The Engineering Award is presented to an engineer who has achieved distinction in the practice of engineering. The achievement may be a single event or a series of events that set a benchmark for others in the profession. 

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As a researcher, educator, and professional engineer, Dr. Barret Kurylyk, P.Eng., has built an internationally recognized body of work focused on groundwater systems and water resources. His research has advanced understanding of how environmental change affects water systems while helping inform practical solutions for communities, ecosystems, and water resource management. 

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After earning engineering degrees from the University of Prince Edward Island and the University of New Brunswick, Barret completed a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering focused on the impacts of climate change on groundwater systems and groundwater-sourced fish habitat. Following positions in consulting, postdoctoral research, and academia, he joined Dalhousie University in 2017. He is now the Acting Associate Dean of Research for the Faculty of Engineering and a Full Professor in the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering and serves as Canada Research Chair in Coastal Water Resources. 

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Barret's work examines how groundwater systems respond to environmental change, including coastal flooding, saltwater intrusion, permafrost thaw, and climate-related pressures on water resources. Through a combination of modelling, field investigations, and applied engineering research, he has expanded knowledge in areas that are becoming increasingly important to communities across Canada and around the world. His research has improved understanding of risks facing communities and ecosystems while supporting more effective approaches to water management and climate adaptation. 

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Among his most notable achievements is his work on groundwater-fed thermal refuges for Atlantic salmon. Rather than focusing solely on the impacts of warming rivers, Barret helped develop and evaluate approaches that use groundwater to create cooler habitats for fish during periods of environmental stress. The project demonstrated how engineering can support climate adaptation while providing a framework that can be applied in other regions facing similar challenges. 

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A prolific researcher, Barret has authored more than 140 peer-reviewed publications, and his work has been cited thousands of times by researchers around the world. His achievements have been recognized through numerous provincial, national, and international honours, including major awards from the American Geophysical Union, the Canadian Geophysical Union, and the Geological Society of America. 

His work extends beyond research. Barret has served in leadership roles within professional organizations, including as President of the Canadian Geophysical Union's Hydrology Section. Through committee work, editorial responsibilities, conference leadership, and collaboration with researchers and practitioners, he has helped advance hydrogeology and water resources engineering in Canada and internationally. 

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Since arriving at Dalhousie University, Barret has also played an important role in educating future engineers and scientists. He has helped strengthen hydrogeology training in Nova Scotia, creating opportunities for students to gain both classroom knowledge and field experience. His students have gone on to careers with consulting firms, research institutions, and universities across Canada and beyond. 

Barret is also committed to sharing engineering knowledge beyond the university. He has advised community organizations and federal working groups, contributed to discussions on groundwater and coastal issues, and participated in outreach activities with schools, community groups, and governments. Whether discussing saltwater intrusion with policymakers, explaining groundwater challenges to residents, or introducing students to engineering, he has worked to make complex water issues more accessible and relevant to the public. 

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The impact of Barret's work can be seen in the growing understanding of groundwater systems, improved approaches to climate adaptation and water management, and the engineers and researchers he has helped prepare for the future. Through research, education, professional service, and public outreach, he has advanced both the science and practice of water resources engineering. 

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For his distinguished achievements in hydrogeology and water resources engineering, his leadership in advancing climate-resilient solutions, his commitment to mentorship and public outreach, and his contributions to engineering research and practice, Dr. Barret Kurylyk, P.Eng., receives the 2026 Engineering Award.