As a world-class researcher having worked at Hydro-Québec's research institute IREQ, then as a professor and as a department director of the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) who was promoted only 4 years later as Director, Academics and Research, and who now serves as a Professor, Jean-Luc Fihey has been a constant innovator throughout his career. More specifically, he has proven his skills in specialized areas such as superconductivity, robotic welding and advanced materials. Recognized by MIT, recipient of the OIQ R&D 100 and MERITAS awards, he has made major contributions to the hydroelectric industry. He was involved in two world premieres: the use of robotics to weld the Francis turbine runners for the Three Gorges hydroelectric power plant in China and the SM3 dam penstock.