"As engineers, we have the power to innovate and contribute to society, making a difference in people's lives through our service."
Roger Luo
- Degree: Bachelor of Applied Science
- Grad year: 2018
- Program:
- Campus: Vancouver
Job title as of 2023: ADAS Software Engineer, General Motors
Why did you want to study engineering?
I was always interested in automotives and electronics. Pursuing engineering was an opportunity for me to look under the hood, learn more about technology and solve problems. I was also interested in engineering because I've always been intrigued by the process of turning an idea into a product.
Why did you choose Electrical Engineering?
In my first year, I debated between electrical, mechanical, civil and computer engineering. One of the main reasons I chose electrical engineering was that my grandfather was an electrical engineer. He was actually one of the principal engineers in China who made significant contributions in the area of rural electrification. I was inspired by the impact my grandpa and his team had by bringing electricity to rural areas: it dramatically improved the quality of life for children, for example, who then had light to study by.
What were some highlights of your undergraduate experience?
One of the major highlights of my journey was my one-year internship with Autoliv Electronics (currently known as Veoneer) in Yokohama, Japan, made possible through the Canada-Japan Co-op Program. As a sensor engineering intern, I worked in the area of active safety and driver's assistance for automotives. My team's primary responsibility was testing and validating the sensors integrated into radars and cameras on cars.
This hands-on experience not only fueled my passion for the automotive industry but also provided me with a unique opportunity to immerse myself in Japanese culture.
Along the way, I gained deeper insights into various areas of interest, including advanced technologies, public transportation and industrial design.
Another highlight of my university experience was my involvement in the community through extracurricular activities, particularly Zen at UBC. This small, dedicated group engaged in Zen meditation twice a week, offering me a profound sense of clarity and tranquility. It became an invaluable practice that helped me cope with the pressures of campus life and fostered a stronger connection with the community and the world around me.
VeoneerCanada-Japan Co-op ProgramZen
Did you develop new ways of looking at the world as an engineering student?
One thing I've learned throughout this entire journey is the importance of openness to diversity.
UBC Engineering has a very diverse student body. It helped me appreciate the differences people have and, at the same time, it has also helped me focus on our common goal as engineers: to make other people's lives better. By recognizing different talents from different people, we can come up with more holistic, inclusive and impactful solutions. Working as individuals enables us to solve small problems. If we want to work on more large-scale, complex projects, we need to work together as a team.
What are the highlights of your job?
I am passionate about the automotive industry, and my work at GM allows me to seamlessly blend my passion, interests and skills, bringing unique value to the organization.
One of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing the impact of my contributions on the overall quality of our software, which is destined for a diverse portfolio of vehicles. A project I worked on is called Super Cruise – the world's first true hands-free driver assistance system for the freeway.
Beyond the work itself, the people on my team contribute to an incredible working environment.
This environment fosters continuous learning, empowering me to acquire new skills and take on meaningful projects. Moreover, it nurtures a healthy and harmonious community where we support one another's personal growth, making each of us a better person.
Working at GM has been a fulfilling journey, where I get to channel my enthusiasm for the automotive industry into valuable contributions and experience the positive influence of a supportive team.
