A Knowledge Network speaker series at York University’s IBM learning space launched on Oct. 23 with guest speaker Mihir Shah, CFO, sales and distribution and IBM Canada finance controller.
After the formal ribbon cutting for the new space in September, students have been benefiting from the proximity and exposure to senior leaders in the building.
More than 30 students and faculty participated in a dialogue moderated by Professor Gary Spraakman from the School of Administrative Studies, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies (LA&PS). In addition to sharing what a typical day looks like for IBM Canada’s chief financial officer, Shah spoke about effective job searching, career development and the work opportunities that await graduates.
Left to right: Mihir Shah, CFO, sales and distribution and IBM Canada finance controller with event moderator Professor Gary Spraakman from the School of Administrative Studies
“To prepare for the job market, building your professional network is as important as building your technical skills,” Shah said. “You also need to be relatable and personable. I encourage you to be involved in student clubs, sports, and other such activities that expand your skills and add to your overall personal growth.”
The next speaker, scheduled for January, is Greg Houghting, CFO, IBM Global Business Services and York/Schulich alum ’97. Collaborative activities with IBM, like this series, are continuing to be explored to best leverage LA&PS’s presence in the building. For example, IBM experts have been invited to connect with professors and visit classrooms to discuss projects or issues that support our students’ curriculum.
“These are great initiatives being facilitated for our students. The exposure they get with senior leaders at IBM will have lasting impact on them as they prepare for their careers,” said Spraakman.