Introducing
Lakehead University's
GNCTR Team 2026
We are a dedicated team of engineering students focused on building a concrete toboggan for the Great Northern Concrete Toboggan Race (GNCTR). Our goal is to apply practical engineering skills while promoting sustainability, innovation, and teamwork!
By working together, we aim to design and build a toboggan that is both functional and environmentally conscious. Our project allows us to gain hands-on experience and develop solutions to engineering challenges in a fun and collaborative way!
What's involved?
Our team is Comprised of 7 different divisions to make this project possible
Spirit Division
At the heart of our team, our spirit students take charge of organizing fundraisers, coordinating technical displays, and ensuring the fun and energy never stop!
Mechanical Division
All toboggans require functional braking and steering systems. These students are responsible for designing and innovating to ensure we can stop and turn safely.
Structural Division
You can’t race a toboggan without a roll cage! These students are the designers and innovators, ensuring we have a strong and reliable superstructure.
Concrete Division
It’s in the name of the competition! These students are responsible for designing the concrete mix and skis that make up our main sliding surface.
Operations & Finance
The true glue of the team, our operations team handles project management, ensuring deadlines are met and everything runs smoothly. Meanwhile, our finance team keeps our budget on track!
Health & Safety
Protecting us at all costs, these students ensure both our team and our toboggan are safe, making sure everyone gets home healthy and our toboggan is race-ready!
Meet the incredible individuals behind our success, each bringing their unique skills and energy to drive us forward!
LILIANN VO
Mechanical Captain
Mechanical Engineering Student, 4th Year
JAKUB CEBULA
Civil Captain
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
ALEXEY BURLAKOV
Mechanical Lead
Mechanical Engineering/MBA student, 5th year
EDWIN GORDENKO-SADEVICH
Fabrication Lead
Mechanical Engineering Student, 4th Year
AHMET URAZ
Structural Lead
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
IYINOLUWA ESTHER AJAYI
Aerodynamics Lead
Mechanical Engineering Student, 4th Year
LANCE MIRON
Structural Drafting Lead
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
TYSON REEVE
Design Lead
Mechanical Engineering Student, 4th Year
TAJMAN MANN
Concrete Mix Design Lead
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
TYSON CHAMBERS
Concrete Geometric Ski Design Lead
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
WEN SHI ZENG
Structural Frame Analysis Lead
Civil Engineering Student, 4th Year
HUNG LAM
Spirit Captain
Mechanical Engineering Student, 4th Year
Project Supervisors
Dr. Ahmed Elshaer, PhD, P.Eng
Civil Project Supervisor
Dr. Kefu Liu, PhD, P.Eng
Mechanical Project Supervisor
Our Team Is Proudly Sponsored By:
2025 GNCTR SUCCESS
Built with Skill. Led with Heart. Recognized for Excellence.
Best New Team
As first-time competitors at GNCTR, we made a powerful debut. Our team was recognized nationally as Best New Team for our strong performance, innovative design, and clear impact showing that even as newcomers, we set the bar high.
Zero Safety Deductions
Our approach to safety was intentional and thorough. We completed GNCTR 2025 with zero safety deductions, showcasing our dedication to risk management, team training, and responsible engineering practices from start to finish.
Most Inclusive Team
Our team culture was built on respect, collaboration, and representation. Being awarded the Most Inclusive Team highlights the welcoming, supportive space we created where every voice mattered and everyone contributed.
