Seneca Unveils its New Centre for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Facility
The official opening of Seneca’s Centre for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CITE) – a new hub at the Newnham Campus – was welcomed with Indigenous storytelling, tours, pitches from entrepreneurs and remarks from Shelley Carroll, Toronto City Councillor for Don Valley North.
CITE brings applied research and commercialization, specialized training, and student and business-led entrepreneurial activities under one roof.
The building incorporates the latest technology to reduce its carbon footprint by limiting greenhouse gas emissions, is home to Seneca’s on-campus incubator HELIX.
Its high tech labs feature a Robotics Lab developed in partnership with KUKA Robotics, Ontario’s first Mechatronics Simulation and Demonstration Centre developed in partnership with Siemens Canada, and a Motors and Process Control Lab.
“This multifaceted, technologically advanced facility is now the welcoming point into Seneca for our students and partners,” said Ranjan Bhattacharya, Dean of Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering Technology. “CITE offers all the tools for educators, creators and researchers to utilize and develop their skills and make a positive contribution. I’m excited for all the ideas and partnerships that will develop here and ultimately benefit our students and community.”
CITE also spotlights several Indigenous elements as part of Seneca’s commitment to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call for post secondary institutions to reflect Indigenous culture and history.
These include a large terrazzo medallion called the “Circle of Indigenous Knowledge” in the foyer, which was recently named Project of the Year by an industry association. Also, an installation simulating the northern lights in the student lounge is visible from outside the building.
Designed by Perkins and Will, the project’s $100-million development began in 2016 and the federal and provincial governments financially supported it.
Seneca additionally received assistance from the Seneca Student Federation and Aboriginal Education Council, along with the City of Toronto, Beckhoff Automation, Festo, Iris Power/ Qualitrol, Husky Injection Molding Systems, Siemens Canada, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Umbra and ventureLab.
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