In an exciting new partnership, Southeast College and Suncrest College are set to launch DATA In A New WaY (Digital and Tech Access for Indigenous, Newcomers, Women, and Youth), an innovative computer science and workplace skills training program beginning this summer. The program is made possible through partnership with the Future Skills Centre and funded by the Government of Canada's Future Skills Program, awarded jointly to Southeast and Suncrest Colleges in collaboration with the Yorkton Tribal Council.
Students at Southeast College participating in Computer Science Training through Projects class.
The program will prepare 40 students across Eastern Saskatchewan to meet the growing demand for digital skills in the Canadian workforce through real-world computer projects, accompanied by Skills for Success training - training based on 9 essential workplace skills. The program is specifically designed to provide face-to-face instruction for rural residents, including First Nations individuals, Newcomers, women, and youth. Additional training supports integrated into the program to promote learner success include a land-based learning day camp for school age children of learners during July and August.
"This partnership accesses the expertise of the Centre for Applied Research & Innovation at Suncrest to customize programming to meet community demand. It's a response to community requests to provide opportunities for our youth and First Nations residents to gain essential tech skills," says Alison Dubreuil, President and CEO of Suncrest College.
"We are thrilled to collaborate with Suncrest College on this initiative. We are expanding the reach of our Computer Science training through project-based learning and involving more students in real-world problem solving at the Centre of Sustainable Innovation," says Jody Holzmiller, President and CEO of Southeast College.
"Yorkton Tribal Council has a long relationship with the regional colleges to provide training and Skills for Success programming. We support additional education on our Nations to improve technology skills for our people," says Isabel O'Soup, Tribal Chief of Yorkton Tribal Council.
"Equitable access to digital and workplace skills is essential for building resilient communities and inclusive growth. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting workers, especially those in rural communities, Indigenous Peoples and youth, to strengthen pathways into today's economy and help shape the workforce of the future," says Noel Baldwin, Executive Director, Future Skills Centre.
The DATA In A New WaY program addresses critical gaps in access to digital technology and computer science training in rural Saskatchewan, where geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, and affordability continue to pose challenges. The 12-week course equips participants with technical and workplace skills through community-focused project work. The goal is to increase participation among underrepresented groups and foster a local pipeline of tech talent to strengthen rural economies.
Program Delivery
The program will consist of four cohorts of 10 students each, attending 12 weeks of in-person computer science classes beginning in June 2025. Two classes will be held at Suncrest College and two at Southeast College.
At each college, one class will be delivered on a First Nation and dedicated to Indigenous participants. The other class will be open to general enrollment, with a focus on newcomers, women, youth, and other equity-seeking groups. In total, 40 student spots are available.
Students will engage in project-based learning, working on real-world tech challenges submitted by local businesses or organizations. Participants will take part in Skills for Success employment readiness alongside the computer science programming for more comprehensive workplace preparation.
Support for Students
All students will have access to the equipment they need for success, including a laptop, second monitor, mouse, and carrying case. For those without adequate home internet, the program will provide installed internet equipment and a six-month service subscription. For parents with young children, land-based day-camps are available to promote Indigenous cultural awareness while helping children retain academic progress from the previous school year over the summer months.
Final Presentation Celebrations
At the conclusion of the program, each college will host a final presentation celebration to mark graduation and showcase student projects. These events will promote knowledge sharing, strengthen program connections, and provide a platform for students to present their accomplishments.
Registration and Application
Enrollment is now open. Prospective students can apply online through Southeast College or Suncrest College. With only 40 student spots available across Eastern Saskatchewan, early registration is encouraged.
