A Closer Look at the SCFI Magna Program

Dean Cristina Amon, Max Amtmann, President of Stronach Centre for Innovation, Magna International and
the first SCFI Magna cohorts at June convocation.

Andrew Kowalski (MIE, 1T0) completed his Master’s 20 years ago in Poland, but after hearing about the SCFI (Stronach Centre for Innovation) Magna Program, he decided to enrol.

And so have many other working professionals who want to enhance and build on their knowledge of Engineering entrepreneurship.

Launched in September 2008, SCFI Magna is available in the Master of Engineering program for employees working at Magna International Inc. Founded by Frank Stronach, it is a strategic response to the challenges faced by the Ontario manufacturing sector, and aims to commercialize new product ideas and develop a new profession of innovation managers, practitioners and executives. 

“It benefits students and faculty alike. The students get input into their industrially based projects from experts in our faculty and our faculty get the opportunity to contribute to leading-edge automotive research and development,” said Professor Chris Damaren (UTIAS), Vice-Dean, Graduate Studies.

Over the course of 16 to 18 months, the cohorts are required to take on a major technical project as well as enrol in courses that range from electrical motors, to innovation management, to intellectual property. 

“The purpose of this program is to get the best Engineers and train them into being more innovative in the auto parts field,” said Professor Anthony Sinclair (MIE), the Director of SCFI Magna, adding, “The program is doing very well. Magna is thrilled and we’re thrilled, so it’s been a winner for everyone.”

Going forward, according to Professor Sinclair, “We hope to expand the program to include other partners in the auto industry.”

SCFI Magna, along with ELITE, puts U of T’s MEng program at the leading edge of Engineering entrepreneurship and leadership.

“[MEng] gives students a degree of specialization that can vastly improve their chances of finding employment. In addition, it permits those employed in the industry to return to university with a view to upgrade their skills,” said Professor Damaren.

Since being implemented two years ago, the program is attracting more and more students. The first seven SCFI Magna cohorts graduated in June 2010, while another group will be earning their degrees this November.

Kowalski, who has worked in the automotive industry in Europe, the U.S. and Canada, will be one of the students graduating this fall. He said he’d recommend the SCFI Magna program to any professional looking to get a competitive advantage in the workforce.

“The organizers of the SCFI program are fully dedicated to turning this opportunity into the best possible learning experience. Not taking advantage of it would be a serious mistake. It’s difficult to combine a full-time job with full-time studies, but the final sense of accomplishment is amazing.”

Students Enrolled in SCFI Magna

September 2008 – 9 (Seven of whom graduated in June 2010)

September 2009 – 8

January 2010 – 12

September 2010 – 12

Source: Professors Anthony Sinclair and Chris Damaren