Entuitive Co-op Diaries: Harbux Chana

At Entuitive, we believe that meaningful co-op experiences help shape the engineers of tomorrow. Harbux Chana, an Architectural Engineering student from the University of Waterloo, spent his co-op term with our Healthcare and Institutional team. From designing structural systems to visiting construction sites, he contributed to large-scale healthcare projects including the QEII Infirmary Expansion and Toronto's Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), gaining hands-on insight into the full structural design process.   I am currently a fourth-year Architectural Engineering student at the University of Waterloo. Before joining Entuitive, I completed four co-op placements, each offering unique experiences and learning opportunities. However, this has been my first co-op focused on structural engineering.   

I was drawn to Entuitive because of the firm’s strong reputation for innovative and creative problem-solving. From day one, I felt welcomed and supported. Despite the usual first-day jitters, the transition was smooth as it was the first day for everyone in Entuitive’s new Toronto office, so it was nice to know that I wasn’t the only one in a new environment. It was nice meeting the Healthcare and Institutional team as they were very welcoming and excited to have me on the team.  

Throughout my time at Entuitive, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in a variety of tasks that have deepened my understanding of structural engineering. My daily responsibilities included designing steel roof structures, reinforced concrete beams, and two-way concrete slabs for healthcare and institutional projects.

The exterior of CAMH, rendering courtesy of Diamond Schmitt Architects

  I also gained valuable on-site experience through construction site visits, reviewing shop drawings, and analyzing construction documents. These experiences showed me the full structural design cycle, developing a comprehensive understanding of construction methodologies and design considerations for structures. As a member of the Healthcare and Institution Structural team, I contributed primarily to the QEII Infirmary Expansion in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the CAMH Buildings H and G1A Projects here in Toronto. Both largescale healthcare structures have provided me with invaluable experience in handling complex and detailed projects. Both healthcare structures exposed me to complex, detail-oriented work that challenged me to apply my knowledge creatively while learning from the multifaceted nature of healthcare structural design. 

Courtyard terrace, rendering courtesy of Diamond Schmitt Architects

This co-op placement has been a significant learning experience. I’ve gained structural knowledge that will benefit me both academically and professionally. I’ve developed critical thinking skills and learned to be resourceful when addressing complex engineering problems. The hands-on experience, combined with the mentorship I received, has given me practical insights and a stronger foundation in structural engineering principles. 

 For future co-op students, my advice is to come in with a willingness to learn. There is a lot to gain from the intelligent and experienced team at Entuitive, so be prepared to absorb as much knowledge as possible. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude and being open to meeting new people will help you embrace the diverse culture in the office and make the most of your co-op experience.  

Finally, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the entire Healthcare and Institution team at Entuitive. Every team member took the time out of their day to answer my questions and guide me through new concepts. Their support played a key role in my professional growth throughout this placement.