Connor Ricotta graduated from the automation systems engineering technology (B.Tech) program at McMaster University in December 2022. He began his master of applied science (M.A.Sc.) in January 2023 under the supervision of Dr. Ali Emadi, and later transitioned into the Ph.D. program in the department of electrical and computer engineering in September of the same year. His research focuses on developing and optimizing control architectures for electrified autonomous vehicles, with a particular emphasis on energy-efficient system integration, V2X-enabled decision-making, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Full Profile:
Connor Ricotta’s passion for engineering was shaped early through hobbies like woodworking and tinkering with computers and electronics. This hands-on curiosity led him to McMaster University’s automation systems engineering technology (B.Tech) program, where he further developed his technical skills through lab-based coursework and team projects. In his fourth year, Connor joined the EcoCAR Challenge as an electrical member on the System Design and Integration team, gaining valuable experience integrating hardware and software systems within a real-world vehicle platform. After transitioning to graduate studies, he joined the Connected and Automated Vehicles team and became team lead in the second year of the competition—a role he continues to hold.
Throughout his undergraduate studies, Connor completed several co-op placements, including a position at Zeton as a junior controls specialist, where he worked on PLC controls and HMI systems for chemical process plants. He also held a research assistant role with the CERC@MARC team, contributing to the development of a programmable shifting robot for chassis dynamometer testing. During EcoCAR, Connor worked on a wide range of technical challenges, including the creation of custom automotive wire harnesses, PCB development and manufacturing, and the implementation of ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and intersection navigation—all integrated into a stock vehicle system.
In January 2023, Connor began his master of applied science (M.A.Sc.) in the department of electrical and computer engineering under the supervision of Dr. Ali Emadi. He transferred into the Ph.D. program in September 2023. His current research focuses on the development and optimization of control architectures for electrified autonomous vehicles, with a particular emphasis on energy-efficient system integration, V2X-enabled supervisory decision-making, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
