You as 2T9s are the next generation of U of T engineers. Throughout your time studying here, you’ll have a chance to participate in and learn more about the rich Skule history and traditions. You’ll also create your own traditions, community, and experience and put your own spin on what it means to be a U of T engineer. Are you ready to make your mark on over 150 years of engineering legacies?
The Start of U of T Engineering
Founded in 1873 as the School of Practical Science (SPS) —later renamed Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering (a.k.a U of T Engineering)—our Faculty has grown and evolved to become the vibrant, diverse, and innovative place that we now know today. The SPS. was created to serve the needs of the growing economy and rise of technology at the time. Initially, the subjects spanned mining, mechanics, and manufacturing. Below is a timeline of the evolution of U of T Engineering:
1873-1890
The first five Departments to in the SPS. were Civil, Mechanical, Architecture, Applied Chemistry and Mining Geology.
1913
The Department of Electrical Engineering became independent.
1925
The first Iron Ring Ceremony is conducted. The idea was proposed by University of Toronto Professor H.E.T. Haultain. Learn more about the ceremony here.
1927
Elsie “Queen of the Hurricanes” MacGill graduates as the first woman electrical engineer in Canada.
1934
The Engineering Science program was founded as “Engineering Physics.” The program’s name was changed to Engineering Science (EngSci) in 1962.
1949
The University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS) opened for graduate studies in aeronautical and space sciences.
1962
The Institute of Biomedical Electronics (now known as the Institute of Biomedical Engineering) was established for graduate studies.
1979
The Professional Experience Year (PEY) Co-op Program is created.
This is just a brief overview of the history of U of T Engineering. Today, the engineering disciplines are split into the Core 8 Programs and Engineering Science. To learn more about the history of U of T Engineering in general the U of T library has created a detailed exhibit that covers Engineering student life from 1878-1906. In addition, check out the Faculty’s official history page.
Important Traditions
The Faculty of Engineering & Applied Sciences has always valued a tight-knit community with strong traditions, many of which have survived from the very beginning of the Faculty while some new ones have been created along the way.
Over the years many students have helped document the SkuleTM community’s rich history and traditions. We can’t mention them all, but here are some notable ones:
F!rosh Week
Just before the start of class each September, the Engineering Society hosts F!rosh Week, a weeklong series of events to introduce students to campus, welcome them to the community, and have some fun! Events include U of T Engineering traditions such as purple dye, the Hard Hat Oath, and much more.
To read more about F!rosh Week and keep up to date on registration and events check out their Instagram page @froshweek, and register for the event.
Godiva Week
Godiva Week kicks off the winter semester each year; the Blue & Gold committee organizes a week of charity events, competitions, and fun traditions. These primarily focus on deciding the Spirit Heads for the next year. These Spirit Heads include Mr. Blue and Gold, Lady Godiva, and Ultimate Frosh, all of whom you’ll get to meet this year at F!rosh Week. You’ll also see the infamous chariot race!
Iron Ring
At the end of your journey to becoming an engineer you’ll get to celebrate your hard work and receive a symbol of the responsibilities and obligations of your profession through the Iron Ring Ceremony. It’s during this ceremony that you’ll be presented with a small, faceted iron ring which you can wear on the pinky finger of your drafting hand. The scrape and sound of the ring dragging when you’re writing and drafting is there as a symbolic reminder of the importance and responsibilities of being an engineer. As you continue to work over your career your ring will become worn down and polished to mirror the honing and perfection of your skills.
Toike Oike
Voted as the #1 Engineering Newspaper on campus, the Toike Oike is “The University of Toronto’s Humour Newspaper Since 1911.” Its name comes from the early days of the Faculty, when a caretaker would ask students working in labs till later hours to “take a hike”. However, due to his Irish accent, the phrase was heard as “toy-kee-oyk.”
Each monthly issue has its own theme, and everyone can participate in brainstorming meetings and submit their articles and graphics. You can also help with “Distros,” or distributing the newspapers. Do you know there’s a Toike wagon just for that? You might even be promoted to senior wagon engineer!
Ye Olde Mighty Skule™ Cannon and Cannon Guard
U of T Engineering’s mascot is a cannon! It’s fired (without actual cannonballs, but with the loud bang) at events such as F!rosh Week, Godiva Week, and other major internal and external events. The Cannon is protected and fired by the Chief Attiliator (whose identity remains a secret) and the rest of the Cannon Guard. It’s been the subject of various (attempted and successful) heists by other universities over the years. You’ll get multiple chances to see (and hear!) the Cannon throughout your time at U of T.
Lady Godiva Memorial Bnad
Created back in 1950, the Lady Godiva Memorial Bnad (intentional misspelling) is a band comprised of engineering students who love to make noise with anything from buckets to drums, to trombones and even stop signs. They’re characterized by their blue jerseys, hats, and of course, their instruments and noise. They perform (crash) at various SkuleTM events throughout the year and have even made appearances at public events!
If you want to join the Bnad, follow along with their music, or just learn more about this beloved group, check out their website.
