Careers in the Digital Economy

A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET JUNE 2018 | CAREERSANDEDUCATION.CA

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IT WORLD CANADA ITECH CANADA ONLINE EXCLUSIVE ASSOCIATION OF CANADA (ITAC) 2018 Channel Innovation Awards 2018 Infrastructure, Cloud, Security, 2018 Xplore STEM Youth Conference itwc.ca Data Centre Virtualization, Networking JOIN US FOR IT’S TIME WE ACT EVENT glenforeststem.com/xplore.html Toronto, Ontario and Communications Conference careersandeducation.ca NEWS Pearson Convention Centre September 19, 2018 itechconference.ca Ottawa, ON Brampton, Ontario Metro Toronto Convention Centre October 10, 2018 November 13, 2018 November 8, 2018

CAREERS IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

Let’s Talk Science Talks Canada 2067

cience, technology, engineering, and youth to compete, contribute, and thrive in dations and see what you can do, visit math (STEM) learning can help young a world of rapid technological change. canada2067.ca. We all have a responsibility SCanadians build the critical skills Leading the way, Let’s Talk Science has to prepare our youth for their future so that they need to participate meaningfully in a embraced the Canada 2067 recommenda- Canada is well-positioned as a leader in the digital economy, including an understand- tions by developing new tools, activities, digital economy. ing of scientifi c methods, numeracy, digital and resources in support of an integrated literacy, and problem-solving. However, to approach to digital literacy which has been meet changing economic and citizenship recognized as critical to the successes of demands, Canada needs to revisit how and our future economy. Living Space — a cit- what we teach, how students learn, and who izen science action project launching this inspires them to engage with STEM and fall — will challenge youth across Canada to shows where it can take them. examine the environmental conditions in Bonnie Schmidt Recognizing this, Let’s Talk Science initi- their classroom and compare them to those C.M., Ph.D., President & Founder, ated Canada 2067 — an ambitious national reported by David Saint-Jacques onboard the Let’s Talk Science discussion to develop a shared vision to International Space Station. Using sensors improve STEM learning. The goal? To develop and coding, classrooms will develop and FOUNDING PARTNERS recommendations that align e orts of educa- use a combination of critical thinking skills tion stakeholders, community organizations, and STEM competencies to report their fi nd- industry, governments, and parents to help ings. To fi nd out more about the project visit our systems adapt to the demands of a letstalkscience.ca/livingspace. changing global economy and prepare our To review the Canada 2067 recommen-

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Publisher: Quinn Farrell Business Developer: Samantha Blandford Country Manager: Jacob Weingarten Content Production Manager: Ellen Asiedu Lead Designer: Mike Shea Designer: Jack Burden Digital Content Manager: Camille Co Contributors: Gavin Davidson , Ken Donohue, Ted Kritsonis, D.F McCourt, Cherise Mendoza, Anne Papmehl, Catherine Roberts, Melissa Vekil Cover Photo:Rodrigo Moreno Photo credits: Rodrigo Moreno, Bliss Man All images are from Getty Images unless otherwise accredited. Send all inquiries to [email protected] This section was created by Mediaplanet and did not involve National Post or its Editorial Departments. STRENGTHENING CANADA’S DIGITAL ADVANTAGE IN A GLOBAL ECONOMY

Forward looking research

Neutral & evidence based policy advice Check out our white papers Information and Communications Technology Council Innovative & inclusive capacity building programs Discover more on Page 8 Find out more about initiatives like Digital DASH, WIL Digital and GO Talent

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to ensure that Canadian tech talent can compete on a global scale,” says Kevin Peesker, CEO Innovation and Education at Microsoft Canada. “We see Montreal as the Canada’s tech industry epicentre of deep learning engineering and “must work closely with at Microsoft Canada research. In B.C., we are actively supporting academia and policymakers the Cascadia Innovation Corridor which opens to ensure that Canadian Kevin Peesker, CEO of Microsoft Canada, speaks to collaboration and economic development tech talent can compete on how Microsoft is setting the tone for the future of opportunities between Vancouver and Seattle.” a global scale, Canada’s digital economy Customers and partners emerging from the country also vary across industries, with ” agriculture, retail, healthcare, and tech organ- echnology looks to be a key driver izations ultimately enabled by AI innovation. reports participating in coding or program- of Canada’s future growth and ming activity outside of school.” Teducating talent pools should pay Reaching out Peesker says the company has reached over dividends for innovating the digital economy. To follow through with the commitment 56,000 young people, 50 percent of whom were Despite the optimism, Canada’s to securing Canada’s digital future, Peesker girls and 80 percent underserved and Indigen- readiness for disruption via artifi cial intel- believes the focus should go beyond the next ous youth. Microsoft has worked with partners ligence (AI) shows room for improvement. fi ve years. Learning how to code is beginning travelling cross-country o ering workshops, A study by McKinsey & Company found to form the backbone of this process, although while the company’s stores are also holding 89 percent of Canadian business leaders most students aren’t fi nding the opportunity STEM workshops of their own for children, believe it will create major positive change to do so in their schools. parents and teachers. in three to five years, yet only 34 percent have “In schools across the country, we have “We have an obligation as technology adjusted their long-term strategies to see AI’s an incredible network of educators that are leaders to equip Canadian youth and STEM Kevin Peesker potential benefits. supporting our mission and bringing technol- professionals with an evolving set of digital CEO, Teaching the right tech skills today ogy and coding into the classroom,” he says. skills — but we need the entire community to Microsoft Canada is crucial to positioning the workforce to “Coding doesn’t just end in the classroom, and come together to support this as well,” he says. thrive in tomorrow’s evolving landscape. we have a great set of partners that help us “Canada’s tech industry must work scale STEM awareness to as many young people Ted Kritsonis closely with academia and policymakers as we can. Only one in 10 young Canadians

Advanced AI Tech How STEM Tools May Change Canadian Bring Innovation to Jobs for the Better Life in the Classroom

When opportunity knocks, who New, innovative technologies answers? focused on STEM education A physician working in tandem with are breathing new life into the AI can fi nd a tumour with better accur- classroom acy. Self-driving trucks that give human operators more responsibility can act as ids have long been avid content brand ambassadors on the road through consumers, but thanks to tech- upselling and loss prevention. Weigelt Knology-inclusive classrooms, equates these two examples as “repur- they’re also developing all the skills neces- posing” jobs with AI — similar to the sary to become dynamic content creators. expanded role tellers now play in banks, Teachers utilizing new technologies to despite the presence of ATMs. enhance the STEM education experience Benjamin Kelly John Weigelt “We’re involved with four of the fi ve are fi nding that enhanced learning comes Technology Teacher, National Technology O cer, super clusters where the federal govern- with more engaged students. By learning Caledonia Regional High School, Microsoft Canada ment is investing $950 million in what’s skills like coding, robotics programming, New Brunswick next in technology,” says Weigelt. “We and video game development, students are trying to ecourage people to do some- build their own hands-on projects in the thing new or explore something new present, with a look toward the future. As lar game. Beyond game development, his rtificial intelligence (AI) is a each day. We’re helping our customers an additional benefi t, technology in the students have been learning chemistry common buzzword, yet it’s not — both individuals and businesses — classroom supports a level playing fi eld through it. Awidely understood publicly, understand how AI can help them.” by providing access to tools that students This is the mark of a di erent era. despite the possibilities inherent in its The Information and Communica- would not have otherwise been able to Whereas Microsoft O ce applications vast potential, says John Weigelt, Micro- tions Technology Council (ICTC) projects experiment with at home. like PowerPoint and Excel were hard sells soft Canada’s top tech executive. there will be over 200,000 vacancies in “From a teacher’s point of view, we in the past, students are now fi nding more As the National Technology O cer digital talent alone, and Weigelt believes strive to have our kids be creators and inclusive and innovative tools in products at Microsoft Canada, Weigelt believes Canada has a unique position from an AI makers instead of just consuming what like the Xbox and HoloLens. Coding lan- AI is a broad term that encompasses thought leadership perspective. “We see someone else has made in another part of guage has only enhanced the existing sub-categories like machine learning, that transformation happening across the world,” says Benjamin Kelly, a technol- robotics in class. automation, and neural networks, among the community, and there’s going to be ogy teacher at Caledonia Regional High “I can now say I have a full-blown others. “There’s a need for the skills and a need to learn and understand these School in New Brunswick. “If you put engineering program at my school ability to always be learning and under- tools.” them into the water — they swim. By the because I have a HoloLens that allows standing how these tools can impact the time they hit grade nine, they’ve become us to do amazing things and bring them business or organization you’re in,” he Ted Kritsonis legitimate game developers.” to life in the classroom,” says Kelly. “The says. “We don’t see AI replacing humans whole purpose of school, in my mind, is — we see it complementing humans and Higher learning to fi nd kids’ passions and support them, making them better.” Kelly cites Minecraft as a prime example so they can fi nd a career that they love.” of technology-derived learning due to the STEM lessons inherent in the popu- Ted Kritsonis

Microsoft Canada is investing more than $2 million this year in programs, courses, OpenHacks, and resources to Microsoft’s help developers and data scientists update their skills. In addition to this, the software giant is helping students, entrepreneurs, and professionals build their business Canadian Innovation Footprint and discover new solutions to complex problems

BRITISH COLUMBIA QUEBEC

Vancouver, BC - The Cascadia Innovation Corridor between Montreal, QC - Microsoft is a technology leader investing Vancouver and Seattle is provides a unique opportunity to create signiﬁ cantly in AI: acquisition of Maluuba, $7M in research social and economic opportunity for the nearly 12 million people grants to University of Montreal and McGill, partnership with who live in Seattle and Vancouver, enabling better collaboration Yoshua Bengio, investment in Element AI hub, and doubling between universities and research institutions. the size of Microsoft Research Montreal by 2019.

NEW BRUNSWICK

ALBERTA Moncton, NB - Microsoft Innovative Educator Calgary, AB - Microsoft is Expert, Ben Kelly, integrates working with the Missing Microsoft technology into his Children Society of Canada curriculum to build digital to rebuild and improve their literacy in K-12. Most Valuable Network platform, which sends time-sensitive alerts and information to Canadians ONTARIO to help recover missing children across social media. Toronto, ON Microsoft is the ﬁ rst to announce the opening of Canadian Cloud regions in Toronto and MANITOBA Montreal, delivering Winnipeg, MB - Farmers Edge, a global leader in decision agriculture, services a trusted, complete over 22 million paid product acres worldwide with precision digital solutions that cloud service to combine cutting-edge machine learning and artiﬁ cial intelligence, powered by power Canadian Microsoft Azure, to allow farmers to produce more with less. businesses. A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 3 Diversity and Inclusion are Core to Building a Successful Team

tering a more diverse and inclusive environment is such in Canada. We actively support Women @ Microsoft and an important part of my job as the Head of HR at Microsoft GLEAM, a resource group for Microsoft’s LGBTQ+ employ- Canada. We know that our culture is critical to attracting ees. We celebrate Pride and Black History Month and and retaining top talent and, ultimately, creating cut- sponsor Canada’s Special Olympics team. Employees with ting-edge technology solutions that help our customers accessibility needs can take advantage of the range of achieve more. We know that to create an irresistible cul- accessibility features built right into Windows and O ce ture where our employees can realize their full potential, 365 — features that are getting smarter every day through every person needs to feel like they belong — and be able AI-powered technology. We’ve even skinned our elevators to contribute with their full and authentic selves. with D&I decals — a small gesture on the surface, but an indication that we value diversity and discuss it openly. With authenticity comes innovation We do this work not only because we believe it’s Diversity is more than just a cultural tenet for Microsoft, important to serve our customers. It’s also important to Cherise Mendoza Head of HR, it drives everything we do. We can’t build e ective solu- do good in the world. Microsoft Canada tions if our teams don’t refl ect our customers and their The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) estimates that women account for just iversity is good for business. A study from McKin- 25 percent of information, communication and technol- sey & Company found that public companies “in ogy positions and that number has remained basically Dthe top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are unchanged for the last decade. This means that men out- 35 percent more likely to have fi nancial returns above We know that to create an irresistible number women at a ratio of three to one in the high-value national industry medians.” A separate study from Boston culture where our employees can realize their STEM sector — the jobs of tomorrow. At Microsoft, female Consulting Group found that businesses with above aver- full“ potential, every person needs to feel like leaders make up half of our Canadian Leadership Team. age diversity scores at the management level generate 38 they belong — and be able to contribute with We’re proud of that but we know we can’t rest on our laur- percent more of their revenues, on average, from innov- their full and authentic selves. els. Expanding the talent pipeline for a new generation of ative products and services. But satisfying shareholders work is a key part of our D&I strategy. isn’t the only reason to implement diverse hiring practi- ” Our commitment to diversity and inclusion means ces — it’s also good for employee morale. creating an environment where everyone feels included I am an avid soccer player and fan which translates and valued. Fostering this sense of inclusion and com- to many hours spent in the week playing, coaching, or customers. Canada is an extraordinarily multicultural munity will, in turn, create an environment that can help cheering on the soccer pitch. Often the most celebrated market — it’s one of the things that make this country us fulfi ll our company mission to empower every person players are those who score the goals. However, imagine, great. If our teams don’t understand how diverse groups and organization on the planet to achieve more. This is an if you will, a soccer team made entirely of strikers. The think, make decisions, and interact, how can we build ambitious goal, but one we are committed to achieving. idea is preposterous — a well-rounded team that is good solutions for them? at every position will be far more successful than a team It is my job to ensure we’re implementing Micro- Cherise Mendoza that is great at just one thing. This is precisely why fos- soft’s global diversity and inclusion (D&I) strategy here

How Microsoft Technology Enhances Accessibility and Inclusivity

urrently, 15 percent of the world’s population lives on the planet to achieve more,” Wagner says. with a disability, whether it’s situational, temporary, One of these solutions is Eye Control — a solution already Cor permanent. Invisible disabilities — such as colour embedded into every Windows 10 system — which allows blindness or a mental health condition — a ect 70 percent people living with physical paralysis to use their computer of the population. It’s more important than ever to create through eye-tracking and speech-to-text technology. Micro- inclusive environments in order to give everyone an equal soft’s speech-to-text software is a perfect example of an opportunity for success. inclusive solution designed for extreme disabilities and that also provides solutions for the greater population. In an Re-imagining accessibility increasingly globalized workforce, speech-to-text programs Technology has the power to create an environment for every- can be used to communicate with colleagues in any language. one to bring their best to the table. “At Microsoft, accessibility Although three out of 10 employees in the workplace live is at the core of our products,” says Ricardo Wagner, Senior with a disability, many employers remain unaware of their Ricardo Wagner Product Marketing Manager and co-lead for the Disability limitations. Creating a diverse workforce needs to start with Senior Product Marketing Manager & Co-Lead, Initiative at Microsoft Canada. Microsoft’s inclusive design C-suite executives understanding various disabilities and Disability Initiative, Microsoft Canada strategy means that from the early stages of a product’s design, championing inclusive solutions. Technology can help us do researchers, developers, and engin- things di erently. eers recognize any aspect of the We’re creating products and solutions software or hardware that might Melissa Vekil pose a problem for those with SPONSORED BY “that empower people and organizations disabilities and make changes to on the planet to achieve more. ensure it works for all. “We’re creating products and solutions that ” empower people and organizations

Fortunately, Microsoft is working to provide The Gender Skills Gap in STEM opportunities for girls and women to excel in the fi eld is Greater Than You Think through their global diversity and inclusion strategy. 57% The ratio of of girls say they are very men to women to extremely interested 40% in digital technology employed in of private businesses careers compared with ICT1 positions are currently owned by 72 percent of boys. women and have started is 3 to 1 successful businesses at a faster rate than ever before Globally, female students only represent 35 percent of all students enrolled in STEM fi elds. Female enrollment is lowest in engineering, manufacturing and construction, natural science, mathematics, and ICT fi elds.

By 2021, employment in Canada's digital economy will reach

In the last 10 years, new 1.6 million businesses with at least one female founder creating approx. 216,000 outperformed businesses new vacancies for with all-male founders digital talent

1 Information communication technology 4 CAREERSANDEDUCATION.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET

MOVING THE DIAL WITH Jodi Kovitz s founder and CEO of #movethedial, an organ- way to go in closing the gender gap. Women comprise 13 ization that aims to increase the participation percent of the average tech company’s executive team, of women in the tech industry, Jodi Kovitz is while 53 percent of tech companies have no female exec- a dynamic force in Canada’s tech scene. Since its incep- My life has utives. If Canada wants to lead the way in innovation, we tion two years ago, #movethedial has scaled rapidly into can’t let women sit on the sidelines — we have too much a global movement and a community of thousands. “been a series to gain with a more inclusive and diverse tech sector. But Kovitz’ journey to success involved many twists and turns. Seven years into a successful law career, she of moments MP What lies ahead for #movethedial? realized she wasn’t making the kind of impact she JK We recently released our fi rst report on gender equal- wanted to. “I felt like I’d lost my way,” she says. “I forgot of listening ity in the Canadian tech ecosystem called Where’s The Dial my sense of purpose.” Now?, in partnership with PwC and MaRs. This report Armed with an entrepreneurial spirit (Kovitz started to people who tells us that though the gender gap is still wide, there are her fi rst company at age 16), her infamous “Just Say e ective ways we can move the dial for the women and Hello” philosophy, and guidance from inspiring mentors, truly believe in girls in our lives. We’re also excited about our upcoming she carved a brand new path. Kovitz credits her success to #movethedial Global Summit on November 7, 2018. discipline, hard work, and the numerous mentors in her my success.” life. “My life has been a series of moments of listening to MP What advice do you have for young girls and women? people who truly believe in my success,” she says. JK Seek out mentors that will support and guide you, After fi ve years as Business Growth and Innovation take the time to create meaningful relationships, and Lead at Osler, Kovitz made her jump into Canada’s tech build your network! Also, don’t be afraid to step into the scene as the CEO of AceTech Ontario (now Peerscale), a unknown or take risks that move you outside of your non-profi t organization connecting CEOs and leaders tech leaders. I looked around and realized that only about comfort zone. of tech scaleups. It was there she fully realized the sec- three percent of the leaders in the room were women. It tor’s problematic gender gap and felt inspired to create was a stark di erence from my experience in the legal Melissa Vekil change. industry, where I was surrounded by powerful female We spoke to Jodi Kovitz about a career in tech and leaders. Standing in that room was a wake-up call for why female empowerment is the key to the future of me to a ect change and it’s what inspired me to start IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Canada’s digital economy. #movethedial.

Mediaplanet What drew you to a career in technology? MP What are some of the challenges facing the industry? Jodi Kovitz There were a few distinct moments. In JK Despite being one of the fastest-moving and fast- late 2017, I had the opportunity to speak in front of 130 est-growing industries, the tech sector still has a long Diverse Ideas Make for Good Business oronto is one of the most diverse MP How does a diverse workforce change as a do-it-yourself on-ramp to help small cities in the world. And yet, if you the products you build for your clients? to medium-sized businesses take steps Twalked into the o ces of many CE For TWG in particular, we build toward diversifying their workplaces. small and medium-sized companies — software for our clients that impact all The policies are the result of a year-long particularly in the tech sector — you humans, not just subsets. As a result, partnership between TechGirls Canada wouldn’t know it. Toronto-based digital having a diverse set of individuals involved (TGC) and TWG. The open source pro- transformation studio (software and app in designing and building products, as ject (found at changetogether.io) was developer) TWG has bucked the trend and well as a company culture that encourages designed to explore, test, and report on a has made a conscious decision to harness people to challenge the traps and tropes set of strategies for boosting gender and Toronto’s diversity in order to make it of group-think means the software we racial diversity, equity, and inclusion in work for them. Today, they are eager to build is more likely to be embraced by the the workplace. share their experiences and to show other widest possible cross-section of users — Chris Eben companies how workplace diversity can which is what our clients are looking to MP Where do you see things progressing in Managing Partner, TWG provide advantages across all domains of achieve and why they hire us. the future in terms of workplace diversity, business. particularly in Canada? TWG is a software innovation fi rm that MP What are some of the challenges com- CE It is remarkable to me that we are helps companies unlock their potential Mediaplanet spoke with TWG’s Managing panies face in building a diverse workforce? still having this conversation today. But by building the software they need Partner Chris Eben about the company’s CE From my perspective, the single great- we are, which says things are not moving to succeed. With o ces in Toronto, diversity initiatives and the benefi ts they’ve est challenge companies face in building as quickly as they should be. Every work- New York, and Mumbai, TWG has built already accrued from implementing them. a diverse workforce is the evolution from place is unique and will face its own set of hundreds of products for a wide range of representation to inclusion. Creating challenges and biases in building a diverse clients from innovation-driven enterprises Mediaplanet It seems obvious that inclusive cultures and work environments workforce. My hope is that more progres- to growth stage startups navigating the diversity in hiring is good for society, but where everyone can be their authentic self sive companies can serve as models for challenges of scaling their businesses. what direct advantages does a company see and where all ideas and contributions are others to follow and that a lack of divers- Build software with the people who help when they build diversity into their work- sought after by leadership remains elusive ity will stop being an issue and simply build software companies twg.io place? for most employers. Training leadership becomes part of the fabric of the way we Chris Eben There are numerous studies on unconscious biases, assessing inclu- choose to build and grow businesses. that validate the positive business impacts sion through the right measurements, that come from having a diverse work- and implementing specifi c strategies to D.F. McCourt force. More diverse companies are able to improve inclusive cultures is the way to attract top talent, improve customer rela- solve this challenge. Diverse companies are able to attract tions, drive greater employee satisfaction, To fi nd out more about how top“ talent, improve customer relations, and improve decision making. These are MP What is Change Together, and how did we work, you can visit drive greater employee satisfaction, the fundamental elements that not only it come about? go.twg.io/services. and improve decision making. improve profi tability, but also drive client CE Change Together is comprised of a loyalty, boost a brand’s reputation, and set of 11 unique policies and initiatives SPONSORED BY ” increase a company’s competitive advan- that address hiring and retention. It tage. TWG’s own experience bears this out. works to support the success of under- represented groups in tech and serves 5 CAREERSANDEDUCATION.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 5

Leading the Way to the Future at Thompson Rivers University

hat we think of as a tech eering approach that is closely sector job is evolving, partnered with the external tech Waccording to Dr. Lincoln accelerator in Kamloops,” says Dr. Smith, Director of Research Part- Smith. “Each organization can focus nerships and Enterprise Creation on what it does best. Together we at Thompson Rivers University are accelerating the growth of the (TRU). “It’s not just people in front tech community in the region, with of computers programming,” he more start-up businesses providing says. “As the regional technology good paying jobs for graduates.” sector grows, companies are needing Dr. Smith adds that TRU’s graduates in business, communica- commitment to tech has beneﬁ ts tions, and visual arts as well as in beyond the university. With the Dr. Lincoln Smith engineering and sciences. We work increased development of the tech Director, Research directly with these regional compan- community, young people have new Partnerships & ies to provide the trained workforce opportunities to work in the region Enterprise Creation for their continued growth.” and do not necessarily need to move As well as training the work- elsewhere for work. The university force, TRU is creating jobs with its will attract new students with the TRU Generator. Established two local job opportunities during and years ago, the Generator is a place on after studies are completed. campus for students and faculty to “The mission for the TRU Gen- get advice and support to evaluate erator is to change the way that their business ideas and build them innovation is thought of and prac- into companies. It allows innova- ticed at the university,” says Smith. tive student entrepreneurs to learn “Students will leave TRU with a about new tools and methodologies degree and the skills to work in the and gives them the opportunity to digital economy — possibly in their leave TRU with both a degree and own company.” For more information on their own start-up. how to enroll, visit tru.ca “The TRU Generator has a pion- Ken Donohue

Innovative So tware Engineering Builds a Path for Success

oftware engineering, like other engineering disciplines, is all about solving Sproblems and developing solutions. But as technology continues to play a bigger part in daily life, the solutions being developed must also evolve, requiring software engineering programs to evolve into multifaceted courses to better serve students. The software engineering program at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) does just that. “Our new program provides a fantastic Dr. Tom Dickinson opportunity to not only meet the needs of the Dean, Faculty of Science expanding tech sector, but let students complete their entire course of study at TRU,” says Dr. Tom Dickinson, the university’s Dean of Science. “With growing innovation hubs in Kamloops and Metro Vancouver, there is a huge need for software engineers and the demand can’t be met with the current level of graduates.” Software plays a critical role in our ever-increasingly technology-driven world, and this means there is a lot of variety in the kinds of work and sectors one can pursue. “It’s the entire life cycle of the software — programming, designing, and testing — and there are Dr. Faheem Ahmed, P.Eng. some pretty cool applications that software Chair, Department engineers can get involved with,” says Dr. of Engineering Dickinson. “The self-driving car wouldn’t be possible with-out software engineers.” adapted our program to include best practices fession has evolved to meet the changing Best practice in in problem-based and group learning,” says economy.” learning Dr. Faheem Ahmed, a professional engineer Kamloops was recently recognized as the TRU’s Bachelor of Software and Chair of Engineering at TRU. “This, along start-up community of the year, and with the Engineering is one of only with our mandatory two co-op work terms, city’s creative and growing tech sector, there two in BC, so to di erenti- [ensures] graduates learn practical skills and are huge opportunities for software engineers. ate itself and create a better are ready to work in the sector.” experience for students, Dr. Dickinson says there has been a lot of Ken Donohue the university has made excitement from students and young people a commitment to keep its class about this new program. “We need to change SPONSORED sizes small. “We have put experi- the perception of what an engineer does. It’s BY ential learning at the forefront and not all about wearing a hard hat. The pro- 6 CAREERSANDEDUCATION.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET

The CBC o ers careers in a variety of ﬁ elds — employing thousands of Canadians and creating inspiring content on a daily basis. The CBC’s digital teams build the sites and apps that Canadians use to connect with and experience digital content, devise the analytics tools and intelligent systems that allow the CBC to better understand audiences, and develop and support content management systems that thousands of content producers use to make and distribute content.

serious about making inclusion and diversity a stra- How the CBC Remains Relevant tegic goal of the organization and, broadly, the numbers say we’re doing okay,” says Kim. “We know though, that we still have with Diverse New Perspectives work to do. It’s about challenging ourselves to look at the evidence di erently and not be satisﬁ ed with just top line numbers. For Kim oversees multi-platform production “It really comes down to creativity,” instance, we over-index with women lead- at the CBC, ranging from digital products to Kim says. “If you increase diversity, then ers in our workplace, but when you look at more linear services like radio and the technical functions, not so much. I’d television. How to hire for a diverse like to see more women in technical func- and inclusive workplace, especially tions and I’d like to see more diverse faces on the technical side, is very much If you increase diversity, then you in the leadership ranks at CBC.” on her mind these days. “We need really have a great opportunity to more women and more diversity “ An inclusive conversation in general, in tech,” Kim says. “It crowdsource creativity and develop In a way, the CBC is exactly the place makes us better and it makes our diverse ideas, which we need. we should be looking for leadership in products better. As a public broad- diversity. The CBC is home to Canada’s caster, we need to be relevant and conversations’ so it’s vital for that dia- Soo Kim useful to all Canadians, evolving as ” logue to include all of the many diverse Executive Director, Canada evolves.” voices that make Canada, Canada. Media Operations you really have an opportunity to crowd- “The CBC, as the public broadcaster, has New technology, new voices source new ideas and new approaches to a unique opportunity to make empathy hen Canadians talk about Transitioning Canada’s national public doing things. But it’s not enough to hire a and understanding a key dimension of diversity in tech, the ﬁ rst thing broadcaster into the digital era has required diverse workforce, you also need to foster a our programming,” says Kim. “We can use Wto come to mind probably isn’t a lot of innovation as well as a willingness culture of inclusion to ensure their voices our privileged place in Canadian society to the CBC. But, Soo Kim, Executive Director to embrace unconventional ideas. Machine are heard.” facilitate local and national conversations, of Media Operations at Canada’s public learning, big data, and personalization algo- This is an important and too often over- especially the uncomfortable and necessary broadcaster considers that an outdated way rithms are the sorts of terms you hear in the looked aspect of workplace diversity. Hiring ones. That’s the sort of thing I am really of looking at things. “We’ve had to expand halls of the CBC today and Kim is focused on a diverse workforce is only the beginning. excited about.” our thinking about the business we’re in,” hiring the right people to make good on the Empowerment is critical, as is ensuring that says Kim. “Nowadays, what sector doesn’t innovative broadcasting future these words organization-wide diversity isn’t hiding a D.F. McCourt leverage sophisticated technology? From a promise. She strongly believes that a diverse series of monocultures in certain divisions talent perspective, we all have to be tech-fo- workforce must be an integral part of that or at the higher levels of the organizational cused now.” because with diversity comes new perspectives. chart. “In recent years, we’ve gotten really

We haven’t even scratched “the surface of what we are able to do.

Encouraging innovation from” within “We have a lot of in-house talent and the number of ideas generated shows that people are thinking of new things,” says Pilapil. “To be given the freedom to stop our work for two Innovation Key to the CBC’s weeks and focus on innovation was great. It gave sta an opportunity to learn and grow.” The CBC is adapting to new technologies and sharing its digital transformation Digital Transformation through the Digital Labs blog. This platform allows the CBC to gain insight from users, as elissa Pilapil is part of a new wave Sprint takes that one step further,” she says. it creates products that enlighten, inform, of tech professionals who have “You end up working with other teams with and entertain. Mjoined the CBC in recent years. And di erent skills and backgrounds.” “Innovative thinking will keep us rel- while the sector is still dominated by men, During the Innovation Sprint, groups of evant in the digital economy,” says Pilapil. she is seeing growth in the number of women sta put aside their day-to-day work for two “We haven’t even scratched the surface of entering the ﬁ eld. “We have a Women in Tech weeks and instead work in teams to develop what we are able to do.” employee resource group at the CBC, with innovative ideas with the goal of increasing over 90 members,” says Pilapil. “It’s really user engagement with CBC products. This Ken Donohue empowering to see so many women inter- helps to enhance current products or develop ested in technology, and there are lots of new ones. During the CBC’s ﬁ rst Innovation opportunities at the CBC in tech. We’re doing Sprint, about 24 ideas were pitched. Pilapil SPONSORED BY some really cool things.” joined a team that created four games for Melissa Pilapil According to Pilapil, the CBC has long the CBC Kids website, while another team Senior Machine had a culture of supporting innovation, with developed a voice activation system for Intelligence Developer sta being encouraged to dedicate a portion Android devices so that people could access of their work time to learn new technology podcasts and music in their cars, hands-free. that will help with their job. “The Innovation A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET MEDIAPLANET 7

graduate degrees: a Master of Applied Sci- peer-reviewed open-access journal with Pursuing Entrepreneurship ence, a Master of Engineering, and a Master global readership. The Global Cybersecur- of Entrepreneurship. ity Resource (cugcr.org) is a lead project “Our best students leave with a degree located o -campus at Bayview Yards (bay- has Never Been Easier in one hand and a new technology business viewyards.org), Ottawa’s innovation hub. in the other,” says Dr. Steven Muegge, an “Our best students get involved throughout associate professor of the program. the TIM ecosystem,” he says. nstead of hunting for the perfect job, TIM is designed around the practical Admission requires a bachelor’s degree entrepreneurs can control their own needs of time-constrained professionals. in engineering, business, or science, and at Icareers by launching and growing high- For example, all TIM courses take place in least two years of technical work experi- tech companies. Entrepreneurship can be a the evening. ence. great career path for ambitious engineers, “TIM is the hub of an entre- scientists, and business professionals. preneurial ecosystem with many Catherine Roberts Carleton University’s Technology complementary parts,” says Dr. Muegge. Innovation Management (TIM) program Lead To Win (leadtowin.ca) which pro- SPONSORED BY helps aspiring technology entrepreneurs vides space, mentorship, and support to acquire the right knowledge, know-how, technology startups with high growth and resources. potential. It was ranked as one of the top Dr. Steven Muegge The TIM program is a joint initiative of 10 university business incubators in North Associate Professor, For more information visit the Faculty of Engineering and Design and America. The Technology Innovation timprogram.ca Technology Innovation Management, the Sprott School of Business. It o ers three Management Review (timreview.ca) is a Carleton University

Three Stories of Entrepreneurs from the TIM Program

Ewan Reid Patrick Millward Colin A. Pritchard Jade Phan Founder & CEO, Co-founder & CEO, Co-founder & COO, Co-founder & CEO, Mission Control Space Services Interactive Studios Interactive Studios Transcend Cards

Mission Control Space Services provides solutions Interactive Studios is revolutionizing the visitor Transcend Cards is an e-commerce platform that for space exploration, robotics, and education. Its experience in shopping malls, hospitals, and other sells trading cards and related products to cus- fi rst contract was a system to anticipate hazards campuses with interactive digital kiosks for visitors tomers on fi ve continents. that could immobilize a planetary rover on Mars and cutting-edge analytics for facility owners. Though Jade Phan had previous experi- or the moon. Patrick Millward and Colin Pritchard were ence founding a startup overseas, she realized Ewan Reid is an experienced engineer who accepted into the Lead To Win accelerator, and that there was still much to learn. After getting worked previously on the NASA Space Shuttle then enrolled in the TIM program. Pritchard says, accepted into the TIM program, she co-founded program and designed rover prototypes for the “Before we joined TIM, we had only achieved one Transcend Cards two months before class even Canadian Space Agency. sale. We had ambition and a fi rst customer but started and was later accepted into Lead To Win. “I originally joined the TIM program to help needed the know-how to grow and scale. TIM As Phan says, “The TIM program is well-de- me get my next job. But I realized that the skills enabled us to achieve million dollar sales targets.” signed for a new entrepreneur like me. I expanded was I was learning — to turn a technology idea Millward adds, “This is not a typical Masters my network, furthered my understanding of into a business — could help me launch my own program. Coursework, reading, and assignments global business, and got inspired to propel myself company,” Reid says. “So I decided to do just that! were never a distraction from the business but to new heights. The networking and business Mission Control has generated over one million dol- rather helped make it successful. Everything we pitch opportunities were more than just enlight- lars of business and shows every sign of continued did was about growing the company.” ening — they were vital for my success.” growth. This would not have happened without the TIM program.” For more information visit For more information visit For more information visit missioncontrolspaceservices.com interactivestudios.ca transcendcards.com

Technology and a Personal Touch are the Secrets to Finding a Winning Career

Even with all these technological innov- MP How are today’s job seekers fi nding jobs? of a recruiter’s fi rst impression. ations, the most important thing Monster AP Consumers are continually search- Together, these innovations are con- o ers, according to General Manager Angela ing for products and services that mitigate necting the most qualifi ed job seekers with Payne, has always been — and will always be the stresses associated with the job search. employers faster than ever before. — the human touch. Monster.ca allows job seekers to custom- Angela Payne ize their search in a way that caters to their MP Will AI, algorithms, and computers take General Manager, Mediaplanet How does Monster stand out direct needs, interests, and qualifi cations. This over the job placement market? Monster.ca in a competitive marketplace? allows them to connect with a job that ignites AP It’s not a matter of will, it’s a matter of Angela Payne We are changing the way their passion and ambition. After all, mean- when. Technology, if utilized correctly, can he way people look for jobs has evolved people think about work and we’re helping ingful and rewarding employment is rooted expedite the search process by connecting considerably since Monster.ca’s them actively improve their lives and work- in contentment. companies with the right talent. At Monster, Tinception as a digital job board 20 force performance with new technology, we have enhanced our search algorithms and years ago. Monster has also evolved, becom- tools, and practices. MP How is Monster.ca using technology to results to ensure that we’re matching the ing the leading provider of a full array of We focus on fostering connections to change the way people search for jobs? right people with the right jobs. recruitment and talent management prod- bring humanity and opportunity to the job AP Monster is continuously improving its There is so much shared value in the ucts and services while investing heavily market across Canada. This means identi- products to provide the innovation and user proper implementation and use of AI, algo- in innovative technologies and constantly fying and addressing the specifi c needs of experience that meet the expectations of job rithms, and computers — for our company, updating its o erings to meet the changing employers and job seekers more e ciently seekers and employers. This includes products the companies we serve, and for job seekers. needs of the consumer. than ever before. We do this through renewed like the Monster Job Search App and Monster But we will never waver from our focus on With more people using digital tools to focus on the candidate. Monster is meeting Social Job Ads as well as products set to reach fostering personal connections and bringing apply for jobs, the company recently part- candidates every step of the search process Canadian consumers in the near future. Our humanity to the job search. nered with Google to give job seekers the through employment branding and social free resume assessment tool, which is pending ability to fi lter through thousands of jobs in job ads. We meet the candidate where they release in the Canadian market, uses propri- Gavin Davidson seconds. The Monster Job Search App uses are, where they are spending their time, and etary smart-scanning technology to provide a swipe function similar to popular dating where they connect online. detailed feedback on the appearance and con- apps to make the process easy and seamless. tent in a resume while providing a prediction For more information visit monster.ca 8 CAREERSANDEDUCATION.CA A SPONSORED FEATURE BY MEDIAPLANET It’s Time WE Act Join the Ontario Society of Professional Our panels will focus on varied and Engineers (OSPE) on Wed., Oct. 10th at timely themes including diversity in the the Shaw Centre for It’s Time WE Act. tech sector, women in transportation, Now in its 16th year, this annual women in politics and leadership, and forum is OSPE’s signature event and the practical strategies to stand out in the province’s most signifi cant gathering for classroom, workplace, and boardroom. women in engineering and advocates for As Women’s History Month is also a Skilled and New to Canada? diversity in STEM. time to recognize the work that remains For the fi rst time ever, the confer- to make gender equality a reality, speak- ence will be held in our nation’s capital ers will outline initiatives that employers There’s Room for You — a city boasting the largest concentra- can implement to better support inclu- tion of engineers and scientists in North sive environments. America. Registration includes a continental This year’s theme centres around breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and Women’s History Month. Over 500 atten- access to our networking reception. Allison Pond, the organization’s President dees from the engineering community This full-day conference is guaran- and CEO. and beyond will gather to learn, net- teed to sell out. To avoid disappointment, Much of its success — ACCES has an work, and brainstorm. visit ospeweact.ca to reserve your spot 83 percent placement record for its sec- Together, we will celebrate the today. tor-specifi c programs — stems from the invaluable contributions of historic fact that it engages its business partners and modern-day trailblazers — women as volunteers, mentors, and advisors, engineers and engineering graduates allowing the organization to stay abreast who have shaped and changed our coun- For event inquiries, contact Catrina Kronfl i, Lead, Policy of trends, such as the need for electrical try and our lives. Award-winning CBC and Government Relations, Allison Pond engineers and cybersecurity experts, for news anchor Suhana Meharchand will at ckronfl [email protected] President & CEO, example. These partnerships also support be our Master of Ceremonies. ACCES Employment the development of innovative programs such as the highly successful Speed anada goes to great lengths to Mentoring® program, which connects admit educated immigrants into newcomers with Canadian professionals HERE’S WHAT YOU Cthe country. However, it is these who guide them through the system. very same, highly-skilled immigrants who ACCES also works with those in the CAN EXPECT encounter a labyrinth of obstacles when they try to fi nd employment in Learn about best practices that can better their professional fi elds. In a city where newcomers support gender equity in your workplace This forces them to settle make up half the population, fully for lower-skilled pos- “ itions while employers’ integrating internationally-trained need for skilled talent professionals into the local job remains unfulfi lled. Since 1986, ACCES market just makes sense. Build your professional network Employment has bridged this gap by connecting internationally-trained ” professionals and Canadian employers. A process of immigrating to Canada by Meet our accomplished speakers, non-profi t employment organization, it preparing them for the job hunt before including elected o cials, industry works with more than 32,000 job seekers they even set foot on Canadian soil. “In a leaders, and experts across the GTA each year by hosting work- city where newcomers make up half the shops and occupation-specifi c programs population, fully integrating internation- for those in the engineering, fi nancial ally-trained professionals into the local job services, IT, sales and marketing, supply market just makes sense,” says Pond. chain, health care, and human resources Gain valuable career advice fi elds, among others. Catherine Roberts “Language and communication bar- riers, learning how to market their skills, SPONSORED BY and a lack of recognition by employers of Come join us! Wednesday, October 10th their international skills and experience, The Shaw Centre, Ottawa, ON HOSTED BY are things that can challenge immigrants’ ospeweact.ca e orts to fi nd work in their fi elds,” says Strengthening Canada’s Digital Advantage in the Global Economy

of $2.43 billion GDP, contributing around $74.7 billion to the tutions, other non-profi ts, and industry leaders to create a overall economy. diverse spectrum of programs that will support the country’s “The reality is that all sectors of the economy are becom- global digital footprint. From supporting workplace diversity ing digital,” says Namir Anani, President and CEO of the ICTC. and inclusion to fostering industry growth, the organization “To remain competitive in this fast-paced economy, compan- is focused on winning the innovation race. “Canada is at a ies need to develop the talent of the future.” critical point and ICTC is trying to tackle it from as many ICTC supports Canada’s digital transformation and eco- angles as possible to help ensure the right skills are being nomic growth in three key ways. The fi rst is by developing developed and that we’re creating pathways to jobs of the forward-looking research in technology, economics, and future,” says Saric. labour market trends. The second is by designing and imple- The multi-pronged strategy is proving to be successful. menting innovative capacity-building programs. The third is Over the past year, they’ve successfully bridged skills gaps, by creating evidence-based policies that chart Canada’s path connected talented individuals with jobs, and helped the Namir Anani in the global economy, including the creation of the nation’s industry adopt transformative technologies to become more President & CEO, fi rst digital talent strategy. According to Sandra Saric, ICTC’s competitive in a global economy. The latest initiative will ICTC Vice President of Talent Innovation, “Canadian companies are engage over 5,000 students and 500 teachers across the coun- in a place where they need to tap into every potential resource try and will create innovative education and career pathways and focus on the best ways to recruit and integrate talent.” for youth through the Digital DASH program, a Government of Canada-funded CanCode initiative. Through the WIL Digital program (funded by the Govern- Endless digital opportunities ment of Canada’s Student Work-Integrated Learning Program), Canadian companies are integrating, innovating, and lever- 320 students have secured work placements in emerging aging technology on a daily basis for future returns. “With technology sectors and over 4,000 internationally-educated the skills that will be required, the opportunities are endless,” ICT professionals have leveraged ICTC’s GO Talent initia- says Saric. tive for pre-arrival employment preparation and employer For example, technology-driven innovation in fi nancial connection program funded by Immigration, Refugees and services creates a demand for highly skilled professionals Citizenship Canada. with expertise in artifi cial intelligence, blockchain, and cyber- ICTC plans to continue supporting its stakeholders by security. The automotive industry will need workers with focusing on enhancing their ability to leverage talent and Sandra Saric advanced digital skills as autonomous and electric vehicles technology e ectively. “Canada is very much in a global innov- Vice President of Capacity arrive on the market. And with cybercrime on the rise, there ation race and with shifting trade dynamics, we need to invest Building, ICTC will be plenty of demand for skilled cybersecurity experts. in digital talent now more than ever,” Anani says. The digital skills demanded are not restricted to frontline workers — future leaders will also need to build their own Anne Papmehl digital technical expertise and skills. he Canadian economy has created a demand for For this reason, ICTC is encouraging digital literacy and 216,000 more tech workers by 2021. Employment of skills development across the entire Canadian population to IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FUNDED IN PART BY Tinformation and communications technology profes- build expertise from the ground up. This includes working sionals outpaced the economy last year six to one, according with youth, Indigenous populations, women, newcomers, and to a recent report by the Information and Communication persons with disabilities. “Having inclusivity and diversity of Technology Council (ICTC), a not-for-profi t dedicated to talent will allow for innovation and global competitiveness,” strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in the global econ- she says. omy. Since 2016 alone, the digital economy has seen a growth ICTC works closely with governments, educational insti-