount at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. We are committed to ensuring our people — those who make BCIT distinct, are developing while feeling valued, supported, and connected.
BCIT is a people-first organization. We aim to celebrate our employees by sharing their stories through the Our People series. The series features BCIT’s extraordinary employees who share a strong sense of pride and ambition for the Institute and make up our diverse community.
Get to know Dr. Moein Manbachi, Ph.D., P.Eng., SM-IEEE, Project Leader, Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team (SMART) who started working at BCIT as a Lab Instructor in 2015 prior to joining the SMART team in 2017. Dr. Manbachi designs, develops, and demonstrates innovative energy infrastructure solutions and provides students with hands-on training through his work with the SMART team in Applied Research.
What has been your most memorable moment working at BCIT?
My most memorable moments at BCIT were being part of the team that developed BCIT’s Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity Lab (CICL). This lab offers world-class R&D works and training focused on critical energy infrastructure and its cybersecurity. The highlight was when the lab became operational and hosted its first group of students in 2018.
What do you enjoy the most about working in post-secondary education?
What I enjoy most about working in post-secondary education is collaborating closely with industries and utilities to explore advanced innovative solutions for Canada’s critical infrastructure. I also find it rewarding to support students in learning hands-on skills through developing virtualized experiential learning platforms and delivering online badge courses.
LEARN MORE: BCIT Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team Flexible Learning courses
What are projects or initiatives that you have completed at the Institute that you are proud of?
I had the great opportunity to lead a $1,569,460 project with Future Skills Centre and Siemens Canada in 2021-2023, on the design and development of a Virtualized Experiential Learning Platform (VELP). This platform supports various Canadian trainees (e.g., remote communities, academic institutes, utilities, and industries) by providing hands-on practice on energy infrastructure and systems such as digital substations, smart microgrids, and cybersecurity using Digital Twin technologies, all accessible remotely even from trainee’s homes.
What does it mean for you to be a 2024 Employee Excellence Award – Applied Research recipient?
Being a 2024 Employee Excellence Award recipient means a lot to me. I am very grateful and happy that my hard work has been recognized. I also want to thank my team at the applied research department, Smart Microgrid Applied Research Team (SMART), for their constant support.
Do you have a favourite spot or activity at the BCIT campuses that you enjoy spending your time at and why?
I enjoy playing ping pong, so I often use the ping pong tables located in the lobby area of the Recreation Centre near the squash courts. It is a fine place to have some fun after work!
Share with us how what you are passionate about outside of work. Do you have any hobbies?
I love sports, especially playing soccer, tennis, and ping pong. I also enjoy swimming and love watching movies and am particularly interested in Ingmar Bergman’s films. I also love spending time outside and exploring nature with my 13-month-old puppy, Mocha!
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