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
Mechanical
The Mechanical division consists of 5 dedicated students responsible for designing the braking, steering and mounting systems as well as innovating an aerodynamic roll cage to get us down the hill quickly and safely. This is a degree project at Lakehead University
Civil
The civil division consists of six dedicated students responsible for designing the concrete mix and ski profile that makeup the toboggan's sliding surface as well as for designing for the structural integrity and reliability of the toboggan. This is a degree project at Lakehead University
Spirit
The spirit division takes charge in organizing team activities, running the teams social media, coordinating technical displays, and ensuring the positive team energy and environment never stops. They bring team spirit to all events while maintaining the team's theme in everything we produce.
Coordinators
Our coordinators are responsible for reviewing design and safety features and providing feedback. This is a pathway to pursuing GNCTR as a degree project in the future, as well as an opportunity to gain valuable design experience.
Operations & Finance
Our operations & finance division handles project mananagement, ensuring deadlines are met and everything runs smoothly. They keep the team budget on track, organize fundraisers, and maintain relationship with sponsors.
Fabrication
Our Fabrication division is responsible for planning and preparing for taking designs from highly developed concepts to reality. They work together to use safe practices for construction and create a hands on manufacturing experience for everyone.
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
Past Sponsors
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.
