‘A dream come true’: How applied research is helping a Sheridan electrical engineering student realize his potential

From the moment he first encountered the innovation-driven environment at Sheridan’s Centre for Intelligent Manufacturing (CIM), Honours Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering) student Nathan Morgan knew he wanted to be part of it. Walking past the displays of applied research posters outside the CIM lab, he found himself drawn in by the technical depth and industry collaborations they showcased. But those posters didn’t just capture his attention — they inspired him to apply for a Research Assistant role so he could contribute to the work behind them.

In the third year of his program, Morgan secured a position at CIM as a Research Assistant, a role that would quickly become a defining experience within his academic journey, shaping both his technical skill development and his sense of purpose as an aspiring electrical engineer.

Immersed in CIM's environment of interdisciplinary expertise — spanning additive manufacturing, simulation and modelling, digital fabrication, automation, design and electronics — he has developed a strong appreciation for collaborative engineering and the role it plays in solving real-world challenges.

“I have such immense respect for the CIM team as, to me, they represent the pinnacle of engineering implementation. Learning from their strengths has not only made me a more versatile engineer but also given me a real sense of purpose.”

– Fourth-year Honours Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering) student Nathan Morgan

Now, as a fourth-year student, Morgan has contributed to two applied research projects that while distinctively different in purpose, both bridge hardware, software and intelligent systems.

The first project, ‘AI-Driven Smart Quality Control and Shelf-Life Prediction in Meat Processing,’ was developed with Toronto Fresh Food and Generator’s Centre for Applied AI (CAAI). Morgan supported the design and implementation of an AI-based system to detect browning in meat, contributing to camera hardware specifications, image acquisition setup, and the FTP server for data transfer. During the development phase, he also helped design a camera triggering system to automate image capture and worked with the maintenance team to build on-site prototypes that improved image quality and system performance.

The second project, ‘Dichoptic View and Refractor Co-Pilot,’ developed in collaboration with the Oakville Centre for Vision, focuses on supporting optometrists through advanced testing and treatment tools. Morgan contributed to the hardware development of an electronically controlled liquid crystal dichoptic filter, enabling precise control of visual input for each eye. His work included electrical subsystem design such as battery management, noise filtering and panel switching.

Through these experiences, Morgan has developed and refined key technical skills, including milling, soldering, waveform interpretation, systematic diagnostic logic and instrumentation. He credits these hands-on opportunities and the guidance of the CIM research team with enhancing both his academic performance and his readiness for industry, particularly in circuit analysis and design.

“Working here has truly been a dream come true for me. I’ve always been fascinated by the project posters on the walls, and I’ve long hoped to eventually contribute to that legacy myself,” said Morgan. “I have such immense respect for the CIM team as, to me, they represent the pinnacle of engineering implementation. Learning from their strengths has not only made me a more versatile engineer but has also given me a real sense of purpose.”

Morgan encourages other students to pursue research opportunities, emphasizing the importance of staying current in their field, continuously developing their skills and establishing mentor connections. He believes that applied research at Sheridan not only creates space for creativity and innovation but also provides valuable experience and a sense of purpose that sets students up for success in their future careers.

Interested in learning more about how to get involved as a student in research, innovation and entrepreneurship at Sheridan? Visit sheridancollege.ca/generator.