Explore the OSPE Advocacy Timeline, simply click on each year to expand and contract the content and browse through all the years of activity.
OSPE hosts women in engineering panel in partnership with the University of Toronto, Spin Master, and the OSPE Exchange hubs
The discussion focused on the inspiring stories of three leaders in the engineering profession who have overcome barriers and are paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future.

Engineers host annual diversity and inclusion forum The #EDIAdvantage
The event took place virtually and brought together 2000+ delegates from across Canada to discuss why achieving diversity and inclusion in engineering and STEM more broadly will change the Ontario and Canadian economies for the better.
OSPE engages in talks with opposition MPPs regarding the need for regulatory reform in the engineering profession. OSPE met with the following MPPs:
- MPP Stephen Blais (Liberal- Critic for Municipal Affairs)
- MPP Gurratan Singh (NDP- Critic for the Attorney General)
- MPP Sara Singh (NDP- Critic for Municipal Affairs and Housing)
- MPP Michael Mantha (NDP- Critic Northern Development and Mines)
- MPP Lucille Collard (Liberal- Critic for the Attorney General)
- MPP Mike Schreiner (Green Party)

After consultation with OSPE members, CBC reports about the widespread forgery of an engineer’s seal
Without a strong regulator focused on protecting the public and the environment, the public perception of the engineering community in Ontario will continue to be in jeopardy. OSPE has been advocating for changes at PEO for years, calling on its leadership to solely focus on their primary objective to regulate the practice of professional engineering.
OSPE is invited to participate in a pre-budget consultation with the Ontario Government
The submission includes the recommendations developed by engineers for the short-term and long-term economic recovery of the province. Recommendations presented are sorted into three strategic areas: engineering workforce, sustainability, and innovation.

Engineers report that Ontario Wasted Enough Clean Electricity to Power 720,000 Homes in 2019, 12% More than in 2018
Following a detailed analysis of year-end data issued by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) and Ontario Power Generation (OPG), OSPE is reporting that in 2019, the province wasted a total of 6.5 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean electricity – an amount sufficient to power 720,000 typical homes for one year.
OSPE presents to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Park’s Advisory Panel on Climate Change regarding the impact of flooding on homeowners
Engineers identify the need to prioritize the update of the province’s floodplain mapping, as well as focusing on obtaining all the pertinent data and information on the status of Ontario’s infrastructure. This starts by undertaking a full provincial impact assessment to identify where and how climate change and flooding in particular, is likely to impact Ontario’s communities.
OSPE presents to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs Regarding the study of the recommendations relating to the Economic and Fiscal Update Act, 2020 and the impacts of COVID-19
OSPE calls on the provincial government to support the engineering community if it wishes to capitalize on their economic recovery efforts. It also stresses the importance for new funding allocations to provide a sustainable benefit for diverse, future generations by ensuring a targeted focus on sustainable infrastructure, talent development and retention, and fostering innovation.
OSPE provides submission for Pre-Start Health and Safety Review in Factories Consultation
OSPE agrees with the current requirement that professional engineers conduct Pre-Start Health and Safety reviews, in relation to items one to seven. We believe that only qualified professional engineers possess the technical knowledge to provide this oversight and protect public safety.

OSPE leads the development of a “COVID-19 Infrastructure Working Group” with the Ministries of Infrastructure, Labour & Skills Development, Municipal Affairs & Housing, Transportation, and the AG
OSPE, with representatives from the Construction & Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO), and other industry and labour partners are working to establish new health and safety protocols to protect workers on infrastructure projects, as well as work through the contractual obligations resulting from project delays and disruptions.
OSPE assembles COVID-19 Economic Recovery Working Group
The COVID-19 Economic Recovery Group was created to propose concrete, and actionable recommendations on ways that OSPE can assist the Ontario and federal governments to achieve short, medium and long-term economic recovery.
OSPE attends roundtable discussion with Jill Dunlop, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues
OSPE participates in a discussion on how the government can support the advancement of women in engineering.
OSPE hosts research and innovation roundtable on Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS)
At the event, OSPE releases its Growing the Drone Industry report, and discusses regulation, public perception, and industry outlook with panel of subject matter experts.
OSPE attends Ontario Business Advisory Council discussion with the Honourable John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry
OSPE discussed the necessary steps required and precautions needed to be put in place to successfully access and develop Ontario’s natural resources, while effectively protecting the environment.
OSPE participates in consultations with multiple Deputy Ministers to discuss infrastructure project funding priorities and the development of the future workforce
An invitation only event focused on a consultation for a shared vision for the next generation of infrastructure, and the necessary skills and talents needed from skilled trades and design professionals in order to achieve this vision.
OSPE celebrates the third annual P.Eng. Day
OSPE celebrates P.Eng. Day by engaging with Members of Provincial Parliament to highlight the important contributions and work engineers do in Ontario. MPP Deepak Anand and MPP Stan Cho both delivered a message during the daily question period to celebrate engineers.
OSPE meets with Ontario’s Attorney General, the Honourable Doug Downey, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Infrastructure Ontario to discuss the impact of rising insurance costs for engineers
Ontario is now considered a high-risk jurisdiction by international insurance underwriters. This has impacted engineers greatly, causing a dramatic increase in insurance costs and implications on coverage. This impacts the ability of small to medium sized engineering companies to operate in the province, debilitating economic growth. OSPE also spoke the Attorney General about the need for Regulatory Reform in the engineering profession.
OSPE attends consultative roundtable with MP Julie Dzerowicz on future workforce development
The federal government’s consultation examined the skills and talent gaps that exist to move Canada forward in economic development, as well as the options available and obstacles that exist to access global talent.
OSPE CEO presents Pre Budget-Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs
OSPE's presentation and message was clear: Engineers create wealth.
OSPE meets with the Department of Women and Gender Equality Canada
Discussions focused on current work on advancing the position of women and other underrepresented groups in STEM.
OSPE hosts 10th annual Lobby Day and MPP Reception
OSPE welcomed more than 35 Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) from all political parties to the release of the Energy Task Force’s latest report Retail Electricity Price Reform: Path to Lower Energy Bills and Economy-Wide CO2 Emission Reductions. Attendees included the Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. OSPE also met with NDP Energy and Environment Critic, Peter Tabuns, to discuss the report’s findings.
OSPE Meets with Vic Fedeli, Minister of Finance for Pre-Budget Consultation
OSPE provided the Minister with its spending priorities, which was designed to invest in growing industries and support the export of new made-in-Ontario technologies. During the consultation, the Minister asked OSPE for assistance in analyzing Electricity Pricing for Ontario ratepayers.
OSPE's recommendations included in new Construction Act taking effect Oct 1, 2019
Following years of consultation with OSPE, the Government of Ontario’s changes to the Construction Act regarding new prompt payments and adjudication processes, and amendments related to liens against municipalities came into effect.

OSPE hosts Federal Election Roundtable and releases OSPE’s Federal Strategy
On October 9, 2019, OSPE hosted its Federal Election Roundtable, where our Advocacy Task Forces and Committees showcased a comprehensive National Strategy that includes recommendations regarding energy, climate change and the environment, innovative technology, infrastructure, and ways to increase the number of underrepresented groups in STEM.
OSPE hosts The EDI Imperative: Changing the Profile of STEAM in Canada with more than 700 attendees in Ottawa, Ontario.
OSPE meets with the Honourable Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
OSPE calls for an engineer to be part of the Government’s Advisory Panel on Climate Change.
OSPE calls on the Attorney General of Ontario to move forward with regulatory reform
OSPE raises concerns about the governance structure and non-regulatory activities of Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) in joint letter with Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO).
OSPE meets with global insurance underwriters to discuss the rising cost of professional liability insurance
OSPE travels with BMS Canada to meet with Lloyds of London insurance syndicates to better understand the reasons behind the rising cost of professional and project liability insurance, and why Canada is now considered a high-risk market.

OSPE hosts annual Fall Forum in Ottawa
OSPE brings 800 advocates for women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math together to discuss strategies to navigate barriers and how employers can support more inclusive environments.
OSPE establishes and celebrates first P.Eng. Day in Ontario
OSPE receives unanimous consent from all political parties to make March 1st Professional Engineers Day in Ontario.
Engineers' recommendations included in Bill 3, Pay Transparency Act 2018
OSPE's Women in Engineering Advocacy Champions Task Force (WE ACT) delivered testimony to the Standing Committee on Social Policy on Bill 3, Pay Transparency Act, 2018. Based on OSPE’s recommendations and those of other stakeholder groups, the legislation was expanded to include small and medium-sized enterprises which account for 95% of employers in the province.
Government implements recommendations from OSPE's excess soils report in Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan
The government has committed to making it easier and safer to reuse excess soil, quoting OSPE’s Excess Soil Management: Ontario is Wasting a Precious Resource report.
OSPE breaks down barriers for women in STEM
OSPE research reveals 50% of women in STEM feel disrespected, one-third experience pay inequities, and 25% experience discrimination, harassment, and/or bullying. OSPE begins development of DiversifySTEM, o help employers create more inclusive workplaces.
OSPE promotes work-integrated learning
OSPE advocates for expansion of Career Ready Fund and Kickstart employment, which Budget 2018 delivers.
Energy report reveals billion-dollar engineering opportunity
Driving days of media coverage and debate at Queen’s Park, OSPE’s report garnered front-page headlines, communicating the value of engineering to an audience of millions.

OSPE advises on stormwater infrastructure
OSPE, Residential Construction Council of Ontario and Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association partner to produce a study which reveals an estimated $1.2 billion is needed to replace stormwater infrastructure in six focus municipalities for the long-term protection of property and public health and safety.
OSPE establishes Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee
Highlighting the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion in engineering, the committee encourages companies and hiring managers to recognize and value diversity and actively recruit diverse groups, and works to drive change by partnering with engineering companies, post-secondary institutions, and non-profits who are EDI champions.

OSPE releases ground-breaking study on excess soil
OSPE, with industry partners, determines that the province could save $1 billion per year treating construction site excess soil as a resource instead of waste.
Engineers demand to be involved in developing Ontario’s Climate Change Action Plan
Issuing two open letters to Premier Wynne and Minister Murray, OSPE successfully secures an engineer on Ontario’s Climate Action Group.
OSPE meets with Ontario’s Attorney General, the Honourable Yasir Naqvi, to discuss the Construction Lien Act Review Report
Advocating for engineering services not to be subject to holdback of payment upon completion.
OSPE provides input on Bill 172, The Climate Change Mitigation and Low-Carbon Economy Act, 2016
Underlining the importance of systems integration and the role engineers must play in order to achieve program success.
OSPE releases report titled, Engineering a Cleaner Economy: Examining Ontario’s Carbon Pricing Program and the Role of Innovation
This results in coverage in the Toronto Star, Daily Commercial News and Plant Engineering & Maintenance.
OSPE CEO raises concerns following the 2015 Ontario Economic Summit
OSPE mentions the need for business to engage engineers to leverage technology, spur innovation, get engaged in the STEM-knowledge economy and look at STEM as a service-based export market.
OSPE releases Crisis in Ontario’s Engineering Labour Market: Underemployment Among Ontario’s Engineering-Degree Holders report
With more than 33% of engineering graduates working in jobs that do not require a post-secondary degree, OSPE’s report is the focus of political and media attention, including a primetime CBC radio segment with OSPE’s CEO.
OSPE in partnership with ONWiE, PEO and CCWEST is awarded funding from the Status of Women Canada to create Engineering Professional Success
A two year pilot mentorship program to support women who are recent engineering graduates and in the early stages of their career as they work towards licensure. This program has grown into the permanent mentorship program that helps all engineers working towards licensure, as seen at OSPE today.
OSPE and WEAC release the Gender Wage Gap Submission
In response to the Ministry of Labour’s recent consultation on closing the gender wage gap, OSPE and WEAC provided a submission addressing the ministry’s 11 questions around improving accessibility and reducing the gap.
OSPE launches Society Notes Blog
This new platform seeks to engage members through a two-way communication portal to encourage online conversations and public policy discussions.

Creating Opportunities for International Engineering Graduates (IEGs)
OSPE's Classroom to Career report details employment barriers for new Canadian IEGs and proposes solutions to improve engineering labour market conditions. Canada's Minister of Industry publicly recognizes the report as an essential contribution to the federal strategy.
OSPE forms a Ring of Fire Working Group to provide engineering input and advocacy
A main priority of the working group is raising awareness about the economic and environmental importance of Ring of Fire projects.
Supporting the Eliot Lake Commission
OSPE was granted formal standing to review all confidential inquiry submissions and witness accounts and then invited to Ottawa to present its views at the Elliot Lake Commission of Inquiry.
Introducing Engineering Employment Events (E3s)
Working to address the engineering un(der) employment issue, OSPE establishes E3s to connect engineering talent with employers.

OSPE responds to Industry Canada’s consultation on Seizing Canada’s Moment: Moving Forward in Science, Technology and Innovation
Several recommendations were presented on how to better foster and leverage engineering innovation in Canada.
OSPE releases landmark report, The TTC Relief Line: Let’s Get the Engineering on Track!
The report offers an independent engineering review of studies related to the proposed Toronto Transit Commission subway Relief Line and urged all levels of government and stakeholders to initiate the engineering and geotechnical studies required for its development.
OSPE Drives Regional Transit Planning Decisions
OSPE’s Infrastructure Task Force members provide key input on the Metrolinx “Big Move” plan for the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area, Ontario’s northern Ontario multimodal transportation strategy, and Canada’s national transit strategy.

OSPE's Wind and the Electrical Grid Report Blows Media and Politicians Away
On TVO’s The Agenda, OSPE reveals major engineering concerns with wind turbines and the design of Ontario’s power system. The Ministry of Energy adopts 13 of OSPE’s 19 recommendations, saving ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars per year.
OSPE released a major report titled Wind and the Electrical Grid – Mitigating the Rise in Electricity Rates and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The report was produced at the request of the Ministry of Energy, who asked OSPE for an independent engineering assessment of energy policy issues.
Here We Grown Again
The Government of Ontario makes significant investments in OSPE, with two programs to support training on innovative technologies and to encourage hiring and retention of international engineering graduates.

OSPE takes part in Pre-Budget consultations hosted by Ontario’s Minister of Finance
Engineers urge the government for continued sustainable investment in infrastructure, energy and research and innovation to ensure economic recovery and job creation in Ontario.
OSPE provides recommendations on Ontario’s Electrical Grid and Project Requirements for Nuclear Plants
This document provides energy planning decision makers with a list of requirements that should be considered when creating energy policy.
A Capital Idea: OSPE Influences Senate Finance Decision
OSPE presents the implications of selling the nuclear power division of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited. The Federal Government adopts many of OSPE’s recommendations in the final sale.
OSPE solidifies its mandate through Legislation
Bill 148 An Act respecting the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers receives First Reading in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

OSPE joins other organizations to form the Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario (CDAO) to provide advice to the Ministry of Infrastructure
OSPE through CDAO provides recommendations to the Government’s 10-Year Infrastructure Plan.
OSPE provides comments to the Ontario Government’s consultation on changes to the Waste Diversion Act, 2002
Engineers urge the government to place greater emphasis on reuse and reduction and to consider incineration as a viable option.
OSPE’s Energy Task Force appears before Standing Committee on General Governance
OSPE discuss environmental objectives, economic growth, electrical distribution challenges, governance implications, and the role of the engineering profession.
OSPE submits recommendations regarding Ontario’s Green Energy & Green Economy Act, 2009
OSPE requests that the Bill be revised to ensure the provisions of the Professional Engineers Act apply to all green energy production and utilization projects that have the potential to affect public health and safety
OSPE submits letter to The Honourable John Wilkinson, Minister of Research and Innovation
OSPE is pleased that the government is investing $250 million on a plan for early stage ventures. This fund to drive start-up investment in green technology companies and high-tech businesses is most welcome during this challenging economic period.
OSPE receives funding from the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI) to offer Internationally Engineering Graduates (IEGs) exam prep for licensure.
City of Toronto Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone gives opening remarks at OSPE’s Engineering in a Climate of Change Symposium
One-day symposium attracts engineers, academics, and members; focused on global implications of climate change and opportunities that exist.

Engineers provide comments to the Ministry of Environment’s proposed amendments to Ontario Regulation 153/04 relating to the Brownfields Statute Law Amendment Act, 2001
OSPE agrees with the Ministry's recognition of professional engineers as qualified persons for the purposes of conducting or supervising environmental site assessments and remediation.
OSPEs submits comments regarding amendments to regulations made under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002
OSPE believes it is essential that the transfer of responsibility from the relevant ministries results in the retention of professional engineers on staff to ensure proper equipment design, installation, and maintenance of drinking water systems.
OSPE responds to the proposed technical rules applied under the Clean Water Act, 2006
OSPE supports greater involvement of engineers in the design, operation and ongoing oversight of water and wastewater systems and emphasizes the need for engineers’ assistance in the implementation of the Clean Water Act.
OSPE creates Complaints and Discipline Task Force
OSPE advocates changes to PEO's existing complaints and discipline process.
OSPE's Political Action Networks (PAN) is Born
OSPE establishes PAN which connects member volunteers with elected officials to share insights and carry OSPE’s key messages.
OSPE advocates to end low-fee bidding
OSPE advocates to end low-fee bidding in favour of quality-based selection for infrastructure projects.
OSPE successfully consults with Ministry of Education to keep calculus in Ontario’s high schools
After consultation with various groups including OSPE, the Ministry relented, realizing that mathematics is central to a successful career in a range of sectors including engineering.

Premier Dalton McGuinty provides keynote address at OSPE’s first major conference
The Premier attended Engineering the Healthy City, amongst other speakers, including: John Beck, P.Eng., President and CEO of Aecon Group Inc., representatives from the Independent Electricity Market Operator, Ontario Power Generation, Canadian Nuclear Association, Ontario Growth Secretariat, and the Ministry of Transportation
OSPE presents recommendations on Bill 100, the Electricity Restructuring Act, 2004
Emphasizes the assignment of forecasting responsibilities, creation of the Ontario Power Authority, need for predictable electricity rates, establishment of a Conservation Bureau and expert advisory committees, and that professional engineers be officially named in regulations as mandatory participants on the proposed advisory committees.
OSPE champions use of Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) in the engineering services sector
OSPE advocates for use of QBS in engineering services selection process over low-fee biding structures. With PEO and Consulting Engineers Ontario (CEO), OSPE champions increased interest in this approach among all levels of government, including a successful pilot project in London, Ontario.
OSPE releases results of its first Employer Compensation Survey
OSPE provides a comprehensive picture of hiring trends and salary levels across all categories and disciplines.
PEO's Women in Engineering Advisory Committee (WEAC) moves to OSPE
WEAC works toward a more progressive and diverse profession and encourages more women to study engineering at the post-secondary level, consider engineering as a career, pursue licensure and to take on leadership roles in the workplace.

OSPE testifies before Walkerton Inquiry
OSPE advocates for the involvement of professional engineers in the design, building, and operation of public water supplies.
OSPE advocates for new definition of Qualified Persons under the Brownfields Statute Law Amendment Act, 2001
OSPE suggests the new definition should include only practitioners held accountable for their actions publicly. These individuals, including engineers, should not be subject to further certification. This position was upheld by the government.
Advocacy for Engineers, by Engineers
OSPE creates its first advocacy plan, in consultation with over 100 engineers from across Ontario.
OSPE is Born