In UBC Okanagan’s Integrated Optics Lab, Jonathan Holzman leads a team of students that is employing the speed of light to solve real electrical engineering issues. Besides having a wealth of knowledge about high-speed optical communication systems, Jonathan is regarded by his students and peers for his remarkable excellence in teaching.
In 2018/19, he was one of the recipients of the prestigious Killam Teaching Prize, which recognizes faculty nominated by students, colleagues and alumni.
“When I teach I always try to put it in the context of how students are going to use it. When you do that, you see all those attentive eyeballs pointed at you at the front of the class,” says Jonathan. “We are pushing the envelope of modern technology and, as part of our role as an educational institution, we’re bringing students along in the process.”
As one of the first faculty members in the School of Engineering at UBCO and a program coordinator, Jonathan worked with the industry to better integrate their needs into the curriculum.
His example – and of the other winners of the Killam Teaching Prize – showcases how leaders at the university are inspiring our community; a value captured by Catalyst #4 of the Focus on People 2025 framework. With collaboration, inclusion and innovation, they’re putting in practice some of the ambitions identified in UBC’s strategic plan, such as engaging a diverse community and translating knowledge into practices.
Learn more about how Jonathan is embedding teaching excellence into his activities by reading his story published on UBC Okanagan’s website.