Get to Know F&S: Shaghayegh Oghbaie

At the University of Toronto, we have design standards that ensure our world-class facilities are built and renovated to the highest, safest, and sustainable standards.

Serving as the manager of design standards and project engagement, Shaghayegh Oghbaie’s expertise is foundational in determining the quality of future projects and the overall on-campus experience.

Oghbaie joined F&S in September 2021 and has a background in mechanical engineering. She works with our internal subject matter experts to establish and evolve design standards to facilitate the planning, design and construction of new renovation projects.

Shaghayegh Oghbaie.
Shaghayegh Oghbaie is F&S’s manager of design standards and project engagement (photo by Skyler Huang)

At St. George, we have a goal of transforming the campus to be climate-positive by 2050. Oghbaie’s work is crucial to helping us meet this goal. She helps publish a set of consistent standards that promote innovative eco-friendly design.

“Standards determine the efficiency, reliability and convenience of operations in buildings and grounds,” said Oghbaie.

Our main design standards are electrical, mechanical, fire prevention, building automation systems, commissioning, energy modelling, communication, and landscape. These are crucial to having a flourishing campus. Poor design standards will have a poor outcome on any project.

A substantial portion of her work is collecting feedback from internal and external stakeholders using a standardized style of communication and ensuring they are reflected in the next revisions of the design standard. A continuous improvement effort is key.

“It’s essential to have a standardized communication style so that nothing is assumed,” said Oghbaie.

Her multidisciplinary approach allows her to learn, listen, and innovate with intent. She talks to various experts and gathers their input. This helps her understand the thinking behind old standards and evaluate whether they need updating.

“It’s exciting to follow the life-cycle of all the ongoing transformations and to support our colleagues in achieving the University’s sustainability goal,” said Oghbaie.

She is hard at work preparing the new revision of U of T’s design standards. She plans to update U of T’s design standards on an annual basis.

“I’m privileged to be part of a team that creates an inclusive environment where differences are nurtured and celebrated,” said Oghbaie.

March 23, 2022
Baher Hussein