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Vanier’s CET program holds a first-time soldering competition
In early summer, the Vanier Computer Engineering Technology program organized a novel Soldering competition open to all CET students. Held to celebrate the end of the last semester, the fun and engaging event for students sought to encourage camaraderie among students and staff while recognizing the hard work completed over the semester. In all 22 students and 4 staff members participated.
Sponsored by Accessotronik, the competition started mid-morning and involved 3 rounds to select the finalists who competed in finals later that day. Using soldering kits provided by Accessotronik set up at soldering stations, students had 25 minutes to assemble and solder an electronic circuit. The circuit actually controlled some gadgets – a lady bug and a “toupie” – a spinning top. The competition was both educational and entertaining, showcasing students’ technical skills in a friendly environment. Prizes were awarded to the top three students based on speed, accuracy, and functionality of their circuit.
Following the competition, students gathered for a pizza, samosas and hotdog lunch. The casual meal was a great opportunity for everyone to relax, socialize, play games, and reflect on the semester.
Students truly appreciated the event. “I really enjoyed the solders we had to do. The little pieces that we had to put together were perfectly sized and worked well for the competition,” stated one student. Another added, “I loved the adrenaline. Although it was a competition, I felt no stress doing it. Even if I was competing with other people, I felt no pressure to beat them. It was just a nice friendly competition. And we got to keep the things we soldered.”
Others praised the experience. “I liked the soldering challenges, the food, the time given to doing the challenge and the friendly attitude. I liked soldering something unique. Even though I didn't make it to the end, the end product of what was soldered were nice like the spinning tops.”
“It was an enjoyable time and it was nice to see the students getting involved in something other than school projects. We definitely plan on organizing another competition in the winter, perhaps with a few other CEGEPS involved. Students liked the combination of a hands-on challenge and a relaxing meal. Several expressed interest in making this an annual tradition. This end-of-semester party certainly fostered a sense of community within the Engineering Program and offered students a well-deserved break after final exams,” concluded said Andreea Iftimie and co-organizer colleague Dan Yann Fong.
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