Mike Maguire, a USask engineering alumnus and avid space enthusiast, is making a significant impact on the university and its students through his dedication to education and sports. With a rich history of working on space projects and a deep-rooted love for the Huskies, Maguire is leaving a lasting legacy at USask.
Maguire's journey began in Regina, where he graduated from USask with a B.Eng in 1987, followed by an MA in engineering and engineering physics from the Institute of Space and Atmospheric Studies (ISAS) in 1992. His first engineering project, located on the USask campus, was a 30-foot brick tower with a 10-meter satellite dish, which he helped design and supervise. This early experience set the stage for a career in space exploration.
After working for the Canadian Space Agency, Maguire's career took him across the United States, including a stint at SpaceX. During this time, he met his wife, Melissa, a PhD holder and future Dean of the Library at USask. Their return to Saskatchewan brought a new passion for the Huskies, particularly student-athletes pursuing engineering careers.
Maguire's family has a strong engineering tradition, with his father and sister as role models. His mother's love for space exploration, sparked by watching Neil Armstrong's moon landing, further fueled his interest in engineering. Despite struggling with bipolar disorder, Maguire's determination and support from classmates and family helped him succeed academically.
In recognition of his achievements, Maguire established the Michael C. Maguire P. Eng. Huskie Athletic College of Engineering Award, an annual scholarship for a senior athlete and engineering student. The 2025-26 recipient, Ella Murphy Wiebe, a mechanical engineering student and Huskie Women's Basketball National Champion, exemplifies the impact of this award.
Maguire's generosity extends beyond scholarships. He and his family used their inheritance to create the Douglas L. Maguire P. Eng. Award for young women in civil engineering. Additionally, Maguire's familiarity with Starlink technology led him to donate a satellite terminal to the Huskie men's hockey travel bus, providing high-speed internet for student-athletes.
Maguire's passion for the Huskies is evident in his involvement with the men's and women's hockey teams, attending games and treating them to special dinners. His mentorship of engineering students, including Clara Juca and Gabrielle Kaban, showcases his commitment to supporting the next generation of engineers and athletes.
Looking ahead, Maguire and his wife plan to continue their charitable efforts, focusing on mentoring, financial support, and creating opportunities for USask students. His motivation stems from a desire to give back, inspired by the people who helped him during his struggles with mental health.
In conclusion, Mike Maguire's dedication to education and sports at USask is a testament to his passion for engineering and the Huskies. His legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the university and its students, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
