Technology is advancing faster than at any time in human history. AI is transforming industries, quantum computing promises to reshape cybersecurity and national security, and digital technologies are increasingly making decisions that affect every aspect of our lives. Yet the professional regulatory frameworks governing technical expertise in Canada remain largely rooted in legislation and assumptions developed more than a century ago. In this episode, we explore how engineering regulation evolved from the late 19th century to meet the needs of the industrial age—and why those same regulatory models may no longer be sufficient in the era of AI, cyber threats, and emerging technologies. Drawing on decades of experience in engineering, technology, public policy, and professional regulation, our guest discusses why modernizing the oversight of not only engineering, but the broader applied sciences, has become essential to protecting public safety, security, welfare, and Canada’s future competitiveness in an increasingly complex technological world.

Guest Bio

Peter DeVita is a licensed P.Eng and is past president of the Professional Engineers Ontario in 2001. Peter founded his electronics manufacturing company in 1977.  He is currently president of Engineers for the profession. He is a graduate of the University of Toronto holding a BASc & MASc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.  He also holds an MBA from York University with focus on Marketing and Economics.  He has taught courses at Sheridan College, and Centennial Colleges overseeing the development of two-degree courses in software and network technology.

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