Systems Thinking on the Ground: Kevin's Path to Real-World Impact
After completing his undergraduate degree in Urban Studies and Sociology at McGill University, Kevin Shi knew he wanted more.
“Sociology and urban studies focused a lot on theory,” he explains. “I wanted real-world experience.”
That desire for hands-on learning led him to the Master of Urban Innovation (MUI, Class of 2025) program at the University of Toronto. What stood out most to him were the experiential components, particularly the internship and capstone project, as opportunities to build practical skills and deepen his understanding of how cities function beyond the classroom.
For Kevin, MUI became the bridge between academic foundations and professional practice.
Building Confidence Through Practice
Kevin describes his growth during the program as both personal and professional.
Through collaboration, presentations, and group projects, he became more adaptable and comfortable working with diverse audiences. He learned how to translate complex ideas into clear, actionable recommendations, and developed the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
Kevin’s internship offered firsthand insight into how major transit infrastructure projects are sponsored. “I saw governing structures and internal processes in person, and how decisions are made at different levels.”
During his capstone project with the City of Hamilton, Kevin and his team conducted a jurisdictional scan and engaged community stakeholders as part of developing a Night-Time Economy Action Plan. The city responded positively to their recommendations, reinforcing the value of evidence-based research paired with meaningful stakeholder input.
Systems Thinking in Practice
Kevin identifies systems thinking as one of the most valuable skills he developed in MUI. Through case studies and collaborative work, he learned to navigate uncertainty and communicate effectively across disciplines—a foundation that supports his ability to coordinate cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities,
Today, he works as a Junior Project Manager at Metrolinx, supporting the Lakeshore East GO line from Oshawa to Bowmanville as part of the broader GO Expansion program, and coordinates with contractors, technical advisors, municipal stakeholders, and the Indigenous relations office.
“In large projects like this, there are engineers, contractors, municipalities, consultants, designers, urban planners—and there are tensions,” Kevin states. “How you mitigate those tensions is important.”
His work spans a wide range of issues, from tree removals and species-at-risk considerations to engagement with local communities.
“Communication is a big thing,” he explains. “You need to adapt to what stakeholders need and change your language to match their perspective. Ask the right questions and think about the bigger picture.”
Innovation, Equity, and Responsibility
For Kevin, innovation in city-building is not just about adopting new technology. “It’s about improving existing processes, engaging communities better, and planning for long-term sustainability.”
MUI helped him view innovation as a governance and systems challenge that refines how institutions work, how decisions are made, and how cities can become more responsive and sustainable over time.
In MUI 1040H: Socially Sustainable Cities: Theory, Policy, and Practice, he was encouraged to consistently ask critical questions regarding equity: who benefits, and who might be negatively impacted? That perspective now informs how he approaches infrastructure delivery.
“Infrastructure is not just about building things,” he reflects. “You have to think about community disruptions, environmental impacts, and accessibility.”
Transit projects shape neighborhoods, access to opportunities, and long-term developments. For Kevin, technical delivery must always be paired with social responsibility.
Preparing for Professional Practice
Kevin considered applying to traditional planning programs but ultimately chose MUI for its focus on applied learning, interdisciplinary exposure, and policy implementation. His background spans geographic information systems, data analysis, and policy work, and MUI’s interdisciplinary approach helped him integrate those skills in practice.
The capstone project sharpened his skills in policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning, while the program’s project management course proved directly applicable to his current role. MUI’s alumni panels and professional development workshops also broadened his understanding of how different parts of organizations function, from governance to operations.
Additionally, Kevin emphasizes the importance of networking and maintaining relationships.
“LinkedIn is active and sometimes more effective than formal emails,” he notes. Reaching out for coffee chats, sharing achievements, and staying connected with professionals in the field helped open doors and shape his career path.
Today, Kevin contributes to one of Ontario’s most significant transit expansion projects—carrying forward the systems thinking, collaborative mindset, and commitment to inclusive growth that defined his time in MUI.
