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Western Engineering professors named Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Engineering

Two Western Engineering faculty members have been elected Fellows of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), one of the profession’s highest honours in Canada.

Miriam Capretz, associate dean, research and professor in the department of electrical and computer engineering’s software engineering program, and Girma Bitsuamlak, professor in the department of civil and environmental engineering and director of the Wind Engineering, Energy and Environment (WindEEE) Research Institute, are among 56 new Fellows announced by the CAE on May 11.

The honour recognizes engineers whose achievements and lifelong service have made outstanding contributions to engineering in Canada and around the world. Fellows are nominated and elected by their peers in recognition of their leadership, innovation and impact across research, industry and society.

Miriam Capretz

Miriam Capretz recognized for AI-driven energy systems research

Capretz, a distinguished researcher in artificial intelligence-driven energy systems, has made significant contributions to the energy sector through her work in machine learning and smart meter analytics. Her research has helped inform Canadian energy policy and has earned international recognition through fellowships and awards from leading institutions.

In addition to her research achievements, Capretz has played a key leadership role at Western Engineering as associate dean, research, helping foster an inclusive and innovative research environment while supporting faculty and students across the institution.

Girma Bitsuamlak

Girma Bitsuamlak honoured for advancing climate-resilient infrastructure

Bitsuamlak is internationally recognized for his work in wind engineering and climate-resilient infrastructure. His research has advanced scientific understanding, building codes and engineering practice through the use of experimental methods and computational modelling to better understand how infrastructure can withstand extreme wind events and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

He leads the Wind Engineering, Energy and Environment (WindEEE) Research Institute, a globally unique facility that supports collaborations with hundreds of researchers and organizations worldwide in wind engineering, energy and environmental research.

The 2026 CAE Fellows will be formally inducted during a ceremony on June 1 in Edmonton.

Established in 1987, the Canadian Academy of Engineering is the national institution through which engineers who have made outstanding contributions to the profession provide strategic advice on issues of importance to Canada and Canadians. The organization works closely with engineering academies and scientific organizations across Canada and internationally.