Ron Sky

Georgian Engineering and Environmental Technologies professor and professional engineer Ron Sky has a long history of interest and involvement in the areas of sustainable technologies related to energy.

Over the years, he’s worked on everything from the first prototype of a hybrid electric vehicle (EV), to building his own wind turbine at his farm in London, Ontario to designing and constructing an energy-efficient home in Collingwood. Ron has also spearheaded the development of an education- and research-based solar-assisted EV charging station at the Barrie Campus.

More recently, Ron has been co-chair of Georgian’s new Research Advisory Council (RAC). RAC aims to foster an integrated culture of research, scholarship and collegiality that connects staff, students, faculty and the community to inspire innovation, advance knowledge, and
enrich learning both in and beyond the classroom.

His focus is currently on teaching students about the benefits of a green economy.

“We are particularly focused on sharing local sustainable energy stories and letting people from our community see what’s already happening to power Simcoe County’s future prosperity,” says Ron.

Over the past 10 years, Ron has participated in industry-sponsored projects at Georgian, working in the areas of solar photovoltaic, EV and other sustainable technologies. He’s also been involved in hosting the Green Energy Doors Open event, which allows the community to learn about sustainable programs and technologies happening in their own backyard.

He says what inspires him to undertake these projects both in and outside of work is his love of people and all living things, an appreciation of the natural environment, and his dedication to making this a more sustainable and peaceful world.

“Working with students and partners in the industry to discover new or improved ways of making our human activities more sustainable is intrinsically rewarding for me,” says Ron. “I also enjoy assisting students further their interest in green technologies and their curiosity and enthusiasm to help drive innovation into all our research projects.”