Friends of Engineering
A supportive network connecting students with industry
Fueled by a passion for innovation and student success, the Friends of Engineering (FOE) brings together some of Manitoba’s top employers and engineers from across the profession to empower the next generation of engineers. Since its establishment in 2008, FOE has built a strong partnership with the Price Faculty of Engineering at the University of Manitoba (UM). They help ensure that students receive an education that is not only cutting edge, but also collaborative, hands-on and aligned with real-world demands. FOE plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in empowering future engineers through mentorship, funding and networking opportunities that help new graduates transition confidently into their careers.
FOE’s work is guided by three core pillars: enhancing communication and networking within Manitoba’s engineering community to retain local talent; aligning academic learning with industry expectations to ensure students are job-ready; and enriching the student experience by assisting student-led design teams. This structure guides FOE’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between what students learn at school and what they’ll need to succeed in the real world.
At the forefront of these initiatives is the Board of Directors, a group of professionals from across Manitoba’s engineering and construction sectors. Together, they bring a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds and areas of expertise — reflecting the diversity of the engineering community they support. Leading the board in 2025 is Katie Moist, a Project Manager and Estimator at Bockstael Construction. Katie brings years of experience and a strong commitment to student engagement, having first founded Young Friends of Engineering (YFOE) in 2019. She emphasizes, “we need to ensure that we retain exceptional engineering talent in Manitoba so that we can continue to be leaders and develop our community to the best of our ability.” Under her leadership, the organization continues to increase its presence throughout Manitoba.
Working alongside Katie is Adam Kriegl, an EIT at Crosier Kilgour and the current Chair of YFOE. He leads Young Friends with a focus on enhancing student engagement and expanding opportunities for mentorship and connection. While FOE is made up of established professionals from across engineering fields, YFOE is a supporting branch made up of early-career engineers and recent graduates who are closer in experience to today’s students. This structure allows YFOE to offer relatable guidance and act as a bridge between students and the broader FOE network. As Adam puts it, “YFOE provides a stepping stone from student life to many titans of industry.” Adam, who once benefited from FOE-funded initiatives himself, was inspired to give back. Now in 2025, he continues to mentor aspiring engineers as they build confidence, form meaningful connections and prepare to launch their careers
With a shared vision, Katie, Adam, and the Board of Directors continue to guide FOE forward. The 2025 Board also includes Graham Fediuk from Price Industries Ltd. as Vice Chair, John Pacak from InnovoXL as Secretary/Treasurer, and Kiera Young from MacDon Industries Ltd. as Past Chair. A full list of Directors at Large can be found on the FOE website.
Having a group like FOE makes a real difference. By helping today’s students gain practical experience and a clearer understanding of the field before graduation, FOE helps ensure that the future of engineering in Manitoba is in capable hands. Being involved in FOE or YFOE is also just as rewarding for its members. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, it is a meaningful way to grow your network, strengthen your leadership skills and connect with emerging talent. Most of all, it is a chance to give back to the same community that helped shape your own journey.