Alumni making an impact: Audrey Mascarenhas

Headshot of Audrey MascarenhasAudrey Mascarenhas (ChemE 8T2), a distinguished figure in the energy and environmental sectors, has dedicated over four decades to advancing clean air technologies and innovative energy solutions. Her career, marked by leadership and technical expertise, underscores her commitment to sustainable practices and efficiency in the industry.

Mascarenhas’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto, where she laid the foundation for a career devoted to engineering excellence. She further honed her expertise with a Master’s Degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Calgary. This blend of education provided Audrey with a robust understanding of both chemical and petroleum engineering, which she would later leverage in her professional endeavors.

Audrey’s career commenced at Gulf Canada Resources Ltd, where she undertook various roles across Reservoir Engineering, Operations, Production, Facilities, Joint Ventures, and Corporate Development. Her specialty in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) showcased her ability to optimize and innovate in complex engineering scenarios, solidifying her reputation as a skilled engineer and strategic thinker.

In October 1999, Audrey transitioned to Questor Technology Inc., where she assumed the role of President and CEO. Under her leadership, Questor has become a global leader in high-efficiency waste gas incineration. Since 1995, the company has been at the forefront of providing cost-effective and innovative clean air solutions. Questor’s technology specializes in managing harmful gases such as H2S, VOCs, and BTEX, with a focus on heat recovery, power generation, tire recycling, agriculture, landfills, and water and sewage treatment facilities. The company’s patented incineration technology boasts an impressive combustion efficiency of over 99.99%, offering substantial operational savings, reduced capital costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

In a strategic move to enhance its market position, Questor acquired U.S.-based ClearPower Systems Inc. in 2014. This acquisition aimed to position Questor as the leading provider of versatile, cost-effective prepackaged waste heat to power generation products, compatible with virtually any heat source.

Audrey’s contributions extend beyond her corporate roles. She has served as a distinguished lecturer with the Society of Petroleum Engineers, sharing her knowledge and insights with the next generation of engineers. Her professional achievements have earned her recognition as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineers and an induction into the University of Toronto Engineering Hall of Distinction.

In addition to her roles within the energy sector, Audrey serves on the Board of the TMX, reflecting her influence and leadership in broader financial and economic spheres.

Audrey Mascarenhas’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability in the energy and environmental sectors. Through her leadership at Questor Technology Inc., she has not only advanced clean air technology but also set new standards in the industry for efficiency and environmental stewardship. Her legacy is defined by her contributions to both engineering practice and the broader community, exemplifying the impact of dedicated leadership and technical excellence in shaping a more sustainable future.