In a world where technological innovation and business strategy expertise are becoming increasingly intertwined, the demand for professionals who can adeptly navigate both domains have never been higher. Recognizing this need, Patrick Doyon, an industry expert with a wealth of academic and professional experiences, spearheads the Mini-MBA for Science, Technology, and Engineering Professionals (STEPs) program at Future EDge. As Program Director for the Mini-MBA for STEPs and Head of Marketing for Forensic Technology, Patrick brings over two decades of management and leadership experience, complemented by more than a decade of running his own management consulting and executive coaching practice.
As Program Director, Patrick oversees the strategic direction of the Mini-MBA for STEPs program, ensuring its relevance and efficacy in today's fast-paced environment. "This program aims to equip science and technology-educated professionals with a comprehensive 360-degree view of business management, enhancing their effectiveness within their current roles or aiding in their transition to managerial positions," Patrick explains.
"My background is both diverse and unique, aligning closely with the needs of this program," says Patrick, reflecting on his academic journey that spans Mechanical Engineering, Climate Physics, Teaching, Executive MBA, and more. His teaching philosophy mirrors this eclectic background, blending theory with real-world examples and interactive discussions. "Teaching has been a consistent theme in my life, from my teenage years as a skiing and swimming instructor, to a teaching assistant in university, and later instructing executive programs," he adds. "It allows me to meet people from diverse backgrounds, broadening my perspectives and encouraging continuous personal and professional growth."
"The Mini-MBA for STEPs caters to individuals seeking to broaden their understanding of business within the context of their technical expertise,” Patrick explains. The program is described as a perfect steppingstone for professionals seeking to expand their career horizons while still leveraging their technical background. Patrick notes, “it is particularly beneficial for individuals who may not have the time to commit to a full MBA program or those who wish to explore the realm of business and management education before diving deeper.”
Structured into 12 comprehensive sessions, the program covers essential management topics such as Strategy, Marketing, Finance, Operations, Innovation, and Leadership, before delving into the application of these concepts to science, technology, and engineering. Patrick highlights the program's practical orientation, featuring panel discussions with industry executives, case studies, and a team-based integrative case study that mirrors real-world business scenarios.
The Mini-MBA for STEPs is a unique program, Patrick explains, “it is one of the few, if not the only, executive education programs specifically tailored for Science, Technology, and Engineering professionals.” Unlike broader Mini-MBA offerings, the Mini-MBA for STEPs emphasizes on the specific needs and challenges of STEM professionals.
The class discussions, participant interactions, and both individual and team-based assignments are all designed to illuminate the dynamic interface where business management meets science and technology.Patrick Doyon, Program Director, Mini-MBA for STEPs
The class discussions, participant interactions, and both individual and team-based assignments are all designed to illuminate the dynamic interface where business management meets science and technology.
The program's structure is intentionally crafted to maximize learning and active participation, eliminating the pressure associated with conventional academic assessments. Rather than exams, participants in the program are tasked with completing two strategic assignments: an individual project that allows students to explore a topic of personal interest and present their findings through peer-learning format, and a team-based integrative case study, serving as a capstone exercise to apply the management principles covered during the program.
When asked what some of the challenges facing professionals in the industry are, and how the Mini-MBA for STEPs program aims to solve these challenges, Patrick says, “in the post-COVID world, the workplace has become increasingly complex, volatile, and uncertain. For professionals educated in science, technology, and engineering, there is a genuine passion for their fields, yet there is no guarantee that their current roles will exist in the future.” Patrick continues, “the one certainty is that the nature of work is continuously evolving. To navigate these changes effectively and to pivot one's career accordingly, it is crucial to understand the broader context in which these changes occur. This understanding of the broader context is exactly what Future EDge’s Mini-MBA for STEPs program offers.”
In this rapidly changing landscape, science and technology serve as means to an end. By better understanding this 'end,' participants become more adept at anticipating and responding to dynamic organizational and business challenges. This program equips them not just to survive but to thrive by adapting their skills and strategies to meet evolving industry demands.Patrick Doyon
In this rapidly changing landscape, science and technology serve as means to an end. By better understanding this 'end,' participants become more adept at anticipating and responding to dynamic organizational and business challenges. This program equips them not just to survive but to thrive by adapting their skills and strategies to meet evolving industry demands.
The success stories coming out of the program also serve as testaments to its value. Many alumni have leveraged their newfound knowledge to advance in their careers or pivot to new roles aligned with their professional and personal aspirations. Beyond individual achievements, Patrick explains, “participants not only collaborate on team-based assignments but also engage with other professionals and faculty members, creating a network of contacts that extends beyond the classroom. These success stories highlight the program's effectiveness in not just educating but also empowering professionals to reshape their careers in meaningful ways.”
The Mini-MBA for STEPs program at Future EDge remains committed to equipping individuals to meet changing workforce demands and gain a competitive advantage. Patrick is looking forward to the upcoming fall cohort and extends a warm invitation to participants within the fields of science, technology, and engineering.
To learn more about the Mini-MBA for STEPs program at Future Edge and to register, click below!