NECEC 2026 - IEEE WIE-YP Panel Session

NECEC 2026 WIE–YP Panel Session: The Future of Engineering

Exploring AI, Emerging Technologies, and the Future of Engineering Careers

Join the IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) and IEEE Young Professionals (YP) for an engaging panel discussion, “The Future of Engineering,” at the 34th Annual Newfoundland Electrical and Computer Engineering Conference (NECEC 2026).

Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and emerging technologies are rapidly transforming the engineering profession, creating new opportunities while reshaping the skills and competencies required for future engineers.

This panel will bring together four distinguished professionals from academia and industry to share their perspectives on the evolving engineering landscape. The discussion will explore the impact of AI and emerging technologies on engineering careers, the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, and the leadership and human-centered skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.

The session will also highlight the importance of diversity, inclusion, and professional development in preparing the next generation of engineering leaders.

Event Details

Event: 34th Annual Newfoundland Electrical and Computer Engineering Conference (NECEC 2026)
Session: WIE–YP Panel Discussion – The Future of Engineering
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Holiday Inn St. John's Conference Centre, St. John's, NL
Duration: 1 hour
Conference Website: https://necec.ieeenl.ca/

Attendance is free for students, but registration is required.

Meet the Panelists

Dr. David Churchill – Associate Professor, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Dr. David Churchill is an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Memorial University. His research focuses on artificial intelligence in real-time applications, including video games, simulations, and robotics. He has collaborated with leading industry AI teams at organizations such as Google DeepMind, Facebook AI Research, Blizzard Entertainment, and trophi.ai.

Dr. Ibrahim Al-Nahhal – Assistant Professor, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Dr. Ibrahim Al-Nahhal (Senior Member, IEEE) is an Assistant Professor at Memorial University. His research interests include machine learning, intelligent wireless communications, integrated sensing and communication, and emerging communication technologies. He holds three patents, has co-authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications, and serves as an Editor of IEEE Wireless Communications Letters. He brings valuable academic and industry experience, including his previous work with Nokia in Belgium.

Natalia Churchill – AVP, Enterprise Architect, Nasdaq Verafin

Natalia Churchill is an AVP, Enterprise Architect at Nasdaq Verafin, where she has worked since 2017. With an international background in software development spanning Moldova, the United Kingdom, and Canada, she brings extensive experience in enterprise technology and software engineering. She holds a BSc in Information Technologies from the Technical University of Moldova and an MSc in Computing Science from the University of Alberta.

Session Format

Moderator's Opening Remarks (5 minutes)

Introduction to the panel topic, speakers, and key themes.

Moderated Panel Discussion (35–40 minutes)

An interactive discussion exploring the evolving role of engineers, AI-driven innovation, emerging career opportunities, future-ready skills, diversity, and leadership development. Panelists will share insights and experiences from both academic and industry perspectives.

Audience Q&A (10–15 minutes)

Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, exchange perspectives, and engage directly with the panelists.

Who Should Attend?

This session is open to engineering students, researchers, young professionals, industry practitioners, educators, and anyone interested in understanding how emerging technologies are shaping the future of engineering.

Join us for an insightful conversation about innovation, career development, and leadership in the future of engineering!

Organized by: IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) and IEEE Young Professionals (YP), Newfoundland and Labrador Section.