Championing science and inspiring the next generation

How Aidan Leach is growing science literacy in Renfrew County

When he’s not helping protect the Ottawa River and ensuring the safe use of nuclear energy as part of his work with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), Aidan Leach is busy mentoring the next generation of scientists through his role as Chair and Coordinator of the Renfrew County Regional Science Fair (RCRSF). Since 2015, Aidan has led this volunteer-driven initiative, helping students from grades 5 to 12 discover the excitement and relevance of science.

“When I grew up in rural Upper Ottawa Valley, learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math were limited. Now, I want to make sure students in my home of Renfrew County can learn and spark their curiosity,” says Aidan. “Science fairs can change the trajectory of young students and shape them into our future doctors, scientists, engineers, and maybe even site inspectors.”

Each year, Aidan visits schools from January through March to guide students in preparing their science fair projects and also serves as a judge at up to 10 local fairs. The regional fair is hosted every April in Petawawa and draws 70 to 100 participants from across Eastern Ontario, with planning and outreach happening year-round.

With interactive activities and feedback from expert judges, the event is designed to build confidence, not just competition. One of those expert judges is Ruxandra Dranga, a Technical Specialist at the CNSC and head judge of the RCRSF. Ruxandra, who is also Aidan’s spouse, shares his passion for science and education.

Jessica Yemen, born and raised in Petawawa, participated in her first RCRSF as a student in 2015 and attended the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) in 2016, both under Aidan’s guidance. “It was life-changing,” says Jessica. “I attended the regional fair every year from Grades 7 to 10, making it to the CWSF 2 more times. Each experience was better than the last.” By Grade 10, her science teacher had deepened her interest in biology, leading her to pursue a biology degree at McMaster University and complete an honours thesis. Jessica will begin medical school at Northern Ontario School of Medicine this fall.

Aidan also mentors the region’s top 4 students who advance to the CWSF. This year’s delegation traveled to Fredericton, New Brunswick, with all costs covered to ensure accessibility. He coaches students on scientific concepts and presentation skills, preparing them for the national stage.

This work is a natural extension of Aidan’s role at the CNSC. “I work to ensure that nuclear activities don’t harm the river or surrounding communities, and I run the science fair to give back and grow the next generation of scientists,” he says.

To find out more about Aidan or other experts at the CNSC please visit CNSC Experts.