Photo courtesy of Norquest College
The Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X) supports IndTech, a technical training program for Indigenous youth
IndTech is a new technical training program offered by Norquest College for Indigenous students (ages 15 to 30). IndTech will allow participants to develop employability skills while learning communication and teamwork. Students will also learn data processing, data management and build software literacy.
In addition to online and in-person instruction, students will receive a two-month paid work placement with a call centre company to gain practical work experience.
CAM-X supports the program
Norquest College developed the program in partnership with The CommAlert Group. Tim Carwell, CommAlert’s President and citizen of Beaver First Nation, presented his ideas for the training program to the Canadian Call Management Association (CAM-X). Carwell sits on the CAM-X Board of Directors.
“Telelink is facing significant staffing shortages, and the IndTech program will help us address that need while enhancing our company culture. We know that our company operates at its highest level when our team represents the diversity of our community, so this program is a win-win for us, and we are delighted to participate,” said Cindy Roma of Telelink.
Several CAM-X board members and call centre business owners quickly supported the IndTech program. As a result, IndTech students will receive placements at several participating CAM-X member companies for their work experience term.
Practical experience allows students to build skills and confidence
So far, The CommAlert Group, Telelink, Alliance Wireless Communications, and Teleconnect International have become employer-partners with the IndTech program. The board feels that many other CAM-X member companies will follow.
“We are excited to be a part of this program and for the opportunity to mentor these Indigenous students as they develop skills in this industry. I’m looking forward to meeting them, working with them, and I know my colleagues at CAM-X will feel the same way,” said Brad French of Alliance Wireless Communications.
During this practicum, Indigenous students will develop their skills in a professional work environment. A practical work experience will allow them to gain confidence in the field while building their network and adding to their resume. The goal of the program is for every student to obtain meaningful employment with a business in the digital economy.
Learn more about the IndTech program at https://www.norquest.ca/programs-and-courses/programs/indtech/
