Iron Ring
The Iron Ring Tradition at U of G: Engineering with Purpose, Pride, and Gryphon Spirit
At the University of Guelph’s School of Engineering, we don’t just teach students how to become engineers — we help them become part of a legacy. One of the most meaningful milestones in an engineering student’s journey is receiving the Iron Ring, a symbolic band worn by Canadian engineers to represent ethics, responsibility, and commitment to the profession.
And here at U of G, we’ve added a unique twist that celebrates our school spirit: The Calling of a Gryphoneer.
What Is the Iron Ring?
The Iron Ring is a small, unadorned band worn on the pinky finger of an engineer's working hand. It’s not just jewelry — it’s a symbol of professional duty. Graduating engineering students across Canada receive their rings during a special, closed ceremony known as The Calling of an Engineer, a century-old tradition that marks the transition from student to practicing professional.
The ring serves as a daily reminder to uphold ethical standards, make responsible decisions, and engineer solutions that serve society.
Meet the Gryphon: A U of G Twist on Tradition
At U of G, the Iron Ring tradition got a little extra Guelph flair in 2018 — and it all started with a prank.
A group of graduating engineering students decided that if they were getting Iron Rings, our iconic Gryphon statue (a beloved symbol of U of G pride) should get one too. They “engineered” a massive, gryphon-sized Iron Ring and placed it on the statue’s talon just in time for the graduation ceremony.
Though the original prank ring was eventually removed, the idea took flight. What started as a playful stunt is now a cherished annual tradition. Each year, our graduating class gives the Gryphon its own ring — newly engraved with the year — to honour the spirit of engineering, the power of community, and the strength of the Guelph Gryphon.
Student-Built and Proudly Displayed
The Gryphon’s ring isn’t just symbolic — it’s student-designed and was made right here in our Advanced Manufacturing Lab. Every detail is carefully considered, from leather padding to protect the statue, to engraved year marks commemorating each graduating class.
It’s more than a ring. It’s a marker of the dedication, innovation, and teamwork that defines the Guelph engineering experience.
What Our Students Are Saying
“It made me proud to be graduating and made me realize that the School of Engineering at Guelph is really important.”
— Taylor Caught, Class of 2018
“It was really cool to have something that’ll be on there for the next... 21 years. So in 21 years, I’ll be back to take it home!”
— Atli Eyvindson, Designer of the first official Gryphon ring
Why It Matters to Future Engineers
Whether it’s placing the ring on your finger or watching it slide onto the Gryphon’s talon, the Iron Ring ceremony at U of G is a powerful moment — a celebration of everything you’ve learned, everything you’ve built, and everything you’re about to become.
It connects you to a national community of engineers and a tight-knit family of Gryphons who believe in using their skills to make a difference.
Because at the University of Guelph, we don’t just engineer solutions — we engineer a better future.
Interested in being part of this tradition?
Learn more about our Engineering programs, co-op opportunities, and how you can start your journey to becoming an Engineer.
What is Camp 17?
Camp 17 is the Guelph chapter of the Corporation of the Seven Wardens, which hosts the Iron Ring Ceremony — a respected Canadian tradition that marks your official entry into the engineering profession. Through this symbolic event, graduating students receive their Iron Ring and take a personal Obligation to uphold the ethics and responsibility of the profession. It's a proud milestone that connects engineers coast to coast.
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Part of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, we combine award-winning teaching, hands-on learning, and innovative research to prepare engineers who improve life and shape a better future.
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Albert A. Thornbrough Building
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON
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