McMaster University & Mohawk College

About
McMaster University is teaming up with Mohawk Community College – both are located in Hamilton, Canada – for the three-year Battery Workforce Challenge collegiate competition. Together, they are dedicated to advancing battery technology and workforce readiness through hands-on learning and collaboration.
Mission
The McMaster University & Mohawk College Battery Workforce Challenge team is committed to shaping a skilled and workforce for the battery industry. Our mission is to foster learning, ignite passion and bridge the gap in battery technology careers, empowering individuals and advancing the energy revolution.
Goals
The McMaster University & Mohawk College's BattChallenge team goals for year two of the competition are as follows:
- Strengthen technical expertise in battery systems: We aim to advance our technical capabilities in battery system design and optimization. This will involve dedicated training sessions on battery chemistry, thermal management and energy efficiency for our team members. We plan to ensure that at least 80 percent of the team attains intermediate to advanced technical competencies by the year's end, measured through certification programs.
- Expand industry and community engagement: Our team is committed to building strong connections with industry experts, sponsors and community partners. We will focus on establishing partnerships with at least three new industry partners and participating in community outreach events to promote career pathways in battery technology.
Team Members

Mahir Abdul Nasar
Vehicle Systems Integration Lead
McMaster University

Ryan Ahmed
Faculty Advisor
Argonne National Labratory

Mariano Arriaga
Vocational Faculty Advisor
Mohawk College

Saeid Habibi
Lead Faculty Advisor
McMaster University

Lewis Gross
Engineering Manager
Argonne National Labratory

Phillip Kollmeyer
Faculty Advisor
McMaster University

Majlinda Qarri
Vocational Faculty Advisor
Mohawk College

Neil Redmond
BattChallenge Scholar — Vocational Liaison
Mohawk College

Romulo Vieira
Project Manager
McMaster University

Kavish Wadehra
Battery Pack Hardware Lead
McMaster University

Primo Wang
Battery Pack Software Lead
McMaster University
Get Involved
General Information: Interested in designing and building a fast-charging battery pack for Stellantis’ Ram ProMaster EV? How about building connections with international industry leaders in electrification and transportation? We are looking for students like you to join our team!
Team Meetings: Each week, we meet online via teams and once a month we hold a team meeting at McMaster University’s Automotive Resource Centre, Room 269. Email battchlg@mcmaster.ca for more information about accessing these meetings.
Recruitment Process: Our recruitment process occurs three times a year: fall, winter and spring. This involves an interview with our team’s project manager and mentors as well as a review of your CV. Interested in joining our team? Email battchlg@mcmaster.ca for more information.