Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed more than 50 farmers, agriculture professionals, and industry representatives to their fourth annual research farm field day Thursday near Yorkton. The event highlights the agriculture applied research partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began in 2013.

This summer there are dozens of projects underway at the joint research farm 1 km south of Yorkton on York Lake Road. There’s also a secondary site 1 km south of Yorkton on Highway 9. Researchers are conducting a variety of trials on wheat, oats, canary seed, soybeans, fava beans, lentils, flax, and quinoa.

Parkland College and ECRF have a long-term plan to carry out agriculture research activities in the Yorkton area. The partnership enabled Parkland College to become the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program to serve regional economic development. The College also uses the field research site to provide hands-on training to students enrolled in agriculture programs.

The data collected on site throughout the growing season will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers. More information on these and other projects is available at www.ecrf.ca.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

About East Central Research Foundation:
Established in 1996, the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) is a non-profit organization whose mandate is to conduct crop production research and extension activities for the agricultural industry of east central Saskatchewan. It is directed by a board of local producers and advised by provincial specialists.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The 11th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, held Friday at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton, raised an estimated $21,500 for the Parkland College scholarship fund.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the College’s largest single scholarship fundraiser. The event has now raised at least $20,000 five years running. Proceeds from past events helped Parkland College award almost $200,000 in scholarships in 2015-16.

The weather was perfect as 115 golfers hit the links at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton.

“This event is huge for our students,” said Dollars for Scholars organizer Brendan Wagner. “All the money raised stays in the Parkland Region, benefitting students who want to learn here, stay here, and build a career here.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is made possible by generous contributions from numerous community supporters, volunteers, and sponsors. Banquet sponsor R H Electric and Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, Logan Stevens Construction, SaskTel, and RBC Financial Group played key roles in the success of the tournament.

Paul Keys tees off for the City of Yorkton team. Twenty-nine teams entered the tournament.

Parkland College also thanks the 19 Gold Sponsors, 10 Silver sponsors, dozens of Bronze sponsors, and two hole-in-one sponsors for their donations of cash and prizes. A total of 115 golfers supported the scholarship fund with their entry fees.

The 12th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively scheduled for June 23, 2017 at Deer Park.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Friday at the Yorkton Regional High School’s Anne Portnuff Theatre. Family, friends, and College staff congratulated and celebrated 323 students who successfully completed one of more than 25 programs offered at the College in 2015-16.

The graduates represent 58 communities. Yorkton led the way with 136 grads, followed by Kamsack with 42, Fort Qu’Appelle with 19, Melville with 18, and Regina with nine. This year’s graduating class also includes students from British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba.

Parkland College offers university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, and Adult Basic Education upgrading. Graduates from post-secondary programs received accreditation from First Nations University of Canada, University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Conestoga College, and Parkland College.

The guest speaker was Dwayne Reeve, who is completing his first year as President of Parkland College. Reeve’s speech focused on the importance of lifelong learning and the value of learning from everyone around you, not just in the classroom.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Kamsack, SK – Student representatives from across Parkland College met Tuesday in Kamsack for the College’s first ever Student Advisory Leadership Conference (SALC).

The conference brought together Adult Basic Education (ABE) Student Advisory members from the College’s locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, and Kamsack. About 30 students came out for a day of learning, team building, and brainstorming.

According to Linda Heshka, Coordinator of ABE programs at Parkland College, the SALC is a new effort to engage students and to encourage them to make positive changes to their learning experience.

“Our goal as an ABE team was to invite students to add their voice to the culture and climate of our campuses,” said Heshka. “We believe this initial year was a great start.”

The event builds on the work of student advisory committees among learners in the College’s high school upgrading programs. The central theme for the inaugural conference was Everyday Leadership.

The SALC included guest speaker Scott Musqua, who serves as an Aboriginal Liaison Worker at Sacred Heart High School in Yorkton. In his role, he provides academic support, attendance monitoring, and family and community communications.

Guest speaker Scott Musqua

Musqua’s presentation Tuesday centered on his own upbringing and life experiences and the importance of ordinary people displaying extraordinary leadership, regardless of one’s place in the social or workplace hierarchies.

The event also featured a TED Talk on leadership by Drew Dudley. TED Talks are popular influential videos shared on the Internet that present ideas in 18 minutes or less. TED Talks promote “Ideas Worth Spreading” in fields like science, technology, business, culture, education, and art.

“Drew helps us understand leadership in a more nuanced, practical, and hopeful way. He argues that we too often make leadership into something bigger than us, or beyond us. We make it about money, fame, titles, and influence – something reserved for a select few,” Heshka explained.

“Instead, Drew insists our organizations and communities are stronger when we embrace the idea that there is a form of leadership of which we are all capable, and we know our students will learn from that.”

The day’s events concluded with a brainstorming session during which the students made suggestions to improve the learning environment and remove barriers to education. Common recommendations focused on improving childcare and transportation, and enhancing food and beverage options.

The next SALC will be held in Yorkton when the academic year begins in the fall of 2016.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is proud to announce that it has awarded $75,600 to 68 students across the region in this spring’s Internal Scholarships.

These awards are in addition to approximately $114,500 in Entrance Scholarships handed out in September. The grand total of over $190,000 awarded in the 2015-16 academic year is just shy of Parkland College’s record amount, set last year. The College has now given out more than $100,000 in scholarships in five consecutive academic years dating back to 2011-12.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, community members, College staff, and sponsors and participants in the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

Eligible post-secondary awards are matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program. Funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis, as available, with local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about the scholarships available at Parkland College are encouraged to visit the scholarship section of this website. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning Parkland College programs this fall will be awarded in September 2016. Applications for those awards are being accepted online until May 25.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A group of seniors were all smiles when they received certificates at the conclusion of a computer training course delivered at Parkland College in Yorkton.

Nineteen lifelong learners graduated from their six-week course on Mar. 18. Through a partnership with New Horizons Senior Citizens of Yorkton, the students came to Parkland College’s main campus each Friday to pick up the basics of computers, file management, email, the Internet, and social media, among other topics.

(Left to Right) Back row: Gary Laycock, George Plews, Pat Roming, Glenys Cumming, Marjorie Berting, Gwen Pidperyhora; Middle row: Catherine Degryse (instructor), Dolena Plews, Diane Laycock, Sr. Suzanne Kokuruds, Vicky Babichuk, Eileen Kentz; Front row: Arlene Tangjerd, Thiry McLeod, Peter Legebokoff, Arliss Dellow, Eileen Dellow, Jolyn Loucks. (Absent: Audrey Bodnar, Mildred Puetz.)

Arliss Dellow, one of the graduates, said the group included three couples, one mother/daughter team, a nun, one single man, and nine “available” widows/divorcees. “With the expertise they have gained, those Internet dating sites may become very busy,” he joked.

“Each of us appreciates the effort put in by the College to make this happen, including the surprise graduation day,” Dellow added. “We express our thanks to all involved.”

Jolyn Loucks (second from left) happily accepts her certificate of completion from President Dwayne Reeve (far left) and College staff.

According to New Horizons, this kind of computer training is in high demand. There was a waiting list for this course, and New Horizons says it will look at sponsoring another round of classes for the seniors who missed out this time.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

About New Horizons Senior Citizens of Yorkton:
New Horizons is a non-profit, charitable organization open to anyone over the age of 18. Group members over the age of 50 have voting rights and may serve on the Board. New Horizons members are proud supporters of the community and organize activities and social events for seniors of all ages.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is now accepting team registrations and corporate partnerships for the 11th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, scheduled for June 24 at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is Parkland College’s major scholarship fundraising event. All proceeds go the College’s scholarship fund. Last year’s event raised over $25,000 for students enrolled in programs at Parkland College.

“The success of this tournament makes a huge difference to our students,” said Brendan Wagner, chairperson of the Dollars for Scholars planning committee. “Our golfers and sponsors truly make this event. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to offer nearly as many scholarship opportunities as we do.”

The College also announced that the event will have a new look when golfers tee off on June 24. After rolling out a special 10th anniversary logo last year, the tournament now has a new, modern, permanent set of logos.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic’s new visual identity features a primary crest logo complemented by a package of alternate marks – including a grad cap perched on a golf ball. The set uses a navy blue and gold colour scheme. The new identity will appear on all promotional and advertising tools and event-day materials.

To register a team or become a sponsor for the Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, call 306.728.6595 or visit the Dollars for Scholars event page for more information.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College officially opened applications on Mar. 1 for more than $100,000 in Entrance Scholarships. These scholarships will be awarded to new Parkland College students in the fall of 2016.

The 2016 Entrance Scholarship application period runs until May 25. Recipients will be selected in early June, and successful applicants will receive their awards in late September.

“Our Entrance Scholarships go to students who start new programs at Parkland College in the fall,” said scholarship committee chair Brendan Wagner. “Most of these students come to us straight out of high school, but all students beginning a program in the fall of 2016 are eligible to apply.”

Parkland College presents scholarships two times each year – Entrance Scholarships in the fall, and Internal Scholarships (to current students) in the spring. In the 2015-16 academic year, Parkland College will have awarded almost $200,000 in scholarships for the second year in a row.

Included among the 2016 Entrance Scholarships is the fourth installment in a five-year studentship agreement with Yorkton Tribal Council (YTC). Thanks to a large donation from YTC in 2013 and matching funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education, Parkland College is able to offer $80,000 in scholarships this year to students who are registered members of YTC’s six First Nations (Cote, Key, Keeseekoose, Ocean Man, Sakimay, and Kahkewistahaw). Separate applications for these awards are available through Yorkton Tribal Council.

Full details about the College’s scholarships can be found here. Students who will be beginning a program at Parkland College can apply online for a share of the Entrance Scholarships.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Governors. Don Bahrey, Brian Hicke, and Leonard Keshane have joined the board, effective Feb. 4, 2016.

“It is a pleasure to welcome our new governors to Parkland College,” said President Dwayne Reeve. “We will certainly benefit from the experiences and perspectives they bring to the Board of Governors.”

Don Bahrey, Canora

Don Bahrey, from Canora, worked with Parkland College for eight years as an instructor and program coordinator, retiring in 2013. He hopes to rely on his knowledge as a past employee to help move the College forward.

“It’s going to be a little bit of research, a little bit of reading before I can really say where I can help, but I’m looking forward to it,” Bahrey said.

Brian Hicke, Melville

Brian Hicke is a longtime Melville resident and city councillor. He serves on numerous other boards, committees, and community organizations in the Melville area.

“I hope to bring some experience with our communities and what I feel the communities might need in the way of continuing education,” said Hicke. “The opportunity to learn trades and different kinds of skills locally is a huge benefit to this whole area.”

Leonard Keshane, Yorkton

Leonard Keshane is the former chief of the Keeseekoose First Nation near Kamsack. He has worked closely with the College on several education and training projects at Keeseekoose and through Yorkton Tribal Council.

“I really appreciate what the College can do for First Nations people,” Keshane said. “I also believe it’s good for the board to have that First Nations perspective.”

The Parkland College Board of Governors meets monthly to oversee the College’s operations and provide direction and guidance on institutional decisions. Board members advocate on behalf of the College and support efforts relating to regional economic growth.

Bahrey, Hicke, and Keshane bring the Board of Governors to a full complement of seven members. Sally Bishop of Kamsack is the longest-serving current governor, having joined the board in 2009. Chairperson D. Lydia Cyr of Fort Qu’Appelle has been a member since 2010, while Esterhazy’s David Cisyk and Yorkton’s Raymond Sass joined the board in 2013.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

For a small child, a visit to a hospital or a clinic can be a scary experience. In an effort to ease those fears, Parkland College partnered with the Yorkton Nursery School Cooperative (YNSC) on a fun event called the Teddy Bear Clinic.

On Feb. 11 and 12, students enrolled in the University of Saskatchewan Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Parkland College visited the three- and four-year-olds at YNSC. The children brought their favourite teddy bear or stuffed animal to the nursery school, and the nursing students helped the kids through a “hospital” with several different stations. The children were able to listen to their stuffie’s heartbeat, take vitals, use an otoscope to check the toy’s ears and eyes, and even apply dressings to imaginary wounds.

Nursing student Jesslyn Schigol helps a boy use an otoscope to check the ears of his stuffed moose.

“The goal of the Teddy Bear Clinic is to alleviate fears in children when going to the hospital by exposing them to equipment and nursing students in a fun and safe manner,” said Tracy Gabriel, a Registered Nurse and BSN instructor.

Nursing students Emily Ksyniuk and Shelby Hershmiller (right) help a boy assess the health of his stuffed moose.

The benefit also extends to the third-year nursing students. This exercise is part of their pediatrics clinical rotation, in which they have the opportunity to assess children and observe health growth and development.

Nursing students Jessica Funk and Eric McDowell explain the recommended treatment plan for a boy's teddy bear.

In partnership with the U of S College of Nursing and Sunrise Health Region, Parkland College delivers the BSN degree in Yorkton. Students can take all four years of the program through Parkland College. Graduates are eligible to write a licensure exam to become a registered nurse.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is proud to be named one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016. Award winners were announced in the Feb. 3 editions of the Regina Leader-Post and Saskatoon StarPhoenix.

Saskatchewan’s Top Employers is an annual competition organized by Mediacorp Canada Inc., which runs Canada’s Top 100 Employers and regional variants. This special designation recognizes the Saskatchewan employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work.

It is the first time Parkland College has been selected for this prestigious honour.

“We are privileged to be included on this year’s list,” said President Dwayne Reeve. “Our employees take pride in their jobs. They are student-focused individuals who know that their work has a strong and positive impact on our students, communities, partners, and the economy.”

Parkland College employs close to 200 people in a variety of roles including classroom instruction, program coordination, facilities management, and College administration. Staff are employed at locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

Mediacorp chose Parkland College as a Top Employer for several reasons, including:

• The College supports employees who are new mothers, fathers, or adoptive parents with maternity and parental leave top-up payments (to 95 per cent of salary for up to 17 weeks).
• In addition to the organization’s role as an educator, Parkland College invests in the long-term development of employees with tuition subsidies for courses taken at outside institutions (up to 1.5 per cent of an employee’s annual salary) and subsidies for professional accreditation.
• The College partners with various educational institutions to provide paid and unpaid student placements in various departments, such as finance, IT, human resources, social work, and administration.

Parkland College strives to be an employer of choice by investing in its most valuable resource – its employees. The College offers competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, continual professional development, and a flexible work environment. Employees are also encouraged to maintain a healthy work-like balance and can access professional assistance as needed.

“We recruit exceptional people from diverse backgrounds of culture, education, and experience, and they all contribute to the sustainability and growth of the College,” Reeve added. “Our employees enjoy working in a respectful and professional environment. They have formed a positive culture at Parkland College.”

Saskatchewan’s Top Employers compared the College to other businesses in the province and in the education sector. The selecting editors looked for interesting employers, both large and small, with innovative programs to attract and retain talented employees. Parkland College was one of 30 employers selected. Complete details about this year’s winners can be found here.

Click here for information on the careers available at Parkland College.

About Us:
Parkland College strives to help students in East Central Saskatchewan achieve their goals and build the foundation for successful careers. Students can choose from a wide array of educational options, including university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, trades training, high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is a learner-centered organization and is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2016.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has been awarded a two-year, $168,000 research grant by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), a federal research funding agency.

The grant comes from the Community and College Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF), a new initiative that enables colleges to work with community organizations to address social issues such as poverty, crime prevention, community safety, and economic development.

Parkland College will partner with Good Spirit School Division and Yorkton Tribal Council schools. Students in the Bachelor of Education and Social Work programs at the College will interact with children in grades 5 to 8 to study bonding and attachment, and to find out what factors help students stay in school as they enter the teenage years.

“We are thrilled to have earned this honour,” said Dr. Gwen Machnee, University and Applied Research Coordinator. “It’s exciting to work with Good Spirit School Division and Yorkton Tribal Council, and we’re looking forward to sharing the results of our research.”

This project is one of 27 being funded by the Government of Canada, which announced nearly $6 million in federal support Thursday. Parkland College is the only applicant organization in Saskatchewan selected for a grant.

In 2014, Parkland College was granted full institutional eligibility with SSHRC, a major accomplishment for the College’s Applied Research area. This eligibility gives the College access to all funding programs open to post-secondary institutions.

The CCSIF, a product of the federal government’s Economic Action Plan 2014, will provide $15 million over three years in support of projects at college and polytechnics that foster social innovation in Canada. SSHRC says social innovation is about finding more effective ways of engaging Canadians, delivering community services, and strengthening communities as a whole through research. It can take the form of a product, process, or program that creates positive social outcomes for communities.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The new calendar proclaims the start of 2016, but Parkland College is already setting its sights on the fall. Planning for the 2016-2017 academic year is well underway to ensure that the College continues to serve students next year and beyond.

One of the key items for Parkland College in the year ahead is the creation of a new organizational strategic plan. The College’s most recent strategic plan covered 2012-2015 and performed well, but President Dwayne Reeve knows it must adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of the region.

“Planning for the future is both an exciting and daunting task,” Reeve said. “While we are never quite sure what the future holds, we are certain that a strong strategic framework will be an invaluable tool to assist Parkland College as we work to serve our students, staff, and communities.”

The College has enlisted the services of Laura Soparlo, a Regina-based consultant, whose work in the education and government sectors is extensive. Soparlo has assisted the College in past strategic planning activities and will facilitate the collection of input through focus groups and online surveys from a variety of groups, including staff, students, and external partners.

The goal is to have the new strategic plan finalized and ready for implementation in the 2016-17 year.

Simultaneously, the College is beginning its annual recruitment drive for next year’s post-secondary programs. Applications are already being accepted for most of the programs beginning in the fall of 2016. With the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton well into its first full year of operation, and established locations in Yorkton, Melville, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Canora, and Kamsack, there are more seats to fill and more options available to students close to home.

Parkland College continues to offer a diverse mix of training options. Students can pursue university degrees, skills training certificates and diplomas, and adult education upgrading.

“Many students are drawn to our unique learning environment and smaller class sizes,” Reeve added. “Students can flourish in a friendly and welcoming setting where their teachers know them by name. And our instructors and counsellors are dedicated to their students and have a passion for life-long learning.”

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is proud to announce it has been selected to partner with Sault College (Ontario) on a new education project in Africa. The colleges will work with a technical institute in Tanzania as part of Colleges and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Improving Skills Training for Employment Program (ISTEP).

ISTEP is a five-year program funded by the Government of Canada. There are multiple projects involved in building the capacity of technical and vocational institutions in Tanzania. The end goal is to produce 1,200 graduates with the right skill set to find or create employment in Tanzania’s extractive and tourism sectors.

Parkland College’s project will develop a bridging (pre-technology) program at Arusha Technical College in northeastern Tanzania. Students will be able to build skills and climb into higher levels of training. Sault College will lead in technical expertise and curriculum development, while Parkland College will contribute in Essential Skills, student support, marketing, and gender mainstreaming.

“We are proud to work on this important project and improve the lives of many young people in Tanzania,” said Kami DePape, Director of Academics and Student Services at Parkland College. “We are excited to team up with Sault College and look forward to working with our new partners in Arusha.”

An inception mission is scheduled for late January, when a three-year plan for the project will be developed.

This project adds to Parkland College’s growing international résumé. The College is in the midst of a similar two-year partnership with HEART Trust in Jamaica, and also recently worked with the University of Belize Central Farm Campus to develop a degree program aimed at getting more women working in agriculture.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

More than 2,000 high school students from the Parkland region attended Career Explorations 2015 at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Friday. The sixth annual education and career fair attracted close to 90 exhibitors from Saskatchewan, Western Canada, and North Dakota.

Career Explorations is the largest education and job fair in East Central Saskatchewan. It is organized by Parkland College, Good Spirit School Division, and Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools.

“The goal of this career fair is to show students all the options available to them once they finish high school,” said Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve. “Some students will want to go directly into post-secondary education or trades apprenticeships, while others may want to find a job right away. We just want them to be aware of their options.”

Career Explorations puts all these options under one roof. Students and visitors have access to information from dozens of educational institutions and numerous businesses, including companies from the mining, agriculture, construction, and government sectors.

“This event is very positive for our students,” said Rhae-Ann Holoien, Director of Education with Good Spirit School Division. “Deciding on a career path or even just what to do after graduation is often difficult and we know a well-rounded experience like this can help them in making those important decisions.”

After much success at last year’s career fair, the Try-a-Trade area in the Nexera Flexihall was brought back. Select local companies and trades organizations set up hands-on booths where students could experience the work that tradespeople do and find out what it takes to start a career in the trades.

“The organizing committee is always looking for ways to improve the experience for students,” said Chad Holinaty, Superintendent of Education with Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools. “A lot of students learn best by doing, and that’s what makes the Try-a-Trade area such a popular feature. It really adds another dimension to our event.”

Career Explorations was born out of a Learning Alliance signed in 2008 between Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College. Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools has expanded its role since joining the organizing committee in 2012.

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Contact information:
Brendan Wagner, Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Lynel Martinuk, Communications Coordinator
Good Spirit School Division
Phone: 306.786.5501

During the week of November 16-20, Parkland College joins educational institutions from across Canada and over 100 other countries in celebrating the 12th annual International Education Week (IEW).

IEW honours the many people who participate in international education – supporting foreign students, collaborating with international partners, and building capacity in emerging countries. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Canada’s Engagement with the World.”

Parkland College began welcoming international students to its campuses in East Central Saskatchewan in 2009. In the years since, well over 100 students from India, Jamaica, Nigeria, and numerous other countries have studied at Parkland College. Many of those students have started careers locally.

“The people who come to study here not only get a great classroom education, but they also learn what it means to be Canadian,” said Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve. “Our international students interact daily with fellow learners, instructors, and the community, giving them a very comprehensive experience.”

Parkland College is becoming more involved on the international stage. The College is in the midst of a two-year partnership with HEART Trust in Jamaica to develop essential skills and pre-technology training in key sectors of the Jamaican economy and to prepare students for employment. The College also recently worked with the University of Belize Central Farm Campus to develop a degree program aimed at getting more women working in agriculture. And now, Parkland College and Sault College (Ontario) are bidding to work on a pre-technology partnership with ARUSHA Technical College in Tanzania.

IEW is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of international education and its significant benefits to our social, economic, and cultural well-being. It underscores the value that Canadians place on connecting with the world through studying abroad, internationalized curricula, international service, and on opening the world to Canada by welcoming international learners, promoting student exchanges, and encouraging qualified foreign students to make Canada their new home.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College’s university programs continue to grow as more students seek to take advantage of the benefits of learning close to home.

More than 230 students are taking university classes this fall at the College’s campuses in Yorkton and Fort Qu’Appelle. Over 80 per cent of those students are full-time. And for the second straight year, the College has had to cap the number of students in a course due to classroom availability.

“Our university enrolments are strong thanks in part to our full bachelor’s degrees in Nursing, Education, and Social Work,” said University Coordinator Dr. Gwen Machnee. “But even with the increased enrolment, student success remains our first priority. We have more face-to-face classes than ever before. And our largest class sizes are still only a fraction of the size of the same classes in Saskatoon and Regina.”

The College’s smaller class sizes and easier access to instructors often help students get better grades than they would on campus at university. Many students also find it easier to make the transition from high school to full-fledged university student if they take a year at Parkland College. First-year students take classes in a wide range of subject areas to get a broader understanding of learning at the university level.

“University students study the exact same material at Parkland College as their counterparts do at the U of S or U of R,” Machnee added. “But our unique learning environment can help them better adapt to university life and the expectations that come with the pursuit of a degree.”

Thanks to partnerships with the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina, students are able to take the first year of almost any undergraduate degree from the two institutions at Parkland College. Currently students can earn full four-year bachelor’s degrees at Parkland College in Nursing (U of S), Social Work (U of R), and Indigenous Education (First Nations University of Canada).

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The first round of Parkland College’s international development partnership in Jamaica is underway. The College is working with HEART Trust – the Human Employment and Resource Training Trust, National Training Agency – to create Essential Skills programming to train unemployed Jamaican youth.

Parkland College was selected to partner with HEART Trust last fall as part of a Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) program in the Caribbean. This two-year partnership will develop Essential Skills and pre-technology training in key sectors of the Jamaican economy. It aims to prepare 500 students under the age of 30 for employment.

College representatives travelled to Jamaica in August to conduct workshops and train staff for the start of the Youth Skills Development program. Train-the-trainer sessions were delivered on Essential Skills, counselling techniques, instructional strategies, employability skills, environmental sustainability, and gender equality.

“It’s taken a lot of hard work from many College support staff and trainers to get to this point, but reaching this stage is a great achievement for the College and the students in Jamaica,” said Kami DePape, Director of Academics and Student Services at Parkland College. “We’re honoured to share our expertise with our partners at HEART Trust and provide guidance to help build a successful program.”

The workshops were particularly effective for participants in the train-the-trainer sessions, such as Canute White, Director of Safety and Behavioural Management at Excelsior Community College in Kingston, Jamaica.

“It has provided tools for the betterment of a nation as we carry the knowledge to others in our institutions,” White said. “Parkland College seems to have mastered the art of the craft. I am among those who are now willing and able to not only impart what we have learned but play our part in the field.”

Employers in the Caribbean often have difficulty attracting and retaining skilled, adaptable, and flexible workers, which they attribute to a lack of workforce preparedness, basic skills, and an understanding of expected workplace behaviour. This hinders economic development in the region.

HEART Trust’s mandate is to provide Jamaica with a highly-trained and certified workforce. Projects like this seek to give disadvantaged youth new opportunities for employment.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has set another record by awarding $118,673 in Entrance Scholarships to 36 students this fall. The dollar figure is the most money ever handed out by the College in a single scholarship presentation. It breaks the previous high of $110,800 awarded this past March at the Internal Scholarships.

“We’ve been fortunate to have great support from the community and the Ministry of Advanced Education,” said scholarship committee chair Brendan Wagner. “It’s important that our scholarship program keeps growing as we welcome more and more post-secondary students to the College.”

All students receiving Entrance Scholarships are taking university, skills training, or trades programs at Parkland College.

The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, Parkland College staff, the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program.

The Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program is a matching program in which funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis with local non-government donors.  For every dollar raised locally, the province will match that dollar to support scholarships as available.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to stop by one of the five campuses in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Melville or Yorkton, or visit the Scholarships area of our website to view scholarship opportunities. Internal Scholarships for students already enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2016. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to local students pursuing post-secondary education. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 18th year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to students enrolled in full-time or part-time courses.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is proud to announce the launch of its official mobile app just in time for Welcome Week. The Parkland College App is available now as a free download for iPhone and Android mobile phone users.

“The app gives our students another way to enhance their educational experience and connect with their College,” said President Dwayne Reeve. “It’s designed to help our students keep track of their busy schedules, stay in touch with campus news and events, and access great deals at local businesses.”

Students can create an account on the app to access their courses, receive important alerts, interact with the College on social media, and even chat with friends and classmates directly on the app.

The app was developed in partnership with OOHLALA Mobile. The Montreal-based company specializes in student engagement and has produced mobile apps for numerous post-secondary institutions across North America.

For more about the Parkland College App, please visit parkland.campusapp.com.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The presidents of the First Nations University of Canada and Parkland College signed a partnership Thursday for delivery of a four-year Bachelor of Indigenous Education program at Parkland College’s Yorkton Campus. This delivery is based on the successful partnership started in 2012 at Parkland College’s Fort Qu’Appelle Campus.

“We are delighted to partner once again with Parkland College so that we can help learners pursue their academic dreams without requiring major upheaval from their home community. Delivering  our program in Yorkton and Fort Qu’Appelle along with our other community- based programs means that our students can concentrate on thriving in their studies and not surviving in a new city,” stated Dr. Mark Dockstator, President, First Nations University of Canada. “We are grateful for the support of our federated partner, the University of Regina, and in particular, the Faculty of Education to render this opportunity a reality.”

FNUniv President Mark Dockstator (left) and Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve sign the partnership.

“This expansion brings more access to a complete post-secondary education right here in the Parkland region,” said Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve. “We are happy to build on our partnership with First Nations University of Canada and to make a difference in the lives of learners in the Yorkton area.”

The Bachelor of Indigenous Education program goal is to produce teachers who can promote First Nations control of First Nations education by developing and implementing First Nations’ content. Graduates are prepared to work within the framework of the Saskatchewan Core Curriculum. While the emphasis of the program is on Language Arts, specializations may be pursued in:

• First Nations Language Instructors’ Certificate
• Indian Arts
• Indigenous Languages
• Indigenous Studies

Highlights about the Partnership

• There are 28 students registered for this fall’s program.
• Yorkton is a convenient location for members of numerous First Nations communities in East Central Saskatchewan to attend.
• The program is open to Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.

About FNUniv:
The First Nations University of Canada is a unique Canadian institution that specializes in Indigenous knowledge, providing post-secondary education for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students alike within a culturally supportive environment.  Since 1976 it has been providing a unique opportunity to study in an environment that supports First Nations cultures, languages, and values.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:

Racelle Kooy
Director of Communications
First Nations University of Canada
Mobile: (306) 551-2965

Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Office: (306) 728-6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed more than 60 farmers and agriculture industry representatives to their third annual research farm field day Thursday near Yorkton. The event highlights the partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began with the signing of a memorandum of understanding in 2013 leading to collaborative work on agricultural applied research projects.

This year there are 26 projects underway at two locations: the joint research farm 1 km south of Yorkton, and a site along Highway 10 next to the trucking weigh scale 3 km southwest of the city. Researchers are conducting various wheat fungicide and plant growth regulator trials, canola fungicide and seed treatments, flax fungicide trials, and fertility trials for oats and canary seed.

Parkland College and ECRF plan to continue agriculture research trial programs in the Yorkton area for the long term. The information developed and gathered on site will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers. More information is available at www.ecrf.ca.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About East Central Research Foundation:
ECRF is a non-profit organization established in 1996. Based in Yorkton, it undertakes applied research projects and demonstrates specialized crop protection technologies to local producers. Funding from government agencies allows ECRF to conduct trials on everything from seed treatments and crop residues to fertilizer application rates and weed and pest control. ECRF is one of eight producer-directed research and demonstration groups in Saskatchewan making up the Agriculture – Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) network.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation are pleased to announce that their third annual research farm field day will take place on July 23 in Yorkton.

Farmers and agriculture industry representatives are invited to check out the projects being conducted this summer. Researchers are working on 26 different projects, including wheat fungicide and plant growth regulator trials, canola fungicide and seed treatments, flax fungicide trials, and fertility trials for oats and canary seed.

The field day will start with registration at 8:30 a.m. at the research farm 1 km south of Yorkton on York Lake Road. A free barbecue lunch follows at about 12:30 p.m. Please RSVP to lead researcher Mike Hall at 306.621.6032.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About East Central Research Foundation:
ECRF is a non-profit organization established in 1996. Based in Yorkton, it undertakes applied research projects and demonstrates specialized crop protection technologies to local producers. Funding from government agencies allows ECRF to conduct trials on everything from seed treatments and crop residues to fertilizer application rates and weed and pest control. ECRF is one of eight producer-directed research and demonstration groups in Saskatchewan making up the Agriculture – Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) network.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is proud to announce that the 10th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic raised an estimated $26,100 for the Parkland College scholarship fund. The tournament was held June 19 at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton.

“Year after year, the community rallies around this event and makes it a huge success,” said Dollars for Scholars chairperson Brendan Wagner. “We are grateful for the support of a wide variety of businesses. And we are thankful for the golfers who come out to play and make the event so fun.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the College’s largest scholarship fundraiser. The tournament has now raised at least $25,000 in the last four years. Proceeds from past events helped Parkland College award almost $200,000 in scholarships in 2014-15.

“The tournament makes a huge difference for many of our students,” Wagner said. “As our enrollment grows, and the Trades and Technology Centre brings more training opportunities to the Parkland, we will need this tournament to keep pace with the demand for scholarships.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is made possible by generous contributions from hundreds of community supporters, volunteers, and sponsors. Banquet sponsor R H Electric, Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, Logan Stevens Construction, MHPM Project Leaders, SaskTel, and RBC Financial Group, and media partners GX94 and Fox FM played key roles in the success of the tournament.

Parkland College also thanks the 18 Gold Sponsors, 19 Silver sponsors, dozens of Bronze sponsors and two hole-in-one sponsors for their donations of cash and prizes. A total of 124 golfers supported the scholarship fund with their entry fees.

The 11th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively scheduled for June 24, 2016 at Deer Park.

Results from the 2015 tournament:

Straightest Drive Men (Hole #4) – Jason Bobb
Straightest Drive Women (Hole #4) – Jenny Evanik

Closest to the Pin Men (Hole #8) – Bill Sinclair
Closest to the Pin Women (Hole #8) – Fay Myers

Longest Drive Men (Hole #13) – Warren Kitzul
Longest Drive Women (Hole #13) – Renai Hodgson

Longest Putt Men (Hole #18) – James Hodgson
Longest Putt Women (Hole #18) – Linda Miller

Winner of the Putting Contest – Shelley Kaspick
Winner of the Chipping Contest – Randy Prokopiuk

Lowest Scoring Team – Team Matsalla: Chad Matsalla, Tyson German, Ian Hack, Kirk Zawislak

Fun Hole #9 – Thom Barker

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic Chair
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Friday at St. Mary’s Cultural Centre in Yorkton. Family, friends, and College staff congratulated and celebrated 335 students who successfully completed one of more than 20 programs offered at the College in 2014-15.

Parkland College offers University degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, and Adult Basic Education upgrading. Graduates from post-secondary programs receive accreditation from the University of Regina, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, and Parkland College.

This year, the graduates represent 60 communities. Yorkton led the way with 137 grads, followed by Kamsack with 48, Fort Qu’Appelle with 21, Melville with 18, and Regina with 12. This year’s graduating class also includes students from British Columbia and Manitoba.

335 students from 60 communities graduated from Parkland College this year in 21 different programs.

The guest speaker was Dr. Fay Myers, President of Parkland College. This was her final graduation ceremony after serving 18 years as the College’s president and CEO. Bachelor of Nursing student Eric McDowell presented Dr. Myers with a locally made artwork to commemorate the milestone. McDowell was the recipient of the 2014-15 President’s Scholarship Award for Excellence.

Guest speaker Dr. Fay Myers addresses the graduates. The ceremony was her last as Parkland College President.

Newly appointed Advanced Education Minister Scott Moe was in attendance and brought greetings on behalf of the provincial government.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Dr. Fay Myers, President and CEO of Parkland College, has been recognized with Colleges and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Distinguished Service Award for her many years of dedicated work on behalf of Canadian students and colleges.

Dr. Myers has been President and CEO of Parkland College for over 18 years where she oversaw transformation and growth seen by few colleges. During her tenure, the College has strengthened, evolved, and excelled at meeting the training and education needs of students, communities, and industry in the Parkland region and beyond.

“Fay Myers’ contribution to Canada’s colleges and institutes has been tremendous and reaches well beyond the walls of Parkland College”, says CICan President and CEO, Denise Amyot. “Over her long and distinguished career, she has been a tireless advocate for technical education and has made a significant contribution to the field of adult education both locally and nationally.”

Dr. Myers is also credited with creating an entrepreneurial culture of growth at Parkland College and entering the international education market through international education projects and international student recruitment. Her numerous contributions to post-secondary education and training in Saskatchewan have already been recognized on several occasions and in 2012 she received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Colleges and Institutes Canada is the national and international voice of Canada’s publicly supported colleges, institutes and polytechnics. It works with industry and social sectors to train 1.5 million learners of all ages and backgrounds at campuses serving over 3,000 urban, rural and remote communities in Canada. The Association operates in 29 countries via 12 offices around the world.

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A group of Parkland College students was celebrated in Fort Qu’Appelle on Thursday as their mining readiness course winds down. Fifteen students in the Introduction to Mining program have completed 22 weeks of classes, safety training, and skills preparation in the Fort Qu’Appelle area. They will be on work placements May 20-29 to complete the course.

The introductory program is part of a multi-year agreement signed last July between Parkland College, Carlton Trail College, and International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII). The Essential Skills project aims to give the Aboriginal students a solid foundation upon which to build their skills and to prepare them for work in Saskatchewan’s mining industry. Six of the students have already received employment offers.

The Introduction to Mining program, funded by IMII, has the colleges working together with a number of companies to develop an Aboriginal workforce for potash mines and processing facilities. The students, who come from seven First Nations bands in the Parkland region, have toured three mines in this program: Mosaic’s underground operation at Colonsay, K + S Potash’s solution mine near Bethune, and PotashCorp’s underground mine at Lanigan. Each company provides a unique work culture with different career opportunities.

In this project, students received certification in two separate training programs: Building Environmental Aboriginal Human Resources (BEAHR) Environmental Monitoring and Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR) Mining Essentials.

BEAHR Environmental Monitoring, developed by Environmental Careers Organization Canada, was delivered over seven weeks. The program focuses on understanding environmental issues, government regulations, monitoring effects, risk management and mitigation measures, sampling protocols and basic research, mapping, and journaling. An Aboriginal cultural component ran throughout the program.

MiHR’s Mining Essentials lasted 10 weeks. It focused on the essential skills profiles in MiHR’s National Occupation Standards for entry-level occupations and combined work readiness skills as defined by a development committee of industry, Aboriginal organizations, and education experts. Further exploration of a career in the mining industry included the potash mine tours, guest speakers, and visits from recruiters.

Mining is a vital, growing component of Saskatchewan’s economy as well as Canada’s economy. But like many economic sectors across the country, the growth of the province’s mining industry is threatened by human resources challenges. There is a need to educate individuals to the many mining careers that are available. Additionally, proper training is required to prepare individuals for entry level jobs to skilled and professional jobs available through the mining cycles.

Aboriginal people offer the potential of a strong workforce in Saskatchewan. This project offers Aboriginal people the foundational training required to be successful in skills training. They receive safety training and environmental monitoring skills that will help them better understand the environmental impact issues facing mines and First Nations communities.

This project is one of eight being rolled out by IMII with a focus on safety, environment, and developing specialized training for the mining industry.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About International Minerals Innovation Institute:
International Minerals Innovation Institute is a unique industry–government–post-secondary education and research institutions partnership jointly funded by industry and government. The Institute is a catalyst to developing industry-driven education and training programs to address labour force needs in the sector and conducts industry-driven research and development to address workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability, social license, policy research, exploration, mining, processing and economics of commodities to ensure the continued growth of the industry.

IMII’s current activities and future plans are being driven by industry priorities. Through the Board of Directors and separate panels for both Education and Training (E&T Panel) and Research and Development (R&D Panel), collaboration occurs amongst industry, government and education and research institutions to clearly define the need, solution, implementation plan and outcomes together.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Marylou Langridge
Accounting & Communications Coordinator
International Minerals Innovation Institute
Phone: 306.668.2051

Parkland College today announced the appointment of Mr. Dwayne Reeve as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2015. Reeve brings 30 years of experience in education, having most recently served as Director of Education at Good Spirit School Division. Reeve will succeed Dr. Fay Myers, who is retiring June 30 after nearly 18 years as Parkland College’s President.

“We are excited to welcome Dwayne Reeve to Parkland College,” said Lydia Cyr, Chair of the Parkland College Board of Governors. “He brings a wealth of experience and leadership that will be invaluable as he guides the College in the years ahead.”

In his new role, Reeve will be responsible for setting the College’s strategic direction and continuing to represent the organization’s mission, vision, and values. He will work to expand partnerships with business, industry, and communities, with a focus on sound fiscal management. Reeve will also oversee the opening of the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton this fall and the next phases of development at the 20-acre site.

“I am looking forward to starting this new role with Parkland College,” Reeve said. “I can’t wait to begin meeting the staff and stakeholders, and I look forward to working with everyone to continue the good work being done.”

Reeve, a native of Broadview, Sask., has held many leadership roles for the majority of his career. He had served as Director of Education at the Good Spirit School Division since it was formed through the amalgamation of five separate boards of education in 2006.

“As we move forward with Mr. Reeve,” Cyr said, “I want to thank Dr. Myers on behalf of the board, staff, and students of Parkland College for her commitment to education and her dedication to the growth of the College. We wish her the best in her retirement.”

Cyr also thanked Nathan Berko and the Calgary office of Boyden global executive search for their assistance in the search for the new president. Boyden sought out feedback from College employees, stakeholders, and the community at large on the College’s strengths, challenges, and the characteristics of an ideal candidate.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A group of students from Parkland College presented a dozen bookbags to Yorkton Family Resource Centre on Wednesday. Each bag contains a book, a toy, and a craft. Parents can borrow the bookbags from the Resource Centre to play and learn with their children.

The project originated as an assignment in the College’s Workplace Essential Skills program. Students were assigned a social project in which they identified a need in the community and tried to address it. Since reading and literacy are vital to all Essential Skills programs, the students chose to put together the bookbags. They created four bookbags for children under 3 years of age, four for ages 4-7, and another four for age 7 and up.

(Left to right): Kim Gelowitz with Yorkton Family Resource Centre, Essential Skills Regional Facilitator Kim Kyle-Zwirsky, and students Lucille Lerat, Cynthia Shingoose and Jackie Gambler look on as Delphine Shingoose shows off the contents of one of the bookbags to parents and their children.

“We are grateful to the Yorkton Family Resource Centre for partnering with us to make these bookbags available to the community,” said Kim Kyle-Zwirsky, Workplace Essential Skills Regional Facilitator. “I think the best thing about the project is that parents don’t need to be strong readers because the craft and toy are related to the storyline of the book inside. All they have to do is play with their children and make the story up as they go along.”

Student Delphine Shingoose reveals the contents of a bookbag. Each one contains a book, a toy, and a craft for based on a child's age range.

Essential Skills are needed for success in work, learning, and life. They are the foundational skills that make it easier to learn all other skills. Students benefit from Essential Skills programs by increasing initiative and innovation, improving self-confidence, and building transferable skills.

These programs also include a work experience component. This particular group of students was assigned three different work placements rather than the usual one assignment. The goal is to help the students explore various career options.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Office: 306.728.6595

Parkland College awarded a record high $110,800 in Internal Scholarships to 81 students at its awards ceremony at the Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton on Tuesday.

These scholarships are in addition to the $83,420 in Entrance Scholarships awarded in September. The grand total of $194,220 awarded in the 2014-15 academic year is the most ever awarded in one year at Parkland College. The College has now awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships in four consecutive academic years since 2011.

Scholarships were presented to 81 students with a total value of $110,800 -- a record high for a single scholarship period at Parkland College.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, community members, College staff, and sponsors and participants in the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

Eligible post-secondary awards are matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program. Introduced by the provincial government in 2011, the program provides matching funds to institutions for scholarships that are targeted in accordance with the institution’s strategic directions. Funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis with local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to stop by one of the five campuses in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Melville or Yorkton, or visit the Scholarships section of this website to view scholarship opportunities. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning Parkland College programs this fall will be awarded in September 2015. Applications for those awards are being accepted now until May 20 at http://bit.ly/PCentrance.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Scholarship Committee Chairman
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is pleased with the 2015-2016 Saskatchewan Budget, delivered Wednesday by Finance Minister Ken Krawetz.

Parkland College will receive $4.5 million this year to complete construction of the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton. It is the final installment of a $10 million commitment the government made in October 2013.

“This project couldn’t happen without the Government of Saskatchewan, and we thank the province for its support,” Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers said. “We are excited to open the doors on our new building.”

The Trades and Technology Centre is on track to open this September. Initial programs to be offered in the new facility include Power Engineering, Welding, Agricultural Machinery Technician, Multi-Mechanical Trades, and Heavy Equipment Truck and Transport Technician. Prospective students can now apply for those programs.

Elsewhere in the budget, the College’s growing scholarship initiative will again be able to access at least $100,000 in Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship funding. This program matches donations from non-government organizations and businesses to double the impact of scholarships. Parkland College accessed this funding in the 2014-15 academic year and awarded over $194,000 in scholarships.

“Overall, we are very happy with how the budget impacts the College,” Dr. Myers added. “These measures will have a positive impact on students and communities in our region,” Myers added.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
306.728.6595

Parkland College is now accepting applications for more than $145,000 in scholarships. These Entrance Scholarships will be awarded to new students in the fall of 2015.

The 2015 Entrance Scholarship application period runs until May 20. Recipients will be selected by early June, and successful applicants will receive their awards in late September.

“The Entrance Scholarships are reserved for students beginning programs at Parkland College in the fall,” said scholarship committee chair Brendan Wagner. “Usually these students are graduates right out of high school, but we see plenty of mature students who are looking to go back to school after working for a while, or they’re wanting to make a complete career change.”

Parkland College presents scholarships two times each year – Entrance Scholarships to new students in the fall, and Internal Scholarships to current students in the spring. In the 2014-15 academic year, Parkland College will have awarded over $194,000 in scholarships – a new single-year high for the College. That figure is expected to near $250,000 in 2015-16.

“With the Trades and Technology Centre opening in Yorkton this September, students have more local post-secondary education choices than ever before. We’ve grown the scholarship program to keep pace so that there are also more awards available,” Wagner said.

Thanks to the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program, Parkland College is able match donations for post-secondary scholarships. This effectively doubles contributions from the region and makes a larger impact on the College’s scholarship initiative.

Also included among the 2015 Entrance Scholarships is the third installment in a five-year studentship agreement with Yorkton Tribal Council (YTC). With a generous donation from YTC in 2013 and the matching funds from the Government of Saskatchewan, Parkland College is able to offer $80,000 in scholarships this year to students who are registered members of YTC’s six First Nations (Cote, Key, Keeseekoose, Ocean Man, Sakimay, and Kahkewistahaw). Separate application packages for these awards are available through Yorkton Tribal Council.

Full details about the College’s scholarships can be found on the Scholarships section of this website. Students who are beginning a program at Parkland College this fall can apply for a share of the Entrance Scholarships at http://bit.ly/PCentrance.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has released the findings of a pair of agriculture research projects it conducted in partnership with the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) at their research farm just south of Yorkton. They investigated two projects in the summer of 2014: the productivity and quality of various cereal forages based on early or late seeding; and the effect of fungicide timing on two varieties of spring wheat.

Scientists working on the forage project in Yorkton found that varieties of barley are more likely to be adversely affected by a later seeding date than oats and triticale. They also found that Golden German millet is consistently hampered when seeded into cool conditions, although some redeeming qualities make it a good candidate for swath grazing.

Meanwhile, researchers found that applying a fungicide to spring wheat for the suppression of fusarium head blight at the early heading stage produced greater yields than fungicide applied at the flag leaf stage.

Quality of Cereal Forages Based on Seeding Date

The cereal forage trial at Yorkton was conducted at the same time as a sister site near Melfort (Northeast Agricultural Research Foundation). Seven crop species were seeded early (late May/early June) to represent greenfeed and late (late June/early July) to represent swath grazing: CDC Cowboy barley, CDC Maverick barley, CDC Baler oats, CDC Haymaker oats, Bunker triticale, Tyndall triticale, and Golden German millet.

For the early-seeded trials, the triticale varieties provided the highest yields at Yorkton, while the barley varieties yielded best at the Melfort site. But when compared with data from other Agriculture-Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) sites across Saskatchewan, there appears to be no clear winner when seeding cereal forages early. Based on 10 site years of data, Tyndall triticale outyielded Baler oats 1/10 site years, yielded less 2/10 site years, and was not statistically different in 7/10 site years. For Tyndall triticale versus Cowboy barley, Tyndall was higher 4/10 site years, lower in 2/10 site years, and not statistically different for 4/10 site years.

“No variety won the yield battle, but Golden German millet was clearly the loser,” lead scientist Mike Hall reported. “In five of the 10 years, it yielded significantly less than all the other forages, and it never yielded better than any other forage. It’s a warm season crop that grows very slowly when seeded into cool conditions. As a result it can be highly uncompetitive with weeds. However, it does have some redeeming qualities such as a waxy coating that helps to preserve its forage quality and makes it a good candidate for swath grazing.”

Lead scientist Mike Hall conducted the research trials and compiled the reports.

The College and ECRF undertook this study because of results from Lacombe, AB. Researchers there found that the yields of triticale and oats could be substantially greater than barley at late seeding dates – almost double in some instances. Barley is photosensitive, which means it shortens its vegetative period in response to later seedings. This does not happen with triticale or oats. It is hypothesized that this is at least part of the reason for the lower yield potential of barley when seeded late.

This was reflected at the trials in Yorkton, where the late seeded barley yielded substantially less. But yields of oats and triticale were also reduced after 120 mm (4.7 inches) of rain fell over several days after seeding. This greatly reduced crop emergence and likely impacted yields. It is uncertain how much of the yield reduction for barley can be attributed to its photosensitivity.

“At Melfort, barley’s yield standing versus triticale and oats did decline with the late seeding, but the differences were relatively modest compared to the results from Lacombe,” Hall said. “More work is needed in this area. It would be good to know if some barley varieties are more sensitive to late seeding than others.”

At harvest time, all crop species provided comparable quality feed with protein and total digestible nutrient (TDN) levels adequate for mid-pregnancy cows.

Effect of Fungicide Timing on Wheat Yield and Quality

Two wheat varieties investigated differed in their level of resistance to fusarium head blight: the variety Unity is rated as “fair” whereas the variety Goodeve is rated as “very poor”. In either case, leaf spot diseases were significantly reduced by applying the fungicide Twinline at the flag leaf stage or the fungicide Prosaro at early heading. Without fungicide, the level of fusarium damaged heads was higher in Goodeve, as expected.

Applying Prosaro at early heading significantly reduced fusarium damaged heads to similar levels between the varieties. Prosaro also reduced the number of fusarium damaged kernels in the harvested grain, but it wasn’t enough to raise the grade from a #2 to a #1. Twinline, applied at the flag leaf stage, resulted in a 3.5 bushel/acre increase in yield. Prosaro at early heading resulted in a 5.8 bushel/acre yield increase. The greatest yield gain was achieved by using Twinline at flag in combination with Prosaro at early heading – providing an increase of 10.9 bushels/acre.

“This is not a result that farmers want to hear,” Hall said. “No one wants to spray fungicide at the flag leaf stage only to turn around a week later to spray the field again. But if we look at data from other research sites across Saskatchewan, we find the dual application of fungicide only resulted in the highest yields three out of 21 site years. The rest of the time it was no better than applying fungicide at the early heading stage.

“Based on Agri-ARM data, it would appear that applying a fungicide for the suppression of fusarium head blight at early heading gave the biggest bang for our buck. In 24 site-year comparisons, it usually resulted in higher yields than fungicide applied at flag leaf stage – and never yielded less.”

For more information on these and other research projects conducted by ECRF and Parkland College, visit www.ecrf.ca and check out the video section under the trials tab.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College’s scholarship fundraising golf tournament will have a new look when golfers tee off this June.

A special anniversary logo will be used this year to celebrate the 10th annual Parkland College Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic. The logo was designed in-house by the College’s marketing department. It features a yellow tenth-hole flag over a two-tone blue circle containing the Dollars for Scholars name.

“We wanted something special to mark the milestone of our tenth golf tournament, and a commemorative logo is a good way of doing that,” said Brendan Wagner, chairperson of the Dollars for Scholars planning committee. “It’s a departure from the event’s traditional branding and green-and-orange colour scheme, but we feel that this anniversary logo is a strong, fresh look that stands on its own.”

The anniversary mark will appear on promotional items for this year’s tournament, including advertising, registration and sponsorship materials, and event day documents such as scorecards and programs.

The 10th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic takes place June 19 at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton. All proceeds from the event will support the Parkland College scholarship program. In the years since the first tournament in 2006, about $160,000 has been raised for student scholarships at Parkland College.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created by ABC Life Literacy Canada in 1999. It is held annually on January 27 to raise awareness of the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.

Parkland College marked Family Literacy Day with an author reading on January 28. In partnership with the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild Author Readings Program, the College was pleased to welcome Saskatoon-based author Carey Rigby-Wilcox for a reading. Dozens of students from the Yorkton main campus of Parkland College attended the event.

Rigby-Wilcox struggled with reading and writing throughout her school years but became very aware of the importance of literacy when she became a mother. She describes herself as a committed learner, activist, volunteer, business owner, illustrator, and author who is deeply dedicated to promoting literacy at the local, provincial, and national levels.

“Forty-two percent of Canadian adults have low literacy skills, and I am someone who fits into this alarming statistic,” she said. “I have worked with a literacy tutor for over 23 years. Today I am motivated and passionate to help create awareness and inspire change.”

According to ABC Life Literacy Canada, taking time every day to read to children or do a learning activity with them is crucial to their development. Even just 15 minutes a day can improve a child’s literacy skills dramatically, and can help a parent improve their skills as well.

Wednesday’s author reading at Parkland College was sponsored by the Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild with support from Saskatchewan Lotteries Trust Fund, SaskCulture, and the Saskatchewan Arts Board.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The search for the next President and Chief Executive Officer of Parkland College is expanding. As part of the next stage of the recruitment process, a job posting is now active and is being advertised regionally and on several national academic websites, including the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) website.

Dr. Fay Myers, the outgoing president, announced last August that she would retire effective June 30, 2015 – the end of the 2014-15 academic year. The Parkland College Board of Governors then began the process of finding a firm to assist in the hunt for a new CEO. In the fall, the board announced it had selected the Calgary office of Boyden global executive search to lead the effort.

Boyden immediately sought feedback from employees, stakeholders, and the community on the College’s strengths, challenges, and the characteristics of an ideal candidate. From the results of those surveys, it was determined that a successful applicant “will possess a proven ability to lead strategic planning, relationship and change management, and strength in budgets and financial management.”

The text of the job posting is as follows:

Established in 1973, Parkland College was the first regional college in Saskatchewan. Located in the east central part of Saskatchewan, with the head office situated in Melville, the College serves over 60 communities, with campuses located in Yorkton, Canora, Esterhazy, and Fort Qu’Appelle. Parkland offers a range of programs from graduate university programs to undergraduate degree, diploma, certificate, high school upgrading, basic literacy, and English as an additional language. Parkland has recently embarked on an Applied Research initiative, the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program, with an early focus on agriculture, which is a large part of Saskatchewan’s economy. It has also had an increasing number of International students coming to Yorkton for study in Canada. The Trades and Technology Centre, an $18-million, 29,000-square-foot facility that will provide the space to upgrade and train skilled graduates and workers, will be completed in September 2015.

 

Reporting to the Board of Governors, the President will steward high quality education across a large geographic area. This leader will also seek to grow programs, increase enrolment and retention, building on diversity and enhancing partnerships between other educational institutions and Parkland College. Seeking to identify and build on innovative partnerships and alliances with the business community and industry, the President will encourage development of new revenue generating programs and fundraising initiatives to ensure financial stability through increased enrolment in programs that are relevant, accessible, and attractive to all learners.

 

Successful candidates will possess a proven ability to lead strategic planning, relationship & change management, and strength in budgets and financial management. You will have demonstrated abilities as a relationship builder, preferably with exposure to or within other post-secondary institutions, government departments, schools, and industry. A minimum of 10 years of senior management experience in the public or private sector is required and a Master’s degree is desired.

 

To explore this exciting opportunity further, please contact Nathan Berko at (403) 410-6700 or send your resume and contact details to calgaryopportunities@boyden.com.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

This past August, the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Fund Agreement as a way to invest in initiatives responding to labour market needs. The Canada Job Grant is an employer-driven approach to help workers get the skills and training they need to fill available jobs. It provides employers with up to $10,000 for training costs for an individual worker, including tuition and training materials.

Under the terms of this agreement, Parkland College is an approved third-party training agency.

“Many of our existing training meets eligibility criteria,” said Michael Cameron, Parkland College’s Director of Training & Business Development. “We are locally accessible, minimizing travel costs. And we can assist with developing individual or group training plans.”

Parkland College is committed to its clients and can assist in completing the application process, and can deliver customized training to meet businesses’ needs, even on-site.

Examples of the College’s many training options include the PRIME Leadership & Management Certificate, the University of Regina Project Management Certificate, safety training, computer training, online courses, and part-time university and SaskPolytech (formerly SIAST) courses, among others.

Companies interested in taking advantage of the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant should call Parkland College’s Business and Training Representatives, Darrell Landels at 306.620.6694 or Ed Hourd at 306.641.9171. You can also visit http://corporate.parklandcollege.sk.ca for more details.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College signed on Monday the Indigenous Education Protocol for Colleges and Institutes. It is a new initiative created by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) to support colleges in their commitment to the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students.

The Indigenous Education Protocol outlines how colleges can strive to improve their practices and better serve Aboriginal peoples. The Protocol underscores the importance of removing barriers to education and supporting self-determination and socio-economic development of Indigenous communities.

“As key providers of applied post-secondary education for Indigenous communities, colleges recognize that they have important responsibilities and obligations to Indigenous education,” said Denise Amyot, President and CEO of CICan. “This protocol encourages our members to be more inclusive of Indigenous cultures and even more proactive in finding ways to create success.”

CICan developed the Protocol over the last year through consultations with college and institute representatives from across Canada. Lydia Cyr, Chairperson of the Parkland College Board of Governors, signed the document Monday in Yorkton, along with Amyot and representatives from First Nations in the Parkland Region.

“A key priority of our Strategic Plan is working with Aboriginal communities to improve enrolment, graduation rates, and employment rates,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers. “A prosperous future depends on building these kinds of partnerships. This is another big step forward.”

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan):
Colleges and Institutes Canada is the national and international voice of Canada’s publicly supported colleges, institutes and polytechnics. We work with industry and social sectors to train 1.5 million learners of all ages and backgrounds at campuses serving over 3,000 urban, rural and remote communities in Canada. The Association operates in 29 countries via 13 offices around the world.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

During the week of November 17-21, 2014, Parkland College joins educational institutions from across Canada and over 100 other countries in celebrating the 11th annual International Education Week (IEW).

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Canada’s Engagement with the World.” IEW honours the many people who participate in international education – supporting foreign students, collaborating with international partners, and building capacity in emerging countries.

Parkland College began welcoming international students to its campuses in East Central Saskatchewan in 2009. In the years since, well over 100 students from India, Jamaica, and numerous other countries have studied at Parkland College. Many of those students have gone on to begin careers locally.

“We are proud to provide the best educational experience to the people who come to learn here,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers. “But we are also responsible for teaching so much more – things like our local customs and what it means to be Canadian. These students get a well-rounded experience through their interaction with fellow learners, our instructors, and the whole community.”

Parkland College has recently become more involved internationally. The College is in the midst of a three-year educational partnership at the University of Belize Central Farm Campus to develop a degree program aimed at getting more women working in agriculture. And just last month, Parkland College was selected for a two-year partnership with HEART Trust in Jamaica to develop essential skills and pre-technology training in key sectors of the Jamaican economy and to prepare students for employment.

IEW is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of international education and its significant benefits to our social, economic, and cultural well-being. It underscores the value that Canadians place on connecting with the world through studying abroad, internationalized curricula, international service, and on opening the world to Canada by welcoming international learners, promoting student exchanges, and encouraging qualified foreign students to make Canada their new home.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

More than 2,100 high school students from the Parkland region attended Career Explorations 2014 at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Thursday. The fifth annual education and career fair attracted over 80 exhibitors from Saskatchewan, Western Canada, and North Dakota.

Career Explorations is one of the most vibrant education and job fairs in the province. It is organized by Parkland College, Good Spirit School Division, and Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools, and is the largest such event in East Central Saskatchewan.

“It’s extremely important that students know what’s out there after high school, whether it’s post-secondary education, trades apprenticeships, or entering the workforce directly,” explained Dwayne Reeve, Director of Education with Good Spirit School Division. “We want them to be aware of their options.”

Career Explorations offers immediate access to dozens of educational institutions and numerous businesses from across Western Canada, including companies from the mining, agriculture, construction, and government sectors.

“We are always happy to hear how much this event helps both students and exhibitors,” said Dr. Fay Myers, Parkland College President. “It really gives students an idea of the many diverse options available to them upon graduation. And our exhibitors frequently tell us how much value they get out of attending.”

A new feature this year that proved quite popular with the students was the Try-a-Trade area in the Nexera Flexihall. Organizers invited several influential local companies and trades organizations to set up hands-on booths. Students had the opportunity to experience the work that tradespeople do and to find out what employers are looking for in potential recruits and how to start a career in the trades.

Career Explorations was born out of a Learning Alliance signed in 2008 between Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College. Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools has expanded its role since joining the organizing committee in 2012.

Plans for the sixth annual Career Explorations event in 2015 are already underway. The event will occur again in November, with a date yet to be determined based on venue availability and feedback from exhibitors.

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Contact information:

Brendan Wagner, Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Lynel Martinuk, Communications Coordinator
Good Spirit School Division
Phone: 306.786.5501

Parkland College is proud to announce it has been selected to partner with a technical institute in Jamaica as part of Colleges and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Education for Employment (EFE) program in the Caribbean. This partnership will help develop essential skills and pre-technology training in key sectors of the Jamaican economy, and prepare students for employment.

Parkland College executives travelled to Ottawa last week to meet with delegates representing the Human Employment and Resource Training Trust, National Training Agency – known to most Jamaicans simply as HEART Trust. Parkland was one of three Canadian colleges interviewed and was ultimately chosen to develop essential skills programming for unemployed youth over the next two years.

“We are honoured to get to work on this important project,” said Kami DePape, Director of Academics and Student Services at Parkland College. “It’s exciting to share our expertise and collaborate with our new partners at HEART Trust.”

(Left to Right): Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers, Director of Academics and Student Services Kami DePape, and Essential Skills Consultant Gail Gorchynski discuss the College's new international project with Milica Njegovan of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) and Sasha Shim-Hue and Elizabeth Terry of Jamaica's HEART Trust.

Employers in the Caribbean often have difficulty attracting and retaining skilled, adaptable, and flexible workers, which they attribute to a lack of workforce preparedness, basic skills, and an understanding of expected workplace behaviour. This hinders economic development in the region. As a result, CICan seeks to improve the education system through its Caribbean Development Strategy and EFE program.

The EFE program aims to ensure that CICan is able to contribute to poverty reduction in developing countries. EFE supports private sector development through workforce training and micro-enterprise support in sectors of the economy where there is a lack of qualified workers and entrepreneurs. For more on International Partnerships, please visit www.collegesinstitutes.ca.

Parkland College is also under consideration for a partnership with Norquest College of Edmonton on a vocational degree program in agriculture in Bolivia. The successful applicant for that project will be announced in early November.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) College of Nursing, Parkland College and Sunrise Health Region came together Thursday to celebrate the start of the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Yorkton.

The College of Nursing believes students should have the opportunity to “learn where they live”. Until the start of this program, students in the Yorkton area completed their pre-professional year (year one) at Parkland, but then had to relocate to Saskatoon, Regina or Prince Albert to complete years two through four in the College of Nursing. As a result of the new partnership with Parkland College and support of Sunrise Health Region, students are now able to complete their U of S BSN degree at Parkland College in Yorkton and most clinical components in the Sunrise Health Region.

“The College of Nursing is excited to celebrate our first Yorkton BSN class today,” said Lorna Butler, dean of the College of Nursing. “We are pleased to collaborate with Parkland College and Sunrise Heath Region to offer our BSN program to students in another Saskatchewan community. We look forward to great things to come from the Yorkton BSN Class of 2017.”

“This partnership offers great opportunities to the Parkland Region and the province as a whole,” said Parkland College president Fay Myers. “We are happy to celebrate these students as they take another step on the road to their nursing careers.”

“It is a pleasure to welcome the first students into our health care facilities to complete the clinical practicum components of their education,” said Suann Laurent, president and CEO, Sunrise Health Region.  “As a learning organization we look forward to sharing our expertise with the students and to continued collaboration with our partners in health education.”

Over the years, nursing education has had traditions come and go, but based on feedback from alumni and students, the College of Nursing has re-established the traditional pinning ceremony to celebrate students’ progression throughout their BSN program.

During the celebration today, nursing students were welcomed into the program and received their Year two pin from Yorkton resident and U of S alumna Patricia Kachman.

“The pins are a symbol celebrating the effort that was needed to complete the students’ education to this point. The new progression ceremony is a great way to celebrate these milestones, as they move through their years in the program,” said Butler. “Students were looking for a way during their placements to communicate with community members about their level of their education and we believe this pin, which we’re hoping they will all wear proudly during their practicums in the Sunrise Health Region, is the perfect way to do so.”

While in Yorkton, the College of Nursing also recognized local media and presented Thom Barker and Yorkton This Week with the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing 2014 Extending Our Reach Media Award.  The award is an opportunity for the College of Nursing to acknowledge and say thank you to a media partner who has gone above and beyond to provide a positive profile for the College of Nursing over the past year.

Thom Barker (right) accepts the media award on behalf of Yorkton This Week.

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For more information, contact:
Kylie Kelso
Communications Officer
U of S College of Nursing (306) 281-8448

Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College (306) 728-6595

Sharon Tropin
Director of Communications
Sunrise Health Region
(306) 786-0144

Parkland College hosted an Essential Skills Day celebration Friday in Yorkton to share the importance of Essential Skills with employers and the public. The event also showcased the various Essential Skills projects conducted by the College.

Essential Skills Day is organized annually to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of nine Essential Skills as defined by the Government of Canada: reading, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, working with others, thinking, computer use, and continuous learning.

“Each of us needs a good set of Essential Skills to succeed in work and everyday life. We use them all the time,” said Gail Gorchynski, Essential Skills Consultant at Parkland College.

“In order to learn anything else or even train for a job, you need Essential Skills as a solid foundation to achieve success. Everyone benefits when Essential Skills development is emphasized.”

The benefits are particularly apparent for Canadian employers. They report that improved literacy skills result in increased retention, productivity, ability to work independently, and increased usage of new technology. Improved skills also reduce absenteeism, health and safety incidents, and error rates. Meanwhile, employees who participate in Literacy and Essential Skills programs increase their level of self-confidence, acquire new skills, are better prepared to seek promotion opportunities, and believe that they are valued by their workplaces.

For more on Essential Skills Day, click here. Information about Parkland College’s Essential Skills training programs can be found on this website.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College awarded $72,340 in entrance scholarships to 35 students from across east-central Saskatchewan at its awards ceremony at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on September 24.

All the students being recognized have chosen to gain either university or technical skills at one of Parkland College’s five campuses.

The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, Parkland College staff, the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program.

The Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program is a matching program in which funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis with local non-government donors.  For every dollar raised locally, the province will match that dollar to support scholarships for high academic achievers.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to stop by one of the five campuses in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Melville or Yorkton, or visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca to view scholarship opportunities. Internal scholarships for students enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2015. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to local students pursuing post-secondary education. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 16th year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to students enrolled in full-time or part-time courses.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

More students than ever before are taking university classes at Parkland College in Yorkton this fall. For the first time, the College has had to cap the number of students in a course because of limited classroom space.

Close to 70 students are enrolled in an Indigenous Studies class. Over 40 students attend a Biology course, while between 35 and 40 students are registered in Chemistry, Psychology, and two English offerings.

“Enrolments are high partly because we are now offering more full four-year degrees in Nursing, Education, and Social Work,” said University Coordinator Dr. Gwen Machnee. “But I think more students are learning about the benefits of taking their first year of university at Parkland College, regardless of the degree they’re pursuing.”

Many students find it easier to make the transition from high school to full-fledged university student if they take a year at Parkland College. First-year students take classes in a wide range of subject areas to get a broader understanding of learning at the university level. The College’s smaller class sizes and access to instructors often help students get better grades. And many are able to save money by staying close to home and avoiding the relocation and travel costs associated with moving to the university cities.

“Our students study the exact same material as their counterparts at the universities,” Machnee added. “But our unique learning environment can help them adjust to university life and the expectations that come with the pursuit of a degree.”

Thanks to partnerships with the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina, students are able to take the first year of almost any undergraduate degree from the two institutions at Parkland College. Students can earn full degrees at Parkland College in Nursing (U of S), Social Work (U of R), and Indigenous Education (First Nations University of Canada).

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and Treaty 4 Student Success Program Inc. (T4SSP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) Friday that establishes a formal relationship to improve pathways to post-secondary education for First Nations students in the Parkland Region.

The Treaty 4 area covers much of southern Saskatchewan. T4SSP is an educational organization that serves 11 First Nations in east-central and southeast Saskatchewan: Fishing Lake, Cote, Keeseekoose, Sakimay, Ocean Man, Kahkewistahaw, Ochapowace, Cowessess, White Bear, Muskowekwan, and Kawacatoose First Nations.

“This agreement will open new doorways for the young people in our First Nations,” said Fishing Lake First Nation councillor Sheryl Kayseas. “Through this understanding, we have opportunities to build bridges of support from the First Nations schools to the many learning pathways available at Parkland College.”

“This partnership will be a mentorship and think-tank and exploratory station,” said Lori Whiteman, Executive Director of Treaty 4 Student Success Program. “It will be a learning centre for us to grow together in support of the young people attending our schools and the Parkland College campuses.”

Parkland College has long partnered with First Nations bands and tribal councils in the Parkland region to develop and deliver education and training programs on-reserve.

“We look forward to a continued trusting relationship that will build on our past partnerships,” Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers said. “We will work together to provide information, opportunities, and support to First Nations students and to help choose their career path for the future.”

“The increase in education opportunities and support for First Nations students is essential to the economic development and sustainability of our communities and the province,” added Lydia Cyr, Chair of the Parkland College Board of Governors.

The MOU signing was held in conjunction with Treaty 4’s annual school year kick-off. The day began with a traditional pipe ceremony and included a keynote speaker and professional development sessions for staff from the First Nations schools.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About Treaty 4 Student Success Program Inc.:
Treaty 4 Student Success Program Inc. (T4SSP) is an educational initiative serving the First Nations of the Treaty 4 territory. Currently, 11 Saskatchewan Treaty 4 schools have committed to participate in T4SSP through a letter of commitment from their Chief and Council. Treaty 4 Chiefs recognize that significant gaps in learning exist for First Nations students and emphasize that culture and traditional values, woven through the mandates of student retention, literacy and numeracy, will support balanced and significant success for all children. A necessary component to student learning is ensuring that students benefit from rich, meaningful and relevant learning experiences, within secure learning environments. The T4SSP is committed to the development and delivery of sustainable educational processes that place children and communities at the centre of common Treaty Four school improvement.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has joined hundreds of organizations across the province in signing the Saskatchewan Health & Safety Leadership Charter, an initiative that advocates for the continuous improvement of healthy and safe workplaces and communities.

Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers participated in a charter signing event earlier this summer, declaring that the College subscribes to the principle that nothing is more important than the well-being of employees, contractors, clients, customers, visitors and, whenever possible, the surrounding community.

“We are committed to health, safety, and wellness at Parkland College,” Dr. Myers said. “By signing this charter, we are fully committing to this worthy cause. I look forward to connecting with other leaders who share the vision of a safer Saskatchewan for all.”

According to Safe Saskatchewan, a not-for-profit organization that raises awareness about injury prevention, nearly 100,000 people have been unintentionally injured in the province so far in 2014. Safe Saskatchewan says those predictable and preventable injuries have cost the provincial economy over $635 million.

Charter signatories like Parkland College are striving to make Mission: Zero a reality for all workplaces and communities, which in turn will make Saskatchewan the safest province in which to live, work, and play. Mission: Zero encourages a change in culture, thought, and behaviour to bring about an injury-free Saskatchewan.

For more about the Saskatchewan Health & Safety Leadership Charter and Mission: Zero, please visit www.safesask.com.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Parkland College Board of Governors announced Thursday that President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Fay Myers will retire at the end of the 2014-2015 academic year. Dr. Myers will step down effective June 30, 2015.

Dr. Myers has led Parkland College since 1997. During her tenure, the College has strengthened, evolved, and excelled at meeting the training and education needs of students, communities, and industry in the Parkland region and beyond. Under her leadership, the direction and sustainability of the College into the 21st century has been of paramount importance and continues to be achieved.

“This is the right time to make this decision to retire,” Dr. Myers said. “The College will be opening the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton next fall and will have new strategic directions to achieve. I have truly enjoyed my 18 years with Parkland College working with amazing people.”

The Board of Governors reluctantly accepts Dr. Myers’ resignation and takes this opportunity to express its gratitude for her extraordinary vision and leadership.

“Dr. Myers has guided Parkland College to its position as a well-established educational institution leading in innovation and excellence,” said Lydia Cyr, chairperson of the Parkland College Board of Governors.

“We are fortunate to have benefited from Dr. Myers’ dedication, hard work, and achievements in the development and growth of the College,” Cyr added. “We wish Dr. Myers all the best in her retirement and thank her for her years of service to Parkland College.”

The Board will immediately begin its search for a successor to Dr. Myers.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed farmers and agriculture industry representatives Tuesday to their second annual research farm field day in Yorkton. The event highlights the continuing partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began with the signing of a memorandum of understanding last year leading to collaborative work on agricultural applied research projects.

This year, there are about 12 research projects underway at two locations: the joint research farm half a mile south of Yorkton, and a site adjacent to Skinner’s Garden Centre. Researchers are testing soybean varieties by seeding date, canaryseed fertility, oat varieties by nitrogen rate, wheat and canola with Environmentally Smart Nitrogen technology, wheat fungicide timing, and cereal forage.

The field day started at Tourism Yorkton where attendees were taken on a guided tour of the Crops of the Parklands demonstration site. Particular attention was paid to the more technical plots such as those demonstrating the difference in seed treatment and fertilizer placement.

Parkland College and ECRF plan to continue agriculture research trial programs in the Yorkton area for the long term. The information developed and gathered on site will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About East Central Research Foundation:
ECRF is a non-profit organization established in 1996 at Canora. It undertakes applied research projects and demonstrates specialized crop protection technologies to local producers. Funding from government agencies allows ECRF to conduct trials on everything from seed treatments and crop residues to fertilizer application rates and weed and pest control. ECRF is one of eight producer-directed research and demonstration groups in Saskatchewan making up the Agriculture – Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) network.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK — Parkland College officially signed two agreements Thursday that will help prepare students to work in Saskatchewan’s mining industry. Parkland College will join forces with Carlton Trail College and International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII) on the multi-year projects.

The first project funded by IMII is an Introduction to Mining course. Parkland and Carlton Trail will work together with a number of potash mines within their respective regions to develop an Aboriginal workforce for the mines and processing facilities. The Introduction to Mining course will train the students for a number of specific entry-level positions while preparing them for further education in occupations related to the minerals industry.

Meanwhile, Parkland College will also deliver a training course designed for electricians. Funding from IMII will bring SIAST’s Electrician Applied Certificate Enhanced program to the College’s industrial campus in Esterhazy. This program will be delivered over several years in order to support a sustainable number of entry-level electrician apprentices in the region.

“We serve the community and deliver in-demand programs to produce the skilled graduates that business and industry need,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers. “We are eager to begin these partnerships so we can contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Parkland Region.”

“Partnerships such as this allow us to work collaboratively with business and industry to provide greater opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Ivan Yackel, President and CEO of Carlton Trail College.

“IMII is an industry–government–post-secondary education partnership providing leadership to inform, facilitate, coordinate, and financially support industry-driven skills and research capacity that will enhance the growth and global competitiveness of Saskatchewan’s minerals industry through collaboration,” said Engin Özberk, Executive Director & Senior Technical Advisor at IMII. “What we are celebrating at Parkland College and Carlton Trail College today is one of the early accomplishments of this collaborative effort.”

These agreements are among eight projects being rolled out by IMII with a focus on safety, environment, and developing specialized training for the mining industry. IMII is providing over $822,000 in funding for this pair of education and training projects.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About Carlton Trail College:
Carlton Trail College serves the career, employment, training and educational needs of students, business and industry in east central Saskatchewan.   With offices in Humboldt, Watrous, Wynyard and Southey and classrooms throughout the region, Carlton Trail College provides exceptional education and training opportunities which create important academic, social, and economic advantages for students and the businesses that employ Carlton Trail students.

About International Minerals Innovation Institute:
International Minerals Innovation Institute, a unique industry–government–post-secondary education partnership jointly funded by industry and government, is a catalyst to developing industry-driven education and training programs to address labour force needs in the sector and conducts industry-driven research and development to address workplace health and safety, environmental sustainability, social license, policy research, exploration, mining, processing and economics of commodities to ensure the continued growth of the industry.

IMII’s current activities and future plans are being driven by industry priorities. Through the Board of Directors and separate panels for both education and training and research and development, collaboration occurs amongst industry, government and post-secondary education institutions to clearly define the need, solution, implementation plan and outcomes together.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation are pleased to announce that their second annual research farm field day will take place on July 29 in Yorkton.

Farmers and agriculture industry representatives are invited to check out the projects being conducted this summer. Researchers are testing soybean varieties by seeding date, canaryseed fertility, oat varieties by nitrogen rate, wheat and canola with Environmentally Smart Nitrogen technology, wheat fungicide timing, and cereal forage.

The field day will start at 10:00 a.m. at the Tourism Yorkton location near the junction of highways 9 and 16. Attendees will be taken on a guided tour of the Crops of the Parklands demonstration site. Particular attention will be paid to the more technical plots such as those demonstrating the difference in seed treatment and fertilizer placement.

“This year we have about 12 different projects at two locations,” said Gwen Machnee, University and Applied Research Coordinator at Parkland College. “There will be tours to the research projects located at the research farm on York Lake Road and at a site adjacent to Skinner’s Garden Centre.”

A barbecue lunch will be served at the Tourism Yorkton site. The field day is expected to wrap up around 2:00 p.m.

“There will be lots of time to ask questions and discuss the results with our research scientist Mike Hall, farm technician Clark Anderson, and summer research assistant Ashley Zelinski,” said Machnee.

You are invited to attend the field day at:

Crops of the Parklands Demonstration Site
Tourism Yorkton (near the junction of Hwy 9 & 16)
Yorkton, Saskatchewan
Tuesday, July 29 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About East Central Research Foundation:
ECRF is a non-profit organization established in 1996 at Canora. It undertakes applied research projects and demonstrates specialized crop protection technologies to local producers. Funding from government agencies allows ECRF to conduct trials on everything from seed treatments and crop residues to fertilizer application rates and weed and pest control. ECRF is one of eight producer-directed research and demonstration groups in Saskatchewan making up the Agriculture – Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) network.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is pleased to be participating in a familiar tourist attraction along Highway 9 in Yorkton. This year, the College is partnering with East Central Research Foundation and Tourism Yorkton on the greatly expanded Crops of the Parkland demonstration site.

The Crops of the Parkland display includes a series of plots illustrating the range of crops grown in Saskatchewan’s Parkland region. The site also demonstrates some modern agricultural practices.

“Visitors are able to walk around the site, look at the various crops growing, and contrast the effects of fertilizer, seed treatment, and herbicides on treated and untreated plots,” said Gwen Machnee, University and Applied Research Coordinator at Parkland College.

Signs providing basic information are posted at each set of plots. QR codes will be added soon, which will allow visitors to interact with the plots more in depth. Visitors will be able to scan the codes with their smartphones, linking them to websites for more detailed information. Guided tours with Parkland College’s summer student, Ashley Zelinski, can also be arranged.

Use of the land is provided by the City of Yorkton. Parkland College research scientist and instructor Mike Hall and agronomist Thom Weir sourced all of the seed, mostly by donation from local seed companies.

This project was funded by Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial initiative. For more on Growing Forward 2, visit agriculture.gov.sk.ca/GrowingForward2.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is happy to announce that the ninth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic raised an estimated $33,600 for the Parkland College scholarship fund. It is the most successful Dollars for Scholars in Parkland College history.

The golf tournament was held June 20 at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton. A few rain showers throughout the day did little to dampen the spirits of 138 golfers, who continue to call this event one of the most enjoyable in the region.

“As word gets around, people are eagerly throwing their support behind this event,” said tournament co-chair Brendan Wagner. “It is a true community effort and we couldn’t do it without the support of hundreds of individuals and businesses across Saskatchewan.”

This is the sixth straight year that a new record for the event has been set. Last year’s Dollars for Scholars raised just over $28,000.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the college’s largest scholarship fundraiser. Proceeds from the event have helped Parkland College award well over $100,000 in scholarships in each of the last three academic years.

“Our students are grateful to have access to these scholarships,” Wagner said. “And every time we set a new record like this, more students will benefit.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is made possible by generous contributions from hundreds of community supporters, volunteers, and sponsors. Banquet sponsor R H Electric, Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, Logan Stevens Construction, MHPM Project Leaders, SaskTel, and RBC Financial Group, and media partners GX94 and Fox FM played key roles in the success of the tournament.

Parkland College also thanks the 22 Gold Sponsors, 33 Silver sponsors, 157 Bronze sponsors, and three hole-in-one sponsors for their donations of cash and prizes. The event sold out in May; golfers supported the scholarship fund with their entry fees.

The 10th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively scheduled for June 19, 2015.

Results from the 2014 tournament are as follows:

Straightest Drive Men (Hole #4) – Danny Kozun
Straightest Drive Women (Hole #4) – Bailey Popowich

Closest to the Pin Men (Hole #8) – Jaret Stevenson
Closest to the Pin Women (Hole #8) – Karen Fransishyn

Longest Drive Men (Hole #13) – Jaret Stevenson
Longest Drive Women (Hole #13) – Shelley Whitehawk

Longest Putt Men (Hole #18) – Michael Cameron
Longest Putt Women (Hole #18) – Renai Hodgson

Winner of the Putting Contest – Brett Ruf
Winner of the Chipping Contest – Mick Parmar

Lowest Scoring Team – Alpine Drywall: Daren Johnson, Bobby Johnson, Kade Johnson, Brent Mireau

Fun Hole #9 – Scott Steele

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic Co-Chair
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Friday at St. Mary’s Cultural Centre in Yorkton to congratulate and celebrate 327 students who successfully completed one of more than 20 programs offered at the College in 2013-14.

Parkland College offers University degrees, Certificate and Diploma programs, and Adult Basic Education upgrading. Graduates from post-secondary programs receive accreditation from the University of Regina, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, SIAST, and Parkland College.

Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers congratulates Billy Siu of Yorkton on receiving his Adult 12 certificate.

This year, the graduates represent 63 communities. Yorkton led the way with 124 grads, followed by Kamsack with 40, Fort Qu’Appelle with 23, and Melville with 22. This year’s graduating class also includes students from Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba.

Cadmus Delorme, Student Recruitment Officer at First Nations University of Canada in Regina, served as guest speaker. He spoke to the graduates about the power of education and the value of strong leadership.

Cadmus Delorme, Student Recruitment Officer at First Nations University of Canada in Regina, served as guest speaker.

Deputy Premier Ken Krawetz was in attendance, and Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit brought greetings on behalf of the provincial government.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK – For the first time in its nine-year history, the Parkland College Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is sold out.

The annual scholarship fundraiser takes place at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton on June 20. The event has room for 36 teams and the final spot was claimed on Friday.

“This support is incredible,” said Dollars for Scholars co-chair Brendan Wagner. “We came close to filling all the spots last year, but I’m amazed how quickly people signed up this year.”

Although the Texas Scramble’s 144-player limit has been reached, a waiting list is being put together in case some teams have to cancel. Anyone interested can contact the College to be put on the waiting list.

Businesses can still sponsor the tournament with cash or prize donations. Individuals can support it by purchasing tickets to the post-event steak supper at $25 apiece. There will also be door prizes, a silent auction, contests, and 50/50 sales.

Golfing begins with a 1 p.m. shot gun start. The later start time was a new addition to last year’s tournament and was well-received, allowing more people to get away from work for the afternoon.

All proceeds from the non-competitive event go to the Parkland College scholarship fund. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, community groups, and individuals, the 2013 Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic raised over $28,000 for students enrolled in a variety of programs at the College’s five campuses. That money is matched by the provincial government’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program, effectively doubling contributions to the event.

Click here for more on the ninth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Parkland College
Dollars for Scholars Co-Chair
Phone: 306.728.6595
www.parklandcollege.sk.ca

Melville, SK — Students enrolled in the Primary Care Paramedic certificate program at Parkland College in Melville are just completing their final week of classes. The students will be on practicum assignments until the end of June.

2013-14 Parkland College Primary Care Paramedic class: Front row (L to R) Jaden Kuculym, Mikailla Thorlakson, Kelli Karchut, Brittany Schofer; Back row (L to R) Dylan Sikorski, Reid Kaczur, Tyler Barnaby, Matthew Martens, Marnie Weir.

Before they branched out into the field to get work experience, the students posed for a class photo next to a training ambulance they used during their program. The ambulance is a recent addition to the College, having been donated earlier this year by The Dow Chemical Company. Dow Canada manufactures basic chemicals and plastics used to make products in many sectors, including personal care, transportation, health care and home construction.

Training ambulance donated by The Dow Chemical Company.

The SIAST Primary Care Paramedic program delivered by Parkland College is a one-year certificate accredited by the Canadian Medical Association that prepares graduates to work in the field of pre-hospital emergency care. Students receive training in recognizing and managing medical and trauma injuries, physical assessment, pharmacology, and professionalism and leadership in Emergency Medical Services. Graduates typically find work in ambulance operations, fire services (in conjunction with fire training), industrial sites, mining sites, military departments, or special care facilities.

The next Paramedic program will be offered at Parkland College in Melville starting in September 2014.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Office: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College awarded $85,800 in internal scholarships to 71 students from across East Central Saskatchewan at its awards ceremony at the Painted Hand Casino in Yorkton today.

These scholarships are in addition to the $53,740 in entrance scholarships awarded in September. The grand total of $139,540 awarded in the 2013-14 academic year is a record for Parkland College. It has now awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships in three consecutive academic years.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, College staff, and participants in the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic and other special events. Eligible awards are matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program.

The Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program, introduced by the provincial government in 2011, provides matching funds to institutions for scholarships that are targeted in accordance with the institution’s strategic directions. Funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis with local non-government donors.

Contributors to this year’s internal scholarships include A+K Architects, Churchbridge Credit Union, City of Melville, City of Yorkton, Friends of Clay Serby, Collins Barrow PQ LLP, Cornerstone Credit Union, Drs. Ron and Bree Rogoza, Gateway Co-op, Good Spirit REDA, Logan Stevens Construction, Louis Dreyfus Commodities, Melville Lions Club, Morris Industries, Mosaic Potash Esterhazy, Dr. Fay Myers, R.G. Combe V.C. Royal Canadian Legion #61 (Melville), Richardson, Saskatchewan Abilities Council, Strad Energy Servies, TD Canada Trust, Town of Canora, Yorkton Chamber of Commerce, Yorkton Lions Club, Yorkton Rotary Club, and Yorkton This Week.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to stop by one of the five campuses in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Melville or Yorkton, or visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Scholarship Committee Chairman
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is pleased with the contents of the 2014-2015 Saskatchewan Budget, delivered Wednesday by Finance Minister Ken Krawetz. Continue reading →

With technology rapidly advancing, the telecommunications industry must grow to keep pace. As a result, skilled technicians will be in demand so that telecommunications companies can build faster and more sophisticated global communication networks.

That’s why about a dozen students are enrolled at Parkland College in Fort Qu’Appelle in a pilot program designed to train them for a career in the burgeoning telecommunications industry. The Telecommunications Technician Program is a 15-week course that provides basic practical training to help the students prepare for work in the sector.

“Electronics is in everything,” said instructor Eugene Fedorowich. “This program gives the students an understanding of what’s involved.

“We’re using a wide range of test equipment – digital volt meters, oscilloscopes, function generators, power supplies, analog meters – to give them a good grasp on the equipment they’ll use in the industry.”

The small class size gives students like Alex Kaye (front) and Travis Cyr plenty of opportunities to ask for clarification from instructor Eugene Fedorowich (back left) when needed.

The program will be followed by an eight-week work placement with the College’s project partners, SaskTel, Ledcor Group, and AFL Global. The goal is to lead the students to employment as they build off a comprehensive base of knowledge in electronics.

Fedorowich said the students may begin a career in several areas within the industry, such as network technicians, fibre optic installers, and high-speed equipment technicians. There are also niches in the automotive and farm equipment industries, both of which are becoming increasingly reliant on sophisticated electronics and computer systems.

Kyle Lerat (left) and Nathan Strongeagle check out a connection on a digital storage oscilloscope.

“There’s a huge need and demand for a comprehensive electronics course that can be adapted to the present day,” Fedorowich added. “I think Parkland College is uniquely positioned to provide this training.”

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers was in Ottawa Tuesday for the release of the federal budget, and will be there Wednesday to meet with Members of Parliament and officials. Her goal is to secure a federal contribution toward the College’s new Trades and Technology Centre.

“Employers in the Parkland Region suffer from an acute shortage of the human resources required to support rapid economic growth. The community has chosen Parkland College as a vehicle to supply the graduates with the skills employers require,” said Myers.

“We enjoy tremendous financial support from our community,” she added. “Individuals and companies in the area have already contributed almost $5 million in cash and the City of Yorkton has committed prime land valued at $3.5 million. Premier Brad Wall recently announced a provincial commitment of $10 million toward the Centre. We are looking to the Government of Canada to match the provincial contribution.”

The federal contribution would support facilities for the trades and professions associated with construction, and would allow the College to launch a Bachelor of Nursing Sciences program. Registered Nurses are in short supply across Saskatchewan.

“So far, we’ve had a positive reception across Ottawa,” Myers said. “The federal government’s focus on training and youth employment is aligned with what we offer. We are looking for an investment in College infrastructure so that we can train the graduates our employers need to grow our economy.”

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is joining dozens of other Canadian organizations and post-secondary institutions in celebrating International Development Week (IDW) from Feb. 2 to Feb. 8.

IDW aims to provide a national forum for the Government of Canada and its partners to communicate international development results and challenges. It also provides many opportunities for Canadians, especially youth, to be informed about, and involved in, international development.  The theme for 2014 is “We are Making a Difference”.

For its part, Parkland College is in the midst of a multi-year educational partnership with Alberta’s Lakeland College, Bow Valley College, and the University of Belize. The focus of the project is the development of an Associate Degree in Applied Agriculture to be delivered by the University of Belize Central Farm Campus.

The project works with university staff to improve instructional design techniques, employer-driven learning outcomes, as well as to integrate entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, and gender equity throughout the project. Parkland College is assuming the lead role on gender mainstreaming strategies, developing training and materials for career guidance, and social marketing strategies and implementation.

“This project is a great endeavour for the College,” said Kami DePape, Parkland College’s Director of Academics and Student Services. “It gives us an opportunity to gain international experience, share best practices, and support the development of another institution.”

DePape travelled to Belize in April 2013 to meet with leaders in the agriculture industry and the education sector and to launch the partnership. Two representatives from the University of Belize enjoyed a successful visit to Parkland College in November to learn about career counselling techniques, workshop facilitation, and retention strategies. The next component of this project takes place this month in the Eastern Caribbean island nation of Saint Lucia. Parkland College’s head counsellor Carol Bobowski will represent the College and its Canadian partners at a Career Guidance Workshop and Partnership Forum. This workshop will focus on best practices, developing and implementing new programs, and how to measure results and effectiveness.

“The goal is to share experiences and bring new ideas back to the College,” DePape said.

This project is made possible through funding from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and is managed through the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC). Similar opportunities will appear in the coming years as more than a dozen new projects are to be launched in 2014, primarily in the Caribbean and South America. Parkland College will have a chance to review the project opportunities to determine if any would be a good fit for the College and its partners.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Yorkton, SK — Mining and manufacturing companies in Saskatchewan will soon be able to hire more Power Engineering graduates thanks to a $950,000 investment in a new training laboratory at Parkland College, announced Friday by the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.

With the federal investment, Parkland College will purchase and install equipment to provide technical training in the Power Engineering Lab at the College’s Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton. Construction on the facility will begin early this spring and will be complete in time for classes beginning in September 2015.

“Congratulations to Parkland College on recognizing a need in the local labour market and working with industry and government to fill the gap,” said Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “WD’s investment in the Power Engineering lab will help prepare the skilled workers that Saskatchewan companies need to stay competitive in the global marketplace while creating jobs and economic prosperity here at home.”

The development of this facility is important as the primary resource sector has identified a critical shortage of Power Engineers as the current generation of workers retires or leaves the workforce. Power Engineers operate steam power plants or processes, which can include operating high and low-pressure boilers. Graduates typically work in mining, the oil and gas sector, manufacturing and processing, hospitals, and the pulp and paper sector.

With extremely limited Power Engineering lab space in Saskatchewan, students enrolled at Parkland College currently must travel to Saskatoon for four weeks to complete the lab training component. With a lab on-site in Yorkton, the College will be able to increase the available number of graduates from 24 to 48.

“This contribution is integral to the success of the Trades and Technology Centre,” said Dr. Fay Myers, President of Parkland College. “We are committed to supplying skilled employees to the businesses and industries in our region and our province, and this investment will help us do just that.”

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Contacts
Joanne Mysak
Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 306-975-5942

Michael Cameron
Director, Training and Business Development
Parkland College
Telephone: 306-786-2590

Yorkton, SK — Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart announced Wednesday the launch of the Agricultural Operator Program at Parkland College.

“Our Government recognizes the importance that labour plays in driving growth in our agriculture industry,” Ritz said. “Today’s investment will help those interested in a career in agriculture develop knowledge and skills needed to find gainful employment here in Saskatchewan.”

“Producers have indicated that they need more skilled labour for their operations and this program directly responds to their needs,” Stewart said. “Farmers can send current or potential employees through the program to develop or help fine tune their skills. Additionally, general labourers without a farm background will have an opportunity to gain the experience needed to get involved in the industry.”

The Agricultural Operator Program was a commitment made in the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth. It is a module-based program offering practical, hands-on training to individuals interested in working on Saskatchewan farms. Students and employers will have the flexibility to choose the entire program or specific modules relevant to their farms.

The first three modules will be seeding, spraying and scouting, and harvest to be delivered at Parkland College in Yorkton. Additional modules will be developed for the livestock industry including haying, beef cattle reproduction and calving, and cattle husbandry and handling. Following the pilot program, the provincial government will work to expand the program to other regional colleges across Saskatchewan.

The pilot program will start with a seeding module beginning on March 3, 2014. The module is comprised of 36 hours of hands-on workshops and nine hours of online delivery. It will cover essential farm knowledge for seeding processes and equipment maintenance.

“We are pleased to run the pilot year of this course at our Yorkton Campus,” Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers said. “The timing of the modules matches the critical times on the farm, so employees can take the Seeding Module during the time right before seeding. Then they can then put their education to use right away in the field.”

Classes for the seeding module run from March 3 to April 16, 2014 at Parkland College in Yorkton. For more information on how to apply for the program, go to www.Saskatchewan.ca/GrowingForward2.

The federal and provincial governments will invest $200,000 in funding for the development and delivery of the Agricultural Operator Program pilot through Growing Forward 2.

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For more information, contact:
Angela Hall
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359

The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) College of Nursing announced Monday that it has entered into a partnership with Parkland College to deliver its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Yorkton beginning September 2014.

The College of Nursing believes students should have the opportunity to “learn where they live”. Until now, students in the Yorkton area completed their pre-professional year (year 1) at Parkland College, but then had to relocate to Saskatoon, Regina or Prince Albert to complete years two through four in the College of Nursing. As a result of the new partnership, students are now able to complete their BSN degree at Parkland College in Yorkton and most clinical components in the Sunrise Health Region.

“The University of Saskatchewan continues to take steps to realize the goal of providing opportunities for students to ‘learn where you live’,” said Patti McDougall, U of S vice-provost, teaching and learning. “Exciting work with Parkland College now increases our capacity to offer a full Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree to students in the Yorkton region, thereby advancing on the underlying goal. As we build on our activities around the province, the College of Nursing remains a campus leader on the distributed learning front.”

“We are very excited to make this announcement today,” said Lois Berry, acting dean, College of Nursing. “The opportunity to offer our BSN program to students in another Saskatchewan community is wonderful. We want to give individuals province-wide the chance to take post-secondary nursing education and this completes another piece of that puzzle.”

“We are thrilled to form this partnership and provide the full four-year nursing degree as a new education option to students from across the Parkland region,” said Parkland College president Dr. Fay Myers. “This is great news for students who don’t want to move away to get their education. We are excited to help them excel and graduate with the skills and knowledge to make an impact in the community.”

This isn’t the first programming the College of Nursing is offering in Yorkton. In April 2012, the College entered into a partnership with the Sunrise Health Region to offer graduate level nursing education. Dr. Karen Semchuk was appointed into a dual position with the U of S and Sunrise Health Region and has been actively recruiting students in the region.

Without the support of Sunrise Health Region and its staff, many of whom will serve as clinical instructors and preceptors in the BSN program, the College of Nursing wouldn’t have been able to bring this program to Yorkton. Students who are given the opportunity to learn in their community will most likely stay in the community to work afterwards. As such, Sunrise is extremely pleased with the announcement today.

“The addition of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in our region will support recruitment and further enhances our vision as a learning organization,” said President and CEO of Sunrise Health Region, Suann Laurent. “This initiative also allows us to continue to grow in our collaboration with the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing and Parkland College.”

For more information on this partnership, visit http://www.usask.ca/nursing/ or check out Parkland College’s Nursing page.

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For more information, contact:
Kylie Dietrick
Communications Officer
U of S College of Nursing
(306) 281-8448

Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
(306) 728-6595

Sharon Tropin
Director of Communications
Sunrise Health Region
(306) 786-0144

Parkland College is bringing an interactive language class to Canora. The “Conversational Ukrainian” course will be delivered over two months, beginning Feb. 11.

Interactive classes will take place Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Parkland College campus in Canora (418 Main Street). Students will learn basic Ukrainian, including how to greet people, ask questions, and have simple conversations. Instructors will take input from the group each night and work on topics students are interested in.

“It’s a perfect course for people who like to travel or for those who have relatives or friends who speak Ukrainian,” said Connie Brown, Coordinator of Corporate Training & Community Development with Parkland College. “We hope to have a second course in reading and writing Ukrainian in the future.”

Weekly classes begin Feb. 11 and run through Apr. 15 (no class on Feb. 18). Tuition is $179 plus GST. The registration deadline is Jan. 29. To register or for more details, call 306.563.6808 or toll-free 1.866.783.6766.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Melville, SK – Parkland College is pleased to announce that Lydia Cyr has been appointed to the role of chairperson of the Board of Governors. The appointment is by Minister’s Order effective December 4, 2013. Cyr’s term will run until September 2016.

Cyr, a resident of Fort Qu’Appelle, has served on the College’s Board of Governors since 2010. She has valuable experience as a Chartered Insurance Professional, strong links to First Nations and Metis groups, and has completed all four modules of the Governor Development and Certification Program.

Lydia Cyr is the new chairperson of the Board of Governors

“Lydia will thrive in this role thanks to her great experience and strong leadership skills,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers. “She will continue to be a key voice in providing guidance for the College in the years ahead.”

Cyr serves on the board alongside Sally Bishop (Kamsack), David Cisyk (Esterhazy), Ernie Iluk (Melville), Raymond Sass (Yorkton), and Darrell Sobkow (Yorkton). The Board of Governors meets monthly to oversee the College’s operations and provide direction and guidance on institutional decisions. Board members advocate on behalf of the College and support efforts relating to regional economic growth.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College announced Monday that it has forged an official partnership with Keeseekoose First Nation near Kamsack through the signing of a memorandum of understanding. The agreement builds on the college’s commitment to partnering with First Nations in East Central Saskatchewan.

Parkland College strives to improve skills training and labour market participation of First Nations members in the region. This affiliation with Keeseekoose First Nation will involve tailored Essential Skills programs, Adult Basic Education, and specific skills training designed to link members of the First Nation with industry and jobs.

“The purpose of this agreement is to formalize and strengthen the programs and courses we offer to our partners,” said Michael Cameron, director of Training and Business Development at Parkland College. “This agreement will help us improve the way of life of more people across the region.”

Parkland College Business & Training Representative Ed Hourd looks on as Keeseekoose First Nation Chief Leonard Keshane and Parkland College Director of Training & Business Development Michael Cameron (right) sign the MOU.

The MOU will be in effect for five years. The agreement lays out terms and directives by which both parties will work to secure training allowances for students learning on reserve. Officials from Keeseekoose First Nation and Parkland College will meet at least twice a year to assess the progress made during the collaboration.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Regina, SK – Parkland College is pleased to announce the successful completion of a groundbreaking agriculture research project it conducted this summer in association with Dutch Openers agricultural products and Airguard Inc.  College representatives met with company executives Friday in Regina to present the project’s final report.

Using a grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, an arm of the federal government, Parkland College conducted numerous trials with East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) at their research farm half a mile south of Yorkton.  One of the projects tested the impact of the Airguard Seed Brake on several Dutch Openers.  Favourable results were observed when the Airguard seed brakes were used in conjunction with the 1 3/4″ – 3/4″ Nose Side Band – Dutch Universal Opener.  With this combination of products there was an improvement in seed placement which resulted in improved emergence and greater yield.

“This type of research that Parkland College is performing is essential to the improvement of technology in Agriculture,” said Brian Cruson of Airguard Inc.  “Although it is too early to draw any decisive conclusions from the study, it is helpful to see how air flow does affect seed placement, emergence and, ultimately, yield.”

“We are proud of the research conducted by Mike Hall, our lead scientist on the project, and we’re confident Dutch Openers and Airguard will find our results very useful,” said Gwen Machnee, Parkland College’s University and Applied Research Coordinator.

It was a successful first summer of operation for the research farm near Yorkton.  Researchers also tested new canola varieties from Monsanto, conducted trials on North Star Genetics varieties of shorter-maturity soybeans, and ran demonstrations on grass and legume forages with Saskatchewan Agriculture.

“Our partnership with Parkland College is strong,” ECRF chairman Glenn Blakley said.  “We’re happy to produce these results, which can be used to provide innovative products, ideas, and techniques to local farmers.”

Three Parkland College students participated in the summer project.  The research farm is used for teaching purposes and allows students to gain experience in the agribusiness and bioresources industry.

Parkland College and ECRF plan to continue agriculture research trial programs in the Yorkton area for the long term.  The information developed and gathered on site will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan.  Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community.  Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About Dutch Openers:
Dutch Openers was birthed from Dutch Industries, which started in 1952 with an established history dating back to a blacksmith shop in Holland.  Though technology has changed since then, Dutch Openers continues to provide excellence in manufacturing agricultural openers and tips.  Today, built on over 60 years of service and experience, Dutch Openers continues to serve a growing list of agricultural customers throughout the world.  With technologically advanced equipment, a 55,000 square foot facility and iron working skills passed down from generations, Dutch Openers will continue to provide durable, accurate openers and tips for small grain farmers for generations to come.

About Airguard Inc.:
Airguard Inc. is passionate about helping farmers achieve more profit through precision seeding technology.  Airguard helps agriculture experts control airflow for optimum seed and fertilizer placement with solutions that are easily installed onto any air drill.  The end result is improved seed germination, crop consistency and harvest.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
www.parklandcollege.sk.ca

During the week of November 18-22, 2013, Parkland College joins educational institutions from across Canada and over 100 other countries in celebrating International Education Week (IEW). This year’s theme is “Celebrating Canada’s Engagement with the World.”

IEW is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of international education and its significant benefits to our social, economic, and cultural well-being. It underscores the value that Canadians place on connecting with the world through studying abroad, internationalized curricula, international service, and on opening the world to Canada by welcoming international elementary, secondary, and post-secondary students, promoting international exchanges, and encouraging qualified foreign students to make Canada their new home.

Parkland College continues to work on expanding the scope of its program for international students. The initiative began in the 2009-10 academic year with a lone student from Chile and it has grown steadily since then. In 2012-13, the college hosted a record 72 students. Currently, the college has 20 international students on campus, with another 30 to 45 expected to arrive in the new year. Current students in the program are from India, the United States, and Fiji. In January, students from Jamaica, Belize, and Bosnia will join them. International students must meet the same program standards as any other student, along with an English requirement.

“We are dedicated to giving our international students the best educational experience possible,” said Lisa Cadieux de Larios, International Coordinator at Parkland College. “But these young people are also studying here to learn about our local customs and what it means to be Canadian. Their experience is really well-rounded through their interaction with other students, instructors, and the entire community.”

Parkland College will participate in IEW with several events, including a “Diversity on Campus” photo contest. The contest is open to all staff and students who may submit photos highlighting the diverse backgrounds of people at Parkland College this week.

This year’s celebrations take on new importance in light of the college’s educational partnership with the University of Belize, Lakeland College, and Bow Valley College. The three-year project, which officially launched in April, seeks to solidify competency-based education training in Belize with a focus on sharing the colleges’ expertise on agriculture, entrepreneurship, and forming links with industry. Parkland College has a long history of working with local communities to support economic growth through education. The college will share its best practices to support the University of Belize’s growth and development.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Good Spirit School Division, Parkland College, and Christ The Teacher Catholic Schools were proud to co-host Career Explorations 2013. The fourth annual education and career fair encompassing East Central Saskatchewan was held at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Nov. 13.

Career Explorations 2013 is one of the most vibrant education and job fairs in the province. About 80 exhibitors from Saskatchewan, Western Canada, and North Dakota attended this event. More than 2,000 high school students from Yorkton and the surrounding area visited their booths throughout the day.

Students learn about the offerings at the Centre for Arts and Technology from Kelowna, BC.

“It’s a big benefit for both the students and exhibitors,” said William Litchfield, Director of Advancement at Parkland College. “This event gives students an idea of the many options they have when they graduate, while our exhibitors are able to speak with hundreds of potential recruits.”

Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College signed a Learning Alliance in October 2008 which led to the creation of Career Explorations. The Division and the College work together to complement and enhance the services they provide.

“It’s extremely important that students know what’s available to them,” explained Dwayne Reeve, Director of Education with Good Spirit School Division. “It’s often tough to decide what you want to do with your future. We get a lot of positive feedback that Career Explorations helps make that choice.”

Career Explorations offers immediate access to dozens of educational institutions and numerous businesses from across Western Canada, including companies from the mining, agriculture, construction, and government sectors.

“Universities, colleges, and tech schools are here, but lots of companies are hiring right now and they can be a good fit for many young people,” Litchfield noted.

Close to two dozen exhibitors also made presentations to visitors over the course of the day. In total, there were 35 information sessions, each lasting 30 minutes. The presentations took place in convention rooms throughout the Gallagher Centre.

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Contact information:
Brendan Wagner, Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Lynel Martinuk, Communications Coordinator
Good Spirit School Division
Phone: 306.786.5501

Parkland College is pleased to announce the appointment of four new members to its Board of Governors.  David Cisyk, Ernie Iluk, Raymond Sass, and Darrell Sobkow have joined the board, effective Sept. 16, 2013.  Sally Bishop and D. Lydia Cyr retain the positions they’ve held since 2009 and 2010, respectively.

“Our new representatives bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the board,” said Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers.  “We look forward to benefitting from their unique perspectives as the College advances.”

David Cisyk

David Cisyk is from Esterhazy, where he works as a geologist and manager of mine engineering for Mosaic Potash.  He’s impressed by what he’s seen as he joins the Parkland College Board of Governors.

“In the industry that I’ve worked in, we require a lot of educated people or people with training,” Cisyk said.  “This is a good opportunity for me to contribute.”

Ernie Iluk

Ernie Iluk is a resident of Melville and is active in various organizations within the community.  He has been involved with the Melville Millionaires Junior Hockey Club for over 30 years.  As a board member he hopes to tap into knowledge from his lengthy career in the financial sector.

“It’s a real experience,” Iluk said.  “When we had the initial meeting, the material that was submitted to me, I was really amazed at how thorough everything is and how much is involved in the whole program.”

Ray Sass

Raymond Sass, a Yorkton resident, returns to the board on which he served between 2008 and 2010.  He has worked as a trustee and chairperson of the Good Spirit Board of Education over the last 10 years, and is an active board member with the Anglican Church of Canada and the Saskatchewan Civil Air Search and Rescue Association.

“I was excited to be approached,” Sass said.  “I know the College is doing some great things, especially around the Trades and Technology Centre, and I’m excited to be able to contribute.”

Darrell Sobkow

Darrell Sobkow also hails from Yorkton.  He has spent nearly three decades in the agriculture industry and currently works for Richardson International.

“I’m honoured to serve on the board as Parkland College grows and becomes more important with all the communities that we live in,” Sobkow said.  “Certainly in my field, it’s been a great asset for us to have access to the College, so I’m more than willing to help contribute to its success and growth.”

The Parkland College Board of Governors meets monthly to oversee the College’s operations and provide direction and guidance on institutional decisions.  Board members advocate on behalf of the College and support efforts relating to regional economic growth.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College teamed up with Parkland Regional Library on Thursday to co-host an Essential Skills Day celebration in Yorkton. The event at the Yorkton Co-op Food Store was staged as an opportunity to share the importance of Essential Skills with employers and the public.

Essential Skills Day began in 2010 as an effort to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of nine Essential Skills as defined by the Government of Canada. These are reading, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, working with others, thinking, computer use, and continuous learning.

“We all need a good set of Essential Skills to succeed in work and everyday life. We’re using them pretty much all the time,” said Gail Gorchynski, Essential Skills Consultant at Parkland College.

“Essential Skills serve as the foundation for learning all other skills, whether work related or a hobby. We know that when Essential Skills development is emphasized, everyone benefits.”

Canadian employers have reported that improved literacy skills result in increased retention, productivity, ability to work independently, and increased usage of new technology. Improved skills also reduce absenteeism, health and safety incidents, and error rates. Meanwhile, employees who participate in Literacy and Essential Skills programs increase their level of self-confidence, acquire new skills, are better prepared to seek promotion opportunities, and believe that they are valued by their workplaces.

Yorkton Co-op is one example of a local employer that has taken advantage of Parkland College’s customized Essential Skills training. The partnership set out to respond to Co-op’s specific needs for its employees. Staff members were trained in projects that focused on development and retention.

“The Essential Skills are used in everyday life in the community and in family literacy,” said Parkland Regional Library Literacy Coordinator Linda Jones, adding that Essential Skills information will be integrated with family literacy programming that takes place at libraries in the region. The library is also looking at providing training opportunities for computer use and other essential skills for youth and adults.

“I have always liked the ABC Life Literacy saying, ‘Learning happens in everything we do’,” Jones continued. “That applies to Essential Skills – we aim to help families be aware of and use their everyday opportunities.”

For more on Essential Skills Day, please visit ABC Life Literacy at essentialskillsday.ca.

Information about Parkland College’s Essential Skills training programs can be found on the college’s website at parklandcollege.sk.ca/programs/adultbasiced/wes.html.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College awarded $53,740 in entrance scholarships to 27 students from across east-central Saskatchewan at its awards ceremony at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on September 25.

All the students being recognized have chosen to gain either university or technical skills at one of Parkland College’s five campuses.

The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, Parkland College staff, the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program.

The Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship program is a matching program in which funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis with local non-government donors.  For every dollar raised locally, the province will match that dollar to support scholarships for high academic achievers.

This fall marks the first time that the Yorkton Tribal Council (YTC)/Parkland College Studentship Award is being presented to a deserving applicant from one of the six member First Nations of YTC. In July, YTC announced it will generously provide a $150,000 scholarship donation to Parkland College for individuals in post-secondary programming. The gift will be allocated each year through 2017. Parkland College will award up to $40,000 in 2014, and $80,000 in each of the final three years of the agreement (contingent on the availability of the province’s matching grant). Scholarships are awarded in increments ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on the students’ program tuition and materials, transportation costs, and living expenses.

Contributors to this fall’s entrance scholarships also include R H Electric, Farrell Agencies, RBC Royal Bank, SaskTel, CUPE 4980, SIAST, Painted Hand Casino, Victory Safety & Training, Kardynal Transport, Tourism Saskatchewan, Richardson Oilseed, Logan Stevens Construction, Grain Millers, Gardon Securities, Myers & Associates, A + K Architects, Corey Fransishyn, Dr. Ken Cottenie and Dr. Cody Bowtell, Royal Drug Mart, GX 94/Fox FM, Leon Ram Companies, Loucks Pharmacy, Mosaic Potash Esterhazy, the Canadian Federation of University Women – Yorkton, and Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic participants and sponsors.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to stop by one of the five campuses in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Melville or Yorkton, or visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca to view scholarship opportunities. Internal scholarships for students enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2014. Applications for those awards will be available to students in December and January.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to local students pursuing post-secondary education. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 16th year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to students enrolled in full-time or part-time courses.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – On Thursday, September 26, Parkland College and Parkland Regional Library will host a barbecue and information event to mark Essential Skills Day. The general public and employers are welcome to attend this free event at:

Yorkton Co-op Food Store
30 Argyle Street, Yorkton, Saskatchewan
Thursday, September 26 at 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

The event will include grilled hot dogs, background on Essential Skills, and fun games. Parkland College and Parkland Regional Library representatives will be on hand to answer questions and provide information.

Essential Skills Day raises awareness and celebrates the importance of the nine Essential Skills as defined by the Government of Canada. These skills are reading, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, working with others, thinking, computer use, and continuous learning.

Essential Skills are needed for nearly every job and daily life, and are the foundation for learning all other skills. Improving the Essential Skills of workers has tremendous impact for both the employee and employer, including higher retention rates, improved safety, and increased productivity.

Parkland College and Parkland Regional Library are pleased to co-host this Essential Skills Day event as an opportunity to inform employees and executives about the importance of the Essential Skills.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Parkland College has rescheduled the start date of its Mature Workers program in Kamsack to Sept. 16, a week later than originally planned. It will now run daily this fall until Dec. 6 at the college’s Kamsack location (Crowstand Centre, 241 2nd Street).

The three-month program is an effort to generate increased workforce participation from people aged 55 and up who are retired or unemployed. It is part of the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) program – a project sponsored by the Ministry of the Economy and cost-shared with the federal government. TIOW projects help older workers get the skills they need to participate in the job market and aims to help employers meet their staffing requirements by hiring those workers.

“Dozens of jobs open up every week in the Parkland region,” said Kim Kyle-Zwirsky, Workplace Essential Skills regional facilitator. “These businesses need quality workers. Regardless of their background or work experience, older workers can meet those needs with the right training and upgrading.”

To participate in the TIOW program, the Ministry of the Economy mandates that older workers must be:

• 55-64 years of age (50-54 and 64+ years of age may also be accepted);
• retired or unemployed;
• legally entitled to work in Canada; and
• lacking skills needed for successful integration into new employment.

Each TIOW project has its own activities. These may include vocational and/or learning assessments, peer mentoring, basic skills upgrading, skills training, work experience, preparation for self-employment, direct marketing to employers, resume and interview skills, and counselling.

“People get back in the workforce at the usual retirement age for several reasons,” Kyle-Zwirsky added. “That could include needing extra money or just wanting to stay active in society and make a difference.”

For more information on the program, call 306.786.7335 or email k.kyle-zwirsky@parklandcollege.sk.ca.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Kim Kyle-Zwirsky
Regional Facilitator, Workplace Essential Skills
Parkland College
Phone: 306.786.7335
Email: k.kyle-zwirsky@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Parkland College is giving learners throughout the region more options than ever to reach their education goals with an expansion of its Adult Basic Education programs and services.

The college’s offerings are growing with online General Education Development (GED) preparation classes launching Aug. 20. The course prepares students to write the GED exam, a credential accepted by some employers and institutions as evidence of a basic level of education.

For many years, the college has provided conventional Adult 10, Adult 12, and GED courses. The programs are designed for people who want to enhance their life skills and self-sufficiency. The knowledge, skills, and attitudes gained in secondary education are important for those who wish to enter or re-enter the labour force, who need retraining, or who wish to advance in a chosen career.

These days, students are also finding success independently through convenient classes delivered over the internet. Grade 12 online courses allow students to set their own learning schedules and test dates, all from home. Instructors focus their attention on each student individually to help them succeed.

Parkland College grad Nichole Oberkirsch

Nichole Oberkirsch recently completed the credits required to be awarded Adult 12 standing through Parkland College’s Grade 12 online program. She was guided by staff at the Fort Qu’Appelle campus.

“Everyone at Fort Qu’Appelle was so friendly and helpful,” Oberkirsch said. “The Grade 12 program was a real blessing in allowing me to reach my goals.”

If online learning is not for you, consider Parkland College’s face-to-face instruction options in Fort Qu’Appelle, Kamsack, Melville, and Yorkton. Click here to find out more about the college’s various programs.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Melville, SK – Parkland College is pleased to welcome Mustansar Nadeem to the role of Director of Finance & Administration.

Mustansar Nadeem is Parkland College's new Director of Finance & Administration.

Nadeem is a Certified General Accountant and possesses an MBA from Laurentian University in Sudbury, ON. He comes to the college from Yellowknife, NT, where he spent over five years as a finance manager in the electric utility industry.

In his new role, Nadeem will lead the accounting, finance, registration, information technology, and facility management functions for the college. He will be responsible for the planning and development of the college’s fiscal direction.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity and I’m excited to become a part of an educational institution,” Nadeem said. “I’m confident my skills will transfer into this job, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

He is based at the Administration offices of the Parkland College Melville campus.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Workers are hard to come by for many employers in Saskatchewan’s strong economic climate. A labour market analysis by Sask Trends Monitor suggests increased workforce participation from people aged 55 and up may offer some relief to that stress. Parkland College is doing its part by participating in the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) program – a project sponsored by the Ministry of the Economy and cost-shared with the federal government.

The TIOW program offers assistance to people over 55 who are retired or unemployed. The projects help older workers get the skills they need to participate in the job market and aims to help employers meet their staffing requirements by hiring those workers.

This fall in Kamsack, Parkland College is offering the Mature Workers program. The three-month program begins Sept. 9. Information sessions are scheduled at the college’s Kamsack location (Crowstand Centre, 241 2nd Street) on Aug. 14 and 15, 10 a.m. both days. Assessment interviews will follow in the afternoon.

“Mature workers are a valuable natural resource, and we know there are many open jobs on the market,” said Gail Gorchynski, Essential Skills consultant with Parkland College. “With the right training and upgrading, older workers can play a pivotal role in meeting employers’ needs.”

To participate in the program, the Ministry of the Economy mandates that older workers must be:

• 55-64 years of age (50-54 and 64+ years of age may also be accepted);
• retired or unemployed;
• legally entitled to work in Canada; and
• lacking skills needed for successful integration into new employment.

Each TIOW project has its own activities. These may include vocational and/or learning assessments, peer mentoring, basic skills upgrading, skills training, work experience, preparation for self-employment, direct marketing to employers, resume and interview skills, and counselling.

The Canadian population is rapidly getting older because of longer life expectancy, low birth rates, and the aging of the “baby boomers,” the bulk of whom are now in their early-to-mid 50s. The average age of retirement in Canada, at 62 years of age, is climbing as people stay in their jobs longer or retire and start a different job.

Over the last decade in Saskatchewan, employment among older workers has grown at about four times the province’s total employment rate. Older workers accounted for one in five people working in 2011.

“There are many reasons why people re-enter the workforce at the usual retirement age, whether they need extra money or just want to stay connected to society and feel like they’re making a difference,” Gorchynski added. “We encourage anyone meeting the Ministry’s criteria to join us at the information sessions on August 14 and 15.”

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed farmers and agriculture industry representatives Wednesday for an inaugural field day. The event was organized to highlight the partnership between the college and ECRF at their research farm half a mile south of Yorkton.

“In March we signed a memorandum of understanding that lets us pursue agricultural applied research projects together,” said Gwen Machnee, Parkland College’s University and Applied Research Coordinator. “We are pooling resources and combining our strengths: the college can access certain funds that ECRF cannot, while ECRF has the equipment we require to run these research projects.”

Numerous trials are underway this summer. Researchers are testing new canola varieties from Monsanto, conducting trials on North Star Genetics varieties of shorter-maturity soybeans, and running demonstrations on grasses and legumes with Saskatchewan Agriculture. Dutch Openers AirGuard seed brakes are also being tested for improved seed and fertilizer placement.

“It’s very rewarding to host our first field day in this partnership with Parkland College,” said ECRF chairman Glenn Blakley. “We’re looking forward to being able to provide information on innovative products, ideas, and techniques to local farmers.”

The research farm is also helpful for students at Parkland College. The land is used for teaching purposes and allows students to gain experience in the agribusiness and bioresources industry.

Parkland College and ECRF plan to continue agriculture research trial programs in the Yorkton area for the long term. The information developed and gathered on site will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers.

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About East Central Research Foundation:
ECRF is a non-profit organization established in 1996 at Canora. It undertakes applied research projects and demonstrates specialized crop protection technologies to local producers. Funding from government agencies allows ECRF to conduct trials on everything from seed treatments and crop residues to fertilizer application rates and weed and pest control. ECRF is one of eight producer-directed research and demonstration groups in Saskatchewan making up the Agriculture – Applied Research Management (Agri-ARM) network.

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For more information contact:
Gwen Machnee
Coordinator, University and Applied Research
Parkland College
Phone: 306.786.2593
Email: g.machnee@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – Parkland College is proud to announce a unique partnership with Yorkton Tribal Council. A studentship agreement signed Friday will provide local First Nations youth with access to up to $300,000 in scholarships over the next five years.

Yorkton Tribal Council (YTC) is generously providing a $150,000 scholarship donation to Parkland College for individuals in post-secondary programming. The gift will be managed by the college and allocated each year through 2017. The funds will be matched by the provincial government’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program, as available, effectively doubling the donation by YTC.

“With partnerships working together to support and recognize the achievements of our students, we help shape them into positive successful individuals,” said YTC Education Commission Chief Leonard Keshane.

Yorkton Tribal Council Tribal Chief Gilbert Panipekeesick (left) and Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers sign the Memorandum of Understanding and Studentship Agreement.

“This substantial gift will open doors for many young First Nations people,” noted Parkland College President Dr. Fay Myers. “We are excited to work with Yorkton Tribal Council and offer these scholarships to provide new opportunities and remove barriers to further education.”

These awards will be presented only to applicants from the Yorkton Tribal Council’s six member First Nations (Cote First Nation, Key First Nation, Keeseekoose First Nation, Ocean Man First Nation, Sakimay First Nation, and Kahkewistahaw First Nation).

A review committee made up of representatives from Parkland College and Yorkton Tribal Council will conduct thorough assessments of applicants and jointly select the award recipients. Selection criteria will be based on entrance grades and classroom attendance, as well as aptitude, ambition, career aspirations, subject matter interests, and personal supports.

Parkland College will award $20,000 in YTC scholarships in 2013, followed by $40,000 in 2014, and $80,000 in each of the final three years of the agreement (contingent on the availability of the province’s matching grant). The distribution of the funds is designed to maximize YTC’s agreement and coincide with the opening of the Parkland College Trades and Technology Centre, scheduled for the fall of 2015.

Scholarships will be awarded in increments ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on the students’ program tuition and materials, transportation costs, and living expenses.

“The world is quickly transforming into a knowledge-based society,” Dr. Myers added. “There is a growing need for all people to be well-educated and highly skilled. I welcome students from our local First Nations to take advantage of this terrific opportunity.”

About Parkland College:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

About Yorkton Tribal Council:
The Yorkton Tribal Council provides high quality service to the Member First Nations with the Spirit and Intent of Treaty in Mind. Our purpose is to create opportunities to enhance individual and community capacity to ensure First Nation Membership are provided with equal opportunities and become contributing members of our First Nations.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Sabrina Sparvier
Active Measures Coordinator, Education
Yorkton Tribal Council
Phone: 306.782.3644 ext.231
Email: sabrina.s@yorktontribalcouncil.com

Thanks to the support of hundreds of individuals and businesses across Saskatchewan, the eighth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic stands as the most successful in Parkland College’s history.

The golf tournament, held June 21 at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton, raised an estimated $28,500 for the Parkland College scholarship fund. It’s a new record for the event, surpassing last year’s total of $25,840.

“Every year, Dollars for Scholars gets bigger and better, and we are delighted to have so much support from so many people,” said tournament co-chair Brendan Wagner.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the college’s largest scholarship fundraiser. Proceeds from the event have helped Parkland College award over $100,000 in scholarships in each of the last two academic years.

“The scholarships are big difference makers for many of our students. When we set new records like this, it means more students will have the opportunity to study close to home,” Wagner said.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic would not be possible without generous contributions from hundreds of community supporters, volunteers, and sponsors. Banquet sponsor R H Electric Ltd., Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, SaskTel, and RBC Financial Group, and media partners GX94 and Fox FM played key roles in the success of the tournament.

Parkland College also thanks the 19 Gold Sponsors, 27 Silver sponsors, 130 Bronze sponsors, and three hole-in-one sponsors for their donations of cash and prizes. The event was almost sold out; 128 golfers participated in this year’s tournament, supporting the scholarship fund with their entry fees.

The ninth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively scheduled for June 20, 2014, at Deer Park Golf Course.

Results from the 2013 tournament are as follows:

Straightest Drive Men (Hole #4) – Angus Vincent
Straightest Drive Women (Hole #4) – Brenda Pries
Closest to the Pin Men (Hole #8) – Keith Seidler
Closest to the Pin Women (Hole #8) – Karen Fransishyn
Longest Drive Men (Hole #13) – Mike Parobec
Longest Drive Women (Hole #13) – Bev Bielinski
Longest Putt (Hole #18) – Brett Franklin
Winner of the Putting Contest – Tom Seeley
Winner of the Chipping Contest – Bill Sinclair
Lowest Scoring Team – RBC Commercial Banking: Fred Schrader, Lorrie Ulmer, Murray Yung, Brett Franklin
Fun Hole #9 – Randy Hrywkiw

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic Co-Chair
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email:b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Melville, SK – All year long, Parkland College is celebrating 40 years of providing training and education options to the people of the Parkland region. A highlight of these celebrations will be a special anniversary event in Melville on June 20.

“I’m inviting everyone to join us for coffee, tea, and cake as we celebrate the college’s 40th anniversary,” said Dr. Fay Myers, President of Parkland College. “We’re proud of this region, and this is one way for us to say thank you and share the festivities with the community.”

The event is Thursday, June 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Chocolate Bean Café on the corner of Third Avenue West and Main Street in downtown Melville. The first 40 people through the door will receive a limited edition Parkland College 40th Anniversary mug.

Parkland College was the first regional college in Saskatchewan to open for business on June 20, 1973. The original board of directors chose Melville as the site of the head office. Under the name Parkland Community College, locations were soon established in Yorkton and several towns in East Central Saskatchewan.

In 1988, the name changed to Parkland Regional College, bringing a new mandate and extended boundaries, allowing the college to deliver more skills and university training. Two decades later, the college shortened its name to Parkland College and introduced a new logo and colours.

Today, the college offers a wide continuum of training opportunities including Master’s and undergraduate degrees, technical diplomas and certificates, industry certified training, adult basic education, literacy programs, and English as an Additional Language. Parkland College is also expanding to engage in international development projects, applied research opportunities, and online distance delivery.

“It’s quite a milestone seeing how much things have changed over these 40 years,” Dr. Myers noted. “The future holds a lot of promise. We’re always looking forward, and we’re committed to finding the best ways to meet the education needs of the region for many years to come.”

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Dr. Fay Myers
President
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6588
Email: f.myers@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Brendan Wagner
Communications Officer
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Yorkton, SK – A fixture of the summer golf season in East Central Saskatchewan is back for another year. Parkland College is pleased to announce the eighth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic will be held Friday, June 21 with a 1 p.m. shot gun start at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton.

The event raises money for the Parkland College scholarship fund through golfer entry fees, business sponsorships, a silent auction, and games and contests. Thanks to the generous support of local businesses, community groups, and individuals, last year’s event raised a record $25,600 for local students enrolled in a wide variety of programs at the college’s five campuses.

“Each year we’ve raised more money than the last,” said Dollars for Scholars co-chair Brendan Wagner. “It’s awesome to see the continued support from everyone in our region. Our golfers really enjoy the day, and knowing that the proceeds go to such a worthy cause is a big bonus.”

The 1 p.m. shot gun start is new for this year’s event. Past events had started at 11 a.m., but Wagner said the later start time will allow more people to get away from work for an afternoon of golf. Team registrations are filling up quickly as a result, he noted, but a few spots remain.

Entry is $100 per person or $400 for a team of four golfers. The fees include 18 holes of golf, power cart rental, barbecue steak supper, and prizes. Registration forms can be downloaded from the Dollars for Scholars event page. Businesses can sponsor the event with either cash or prize donations.

For more on the eighth annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, call Parkland College at 1.866.783.6766, email dollarsforscholars@parklandcollege.sk.ca, or visit a campus in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, or Esterhazy.

About Us:
Since its inception in 1973, Parkland College has worked to expand the philosophy of life-long learning in East Central Saskatchewan. Among the seven basic principles upon which the community college system was founded is the idea that programs are to be developed in response to the needs of the community. Today, Parkland College offers a broad spectrum of educational services from trades training and high school upgrading to the province’s most diverse off-campus university offerings.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Dollars for Scholars Co-Chair
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595
Email: b.wagner@parklandcollege.sk.ca