Mike Maguire, a USask engineering alumnus and avid space enthusiast, has found a unique way to give back to his alma mater and the community. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, mentorship, and the impact one person can have on multiple lives. With a background in engineering and space exploration, Maguire has become a dedicated supporter of USask Huskie student-athletes, particularly those pursuing careers in engineering. His story is a fascinating blend of personal tradition, family influence, and a deep-rooted love for the Huskies.
A Passion for Engineering and Space
Maguire's journey began in Regina, where he was born and raised. He graduated from USask with a B.Eng in 1987, followed by an MA in engineering and engineering physics with the Institute of Space and Atmospheric Studies (ISAS) in 1992. His first engineering project, for the Space Engineering Division (SED), is still located on the USask campus. This project, a 30-foot brick tower with a 10-meter satellite dish, holds a special place in his heart. It was here that he developed a system design and helped supervise the construction and procurement of the satellite dish and equipment.
Maguire's passion for space exploration led him to work for the Canadian Space Agency on their spacecraft, launching and flying it for six months. Over the next 30 years, his career took him across the United States as a systems engineer with various organizations, including SpaceX. This experience not only fueled his love for space but also instilled in him a deep appreciation for the importance of education and mentorship.
A Family Tradition
Engineering runs in the Maguire family. His father, an engineer with a successful career spanning 50 years, set an example for Mike. His mother and sister also played pivotal roles in his journey. His mother, a space enthusiast, would wake him up for every space launch, and they would watch it together on a black and white TV. His sister, Marilyn, helped him through his undergraduate studies, providing him with notes and support. These influences, combined with his love for science fiction and space exploration, shaped Maguire's path towards engineering.
Mental Health and Support
Maguire's struggles with bipolar disorder, which was not diagnosed until 2000, highlight the importance of mental health awareness. He encourages others to seek help and communicate with trusted individuals. His classmates and mentors played a crucial role in his journey, and he wants to pay it forward by mentoring students and providing opportunities for them to intern and gain experience.
Giving Back to USask
Maguire and his wife, Melissa, have become dedicated supporters of USask Huskie student-athletes, particularly those pursuing careers in engineering. They have established several awards and scholarships to support young women in civil engineering and senior athletes and engineering students. The Douglas L. Maguire P. Eng. Award, named after his father, was awarded for the first time last year. The Michael C. Maguire P. Eng. Huskie Athletic College of Engineering Award, an annual scholarship awarded to a senior athlete and engineering student, was also established.
Maguire's passion for the Huskies extends beyond Saskatchewan. He has joined the Huskie men's hockey team for their pre-season trip to Hungary and has followed both the women's and men's teams to playoffs. His commitment to the Huskies is a testament to his love for the university and its students.
A Legacy of Giving
Maguire's vision for giving back is not limited to awards and scholarships. He has established a legacy gift to support future generations of USask students. His inspiration came from the challenges student-athletes face in managing athletics and academics, and he wanted to help them overcome these obstacles. He purchased and donated a Starlink satellite terminal to the Huskie men's hockey travel bus, providing high-speed internet access for the team.
This act of kindness has had a ripple effect, as the bus company, PA Northern, was so pleased with Starlink's performance that they installed terminals for every bus. Maguire's passion and support for the Huskies extend beyond Saskatchewan, as he streams hockey games from his home in Los Angeles and has followed the teams to playoffs in Calgary and Vancouver.
A Personal Journey
Maguire's journey is a testament to the power of passion, mentorship, and the impact one person can have on multiple lives. His story is a fascinating blend of personal tradition, family influence, and a deep-rooted love for the Huskies. As an engineer and Huskie fan, he wants to pay it forward and help others achieve their goals. His legacy of giving is a shining example of how one person can make a difference in the lives of others.
