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Here's what instructors are saying about our textbooks. We're passionate about making sure all our titles get raves like these...
There's no better general introduction to engineering than 'Engineering Your Future'.
Dr. Shiflett
USC
Excellent approach to introducing MATLAB for technical problem solving.
Dr. Oakes
Purdue U.
This text was more current than others available, with a good mix of technical and social issues. The students really enjoyed the book.
Dean Robert J. Marley
Montana State University
Great book! Matches our needs very well!
LTC Gary Rogers
Virginia Military Institute
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John Leggat
Ottawa, Ontario
Occupation
Chief Executive Officer Defence R&D Canada
Education
B. Eng., M.A.Sc., PhD
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Studying Engineering
Since the age of 12, I wanted to be an engineer. I am not sure why this was the case, what in my upbringing led to such a passion, but the desire to practice engineering influenced every decision that I made until the day I received my iron ring. When I was a teenager, I developed knack for building things. How things worked intrigued me and provided me the motivation to apply myself to my studies. A great opportunity came my way when I was accepted into an engineering program at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC). The program of studies at RMC provides a graduate with a rounded experience in academics, military leadership, and athletics. I attended the college as an Officer Cadet in the Reserve Component of the Canadian Forces, and upon graduation received both an engineering degree and a commission in the Canadian Military Engineers. I served in the reserves while completing my masters and doctorate degrees at The University of British Columbia (UBC).
Career Life
After graduation from UBC, I joined the Defence Research Board of Canada. I was hired to help with R&D that was aimed at reducing the noise produced by hydrofoils being developed under Canada's experimental military hydrofoil program. Through my experiences there, I was transformed from an aeronautical engineer into a marine engineer, and became an expert in underwater noise.
I stayed with Defence Research (which has since changed its name to Defence R&D Canada, DRDC) throughout my entire career. Along the way I progressed from being a scientist engineer to a scientific manager. I got to manage Canada's premiere defence electronics laboratory, which was quite an experience for a mechanical engineer, and one of my fondest experiences. During my years in defence research I have worked on many great projects including the Canadian Patrol Frigate, a couple of submarine programs, space system development, and the implementation of new defence R&D programs. I have met and worked with wonderful people over the years, here in Canada and around the world. I now lead a scientific organization of 1400 people, in which there is never a dull day.
Life Outside Of Work
After I graduated from RMC I stayed with the Reserve Component of the Canadian Forces. As a part-time soldier, I commanded a Battalion and eventually was the Director of Reserves at National Defence Headquarters. I retired 30 years after graduation, having had a rewarding and very active career in the reserves. I also taught as an adjunct professor at Dalhousie University. Apart from all of this, I did find time for my family, which to me has been my greatest joy. I ski, skate, play tennis, and swim. It has all been lots of fun, and if I were to give some advice to aspiring engineers it would be to do what inspires you, set ambitious goals, and nurture forever that sense of curiosity and adventure.
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