SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Alum bridges classroom learning with industry for Business Information Systems students

Jarrett Emslie knows how to connect the dots. The SaskTel Business Solutions manager and Saskatchewan Polytechnic alumnus brings together classroom knowledge, co-operative education experience and industry connections to help Business Information Systems (BIS) students prepare for a rapidly changing tech landscape.

Emslie holds Sask Polytech credentials in New Media Communications (2010) and a BIS diploma (2021). His approach to problem-solving starts with understanding the challenge, then building creative, practical solutions. Emslie often references the classic nine-dots puzzle as a metaphor. The exercise challenges puzzlers to connect all nine dots with four straight lines without lifting a pen. The only way to solve it is by thinking outside the box.

In his current role at SaskTel, Emslie works on big data and artificial intelligence projects. These areas are reshaping the technology landscape. He predicts BIS students will enter a workforce where AI agents handle repetitive tasks, while humans take on "human-in-the-loop" roles that validate data, make ethical decisions and manage increasingly complex systems.

"There's going to be a heavy upskilling environment ahead," he says. "AI is evolving quickly. That's where BIS graduates will play a role, ensuring the right information is being used and understanding the business context behind the technology."

His role on the BIS Program Advisory Committee (PAC) ensures the curriculum stays aligned with industry needs. PACs provide ongoing insights into current trends, challenges, and skill demands, enabling agile updates so Sask Polytech graduates are well-prepared for employer expectations and future careers.

Emslie is not only committed to informing curriculum but also supporting BIS students through co-operative education. He regularly hires BIS co-op students at SaskTel helping them use classroom learning in real-world settings while building the soft skills he believes are essential for career success.

"Human connection is essential," says Emslie. "Soft skills like collaboration and networking are critical."

He encourages students to engage with the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS), the BIS program's accrediting body. Emslie became a member as a student and has been active since.

Recently, he and a CIPS board member pitched a pilot initiative to BIS students to increase student volunteer opportunities and potential capstone project collaborations. Capstone projects are the final assignment where students apply the skills from their program to solve a real-world problem often in partnership with industry.

Emslie's commitment to strengthening professional pathways builds on his own career shaped by exploration and growth.

His journey has taken him across industries and continents. After completing the New Media Communications program right after high school in Regina, he joined Apple Canada, supporting the reseller program for Future Shop and Best Buy.

"It was a really cool opportunity as a young guy getting to be part of Apple culture and travel to their head office in California," he says.

He later spent a year in Australia working in marketing, graphic design and web administration, followed by travel through the Asia-Pacific region. Returning to Canada, Emslie spent five years working in corrections, while freelancing in design and software development. That experience led him to enrol in the BIS program to formalize his skills.

His first BIS co-op term opened doors at SaskTel.

After graduating, he was recruited by SMedia, a rapidly growing Saskatchewan startup founded by two New Media Communications alumni. Emslie began in ad operations and advanced to chief technology officer. It was demanding, fast-paced and transformative.

With this experience and his education, he returned to SaskTel, bringing his knowledge and leadership skills.

Today, Emslie continues to connect the dots, shaping the next generation of BIS professionals. Through co-operative education mentorship, PAC advisory work and industry initiatives, he helps Sask Polytech students navigate the first important steps of their careers and encourages them to think beyond the box and turn knowledge into real-world impact.

Learn more about the Business Information Systems (BIS) program. 

Learn more about Co-operative Education.