Great Concordian: Duncan Cree, trailblazing engineer

When Duncan Cree, BEng 99, MEng 03, PhD 09, was growing up in the Mohawk community of Kanesatake, Quebec — 50 kilometres west of Concordia’s downtown campus — his childhood was shaped by hands-on learning.

Under his father’s watchful gaze, Duncan found himself immersed in tasks like chopping wood and assisting with roof repairs. These early experiences ignited a curiosity about how things are designed and made that helped pave the way for an interest in engineering.

Cree has since gone on to make significant contributions to academia, research and engineering practices.

An associate professor at McMaster University, Cree’s research interests lie in materials science, focusing on understanding the mechanical behaviour of engineering materials.

Much of his work has focused on making chemicals work better with fibres and fire-resistant materials in plastics to improve adhesion and performance under stress. This has included adding certain fibres to concrete to prevent cracking, and studying how concrete made with recycled materials from demolished buildings holds up under elevated fire conditions.

“I’m currently exploring the potential of eggshell waste as a renewable resource and replacement for quarried limestone,” says Cree. “By extracting pure calcium carbonate from eggshells, we aim to replace traditional fillers in polymers. This can lead to eco-friendly alternatives for products like park benches and deck chairs.

“We’re also using enzymes to harvest the collagen from the eggshell membranes, which underscores the potential of what we generally regard as a waste product as a source of two valuable materials.”

Among his many honours, Cree has been named the recipient of the 2011 National Aboriginal Achievement Award in the category of Technology and Trades and, in 2014, the Dreamcatcher Award for Education from the Dreamcatcher Charitable Foundation.

As the first Indigenous person to complete a PhD in mechanical engineering in Canada — an achievement he takes enormous pride in — Cree is passionate about advancing Indigenous representation in STEM across the country. With this mind, he generously offers guidance as a mentor and participates as a judge in the Quebec Aboriginal Science and Engineering Association’s annual science fair for secondary-school students.

“I’m proud to be a role model for the next generation of Indigenous engineers,” he says.

When you reflect on your time as a Concordia student, what stands out?

Duncan Cree: The fast-paced semesters filled with rigorous coursework are what stand out! But also the lifelong friendships with people from different backgrounds.

I loved the multicultural environment of Concordia. I spent a lot of long hours on campus studying with my classmates. It was a lot of hard work, but it paid off.

What are some of the factors that have enabled your success?

DC: I had a lot of ambition and drive. I also had the encouragement and support of mentors and professors who provided valuable guidance throughout my academic journey. For example, as a doctoral student I was given the opportunity to teach a graduate class. That sparked a passion that helped shape my career path as a university professor.

What advice do you have for students who may want to follow in your footsteps?

DC: I would encourage students, and especially Indigenous students, to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Passion and perseverance are so important in the face of challenges. Maintain a strong work ethic and stay focused on your long-term goals.

How does it feel to be a Great Concordian?

DC: I feel deeply honoured and grateful to be recognized as a Great Concordian. My success is indebted to the strong educational foundation provided by my alma mater. To be able to represent Concordia fills me with pride, and being included in this esteemed group is a testament to the university’s profound impact on my life and career.