Ian graduated from the University of Toronto in 1983 with a B.A.Sc. in Civil Engineering. Beyond the Caribbean, he put academic theory into practice designing concrete and steel elements for steel mills in Ontario, powerhouses in Iran, and hydroelectric structures in India. From there, he moved up the ranks and back to his native Ontario to design a hydroelectric development in Wawa. He also inked shipyard designs in New Brunswick, supervised construction of port facilities in Ontario, designed industrial complexes on the east coast, and rehabilitated aging structures across Canada.

Ian's resumé and photo albums continue to fill up with similar success stories. From technology transfer of hydroelectric principles in Bombay, India to seismic upgrades of intake structures in British Columbia. From highway ramp and bridge design in Ontario, to hydroelectric plant design in Costa Rica and Guatemala. His feasibility studies and dam safety reviews have made an impact around the world.

One of his most memorable professional accomplishments was an innovative fall arrest system for dam owners in 2001. Not only did he identify the need for such a system, but he followed the idea through to completion. It was the first such system in North America. And, apparently, the engineering doesn't necessarily stop when his Acres hat comes off. Another source of pride is certainly his beautiful self-built cottage on Horseshoe Lake in Minden, Ontario.

A thirst for adventure is something Ian quenches at every opportunity. When work takes him to a new project, you can be sure that the hiking boots are safely stowed in his luggage. Whether it's exploring river banks in the Dominican Republic, or tackling windswept peaks in Chile, his passion for the outdoors is endless.

For Ian, the idea of adventure isn't limited to the outdoors. He sees information and learning as adventures in themselves, and managed to squeeze in an MBA this past year. And, as if the days weren't too short already, Ian and wife Barbara are also quite busy raising three more adventuring Ainslies.

There are plenty of ski slopes, soccer trophies and engineering projects to come - because, whether at work or play, uncharted territory is where Ian Ainslie loves to be.

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