New university campus creates ‘pipeline’ of tech grads
The City of Markham is home to Westcliff University’s first Canadian campus, which is offering employers a direct “pipeline” of graduates trained in artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and smart manufacturing.
The campus, which is located inside the original IBM building and co-located with ventureLAB’s 50,000-square-foot innovation hub, will offer the university’s Master’s in Information Systems Technology (MIST) program.
“Toronto’s employers need graduates who are ready to contribute on day one in AI, cybersecurity and smart manufacturing and that is exactly who our MIST program produces,” said Westcliff University President and CEO Anthony Lee.
Developed in collaboration with Ontario’s tech industry and guided by Westcliff’s Program Advisory Committee of Toronto-based leaders, the MIST program equips mid-career professionals and emerging graduates with specialized expertise in cybersecurity and enterprise risk management, AI and machine learning applications, smart manufacturing and industrial technology, and information systems strategy.
“Our local business leaders have been clear about what they need: Graduates with specialized, immediately applicable skills in the fields driving our region’s growth,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “Westcliff’s MIST program was built around those exact requirements and having that pipeline right here in Markham means our employers can access the talent they’ve been asking for.”
By co-locating the campus within ventureLAB‘s innovation space, students have access to a hub that has supported more than 4,000 companies and serves as a key driver of technology investment and entrepreneurship in the region.
“Westcliff University’s presence at ventureLAB strengthens the talent pipeline essential to scaling globally competitive ventures in Canada. By co-locating within our innovation space, this partnership creates a direct bridge between specialized talent and high-growth companies, driving the innovations that power Canada’s knowledge-based economy,” said ventureLAB CEO Hugh Chow.
The MIST program features eight-week course cycles with in-person and online options for working professionals, an Innovation Sandbox where students tackle live business challenges alongside industry practitioners and a continuously evolving curriculum designed to keep pace with shifting labour market demands.
For more information, program offerings and enrollment details, visit westcliff.edu/canada.
Photo: Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Westcliff University President Anthony Lee. (Photo courtesy of Westcliff University)