Q&A with Korbyn Roberts-Chaytor

I admire my father and grandfather—their support, wisdom, and hands-on mentorship shaped my values, work ethic, and passion for engineering.

Korbyn Roberts-Chaytor

Third Year Electrical Engineering

 

Korbyn is a student ambassador here to answer your questions. Click here to contact Korbyn.

Why Western Engineering?

I chose Western Engineering because of its strong community culture where teamwork is valued, as engineering is truly a team sport. I wanted an environment where I could collaborate and grow alongside other engineers. Also the general first year was appealing to me, as it’s an incredible opportunity to explore multiple disciplines before deciding on the stream I’d spend the rest of my university career in.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time, I love to stay active and spend time outdoors. I enjoy going to the gym regularly and also love camping trips with friends, which give me a chance to recharge and explore new places. One of my favourite memories is hiking Centennial Ridge in Algonquin Park, with all the breathtaking views, and time with a close friend created an unforgettable memories.

What was your orientation week experience like as a first-year student?

Orientation Week was one of the most impactful parts of my first year at Western. It gave me the chance to feel connected to Western and allowed me to some of my closest friends today. It also encouraged me to get involved in clubs, which I believe are one of the best ways to both apply the skills learned in class and build community. I joined Sunstang, where we design and build a solar-powered car, and Power to Change, a Christian club that has immensely strengthen my faith in Jesus.

Why did you choose your specific stream of engineering?

I chose Electrical Engineering because I developed a strong interest in electrical systems during my first year. I became fascinated with how they worked and wanted to dive deeper into the details behind them. This passion grew even more through my involvement with FAST Lab, where I worked on solar-powered greenhouses. These projects opened my eyes to how engineering can provide communities with clean energy and sustainable food solutions, inspiring me to pursue this stream.

What is your favourite book, movie, or TV show?

My favourite book is the Bible, as it provides me with guidance and encouragement. Even with the busyness of university, I make it a priority to read a little every day, as it shapes how I live my life. My favourite movie is The Batman, not only because of its powerful soundtrack but also for its visually stunning production. My favourite TV show is Arcane, which I think has such amazing music and storytelling.

Who do you look up to/admire and why?

I look up to my father, who has always motivated me to grow as a person and has encouraged me throughout my journey in engineering. His support and example push me to work harder and strive for excellence in all areas of my life. I also look up to my grandfather. As a child, I spent many nights at his house learning hands-on skills through projects like building a deck or shingling a roof. Those experiences taught me the value of hard work and practical problemsolving.