Meet the Experts

Aaron leads SvN's Regenerative Practice, integrating architecture with natural systems to create zero-carbon, resilient communities. With over 20 years of experience, he unites architects, planners, and designers in climate-positive solutions. His work spans the Ontario Line transit-oriented communities, Keeseekoose First Nation Master Plan, Salinas Bahamas Nature Reserve, Mimico Master Plan, and net-zero carbon projects in Toronto. Aaron’s expertise bridges design, environmental analysis, and technical knowledge. His career includes international experience in Ghana, Indonesia, the Philippines, France, New York, and London, making him a leader in sustainable, forward-thinking design.

Simplify Energy is your partner in bespoke energy efficiency and sustainability solutions. At Simplify Energy, we are dedicated to transforming the way energy consulting is approached. Unlike standardized processes that often overlook client-specific needs, we believe in a tailored approach that ensures every project delivers optimal outcomes aligned with your unique goals.

Through our Think and Act Globally strategy, sustainability and resiliency have remained paramount in our business, forming the core of our strategy. Reflecting this commitment, we developed our Sustainable Legacies strategy to ensure we take action across our organization. Over the past year, we’ve made significant progress, placing us at the forefront of sustainable practices. This has not only extended our competitive advantage as industry leaders but also enabled us to lead more comprehensively, delivering for both clients and the communities we serve. Ultimately, our aim is to create a lasting impact on the planet for future generations.

Emre Karataş, Ph.D., P.Eng., is an Associate Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Toronto Metropolitan University. His research focuses on combustion, soot formation, and propulsion systems, with applications in aerospace and energy sectors. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects in aerospace engineering and environmental science. Dr. Karataş is also an Affiliate Scientist at St. Michael’s Hospital and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto. He has received multiple research grants and awards, contributing significantly to the advancement of combustion science and clean energy solutions.

Angie (she/her) is an advocate for environmental sustainability through the practical application of energy conservation. Through her work, she expertly blends technical expertise with community engagement, contributing to both the adoption of sustainable practices and advancement of environmental literacy. A mechanical engineer by trade, Angie conducts energy audits and educates building operators, non-profit organizations, teachers and students about reducing energy consumption and waste, aligning her professional background with her passion for environmental stewardship.
The University of Saskatchewan honoured Angie in 2017 by recognizing her as one of ten Canada 150 Citizens for her dedication to environmental work and for being a female role model in the traditionally male-dominated engineering profession. Angie was also recognized for both her professional and volunteer work in the environmental field with a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal in 2023.

Associated Engineering (Associated) is a 100% employee-owned, Canadian consulting engineering company with a history dating back over 75 years. One of Canada’s most comprehensive consulting engineering companies, Associated has long provided advisory, design and construction services in water resources, water, wastewater, solid waste, transportation, buildings, environmental and site engineering. Our full-service project team comprises multi-disciplinary in-house specialists, engineers, technologists, scientists, and planners with a unique strategic advisory services team focused on asset management, climate action, digitalization, and community resilience. Our head office is in Edmonton, AB with over 1100 staff in 21 offices across Canada.

Bluedot is an environmental consulting firm specializing in marine permitting, impact assessment, habitat offsetting, and nature-based solutions. We help clients navigate complex regulatory approvals under federal legislation, including the Fisheries Act, Species at Risk Act, and Canadian Navigable Waters Act. With experience across British Columbia, Atlantic Canada, and the Canadian Arctic, we develop practical solutions to address coastal erosion, restore habitats, and enhance marine infrastructure resilience to climate change. Our approach integrates science, strategy, and Indigenous Knowledge, ensuring meaningful collaboration with First Nations and balanced project outcomes. As professional biologists, we see beyond the science, considering perspectives, context, and project complexities to provide clear, strategic advice.

Bruce has been passionate about delivering green solutions for years. Deep green projects include the Nk Mip Desert Cultural Centre, Osoyoos, BC (first large scale use of Rammed Earth in North America), UBC Student Nest (first LEED Platinum Student Union Building in North America) and the Schoolhouse, Vancouver, BC (first Builtgreen Platinum project in BC), and the Calvin Kruk Centre for the Arts (LEED Gold) in Dawson Creek. He loves working with small and / or indigenous communities to find pragmatic solutions. He believes this process should be fun, inspirational, and should result in buildings and / or visible change. Reports on a shelf are not my passion!