March is National Engineering Month

National Engineering Month is an annual celebration highlighting the passion, dedication, and essential contributions of engineers in building a world that continuously adapts to today's realities.

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone in the history of this profession: the 100th anniversary of the Obligation of the Engineer, a ceremony where engineering graduates receive an iron ring symbolizing their commitment to serving the public with integrity and ethics.

This March 2025, two engineers from the Technical Services Department invite us into their world: Giuseppe Margiotta, from the Project Planning and Management team, and Céline Primeau, from the Facilities Management team. In their own way, they help shine a light on their profession.

Giuseppe Margiotta: Supervisor and Project Coordinator

Building consultant, Giuseppe Margiotta plays a key role primarily in hospital infrastructure projects. He commissions and evaluates studies according to the needs of the various departments. Once approved, these studies make it possible to move forward with the suppliers from the list of authorized companies, who will then be able to successfully complete the projects.

Giuseppe, who holds a degree in civil engineering, joined the MUHC in 2019. His training and extensive experience enable him to refine his understanding of users' needs and accurately assess the solutions proposed by engineering firms. He also acts as a mediator with internal and external stakeholders, explaining the technical challenges encountered during the various stages of project development.

His approach is based on strict adherence to Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) standards and regulations. He bears a major responsibility in terms of managing public funds and ensuring accountability.

“As engineers, we must respect a code of ethics,” he explains. “If a mandate is technically unfeasible, it is my duty to point this out and propose alternative solutions. In all cases, I must always report a risk.” 

Céline Primeau: A vital anchor on the ground

As a member of the Facilities Management team, Céline Primeau is truly a hands-on professional. A building consultant, she serves as the bridge between the project team, which includes Giuseppe, and the contractors working on-site. Primarily based at the Montreal General Hospital, she oversees the coordination of the work.

When a new vacuum pump is installed, for example, she supervises the work alongside plumbers. She also ensures that a service contract is in place for maintenance, that spare parts are available, and that staff receive the necessary training.

Managing several projects simultaneously – energy saving, plumbing, heating – she often faces challenges related to aging infrastructure. “The MGH is an older building. It is sometimes difficult to integrate modern equipment, especially when the exact plans are not available. We often make unexpected discoveries when something breaks, like last year, when a burst pipe seriously disrupted the hospital's operations,” she says. 

She recalls spending an entire night on-site coordinating with plumbing teams. “It definitely broke the routine and strengthened our team spirit!”she says with a laugh.

With a degree in mechanical engineering, Céline spent nearly 15 years in the aircraft engine industry before joining the MUHC. Her expertise gives her strong credibility among professionals working on a variety of projects, from morgue renovations to the construction of a retention basin and energy optimization.

Celebrating Our Engineers!

This National Engineering Month,let’s recognize the work of engineers like Giuseppe and Céline, who contribute every day to the excellence care offered to our patients.