Toronto, ON—Hatch young professionals Ge Sa and Nishit Patel will be recognized with Emerging Professional awards during the annual IMPC and COM 2016 conferences this upcoming September 11–15 in Québec City, Canada. Only two Emerging Professional awards are given by the Metallurgical Society (MetSoc) of CIM annually.

“I believe the energy, agility, and creativity of our young professionals are the future of our business,” John Pearson, Hatch’s global managing director of energy said. “Moments like this make me extremely proud of the skills and talents of our young professionals. Congratulations Ge Sa and Nishit.”

Ge and Nishit are being recognized for demonstrating initiative and leadership in the Canadian metallurgy or materials sector, their commitment to personal and professional growth, and for their involvement in the community.

“My career revolves around my passion,” comments Ge, who is being recognized with the Emerging Professional Award in the light metals category. “It’s more than just work—it’s a personal thing.” Ge recently completed his PhD and has been a member of MetSoc since 2009.

Nishit, a member of MetSoc now for just less than one year, was encouraged to join by his co-winner and friend. “There are always exciting things that you can do. It’s fun to give back,” Nishit adds. “At schools, we really enjoy guest lecturing and running workshops. I want to teach students what I wish I had a chance to know when entering the field.” Nishit will be recognized with the Emerging Professional Award in the pyrometallurgy category.

The two young professionals began working together in Hatch’s iron and steel group. “We’re peer mentors to each other,” Nishit explains. “We’ve really learned from one another, and want to share our experiences with others.”

“Looking back,” Ge reflects, “if I had to change anything, I’d do everything I’ve done but earlier. You feel there are barriers as a young professional, but in reality, most of those are in your head.”

Ge will present as part of the technical program during IMPC and COM 2016, alongside eleven other Hatch experts. Hatch is a proud sponsor of the proceedings for the IMPC and COM 2016 program.