As summer started to wind down, many businesses enjoyed some well-deserved downtime. While the pace may have eased a bit, our region kept its foot on the gas.
From business expansions to research breakthroughs and cultural events, August showed that even in a relaxed month, Waterloo’s growth and community spirit stay strong.
Here’s a look at the top stories from August 2024:
Golden Windows announces $30M expansion
Golden Windows, a leading window and door manufacturer, announced a $30M expansion of its Kitchener facility this past month. The investment, supported by $4.5M from the Ontario government, will increase manufacturing capacity, introduce new product lines and create 50 new jobs.
Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga, noted the significance of this expansion, saying: “This funding will help expand Golden Windows’ capabilities, create more local jobs and launch them into the commercial and high-rise markets. As a result, more people and areas, including Toronto, will become acquainted with a product and company that exemplify the quality our region can produce.”
Local expert honoured with prestigious award
This August, Dr. Linda Nazar, a chemistry professor and Canada Research Chair from the University of Waterloo, was awarded the Royal Society U.K.’s prestigious Hughes Medal. This recognition, rarely given to individuals outside the UK, honours Dr. Nazar’s groundbreaking work in electrochemical energy storage, including advancements in lithium-sulfur batteries and high-capacity cathode materials.
Earlier this year, Dr. Nazar also co-led the launch of the Ontario Battery and Electrochemistry Research Centre (OBEC) at the University of Waterloo, which is dedicated to advancing next-generation electric vehicle (EV) battery development with a focus on sustainability, cost-efficiency, safety and longevity.
Canada’s role in quantum technology
In August, Paul Smith from the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics published an article via Innovation News Network, highlighting Canada’s role in the quantum technology revolution. With the United Nations declaring 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, Smith emphasized how quantum advancements will transform industries globally, with many being led out of Waterloo.
Although Canada has made strides, including investing over $1B in quantum research and launching a National Quantum Strategy in 2023, Smith stresses that continued commitment and investment are essential to securing the country’s place in the quantum future.
Waterloo team wins space award
August brought even more recognition for the University of Waterloo as one of its engineering teams earned the overall excellence award at the Canadian Reduced Gravity Experiment Design Challenge (CAN-GRX). The Space Soldering Team, led by Devshi Perera and Megan Chang, developed a groundbreaking method for performing electrical repairs in zero gravity using a centrifuge to simulate gravity.
Their solution, which results in stronger, more reliable solder joints, tackles a key challenge for long-term space missions. It’s yet another example of the University of Waterloo’s leadership in space technology and its role in nurturing the next generation of aerospace talent.
Region welcomes Caribana Ignite
In a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, downtown Kitchener hosted its first-ever Caribana Ignite festival in August, marking the event’s debut outside Toronto.
The festival transformed the city with colourful costumes, pulsating music and flavourful Caribbean cuisine, drawing hundreds of residents and visitors. The highlight was a grand parade down King Street, featuring elaborate costumes and steel drums.
Organizers and attendees are hopeful that Caribana Ignite will become an annual tradition in Kitchener. “Why stop at one? Let’s go for many years to come,” said Daren James, a committee member.
Recharge in Waterloo
As we look back on what’s usually a quiet month, it’s clear that even in times of rest and relaxation, Waterloo remains a hub of activity and innovation. The latest developments are proof that progress doesn’t pause here. With the groundwork laid during a productive summer, we’re excited to see what the rest of 2024 has in store.
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