Photo from NAIT
The Northern Institute of Technology (NAIT) aims to provide industry training programs that are practical and specific to in-demand careers in Alberta. In doing so, they rely on industry partners for guidance and feedback, and they do this through program advisory councils. These councils ensure their education programs include everything essential and relevant to the specific industry today.
NAIT Progam Advisory Council
Program advisory councils allow industry leaders to advise on specific curriculums. Each year, the programs are reviewed by members of that program’s advisory board to ensure students are learning everything and obtaining the tools they need to be successful in the workforce.
Tim Carwell, President of The CommAlert Group and citizen of Beaver First Nation, has recently joined a program advisory council.
“I’m looking forward to participating on this advisory council and sharing my insight on the hard and soft skills required of students moving out of school and into technical jobs. I also want to be a specific voice and advocate for Indigenous students moving through these programs,” said Tim Carwell.
ōhpinitotān
Carwell has a specific passion for helping Indigenous students receive the training and support they need to be successful in the industry. Recently, he co-founded ōhpinitotān, a foundation that partners with educational institutions and industry employers to deliver a unique program that educates, connects, and supports Indigenous folks in the workforce.
ōhpinitotān strives to ensure every student has the guidance, tools, and resources they need to successfully integrate into their chosen field. For employers, ōhpinitotān complements diversity, equity, and inclusion programs by providing localized, Indigenous cultural training to create safe spaces for Indigenous employees.
Sitting on a NAIT program advisory council allows Carwell to provide an Indigenous perspective while joining discussions about program curriculum, desired outcomes, and industry innovations. Additionally, these advisory councils can help foster better connections between students and employers.
