More than 150 business, government, community and education leaders are gathering in Hamilton today (November 8) to investigate opportunities for increasing collaboration between McMaster University and Mohawk College in providing technology education.

Led by McMaster's Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Engineering Technology at Mohawk, the Community Think Tank will focus on the potential of providing joint programs in technology and management. Participants will provide insight and advice on matters related to curriculum and desired graduate knowledge. They will also explore the capabilities needed to generate future economic and technological productivity and prosperity.

“Today's session will help us better understand the future training and skills needed to prepare a professional workforce,” says Mo Elbestawi, dean of engineering. “We will be looking at how we can help create a workforce that will lead to personal satisfaction for the individual and societal benefits for Hamilton, our province and Canada.”

Participants include Donald Green, chair of the Board of Governors, McMaster University; MaryLynn West-Moynes, president, Mohawk College; Ken Norrie, provost and vice-president, academic, McMaster University; Mo Elbestawi, dean, Faculty of Engineering, McMaster University; Cheryl Jensen, executive dean, Faculty of Engineering Technology, Mohawk College; Bob Magee, president and CEO, Woodbridge Group and chair of the Human Resources Development Working Group established by the federal government; and Martin Hicks, director, Universities Branch, Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

They are meeting from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ancaster Old Mill.

Bob Magee, president and CEO, Woodbridge Group, will provide the keynote address.