ASTech’s 2018 Winners

Posted on by IT Admin
Brian Tischler, programmer and farmer from Mannville, received the Outstanding Achievement in Agricultural Innovation Award for creating AgOpenGPS and AgraBot, open-source software solutions for precision agriculture and autonomous vehicle control. His software enables farmers globally to implement low-cost, GPS-based agricultural machine control and automation. AgOpenGPS originated from Tischler’s need to accurately track and control his air seeder using GPS technology, which he adapted using 3D game programming experience.
Emily Marasco received the Outstanding Leaders Of Tomorrow Award for her work in engineering education and innovation at the Schulich School of Engineering. She researched ways to cultivate creativity in engineers, integrating creative thinking with technical skills to solve complex problems. She currently serves as the Associate Dean of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA), Associate Dean of the First Year Program, and SSE Chair in Engineering Education Innovation – Digital Transformation. Additionally, she is an Assistant Professor (Teaching) in the Department of Electrical and Software Engineering.
Dr. Brenda Hemmelgarn received the Outstanding Achievement in Health Innovation Award for her work in chronic kidney disease. She developed the Alberta Kidney Disease Network (AKDN) and the Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration (ICDC), using data platforms to identify gaps in CKD care and improve patient outcomes. Through collaboration between researchers at the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, her efforts focus on early CKD identification, implementing best practices, and preventing kidney failure.
OneBridge Solutions received the Outstanding Achievement in Energy and Environmental Innovation Award for their SaaS-based solution, Cognitive Integrity Management (CIM). CIM uses machine learning to help pipeline operators align in-line inspection data and predict potential failures, improving pipeline integrity management. This technology reduces manual processes, saves time, and reveals new insights for operators. OneBridge is led by Grant Sandem, CEO and President.
Dr. Zhenghe Xu, a professor in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta, received the Outstanding Achievement in Science & Engineering award for his pioneering work in advancing interfacial science to optimize bitumen recovery from oil sands. His research addresses challenges like fine clay detachment and flotation efficiency, leading to improved bitumen recovery and reduced environmental impact. Dr. Xu’s innovations include a hybrid flotation and extraction process, utilizing less heat and enhancing bitumen-air bubble attachment.
Space Physics Group, University of Calgary received the ASTech Special Award for their legacy in space technology. The group pioneered Charge Coupled Device (CCD) technology for space-based instruments, leading to significant advancements in studying the Aurora and near-Earth space environments. Their CCD-based particle imagers have flown on European Space Agency satellites, contributing to both technological innovations and scientific discoveries. The group, led by Dr. David Knudsen, continues to push the boundaries of space science, while contributing to Alberta’s economy through spinoff companies like ITRES and Keo Scientific.
Enersoft Inc (now GeologicAI) received the Outstanding Science and Technology Start-Up award for its innovative solution that combines advanced analytical technologies for high-resolution geological analysis. Utilizing robotized machine vision and integrated tools like x-rays, spectroscopy, and lasers, this technology delivers comprehensive insights into complex geological samples.
SSi Artificial Lift received the Outstanding Commercial Achievement In Science And Technology award for its advanced beam pump technology, which utilizes nitrogen and hydraulics for enhanced efficiency. This system features an intelligent design that constantly optimizes production based on real-time well conditions, increasing lifting capacity and reducing operating costs.al beam pumps.
Dr. Orly Yadid-Pecht received the Outstanding Achievement in Technology award for her development of the Wide Dynamic Range (WiDR) sensing chip. This innovative technology addresses the challenge of capturing high-resolution images in extreme variations of light intensity, making it possible to obtain detailed real-time images of both bright and dim elements in fast-moving scenes. The WiDR chip has practical applications in fields like aerospace, medical endoscopy, and machine vision, providing better visibility and precision under varying lighting conditions. Dr. Yadid-Pecht is a Professor at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Calgary.
GuildOne Inc. received the Outstanding Achievement in Information and Communications Technology Award for their blockchain solution, Royalty Ledger. The system enables oil and gas companies and landowners to execute digital transactions based on smart contracts, creating a tamper-proof and traceable record of each royalty transaction. Today, led by James Graham, CEO, GuildOne’s provides advanced database solutions and business intelligence, specializing in revenue completeness and pioneering blockchain transactions with its Energy Block Exchange platform. GuildOne was recognized by Web3 & Blockchain World (W3B) for the Blockchain for Good award.
Automated Monitoring & Control System Group received the Outstanding Achievement In Applied Technology award for creating an automated framework that uses laser scanners and point clouds to monitor construction progress. Led by Dr. Reza Maalek, former Postdoctoral Associate; Dr. Derek Lichti, Professor of Geomatics Engineering; and Dr. Janaka Ruwanpura,  Professor of Civil Engineering, all from the University of Calgary, the technology automates quality control processes on construction sites.