As the success of the Virtual Researcher On Call program grew, so too did the appetite for more expansive ways to connect students and researchers. That vision took a bold leap forward with the creation of PIR Live Events, created by Kevin Cougler. Designed as a national broadcast platform, PIR Live Events brought scientists, engineers, and health researchers directly into classrooms across Canada through live, interactive webinars. These weren’t just one-way lectures (although sometimes they were) — they were energetic, real-time conversations where students could ask questions, respond to polls, and explore the frontiers of science with the people leading it.

Each PIR Live Event was carefully curated to match curriculum themes while showcasing cutting-edge research in a way that was both understandable and inspiring for K–12 students. From discussions on cancer research and climate science to robotics and artificial intelligence, the diversity of topics ensured that every student could find something to ignite their interest. Behind the scenes, Kevin worked tirelessly to build the infrastructure, secure speaker partnerships, and develop the technical capacity that allowed these sessions to scale nationally. By leveraging new technology and a deep understanding of both education and outreach, PIR Live Events quickly became a hallmark of PIR’s mission.

At its height, the program reached thousands of students in a single broadcast — from classrooms in major urban centres to remote northern communities. Teachers praised the events for enriching their lessons; students loved the chance to hear directly from real scientists in their own words. For many young Canadians, PIR Live Events marked the first time they truly saw themselves reflected in a future career in STEM. It was a powerful reminder that science doesn’t live behind laboratory walls — it lives in the conversations we create when knowledge meets curiosity.