Meet our Team
Qusay H. Mahmoud
Associate Dean of Experiential Learning and Engineering Outreach
About Me - Qusay H. Mahmoud
Hi, my name is Qusay Mahmoud (aka Dr.Q). I am a professor of software engineering, and privileged to serve as the Associate Dean for Experiential Learning & Engineering Outreach. My teaching fosters critical & creative thinking, and my research empowers software for humanity. I am passionate about my support for providing high quality education for students, and a positive professional working environment hospitable to academic excellence. In addition to research publications, you can find my AI-infused writing at: https://drqwrites.medium.com
Contact: qusay.mahmoud@ontariotechu.ca
Laura Thursby is an experienced scholar, researcher, and educator at Ontario Tech University, where she has overseen peer-led initiatives and developed innovative programs that foster inclusive and supportive learning environments. With a Ph.D. in Cultural Studies and a strong interdisciplinary background, Laura is passionate about creating impactful STEM outreach initiatives for K-12 students. She is committed to applying Universal Design for Learning principles to ensure accessible, engaging experiences for all learners. In her work, Laura emphasizes collaboration, sustainability, and innovation in program development, aiming to inspire student success both academically and professionally.
Contact: laura.thursby@ontariotechu.ca
Program Coordinators
Sarah Wedge
About Me - Sarah Wedge
Hello! My name is Sarah Wedge and I am the Engineering Outreach Coordinator for our Girls Programs. I graduated from Ontario Tech University with a BEng. in Software Engineering. During my studies, I delved into software development and machine learning by collaborating with a team of fellow students to develop an ASL recognition software. I was also a part of the Women for STEM scholarship program where I received the Westinghouse Electric Canada Women for STEM scholarship. Being part of the Women for STEM program and the Women in Engineering society connected me with many inspiring women in STEM fields. They helped grow my confidence and curiosity, demonstrating how crucial mentorship is to the success of young women pursuing STEM careers. This experience inspired me to explore the impact of providing mentorship and accessible STEM education to girls of all ages. My goal is to create a fun and exciting learning environment which will empower girls and foster their love for STEM.
Contact: sarah.wedge@ontariotechu.ca
Alex Piliounis
About Me - Alex Piliounis
Hi! My name is Alex Piliounis and I am one of the Engineering Outreach Coordinators. I graduated from Queen’s University with a B.A.Sc. in Engineering Physics. After working in research and being a teaching assistant at Queen’s which fostered my passion for teaching, I switched to pursuing a B.Ed. at Ontario Tech University. While studying, I worked to develop engaging STEM activities using microcontrollers, sensors, and coding for numerous classrooms. Now working in Engineering Outreach, I am excited to have the opportunity to support teachers and youth with design thinking in the classroom. One of my many goals is to bring inquiry-based and accessible STEM experiences to a broad range of youth - igniting students' passion for STEM.
Contact: alex.piliounis@ontariotechu.ca
Contact: nabil.saleh@ontariotechu.ca
Hello! My name is Zahraa Bassyouni and I am one of the Engineering Outreach Coordinators. I'm originally from Lebanon, where I completed my bachelor's degree in Mechatronics Engineering at Rafik Hariri University and then worked as a research assistant at the Vision and Robotics Lab at the American University of Beirut (AUB). During my time at AUB, I focused on advancing human-robot interactions using augmented reality and Artificial Intelligence. My next venture led me to Canada, where I completed my MASc. in Mechanical Engineering at Ontario Tech University with a research focus on micro-machining. While studying, I worked as a coding and robotics instructor where I taught students engineering concepts using hands-on-learning activities with lego kits. I'm thrilled to be part of the Engineering Outreach team, and I can't wait to share my enthusiasm and knowledge with others!
Contact: zahraa.bassyouni@ontariotechu.ca
Contact: hunter.johnson@ontariotechu.ca
Hello! My name is Kimberly Davis, and I am the Engineering Outreach Coordinator for our Black Youth program. I graduated from York University with both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Digital Media. Through the Digital Media program I’ve studied computational arts, computer science, and electrical engineering. My research involved topics such as interactive installations, data visualization, and human-computer interaction. During my time at York, I worked as a student ambassador and mentor, a teaching assistant, and collaborated with artists to incorporate various technical components into their artworks. I've always loved using technology to find new and unique way to engage and educate others, and I’m excited to now have this opportunity to help youth discover their own passion in STEM!
Contact: kimberly.davis@ontariotechu.ca
Undergraduate Student Instructors
Hello! My name is Ubaid, and I graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ontario Tech University. I love meeting new people and learning about their experiences and interests, it's a great way to discover new perspectives about life. In my free time, I like to play soccer, driving, and hitting the gym!. One thing about me? I love a good challenge--the harder, the better. I enjoy finding problems, solving them, and moving on to the next one. You know what they say: go big or go home!
