Algoma U. unveils computer science and technology upgrades

Algoma University’s School of Computer Science and Technology opened its doors to show off recent renovations and upgrades to its facilities.

Students, faculty, staff, funders and others were given a chance to explore the space, which was built with a $1.98 million Fednor grant.

The full Algoma University press release is included below.

Today, Algoma University’s School of Computer Science & Technology (SCST) unveiled impressive renovations to their innovative space on the Sault Ste. Marie campus at their Open House event, including state-of-the-art gaming suites, research labs, classrooms and more. 

The facilities that were showcased during the Open House highlight the outcome of a generous $1.98 million investment announced in January 2021 by MP Terry Sheehan on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for FedNor. 

“The project aligns with Federal priorities to support innovation and digital technology, keys to the vitality of the Canadian economy,” shared President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina during her opening remarks. “Preparing Canadians for the jobs of today and tomorrow will provide Canadian companies with the highly skilled workers they need to innovate and modernize their processes to stay on the cutting edge. This investment will have a significant long-term socio-economic impact in Sault Ste. Marie, building on the technical infrastructure required for our campus to continue to attract and develop top student and faculty talent to the region”

Today’s Open House provided an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, funders and SCST external partners to learn more about the exciting developments within the School, and to explore the extensive renovations and upgrades to the space. 

“Computer Science is an ever-growing field, with few if any areas within business that do not rely on it. The pandemic has further accelerated the demand for Information Technology personnel to support remote working, communication, conducting business and shopping,” shared Dr. Simon Xu, Director and Professor of the School of Computer Science and Technology. “The School has recently developed four graduate certificates, fully online computer programs, and co-op opportunities to further support experiential learning. Enrolment has grown from 115 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) in 2018/19 to 430 FTE in 2021/22. The new lab space funded by Fednor is equipped with state-of-the-art Mac and PC computers, and gaming devices. The School’s Strategic Plan is in place now and will be used as our roadmap for the next five years as we progress in the development of a graduate program and a new specialization.”

To learn more about the School of Computer Science and Technology at Algoma University, please visit: here