The Head of the Practice of Artificial Intelligence at CGI, Marie-Pierre Habas-Gerard, along with MMA graduates, shared insights into their collaboration and the profound impact of the capstone project on their professional development. In the ever-evolving landscape of data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, the Master of Management in Analytics (MMA) program at McGill University stands out for its commitment to providing students with practical, hands-on experience. A key component of this program is the capstone project, an experiential learning opportunity that partners students with industry leaders.
Bridging Academia and Industry
The capstone project is a hallmark of the MMA program, designed to immerse students in real-world challenges that companies face. This year, CGI, a global IT and business consulting services firm, partnered with McGill to offer a project centered on recruitment and human resources (HR). The objective was clear: to enhance business processes through innovative AI and machine learning solutions.
Marie-Pierre Habas-Gerard emphasized the substantial business value added by the project, noting its focus on improving collaboration with recruiters and enhancing recruitment processes. "The added business value is huge because it's the way to collaborate better with recruiters to recruit better as well," she explained.
A Comprehensive Learning Experience
Solomon Gomez (MMA '22) highlighted the unique nature of the capstone project, describing it as a full lifecycle experience of a proof of concept. Students delve into every stage of AI and machine learning solution development, from identifying business pain points and collecting data to modeling and presenting a final demo. This immersive process offers a depth of understanding that goes beyond traditional classroom learning.
"The whole lifecycle experience is something that you're not going to get from a course. It really provides insights into the realities within an organization, the challenges that aren't typically covered in a classroom setting," Solomon remarked.
Real-World Skills and Team Collaboration
Working in a team with diverse roles—data engineers, data scientists, and business analysts—students learn to communicate effectively and coordinate their efforts to deliver a product that meets client expectations. This collaborative environment mirrors real-world business settings, preparing students for future careers where interdisciplinary teamwork is essential.
Messaye Bahiru (MMA '22) shared how the project honed their technical skills, business acumen, and statistical knowledge. These combined competencies enable graduates to interact seamlessly with stakeholders and technical teams alike, ensuring they can bridge gaps and contribute effectively in any organization.
Preparing for Future Careers in Business Analytics
The capstone project also provides a safe space for students to practice client discovery and understand stakeholder needs without the pressures of a full-time job. This experiential learning is invaluable, allowing students to explore and refine their skills in a controlled environment.
"For those who haven't had a full-time position before, it's a great practice opportunity. You get to interact with clients, understand their thought processes, and determine the current state of the company, what they have done that is leading them to look for a solution that you can potentially provide," Solomon Gomez (MMA '22), "This practice is crucial before entering the job market where immediate delivery is expected."
"It is really interesting to work with the stakeholders and understand how the tool that we are building is going to help them," noted Rebecca Mukena Yumba (MMA '22)
Success Through Partnership
Marie-Pierre Habas-Gerard praised the MMA program for its understanding of AI delivery and the structure of the multidisciplinary teams. The collaboration with CGI yielded impressive outcomes, showcasing the effectiveness of combining academic rigor with practical experience.
"Incredible outcomes," she concluded, expressing her satisfaction with the project's results and the potential for future partnerships.
The Master of Management in Analytics program at McGill University, through its capstone project, successfully bridges the gap between academic learning and industry practice. By partnering with leading companies like CGI, the program not only enhances students' technical and business skills in AI and machine learning but also prepares them for the complexities of the professional world. This innovative approach ensures that McGill MMA graduates are well-equipped to tackle real-world challenges and drive business success.
Master of Management in Analytics (MMA) Program
The McGill Master of Management in Analytics (MMA) degree is a specialized program in the evolving field of analytics and data science with a strong emphasis on applied and experiential learning through our 3 Pillars: Quantitative Methods, Technology Automation and Business Application. The MMA program touches on many foundational topics that comprise Artificial Intelligence (AI), covering key areas such as Language Modeling, Image Recognition, Analytic Visualization and Data Architecture Automation. Through our comprehensive curriculum, students gain practical skills and knowledge essential for tackling real-world challenges in the rapidly advancing domain of AI and analytics.
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About CGI
Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world. We are insights-driven and outcomes-based to help accelerate returns on your investments.
