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RPI Hosts Launch Event for New Center for Smart Convergent Manufacturing Systems
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) officially cut the ribbon on its new Center for Smart Convergent Manufacturing Systems (CSCMS) during an all-day launch event on October 23, 2025. A New York State Center for Advanced Technology, CSCMS will redefine the very nature of manufacturing by combining robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced processing, and human ingenuity to create systems that think, adapt, and evolve alongside human operators. “Today we mark the official opening of a center with a bold vision: a future where manufacturing systems are not simply automated, but truly intelligent,” said RPI President Martin A. Schmidt ’81 during the ribbon cutting. CSCMS will bring a wealth of opportunities not only to RPI, but across New York State. The new center will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, empowering innovators, driving new technologies, and strengthening the competitiveness of manufacturers. At RPI, students will gain hands-on experience in labs, real-world projects, and entrepreneurial pathways. Faculty and industry partners will gain the resources to translate cutting-edge research into commercial solutions. “Through simulation, prototyping, and translational research, our faculty and students will work side by side with industry and government to accelerate the development and deployment of smart manufacturing solutions,” said President Schmidt. “This is the RPI model at its very best: turning ideas into impact.” The launch event for CSCMS took place on RPI’s campus and featured keynote remarks, a ribbon cutting, industry panel, poster sessions, lab tours, and demonstrations of robotic manufacturing, human-machine collaboration, smart manufacturing testbeds, intelligent production systems, and data visualization spaces. Industry panel speakers included executives from FuzeHub, Ross Precision Manufacturing, GE Aerospace Research, and The Boeing Company. Interactive student poster sessions covered topics such as robotics, AI, advanced manufacturing, and New York’s future at the convergence of these topics. “The launch of CSCMS comes at a pivotal time for manufacturing,” said Johnson Samuel, Ph.D., director of CSCMS. “Across industries, we are seeing the convergence of AI, robotics, and data-driven design transforming how products are made. RPI’s long-standing strengths in engineering, computing, and innovation make it the perfect home for this next-generation center.” “The energy and collaboration we saw during this event are a reflection of the momentum behind the entire CSCMS initiative,” said Sandipan Mishra, Ph.D., associate director of CSCMS. “This launch is the start of a sustained effort to shape the future of intelligent manufacturing in New York and beyond.” "It's exciting that as students, we get to work with these cutting-edge technologies up close and be a part of something that’s pushing manufacturing forward,” said RPI graduate student Ammar Barbee ‘25, who recently completed his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at RPI. “Perusing this kind of research and having access to such advanced equipment enables unique experiences that will really help accelerate our careers.” With the launch of CSCMS, RPI continues to advance its legacy of innovation and partnership, bringing together academia, industry, and government to drive progress in intelligent manufacturing and strengthen New York’s position as a hub for technological excellence.
RPI Awarded Air Force Grant to Monitor Growing Traffic Between Earth and Moon
As nations and private companies prepare to ramp up the number of missions to the Moon, researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and Texas A&M University have secured a $1 million grant from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research to develop a system to track and monitor resident space objects — including spacecraft, satellites and debris — moving through the vast cislunar space between the Earth and the Moon. The initiative, called RCAT-CS (Reconfigurable Constellations for Adaptive Tracking in Cislunar Space), will develop intelligent networks of sensor satellites that can be reconfigured to perform resilient tracking of objects as they maneuver through this complex orbital environment. "Right now, we're seeing an explosive growth in cislunar missions, including everything from commercial lunar landers and orbiters to next-generation spacecraft that secure national interests in this contested domain," said engineering professor Sandeep Singh, Ph.D., RPI’s lead investigator on the project. "But our ability to track what's happening out there hasn't kept pace. Ground-based sensor systems have blind spots and cannot reliably provide measurements. A space-based constellation is the answer, but placing spacecraft in orbit is expensive and solving the resource constraint problem is essential." The cislunar region presents unique challenges for space domain awareness applications. Competing gravitational forces from the Earth and the Moon create complex orbital dynamics, while the sheer distances involved make tracking difficult. When spacecraft and satellites perform maneuvers in this space or behave unexpectedly, current systems can lose track of them entirely. RCAT-CS will tackle these problems by designing constellations of space-based sensors that can dynamically reposition themselves based on what they're observing. Professor Singh and his colleagues will develop novel algorithms to detect maneuvers made by tracked objects, balance fuel costs, track performance of the sensing satellites, and quantify the uncertainties underlying it all. The system addresses critical safety and security needs as cislunar space becomes increasingly congested and contested. The research will also advance fundamental knowledge in orbital dynamics and autonomous space systems, with implications for mission planning, collision avoidance, and safe coordination of a growing cislunar economy. Additionally, the project will train the next generation of space engineers in cutting-edge technologies essential for American leadership in space operations. “Congratulations to Professor Sandeep Singh and his team on securing a research grant in the important area of lunar space exploration,” said Shekhar Garde, Ph.D., the Thomas R. Farino Jr. ’67 and Patricia E. Farino Dean of the School of Engineering. “RPI has always been at the frontier of space exploration, from George Low’s work on the Apollo program to the forthcoming Artemis II mission, led by Commander Reid Wiseman ’97.” “Professor Singh’s work will not only advance research, it will strengthen RPI’s recently launched Aerospace Engineering undergraduate program by bringing the latest research into our classrooms,” Garde added. Looking to know more? Shekhar Garde, Ph.D. is available to discuss this topic. Simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
In a major step forward for cancer care, researchers at ChristianaCare’s Gene Editing Institute have shown that disabling the NRF2 gene with CRISPR technology can reverse chemotherapy resistance in lung cancer. The approach restores drug sensitivity and slows tumor growth. The findings were published Nov. 13, 2025 in the online edition of Molecular Therapy Oncology. This breakthrough stems from more than a decade of research by the Gene Editing Institute into the NRF2 gene, a known driver of treatment resistance. The results were consistent across multiple in vitro studies using human lung cancer cell lines and in vivo animal models. “We’ve seen compelling evidence at every stage of research,” said Kelly Banas, Ph.D., lead author of the study and associate director of research at the Gene Editing Institute. “It’s a strong foundation for taking the next step toward clinical trials.” Potential Beyond Lung Cancer The study focused on lung squamous cell carcinoma, an aggressive and common form of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that accounts for 20% to 30% of all lung cancer cases, according to the American Cancer Society. It’s estimated that over 190,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed in 2025. While the research centered on this cancer type, the implications are broader. Overactive NRF2 contributes to chemotherapy resistance in several solid tumors, including liver, esophageal and head and neck cancers. The results suggest a CRISPR-based strategy targeting NRF2 could help resensitize a wide range of treatment-resistant tumors to standard chemotherapy. “This is a significant step toward overcoming one of the biggest challenges in cancer therapy — drug resistance,” Banas said. “By targeting a key transcription factor that drives resistance, we’ve shown that gene editing can re-sensitize tumors to standard treatment. We’re hopeful that in clinical trials and beyond, this is what will allow chemotherapy to improve outcomes for patients and could enable them to remain healthier during the entirety of their treatment regimen.” Targeting a Master Switch for Resistance The research zeroed in on a tumor-specific mutation, R34G, in the NRF2 gene, which acts as a master regulator of cellular stress responses. When overactive, NRF2 helps cancer cells withstand chemotherapy. Using CRISPR/Cas9, the team engineered lung cancer cells with the R34G mutation and successfully knocked out NRF2. This restored sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs such as carboplatin and paclitaxel. In animal models, tumors directly treated with CRISPR to knockout NRF2 grew more slowly and responded better to treatment. “This work brings transformational change to how we think about treating resistant cancers,” said Eric Kmiec, Ph.D., senior author of the study and executive director of the Gene Editing Institute. “Instead of developing entirely new drugs, we are using gene editing to make existing ones effective again.” Editing Reaches Threshold Levels One of the most promising discoveries was that disrupting NRF2 in just 20% to 40% of tumor cells, was enough to improve the response to chemotherapy and shrink tumors. This insight is particularly relevant for clinical use, where editing every cancer cell may not be feasible. To test therapy in mice, the researchers used lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), a non-viral method with high efficiency and low risk of unintended, off-target effects. Sequencing confirmed that the edits were highly specific to the mutated NRF2 gene, with minimal unintended changes elsewhere in the genome. “The power of this CRISPR therapy lies in its precision. It’s like an arrow that hits only the bullseye,” said Banas. “This level of specificity with minimal unanticipated genomic side effects offers real hope for the cancer patients who could one day receive this treatment.”
As sustainability moves from niche topic to boardroom central, companies face an increasingly complex global environment of regulatory divergence, disclosure demands and reputational risk. A recent article by J.S. Held's John Peiserich examines how multinational firms can respond effectively to the “crosscurrents” of ESG compliance, litigation exposure and evolving definitions of corporate responsibility. John Peiserich specializes in environmental risk and compliance. With over 30 years of experience, John provides consulting and expert services for heavy industry and law firms throughout the country with a focus on Oil & Gas, Energy, and Public Utilities, including serving as an expert witness in arbitration proceedings and in state and federal courts. View his profile here Key Insights: Sustainability now touches every major business function — environmental, social, and governance — and must be embedded in strategy rather than treated as an add-on. Regulatory landscapes are diverging: while the U.S. federal approach remains fragmented, individual states like California are moving ahead with mandatory climate and emissions-related corporate disclosures. In contrast, the European Union’s Green Deal and related frameworks promote a more unified regulatory model, creating operational tension for multinational corporations. Litigation and disclosure risk are increasing, with “greenwashing” (overstating sustainability achievements) and “greenhushing” (avoiding or under-reporting ESG performance) emerging as major board-level concerns. Effective risk management now requires scalable data systems, transparent communication, strong governance, and agility to adapt across multiple regulatory regimes. Why this matters: The widening divide between jurisdictions — and intensifying scrutiny of corporate sustainability claims — means ESG compliance can no longer be treated as a checkbox exercise. Organizations that fail to anticipate regulatory expectations or align ESG strategy with business goals risk legal exposure, reputational harm, and missed opportunities for value creation. Strategic Insights for Corporate Leadership on Sustainability Boards and executives must adjust their mindset, seeing sustainability not as a burden but as a catalyst for growth and differentiation. Proactive investment in research, development, and stakeholder engagement will help organizations seize new opportunities and maintain credibility in a fast-changing world. Documentation and transparency are vital defenses against legal challenges, while ongoing monitoring of policy and market trends ensures adaptability. Ultimately, the most successful companies will treat sustainability as an essential tenet of strategy—aligning profit, purpose, and governance to secure their position in the global marketplace. Navigating the crosscurrents of sustainability requires courage, judgment, and a commitment to continuous learning. By embracing these principles, corporations can build a future that is not only profitable but also just, resilient, and worthy of the trust placed in them by shareholders and society alike. Looking to know more or connect with John Peiserich about this important topic? Simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.
Aston University’s approach to a global challenge Across industries, companies face mounting pressure to cut carbon, improve resource efficiency, and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet many firms still struggle to move from vision statements to measurable action. At Aston Business School, Dr Breno Nunes, reader in sustainable operations management, is developing practical frameworks that help organisations embed sustainability at their core. His concept of 'sustainability fitness' captures how firms can build the capabilities they need to adapt, compete, and thrive in the transition to a net zero economy. “Many organisations want to be sustainable but struggle to operationalise what that means. My work is about bridging that gap — helping businesses translate strategies into practice.” — Dr Breno Nunes The sustainability fitness concept involves both meeting human needs and respecting environmental limits. While it can also be applied at the societal and individual level, Dr Nunes focuses on organisations, where capability building delivers the fastest, measurable change. Corporate sustainability fitness examines how a firm is able to survive and meet its own needs, while aligning itself to wider essential needs of society and operating within limits imposed by its surrounding natural environment. From research to real-world action Dr Nunes’ research examines how organisations design, implement, and monitor sustainability strategies across operations, supply chains, facilities, and product development. He is the main author of the book Sustainable Operations Management: Key practices and cases, which applies the issues of sustainability to all strategic decisions of operations. His work is already making a tangible difference, including international partnerships in Brazil, Canada, and the US, bringing cross-cultural insights into organisational transformation, as well as for various companies and organisations. In an Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with automotive supplier Metal Assemblies, Dr Nunes and Professor Alexeis Garcia Perez, professor of digital business and society at Aston University, are working to calculate and report the carbon cost of metal components used in car production, tackling one of the industry’s biggest sustainability challenges. The digitalisation of processes will allow Metal Assemblies to meet customers' requirements and position itself as a trusted and transparent supplier of low-carbon components. In another KTP with Brockhouse Group, a forging manufacturer in the West Midlands, Dr Nunes worked with Aston colleague Dr Muhammad Imran, reader in mechanical, biomedical and design engineering. Together they developed a sustainable manufacturing strategy centred on carbon reduction and process improvement. The work involved the development of an energy dashboard, allowing analysis of data on gas and electricity consumption. The project also included analysis of alternatives for energy recovery systems, and development of routines and procedures to improve the manufacturing process. As a result, Brockhouse group is more competitive to supply in non-captive markets. Dr Nunes has also been involved with a collaboration with Birmingham Botanical Gardens to integrate sustainability into policy and practice, expanding the use of business sustainability theories to nonprofit sectors. Sustainability can be embedded across different areas of organisations while seeking financial stability. As an environmental education charity, it is important to for Birmingham Botanical Gardens to 'practise what it preaches'. It was recently awarded almost £20m from various grants (including Heritage Lottery) in a capital project, thanks to having sustainability at the core of renovation plans. These projects highlight Aston University’s role in bridging academia, industry, and policy — ensuring research findings reach the boardroom as well as the factory floor. Key insights from the research Dr Nunes’ studies highlight several critical factors for turning sustainability from intention into measurable results: • Organisational capabilities are central to embedding sustainability. These include empowering sustainability “champions” (institutional entrepreneurs), supportive structures, superior technologies, and the ability to learn and balance economic, environmental, and social performance. • The tensions in implementing sustainability vary not just by function (supply chains, governance, innovation) but also by an organisation’s maturity level. • Start with the low-hanging fruit: tools like self-assessments, capability diagnostics, and learning games allow firms to act at lower cost before committing to full environmental impact assessments or formal reporting. • Collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers accelerates real-world impact. Why this matters The stakes are high. Businesses worldwide are expected to reduce carbon emissions, demonstrate social responsibility, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy. Aston University’s research shows that strengthening sustainability capabilities not only improves environmental outcomes but also boosts resilience and cost savings. In pilot projects, teams working with Dr Nunes have achieved up to 30% reductions in both cost and carbon emissions — proof that sustainability can drive operational performance as well as compliance. Looking ahead: expanding the Sustainable Growth Hub The next phase of Dr Nunes’ work centres on Aston’s Sustainable Growth Hub, which is being developed as a reference point for SMEs seeking sustainability solutions. In 2025, the Hub will: • Launch its first industry club cohort and expand its team. • Roll out new self-assessment tools to size sustainability needs and decarbonisation goals. • Introduce new learning formats and follow-up courses to Aston’s Green Advantage programme, alongside sessions to play a new corporate sustainability game. • Host events to bring together businesses, policymakers, and the wider sustainability management community. • Attract new research grants and publish results to share knowledge across both academic and practitioner circles. These initiatives aim to equip organisations not only to meet today’s challenges, but to anticipate tomorrow’s. Get involved Follow Dr Nunes via his profile below, and soon through the Sustainability Fitness website. Businesses can also attend Aston Business School events to explore workshops, tools, and courses first-hand. About Dr Breno Nunes Dr Breno Nunes is reader in sustainable operations management at Aston Business School and president of the International Association for Management of Technology (IAMOT). He serves as associate editor of the IEEE Engineering Management Review and has published widely on sustainability strategy execution and innovation. Aston University’s work in sustainable operations — shaped by researchers like Dr Nunes — is helping organisations worldwide move from ambition to action, building the 'sustainability fitness' needed for a net zero future.
UF builds community resilience in Jacksonville’s Historic Eastside neighborhood
As the University of Florida continues to expand its presence in Jacksonville, Gators are undertaking sustainability projects to improve the city’s neighborhoods. Faculty and students in the College of Design, Construction and Planning’s Florida Institute for Built Environment Resilience (FIBER) have spent the past four years focusing on the role of housing design in community health resilience in Jacksonville’s Historic Eastside neighborhood, interviewing resident stakeholders and collaborating with citywide organizations that are helping to restore older homes. Findings from the UF research will be instrumental in informing future community planning and housing design decisions, potentially leading to more health-centered, sustainable neighborhoods. “Our research in Jacksonville focuses on how we can inform the development of community infrastructure that holistically supports human well-being across mental, emotional, and physical dimensions,” said Lisa Sundahl Platt, Ph.D., a FIBER research faculty member and an assistant professor of interior design at UF, who added that this holistic, health-centered approach is known as salutogenic design. “We are also actively collaborating with community organizations in Jacksonville and researchers from UF to explore improved strategies for designing and constructing community infrastructure that effectively responds to potential hazards.” A community-wide collaboration UF has conducted a pilot study over the past year on the Jacksonville-based Restore, Repair, and Resilience (R3) initiative that is underway in Historic Eastside – surveying residents about how the design quality of their housing and surrounding environments affects their overall well-being. This interdisciplinary project has brought together FIBER and members of the R3 Group – a coalition of organizations that includes the JEA utility company, LIFT JAX (committed to eradicating generational poverty), the Historic Eastside Community Development Corporation, the United Way of Northeast Florida, and Local Initiatives Support Corporation Jacksonville. FIBER-led research has received ongoing support from the Florida Resilient Cities grant, which is funded by the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. The scope of the R3 project is being scaled up through a U.S. Department of Energy grant awarded through JEA, which will allow for an expansion of home revitalization efforts in Eastside Jacksonville. FIBER’s ongoing housing and health community action research on these efforts will be supported through a grant from the LS3P Foundation. “Many residences we evaluated need help with improvements to housing energy efficiency, building ventilation, building shell structural integrity, and materiality,” Platt said. “For example, underperforming flooring material can create potential trip hazards for older adults. Deterioration in interior materials, caused by degrading components of the building envelope, can also lead to mold and mildew growth in interior environments, which can contribute to poor interior environmental quality issues and acute and chronic health conditions.” Respiratory health issues are often caused by material and ventilation design failures, which can affect people of all ages, especially vulnerable populations such as children and older adults. Oftentimes, interior designers see that the environmental risks that compromise human well-being are coming from both the outside and inside of the buildings. “As we continue to address priorities, our focus extends beyond energy and building efficiency to encompass comprehensive factors of built environment resilience that impact overall community health and well-being,” Platt said. “There's still significant progress to be made in the design of sustainable housing that supports community salutogenic health." Keeping residents safe and healthy UF research has continued to prove that interior resilience for living environments plays a vital role in people’s mental and physical health. “People spend roughly 90% of their time indoors, so it is important to understand the types of design conditions and materials that we’re putting into spaces and how they can affect the occupants of those living in said spaces,” said UF student Milena Rodriguez Mendez, who is one of Platt’s graduate research assistants. Students like Mendez are using qualitative and quantitative research methods to engage in collaborative community-led research that includes academics, for-profit organizations, nonprofits, citizen scientists, and neighborhood stakeholders. “I aim to center my work on social justice and equity, and I believe this initiative represents a meaningful step in that direction,” Mendez said. “Our focus is on the residents of this vibrant yet at-risk community.” FIBER researcher Jason von Meding added, “We want to know how future housing policies can address some future health concerns. We have a lot of youth in the community that are participating, which I think is important.” The FIBER housing and health team is actively pursuing additional funding to expand this research, in collaboration with UF Health Jacksonville’s Department of Community Engagement. “Our goal is to develop an open-source online platform that disseminates lessons learned and proof-of-concept findings on the impact of regenerative housing design on human and ecological health,” Platt said. “This resource will be valuable for other cities and neighborhoods facing similar challenges in housing quality, affordability, and accessibility.” Looking to know more about this project or connect with Lisa Platt? Simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
How LSU is Helping Keep Louisiana at the Center of the Nation’s Seafood Map
1. Strengthening the Seafood Workforce Through outreach programs like Louisiana Fisheries Forward, a partnership between Louisiana Sea Grant and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, LSU helps fishers and processors modernize their operations. These voluntary programs teach best practices in handling, traceability, and sustainability — directly improving product quality and market reputation. LSU’s extension agents also provide hands-on disaster recovery assistance after hurricanes and market disruptions, helping ensure Louisiana’s seafood workforce remains resilient and ready for the next season. 2. Building Seafood Resilience The total economic value for oysters in 2018 was more than $180 million. Resilience defines LSU’s seafood science. Researchers at the LSU AgCenter and Louisiana Sea Grant are leading selective breeding programs and developing genetic tools to combat disease, temperature changes, and salinity stress. With a powerful combination of hatchery capacity, genetics expertise, and industry collaboration, LSU is helping Louisiana’s seafood industry adapt faster and smarter — protecting both the food supply and the economic backbone of coastal communities. 3. Powering Economic Growth Every part of LSU’s seafood research and outreach ties directly to Louisiana’s economy. AgCenter economists analyze market data and advise state and federal partners on strategies to grow the seafood sector. Meanwhile, Sea Grant specialists help entrepreneurs develop value-added seafood products, from branded lines to ready-to-eat options, that increase profit margins and create new jobs in coastal towns. By helping Louisiana seafood businesses stay competitive, LSU keeps more of the industry’s economic benefits right here at home. 4. Supporting Communities Louisiana’s seafood industry faces constant challenges. LSU’s coastal extension agents and Sea Grant programs provide on-the-ground support to help communities recover and rebuild after disasters. Whether assisting with dock repairs, connecting fishers to relief programs, or helping restart operations, LSU’s commitment ensures that Louisiana’s coastal workforce can weather any storm. 5. Preparing the Next Generation LSU’s work extends from the lab to the dock — and into the classroom. New research and education programs are training future scientists, producers, and entrepreneurs to continue Louisiana’s seafood legacy. For new LSU students interested in the coast, Bayou Adventure, a trip created by the College of the Coast & Environment (CC&E), was designed specifically to educate incoming freshmen about some of the challenges and marvels of the Louisiana coastline. The trip stops at sites that showcase "not just the significance of these areas to the state and nation, but the important work that is being done to sustain and preserve them," said Clint Willson, dean of CC&E. Through workforce development, hands-on learning, and applied research, LSU is shaping the next wave of innovators who will protect Louisiana’s coast and ensure its seafood remains world-renowned. Looking Ahead As the seafood industry faces new challenges and opportunities, LSU’s mission remains clear: to protect Louisiana’s coast, empower its seafood workforce, and ensure the state remains synonymous with the best seafood in America.
Why Brokers Are Canada’s New Mortgage Rockstars
There’s a quiet revolution happening in Canadian mortgage lending—well, as “quiet” as anything can be when two-thirds of Canadians are shouting, “We’d rather deal with a broker than a bank!” According to the most recent Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC) Consumer Survey, 67% of Canadians now say they’d rather work with a mortgage broker than a bank. Among those who already have? A whopping 81% would do it again. That’s not just a statistic. That’s a standing ovation. The Great Mortgage Broker Boom According to recent MPC data, broker market share reached 33% in 2024—a four-point increase in just two years. Nearly half of all borrowers now choose brokers. The message is clear: Canadians are tired of sales reps; they want advocates who speak human, not policy manual. And who can blame them? With 1.2 million mortgages renewing in 2025 and average payments increasing by $513 a month, people aren’t just rate-shopping anymore—they’re seeking guidance, reassurance, and maybe a bit of hope. Let’s face it: they want their cake and still be able to heat their home too. Why This Matters—Especially for Seniors I work with Canadians aged 55+ every day, and about three-quarters of them are homeowners. They’ve done everything right: worked hard, paid off debt, raised families, and built wealth through their homes. But now, many feel… trapped by them. Here’s the reality: Mortgage renewals are costing hundreds more monthly (some facing 15–20% jumps) Inflation is eating into fixed incomes; and downsizing, aging in place, or tapping into home equity all feel like high-stakes decisions. Almost 80% of Canadians over 55 say their savings and pensions aren’t enough. (Source: Home Equity Bank Ipsos Survey) According to this same survey, half of respondents believe home equity is crucial for retirement—yet 76% feel pressured to downsize even if they’d rather not trade their garden for a balcony (or their favourite hairdresser for whoever’s closest to the condo). What they don’t need: A one-size-fits-all sales pitch from someone who thinks “retirement” means early-bird specials and Sudoku marathons. What they do need: A mortgage broker who listens, educates, compares options, and helps them sleep at night—not just sign on the dotted line. The Missing Link: Transactional vs. Conversion Sales Traditional mortgages are what we call commodities, sold using a transactional method. In this approach, the need is obvious—the customer wants a mortgage—and the focus is on competing for the best price and terms. It’s fast, efficient, and, let’s be honest, a little impersonal. It’s the classic hammer-and-nail approach: every client looks like a nail, and the broker just keeps swinging rates and terms until something sticks. That may work for a first-time buyer chasing the cheapest five-year fix—but for seniors? It’s about as effective as putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm. The 55+ demographic doesn’t want a hammer. They want a conversation. They want to understand how to stretch their pension income, cover rising expenses, and prepare for life’s curveballs—like healthcare costs or home repairs—without feeling like they’re going backwards financially. That’s why this is not a transactional sale; it’s a conversion sale. A transactional sale happens when someone already wants what you’re selling—you’re just facilitating the purchase. A conversion sale, however, is when the client doesn’t yet believe they need or want what you’re offering. You’re not closing a deal; you’re changing a mindset. And that’s the secret sauce for brokers working with older Canadians. You’re not selling debt—you’re offering financial flexibility. You’re helping people reframe home equity from a “last resort” into a retirement resource. How Brokers Can Shift the Conversation Lead with empathy, not economics. Ask about life goals, not loan size. Do they want to age in place, help kids, or reduce financial stress? Start with why, then move to how. Rebrand the conversation. Words matter. “Mortgage” can feel like failure. Try “home-equity strategy” or “retirement cash-flow plan.” You’re not adding debt—you’re unlocking options. Talk cash flow, not contracts. Focus on income versus expenses, inflation resilience, and emergencies. Discuss how home equity can supplement pensions, create predictable, guaranteed income (like our parents had), and—most importantly—boost that all-important sleep score. Include the family. Adult children often play a major role. Involve them early—these are emotional, multi-generational conversations, not just financial ones. Educate, don’t sell. Show examples, calculators, and real-life case studies. Transparency earns trust—and trust is the true currency in a conversion sale. When brokers shift from “rate pitching” to “retirement planning,” they go from hammer-swingers to problem-solvers—and that’s where the real magic (and business growth) happens. What Mortgage Brokers Bring to the Table The broker market is projected to grow at a 5% CAGR through 2030, driven by consumers demanding personalization over cookie-cutter lending. And the reverse-mortgage space just got a serious glow-up. Home Trust Bank has just entered the market, announcing its new Equity Access Reverse Mortgage product at this week's Mortgage Professionals Conference in Ottawa. That brings the total to four active lenders in Canada’s reverse-mortgage space: HomeEquity Bank, Equitable Bank, Home Trust Bank, and Bloom Finance Company. More lenders mean more credibility—or, as I like to call it, street cred for seniors. The kind that lets retirees walk down the street (or the fairway) with a little swagger, knowing their financial toolkit has options. With more players in the mix comes more choice, sharper pricing, and—most importantly—a sense that reverse mortgage products have finally crossed over from “fringe” to financially fashionable. Reverse mortgages are no longer the “we-don’t-talk-about-that” cousin at the financial family dinner—they’re sitting proudly at the adult table. The product is being normalized—treated as the legitimate, strategic retirement tool it has always been. So, brokers—be honest. Isn’t it time you caught up to the trend? Reverse mortgages have gone from taboo to totally credible. And if your clients still say, “We’re just not reverse-mortgage people,” that’s your cue to help them unpack that posture of financial marginalization. Because what they often mean is, “We don’t want to feel old, desperate, or dependent.” That’s not who they are—and that’s not what this product is. It’s not about retreating; it’s about reframing. Helping them see home equity as strength, not surrender. Because empowering clients to live comfortably, confidently, and cash-flow secure isn’t just good business—it’s the kind of advocacy that gives everyone involved a little swagger. Older Canadians Need Advocates—Not Just Advisors As a spokesperson for this group, I urge brokers to master Equity Literacy—the ability to explain complex tools like reverse mortgages and HELOCs in plain language. It’s about helping retirees access equity wisely, preserve benefits, and create peace of mind. Canadian reverse-mortgage debt reached $8.2 billion in mid-2024—an 18.3% year-over-year increase. (Source: Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions - OSFI). Canadians are catching on: their house can help them, not haunt them (could not resist the Halloween joke). Help seniors understand the range of uses for Reverse Mortgages like paying off high-interest debt, helping family through early inheritance or gifting, and supplementing retirement income to maintain independence. And here’s where brokers can really shine—by guiding family conversations about inheritance, housing, and aging in place. According to CMHC’s 2025 Mortgage Consumer Survey, 41% of first-time buyers used a gift or inheritance to cover mortgage costs. That's up from 30% the year before. Those gifts averaged nearly $80,000. The Bank of Mom & Dad just got promoted to Wealth Management HQ. To the Canadian mortgage broker industry You’re not just in the mortgage business—you’re in the dignity business. You help Canadians stay in their homes, reduce stress, and live comfortably in retirement. With home sales slowing and fewer purchase deals, this is your moment. Building expertise in the 55+ market isn’t just good karma—it’s good business. How to start: educate your database about equity-release benefits and tax-free cash flow; host workshops on “Aging in Place with Equity”; partner with financial planners, lawyers, healthcare providers—and yes, Realtors—to build a holistic approach to retirement housing. Involve adult children in every conversation; they’re tomorrow’s clients. The data says Canadians need you more than ever. And I’ll say it louder: so do I. Let’s make retirement planning better, smarter, and more human—one conversation at a time. So here’s the truth: the 55+ crowd doesn’t need rescuing—they need respect. They’re not clinging to the past; they’re funding their future. They don’t want pity; they want power—and they’ve earned it. This generation built Canada’s equity base—literally—and now it’s time they get to use it wisely, proudly, and on their own terms. Whether that means a new roof, a family gift, or finally taking that long-postponed trip to Italy, it’s not about borrowing money—it’s about buying freedom. So, brokers, financial pros, and anyone guiding retirees—remember: your role isn’t to sell products. It’s to spark possibilities. To help older Canadians move from fear to freedom, from “we’re not those people” to “why didn’t we do this sooner?” Because the real revolution in retirement isn’t about rates or renewals. It’s about reclaiming confidence, creating financially viable futures, and knowing you’ve made a real difference—something your clients will remember long after the ink dries. Trust me, that’s far more gratifying than handing out a 4.99% five-year fixed. I want to know what you think. Send me your feedback. Want more insights like this? Subscribe to my free newsletter here, where I share practical strategies, real-world stories, and straight talk about navigating retirement with confidence—not confusion. Plus, all subscribers get exclusive early access to advance chapters from my upcoming book. For Canadians 55+: Get actionable advice on making your home equity work for you, understanding your options, and living retirement on your terms. For Mortgage Brokers and Financial Professionals: Learn how to become the trusted advisor your 55+ clients desperately need (and will refer to everyone they know). This isn't just another revenue stream—it's your opportunity to build lasting relationships in Canada's fastest-growing demographic. Sue Don’t Retire…Re-Wire!
New path to combating global malnutrition found in soil
A new University of Delaware study has found that a naturally occurring soil microbe can boost protein-building amino acids in wheat. The finding by UD's Harsh Bais and others could pave the way for nutrient-rich staple crops — helping combat global malnutrition as fluctuations in weather reduce crop quality. In the study, published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, Bais and a team of researchers from UD, Stroud Water Research Center and the Rodale Institute investigated how a bacteria naturally found in the soil that is beneficial to human health can enhance the levels of the amino acid and antioxidant ergothioneine in spring wheat. The researchers grew the spring wheat — one of the most widely consumed cereal crops — in a laboratory. After letting the seeds germinate and grow for seven days, they added a strain of bacteria called Streptomyces coelicolor M145 to the spring wheat roots. After combining the bacteria and the plant, they separated the plant’s leaves and roots. Then, they extracted the amino acid ergothioneine from the samples, working to determine how much protein was in the plant’s roots and shoots. They found that 10 days after S. coelicolor had been added to the spring wheat roots, the bacteria was able to inhabit spring wheat’s roots and shoots, producing ergothioneine, bypassing the plant’s innate defense mechanisms, and fortifying the spring wheat. Wheat roots were inoculated with the benign bacteria Streptomyces coelicolor. The image shows the presence of bacteria on the root hairs on day 5. “It’s unusual," Bais said. “Unless there is a mutual advantage for either the plant or the microbe.” The findings suggest that an alternative plant breeding approach could be utilized to associate plants with benign microbes to increase protein content in staple crops. All of our cereal crops are very low in protein. Think rice and breakfast cereals, common foods people eat, derived from these crops. “This approach of harnessing a natural association of microbes with plants may facilitate fortifying our staple crops, enhancing global nutritional security,” Bais said. Bais said he believes using microbes to transport nutrients depends on the microbes’ relationship with plants’ roots. He continues to work to catalyze the colonization of plant roots by beneficial microbes. "Establishing a partnership with the appropriate types of microbes or microbial consortia for plants represents a method of engineering the rhizosphere — the region of the soil near plant roots — to foster a more favorable environment for either microbial associations that stimulate plant growth traits or enhance nutrient availability, which is the path forward,” Bais said. Bais, a professor of plant biology who was named a UD Innovation Ambassador earlier this year, said plants’ “below-ground” traits, such as how nutrient-dense they are, have long been overlooked. “As far as food security, we will have significant challenges by 2050 when the world’s population doubles,” Bais said. “We incentivize our farmers for crop yield; we don’t incentivize them for growing nutrient-dense crops. Growing nutrient-dense plants will enable the population to be fed better and avoid any potential nutrient deficiencies.” The study was funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research. Scientists have become more interested in soil bacteria as a means to solve issues with malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies. Alex Pipinos, the lead author and a UD Class of 2025 graduate with a master’s in microbiology, said environmental conditions are one factor diminishing protein content in plants. “Essentially, crops are becoming less nutrient-dense,” Pipinos said. “The more nutrients in crops, the more healthy humans can be.” Pipinos points to a strong link between soil microbes, plant health and human health. Ergothioneine, she said, has already been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s also been shown to combat cognitive decline, with a strong link to healthy cognitive aging. “By enhancing ergothioneine in plants, we can improve human health,” Pipinos said. To reach Bais directly and arrange an interview, visit his profile and click on the contact button. Reporters can also contact UD's Media Relations Department.
Who Decided 50 Means Beige Pants?
Recently, I was invited to my friend Paul's 80th birthday party. To his credit, he did it up right. We all dressed in an '80s theme, danced to '80s music, and he even hired a Michael Jackson impersonator. It was a blast—and it got me thinking. Why do we treat milestone birthdays as such big moments? And what flashes in your head when you read "80th birthday"? A rocking dance floor—or a rocking chair? The Big Deal About Big Birthday Numbers Somewhere along the way, we decided that birthdays ending in zero were cosmic mile-markers. Turn 50? Buy beige pants. Turn 70? Slow down. Turn 80? Put away your passport. Really? Who wrote this memo—and why weren't we asked to edit it? Here's the truth: age is a marker, not a mandate. You don't "have to" start coasting at 50. You might actually be hitting your stride. At 70, maybe you're still climbing mountains (literal or metaphorical). At 80, maybe it's not about stopping travel but upgrading to business class—because you've earned the legroom. The Year Before: A Release Valve Melissa Kirsch recently pointed out something fascinating in her recent New York Times article, "Banner Year: The Year Before a Milestone (39, 59, 79) Often Carries More Anticipation and Anxiety Than the Milestone Itself. You're approaching the summit," full of pent-up energy and maybe even dread. And then you get there—and it's oddly a relief. You've crested the hill. The anticipation is gone. You're not nearing 70 anymore—you are 70. Sometimes naming the number feels like releasing a pressure valve. The Psychology of Birthday Milestones Humans love structure. We love mental reset buttons—New Year's Day, Mondays, and yes, milestone birthdays. Psychologists refer to it as the "fresh start effect." It's why we so often decide to start new habits after birthdays or holidays. But here's where it gets tricky: we often judge our progress against societal norms we've internalized without question. Be married by 30. Have kids by 40—career set by 50. Start winding work down by 60. Head to the bleachers by 70—health issues by 80. You get the point. These invisible benchmarks can make milestone birthdays feel less like celebrations and more like report cards. Instead of asking "What awed me this decade?" we ask "Why haven't I achieved X by now?" UC Berkley, Psychologist Dacher Keltner, in his book titled Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder, reminds us that awe is a muscle we can develop through experiences such as music, nature, crowds, or small acts of gratitude. What if we countered our harsh self-judgments with awe instead? What if milestone birthdays became moments to marvel at what we've experienced rather than tally what we haven't accomplished? Instead of seeing milestones as end points, why not use them as launchpads? At 50, instead of coasting, maybe you finally train for that half-marathon—or half-marathon Netflix binge—both count. At 70, you don't have to slow down—you might adjust the pace. Hike the mountain, but pack the good snacks. At 80, don't stop travelling—travel better. Upgrade your flight, book the tour guide, or better yet, let your grandkids carry the luggage. Milestones are invitations, not limitations. The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy of Age What we whisper to ourselves about aging matters. A lot! Psychologist Robert Merton coined the now infamous term "self-fulfilling prophecy": hold an expectation, behave as though it's true, and—voilà—it becomes true. Becca Levy's Stereotype Embodiment Theory at Yale demonstrates how cultural age stereotypes become internalized, ultimately affecting our physical, cognitive, and psychological well-being. Decades of research confirm it: people who view aging positively live 7.5 years longer on average than those who don't. Your expectations are literally a health factor. So when we tell ourselves "70 means slowing down," guess what? We often slow down. But if we say, "70 means redirecting my energy," the body and mind rise to meet it. Real-Life Icons Who Didn't Get the Memo Need proof? Could you just look around? Barbara Walters retired at 84 and lived to 93. Andy Rooney continued to share his witty commentaries on 60 Minutes until the age of 92. Grandma Moses began painting in her 70s and built an entire art career. Laura Ingalls Wilder published her first Little House book in her 60s. Benjamin Franklin produced much of his most famous work after the age of 50. These aren't exceptions. They're reminders that energy, purpose, and influence aren't tied to the number of candles. Beyond Decades: Other Ways of Marking Time Why are we so obsessed with zero-ending birthdays? Some ancient Greek philosophers suggested dividing life into seven-year stages. Other traditions slice life into "seasons" or chapters. Victor Hugo famously quipped: "Forty is the old age of youth; fifty the youth of old age." I'd add: "Seventy is the mischievous middle age of wisdom, and eighty the encore tour." We may need to stop seeing decades as finish lines and start seeing them as chapters. The real story isn't the number—it's how you're writing the next page. Routines, Rituals, Traditions As I reflected on Paul's 80th birthday, I realized that birthdays are part of a bigger theme: how we structure our lives. We often use "routine," "ritual," and "tradition" interchangeably—but they aren't the same. Routines ground us—morning coffee, workouts, journaling. They stabilize our health and cater to every age group. These predictable patterns provide comfort, calmness, and a sense of direction. They're the scaffolding that holds our days together, especially during times of uncertainty or transition. And here's something beautiful: the best way to support someone older in your life is to make connection a routine. Tuesdays on the telephone with Toonie. Jeopardy on Wednesday with Gram. Sunday brunch with Dad. These aren't just nice gestures—they're anchors. They say "you matter" in the most reliable way possible: showing up, predictably, with love. Rituals connect us to meaning—lighting a candle, walking at dusk. They remind us of our values and create moments of intention in our lives. Rituals transform ordinary acts into sacred pauses. Traditions connect us to community—holiday dinners, family reunions. But some age as well as polyester leisure suits—time to remix them. Traditions connect us to community—holiday dinners, family reunions. But some age as well as polyester leisure suits—time to remix them. The key is to keep what serves us: comfort, connection, and a sense of continuity. However, we should abandon the "I should have accomplished X by now" narrative and replace it with one of celebration and gratitude. Ask not "Am I where society says I should be?" but rather "Am I building a life that feels meaningful to me?" One of my favourite traditions comes from Denmark: on birthdays, the Danish flag is placed at the celebrant's place setting. It's a small gesture, but it turns an ordinary meal into a moment of honour. Sometimes it's the little flags, not the giant balloons, that matter most. Practical Tips (With a Wink) Write Your Own Script: Stop asking, "What should I be doing at this age?" Ask instead, "What do I want to be doing?" Shrink the Feast, Keep the Fun: Big productions can be scaled down into smaller, more frequent micro-celebrations. Take a page from Frank Sinatra and do it "my way." Invest in Memories, Not More Stuff: Hot-air balloon ride VS another knick-knack. Say Yes First, Edit Later: Pickleball at 75? Say yes. Forget your shoes later. Celebrate in Advance: Start the party a month early. Stretch the milestone like an all-inclusive buffet. Here's a thought: the older we get—whether it's 80, 90, or more—the more we should celebrate. Why restrict joy to just one day? Turn it into a birthday week. Or even better, a birthday month. We've earned it. A Toast to Us Milestone birthdays aren't warnings to slow down; they're reminders to cherish the present. They're reminders to double down. They're invitations to rewrite rituals, remix goals, and re-ignite purpose. If younger generations can say "live your best life," then let's steal that line and run with it (but don't break a hip). At every age, every stage, we can choose growth over decline, curiosity over fear, and why over why not. So the next time you're invited to an 80th birthday, picture the dance floor, not the rocking chair. Paul sure did. When I asked what's next, he smiled and said: "Finding ways to make it to 90!" Raise a glass and repeat after me: "If not now…when?" Because we're not over the hill—we're still building trails on it, with snacks. Sue Don't Retire... ReWire!