Scholarship Essay Entry – Brian R.
The Realistic Dream:
The world as it stands today has many opportunities for change. The breakthroughs in research and development as of late have been nothing short of revolutionary, and will continue to be so. A drastic improvement to the environment and working conditions could be achieved relatively simply. With the right combination of innovative thinking, willingness of employers to accept change, and a realistic approach to the issues. It is my dream to assist and encourage the implementation of these improvements.
As a Mechanical Engineering Technologist I will have a direct opportunity to apply new techniques and technologies at the workplace. Many of these technologies would be a direct replacement for existing systems and could be implemented when the old ones are due for replacement. Thus, vastly reducing the initial cost to the company. In the past there has been an 'all or nothing' approach to integrating green technology, which has lead to a great reluctance to adopt newer and more efficient methods. Replacing an old and broken part with a more efficient one is attractive to companies. Especially so, when the new parts require less energy (and therefore money) to run. It also casts a very positive light on the company to investors who are looking for a company that is moving forward and innovating. This staggered approach is the key to being both environmentally and economically successful. Seeing that these changes come to fruition has been a long time goal and dream.
The environment has taken a back seat to production in recent times. This includes both, the global environment and the environment of many workplaces. It is common practice in many industries to burn and vent many chemicals to the atmosphere. Although this does eliminate most of the immediately effects of these chemicals, there is a great deal of waste created. The effect of this is two-fold. The chemicals that are being burned are often useful solvents that could be put to good use in a processing plant in other locations. The creation of theses chemicals is dangerous and uses valuable natural resources. This is one of many examples of how both the environment, and working conditions could be improved with new technologies. Although it will not be easy to create the necessary devices, it is entirely feasible to think that this and other revolutionary devices can, and will be developed and implemented in the future. To be involved in this process would be a huge accomplishment and a dream come true for me.
The time is right for industry to change its views and begin to incorporate new techniques and technologies. This transition will not be rapid and will require the hard work of many. But it can be done, it will be done, and it needs to be done. It is a necessary and logical next step for industry. Being involved in this evolution has been a dream of mine since I was a young boy. And now is the time.
