TORONTO, September 21, 2000 -- A new executive management development program for the next generation of business leaders in the aerospace industry is now accepting applications for its inaugural class, scheduled to start in early 2001.

The Aerospace Executive Management Program is a joint initiative of the Ontario Aerospace Council (OAC) and the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. The program is designed for aerospace companies that want to develop world-class business expertise and enhance the decision-making abilities of their senior managers and executives.

“With this program, our aerospace industry, working together through the OAC, is enhancing its knowledge-based resources,” said Rod Jones, Executive Director of the OAC. “This is an effective way to ensure that our companies, their employees, and the economy all gain long-term benefits from a globally successful aerospace sector.”

The OAC sought a program so senior managers and executives in the aerospace sector can:

• develop and enhance their ability to operate strategically,
• strengthen their leadership skills and foster their abilities to think creatively, and to inspire and develop those around them,
• increase their understanding of the impact of globalization on the industry and on their organizations,
• share “best practices” in aerospace management, and
• put their learning into action through their day-to-day responsibilities.

Participants who successfully complete the first stage of the program earn a Certificate in Aerospace Management, which is expected to set a new level of professional achievement in the industry. “The Aerospace Executive Management Certificate reinforces fundamental business concepts with the ‘real world’ issues that are constantly re-shaping the nature of the global aerospace industry,” added Professor D’Cruz.

After completing the certificate, aerospace managers who choose to continue their learning can take the Aerospace Executive Management Diploma. The diploma curriculum covers competencies including strategic management, accounting for executives and developing global alliances.

Those earning the diploma become eligible for advanced standing in Rotman’s Executive MBA program and can go on to take the proposed new degree, the Aerospace EMBA from the University of Toronto.

The OAC is an industry-led forum of strategic action for the Ontario aerospace sector. It was formed in 1994. The OAC’s 100 member companies represent approximately 60% of Ontario’s aerospace sector. The industry employs more than 25,000 people, including approximately 2,500 managers.

The Joseph L. Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto is part of Canada’s top-ranked university. The Rotman School provides education and leading-edge research in all disciplines of management. The school’s world-recognized faculty develop and deliver courses that focus on integrative thinking and global competitiveness. The Rotman School works with leading organizations and corporate clients on four continents.

Ken McGuffin
Media Relations Officer
Rotman School of Management
Voice: (416) 946-3818
Fax: (416) 978-1373
E-mail: mcguffin@rotman.utoronto.ca

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