HFIG shares this honour with 13 student chapters recognized at the gold level including, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Virginia Tech. HFIG is the only Canadian chapter to be recognized by the Society this year. In 2012, HFIG received a bronze level award.

Human factors – or ergonomics – is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system. The research area applies theory, principles, data and other methods to optimize human well-being and overall system performances.

The HFES’ mission is to promote the discovery and exchange of knowledge concerning human characteristics that are applicable to the design of systems and devices of all kinds.

HFIG is recognized as a HFES student chapter at U of T.

Of the group’s major accomplishments over the past year, HFIG hosted the Inter-University Workshop between U of T, the University of Buffalo, and the University of Waterloo. The annual event is an example of the ongoing collaboration between the three institutions.

“This year’s dedicated executive committee worked hard to organize insightful guest lectures, information sessions, mentorship events and fun social gatherings, so the U of T community can have a great time learning about the exciting world of Human Factors,” said David Canella (MASc IndE 1T3), co-president of the U of T HFIG chapter.

“I am delighted the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society has selected the MIE Human Factors Interest Group as a gold level student chapter,” said Professor Jean Zu, Chair of the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering. “We take pride in our active graduate student associations for their contributions to research, and to student life. I congratulate their executive committee and faculty advisor, Professor Paul Milgram, for this highly-deserving honour.”

HFIG was recognized October 1 during the Society’s student reception in San Diego, CA.