SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Saskatchewan Polytechnic School of Business showcases student innovation at annual event

The Saskatchewan Polytechnic School of Business recently hosted its second annual student showcase, providing a platform for students to connect with potential employers and industry professionals while highlighting their innovative projects. With a total of 26 student groups participating, representing Business programs from Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon campuses, the event showcased the diverse talents and education offered by Sask Polytech.

 

The showcase featured projects covering various areas of business, including human resources, project management, supply chain management, financial services and accounting. Kristen Craig, dean of the School of Business, emphasized the significance of the event for both students and industry, stating, "The students have collaborated on projects either within industry partnerships or through simulated industry experiences, and they have come up with their own innovative concepts. The student showcase highlights the innovation that is coming out of the School of Business programs at Sask Polytech."

 

Among the standout projects, a student group from the Business diploma program in Prince Albert secured the most votes for their idea focused on corporate social responsibility. Their initiative aims to promote cultural diversity and inclusivity through cultural education, fostering unity within the Sask Polytech community and the wider Prince Albert community. Team members included: OShane Brown, Airis Mae Caronan, Heitor Costa, Ernest Obosi, Gellibeth Salvador, Sophia Summer Villacorte and Eloiza Villanueva.

Oshane Brown, an international student from Jamaica and a member of the winning team, expressed his gratitude for the hands-on approach to learning at Sask Polytech, stating, "Working on this project is more practical than putting together an argument for an essay on the computer. I believe this project is needed in our communities. It was exciting to share this idea with business professionals at the showcase."

Brown spent 13 years in the Jamaican military before transitioning to civilian life and attending Sask Polytech. He adds, "I'm very grateful to our faculty members and Sask Polytech's hands-on approach to learning. I'm looking forward to my convocation ceremony this spring."

Eloiza Villanueva is also an international student from the Philippines who is married with two children. She shares, "We wanted to create a project that could connect Sask Polytech students, alumni and the community. Encouraging inclusion and diversity on campus and in the community may benefit graduating students in their future jobs."

Villanueva is also graduating this spring and would like to thank her instructors, "I'm so grateful to my program and the Prince Albert campus for all the learnings and unforgettable experiences. To my instructors, thank you for imparting your knowledge that will serve as the building blocks for my future. You brought out something in me that I never knew existed."

The choice of the Moose Jaw Western Development Museum (WDM) as the venue was intentional, as it allowed students and industry professionals to connect with the rich history of Saskatchewan. Craig explains, "There's so much history with the WDM. We wanted to have our students and industry relive that history and to tie it into the future and where we're going."

Facilitating connections between students and industry leaders was one of the main goals of the event. Craig emphasized the importance of local businesses attending, stating, "Being able to have local professionals attend means a lot to us. We want to have a community connection." The showcase not only provided an opportunity for students to shine but also allowed industry members to see firsthand the hands-on education provided by Sask Polytech.

Learn more about Sask Polytech's School of Business at saskpolytech.ca/business.