Smith Engineering is proud to recognize Dr. Nicolas Hudon as one of three recipients of the 2026 Reimagining Engineering Education Award, alongside the Smith Engineering Leadership in Teaching Award.
The Reimagining Engineering Education Award celebrates faculty who are transforming undergraduate
education through innovative, student-centred approaches. Dr. Hudon will receive funding to support the continued development of his teaching and research initiatives, reflecting the significant impact of his work across the Chemical Engineering program.
A key focus of his innovation has been the redesign of core courses—including CHEE 221 (Chemical Processes and Systems), CHEE 210 (Thermodynamics of Energy Conversion Systems), and CHEE 321 (Chemical Reaction Engineering)—which collectively reach hundreds of students each year. Moving away from traditional example-driven instruction, he introduced a structured three-stage learning progression: modelling, analysis, and design. This approach helps students build a strong foundation in general material and energy balance principles before applying them to complex, real-world problems, resulting in deeper understanding and improved problem-solving confidence.
Dr. Hudon has also played a leadership role in advancing the Reimagining Engineering Education (REE) initiative at Smith Engineering. As a founding member of the department’s REE working group, he helped define key educational priorities such as critical thinking, self-directed learning, systems leadership, and creative design.
His contributions extend to the development of CHEE 372 – Mathematical Modelling Laboratory, a new experiential learning course where students integrate theory with hands-on observation. Through iterative model development, testing assumptions, and reflective practice, students gain a more concrete and applied understanding of complex engineering concepts.
In addition, the Smith Engineering Leadership in Teaching Award recognizes Dr. Hudon’s passion for teaching and the high regard in which he is held by his colleagues.
Selected through a competitive, faculty-driven process, this dual recognition highlights the lasting impact of Dr. Hudon’s work on student learning and curriculum innovation. He will be formally recognized at the Dean’s Showcase of Teaching and Learning on June 2, with his achievements also featured across Queen’s University communications.