Grads to Watch 2026: Forging a path forward in research, academics and athletics

Madushen Paramanathan (Electromechanical Engineering Technology ’26) is a Bruin through and through. He served as a research assistant with Generator at Sheridan’s Centre for Intelligent Manufacturing, and presented his work on integrating AI into the transformer manufacturing industry at the National Showcase of Polytechnics Canada. He was also a clubs coordinator with Sheridan Student Union and a varsity athlete, winning two All Academic Awards for academic and athletic excellence from the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association.  Beyond campus, he volunteered as a mentor with Big Brothers and Sisters.

What are some of the highlights of your time at Sheridan? Is there any one thing you're particularly proud of?

During my time at Sheridan, I was a senior varsity rugby player and a member of the powerlifting team. These two sports were key turning points where I learned about discipline, consistency, and built a sense of confidence in my efforts and passion.

Battling through engineering and part-time work, athletics helped me in my physical and mental well-being and gave me a lot of memories and experiences that I will cherish throughout my life. In my last semester, we won an intercollegiate powerlifting championship.  That was the most perfect ending I could have asked for!

What’s your advice for first-year students?

My advice for first-year students would be to get involved! Sheridan has so much to offer. From volunteering activities and on-campus jobs to varsity and club sports, all of these carry a lot of value and learnings for all students, regardless of their background and skill levels. And the best thing about getting involved is that when you take up one opportunity, many other doors for various other exciting things open. So, get involved to make the best out of your Sheridan life.

“Sheridan follows a student-first policy everywhere. All my managers of on-campus jobs and athletic coaches always helped me prioritize my academics.”

How did you balance all of this alongside your studies?

My main strategy was to know my priorities and manage accordingly. With the workload of an engineering program and rugby, it was really important for me to know when to take a break and when to ask for help. On top of that, Sheridan follows a student-first policy everywhere. All my managers of on-campus jobs and athletic coaches always helped me prioritize my academics, and I made sure all my commitments were met both on and off the field.

What’s next for you?

I am beginning my career as an engineering technologist with a leading engineering consulting company in the field of energy and transmission technologies. I look forward to advancing within the field of mechanical engineering and plan to pursue further education to become a professional engineer, all while staying active, travelling and making memories along the way.