Aaron Adair has been an educator for 23 years in K-12 and adult education. Currently, with the Saskatoon Industry Education Council (SIEC), he collaborates with his colleagues and community partners on career exploration and financial literacy programs for youth such as SaskMoney, employABILITY, Digitized, and various Spotlight on Careers events. Aaron also co-developed the Enough Already online training courses, Creating Harassment-Free Workplaces, and he recently led the creation of a youth-focused, blended learning entrepreneurship project—SaskMoney Start.
Prior to joining the SIEC, Aaron taught for 16 years with Saskatoon Public Schools where he developed a passion for maximising student engagement and facilitating practical professional learning. In the 2024-2025 school year, he has supported over 200 teachers around the province with the implementation of the new Financial Literacy 10 curriculum. Aaron has earned two graduate studies credentials: Master of Curriculum Studies (University of Saskatchewan) and Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design (Royal Roads University).
Namarta Kochar is a distinguished leader within the community, recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to volunteerism, community building and advocacy for diversity, equity and inclusion. She actively engages in a multitude of events and initiatives aimed at fostering a cohesive and inclusive society.
Namarta serves as public representative on the Drug Advisory Committee of Saskatchewan for the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health and as a member of the TCU Place Board of Directors. Previously, she served as Chair of the City of Saskatoon’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee, and has been invited to speak on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion panels for local organizations.
Namarta’s community building efforts focus on empowerment, and her leadership has always been driven by a strong sense of respect for others. She has helped strengthen various spheres throughout Saskatchewan, providing valuable volunteer service for an array of organizations, including the Saskatoon Salvation Army, YWCA Saskatoon, Dress for Success Saskatoon, among many others.
She is widely respected for her dedication to community service and has been highly regarded, and sought after, as a master of ceremonies for numerous community and cultural events, including the Saskatoon Police Service Annual Diversity Breakfast, The Saskatchewan International Film Festival, The People Bridge Advocacy Champions for Change Gala, and the City of Saskatoon’s Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month Proclamation and Flag Raising ceremony, and many more.
Namarta has been honoured with the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal, the YMCA Peace Medal, the Leadership Saskatoon Community Leadership Award, and many others. Her leadership has been recognized by multiple organizations, earning her esteemed titles such as being named among Saskatchewan’s Women of Influence by SaskBusiness Magazine and a University of Saskatchewan Arts & Science Alumni of Influence
Dr. Norman Amundson is a professor emeritus from the University of British Columbia and currently is a consultant with Doubleknot.works. . He has a PhD from the University of Alberta and also holds an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Umea, Sweden. He has worked in the career development field for over 40 years. During this time he has published many books and articles, including a 2018 Anniversary Edition of his nationally award-winning book “Active Engagement”. Most recently he has co-authored the books, “Career Flow & Development: Hope in Action”, “Career Recovery: Creating Hopeful Careers in Difficult Times” and the career workbook “Career Wayfinder: Discovering your career through delightfully practical projects”. Many of his books and workbooks have been translated into other languages (Japanese, Korean, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, French, Latvian, Estonian, Romanian, Icelandic, Arabic, Hungarian, Polish, Greek, Dutch).
In his work, he emphasizes the importance of creativity, imagination, storytelling, dynamic action, metaphors, and hope. Dr. Amundson has presented his work at many national and international conferences (in more than 30 countries) and has been recognized by many national and international professional associations for his leadership and contributions in the career development field. His training workshops and presentations are practical, engaging, and interactive.
Roxanne Brass is the Team Lead for SaskJobs at the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training and has over 20 years of experience in various roles within the Government of Saskatchewan. Roxanne is a proven leader dedicated to excellence. Her collaborative nature allows her to work well with diverse teams.
Roxanne holds a diploma in Forestry: Recreation, Fish and Wildlife Technology from Selkirk College in British Columbia, where she focused on resource management, measurement, technical writing, and fieldwork.
Roxanne has a deep connection to SaskJobs.ca, having spent over a decade helping clients use the job board and supporting employers and job seekers with recruitment, skills training, and retention strategies. In 2017, she participated in a citizen-centered focus group for the National Job Bank/SaskJobs.ca partnership, and in 2019 she became the Team Lead.
Outside of work, Roxanne enjoys life on her acreage with her husband and their fur babies, Leo, Taco, and Lyla.
Donna is the President of the Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada (AMC), the only Canadian association exclusively dedicated to fostering and promoting the growth of agricultural manufacturers and their suppliers in both domestic and global markets. She represents more than 300 SME member companies ranging from start-ups to revenues in excess of $1 billion annually. AMC and its members have a 55-year legacy of leadership, vision, innovation and growing economic output – employing more than 25,000 Canadians and exporting $4.2B to 153 countries in 2023 alone. As essential members of the Canadian and global food chains, AMC’s members support farmers here and around the world to produce food for a growing population.
Under her leadership, AMC co-founded the Canadian Agricultural Systems Standards Oversight (CASSO), in collaboration with the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) and have initiated a workforce development campaign in support of the agricultural sector under the umbrella of Careersinag.ca.
Through her extensive advocacy experience Donna’s lobbying efforts at both the Federal and Provincial levels have contributed to policy changes that make the agricultural and manufacturing industries stronger and fuel expansion and progress.
Prior to joining AMC at the end of 2019, Donna invested the majority of her career in senior leadership roles in the automotive, health care, and academic not-for-profit sectors. Her demonstrated record of success in organizational leadership includes vast experience in operations, risk management, strategic planning, governance, member and public relations, advocacy and government relations, marketing and communications, and leading and rallying staff and volunteer teams.
She serves on the Board of Directors of the Province of Saskatchewan Farm Health and Safety Council, the Skills Canada Saskatchewan Board of Directors, as well as the ISO/TC 23/SC 4 (Tractors) and ISO/TC 293 (Feed Machinery) committees with the Standards Council of Canada.
Dr. Katherine Breward is an Associate Professor of Human Resource Management at the University of Winnipeg. She holds undergraduate degrees in sociology and adult education, an MBA, and a PhD in organizational behaviour from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University.
Dr. Breward’s research focuses on labor market access for historically disadvantaged populations, with a particular emphasis on best practices in disability accommodation. Her most recent work centers on accommodation strategies for neurodiverse individuals, a subject close to her heart as she herself is neurodiverse.
Dr. Breward is the author of Guide to Disability and Inclusion in the Workplace (Sage Publishing, January 1, 2024). Her research has been featured in Palgrave McMillan’s Research Handbook on Disability at Work, the Canadian Journal of Disability Studies, the Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: An International Journal, and The Conversation Canada. Her disability accommodation cases are primarily published by Sage, with a broader range of cases available in the Case Research Journal. At the University of Winnipeg, she teaches various HR-related courses, including “Recruitment and Selection” and her signature course, “Leadership and Fairness in Complex Organizations.”
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys tending to her 25-acre berry orchard with her husband, reading inclusive science fiction and fantasy novels, and spending time with her menagerie of beloved pets.
Brad Compton is a dedicated leader in workplace safety and injury prevention, currently serving as a manager of the Prevention Department at the Saskatchewan Compensation Board. With over a decade of experience focused on injury prevention, and much of that on young worker safety Brad has been at the forefront of initiatives to create safer work environments for the next generation of workers.
Through his work, Brad has developed strategies and programs aimed at raising awareness and reducing risks for young people entering the workforce. His passion for safety and prevention has made him a trusted voice, advising employers and industry to prioritize new worker health, safety and well-being.
Jeanelle Desjarlais is Plains Cree from Moosomin First Nation, Treaty 6 Territory. She is passionate in supporting Indigenous youth that are pursuing their professional and personal goals as she understands the challenges and gaps to employment and education. She believes that it is important for Indigenous students to be connected to culture and community on campus while navigating their post-secondary journey.
Jeanelle has Bachelor of Arts Degree in Aboriginal Public Administration from the University of Saskatchewan and has work experience in various coordinating and administrative roles in non-profit organizations and Indigenous governments and institutions – all in the framework of sharing Indigenous culture and advocating “miyo-pimatisiwin” (Plain Cree: the good life) for Indigenous people.
Jeanelle is a mother, a wife, a daughter, sister, friend, Indigenous advocate, and community builder. She honors kinship connections and aspires to build a community of “wâhkôhtowin” (Plain’s Cree: family) where Indigenous people feel empowered, respected and welcomed in this time and space where paths cross and connections are established.
As the Bilingual and Urban Coordinator at SAISIA, Kira’s role involves driving initiatives that promote inclusion, improve settlement outcomes, and ensure that newcomers have the resources and support they need to thrive in their new communities. Her work is guided by a strong dedication to making Saskatchewan a welcoming and vibrant place for all.
Born and raised in Saskatoon, Kira developed a profound appreciation for multiculturalism through her experiences working, studying, and traveling abroad. While earning her political studies degree with a minor in French at the University of Saskatchewan, she spent a year at l’Université Robert Schumann in Strasbourg, France, which included a mock debate at the European Parliament.
Proud of her Saskatchewan roots, Kira serves on her local community association board. She loves connecting with people and is always happy to talk about plants!
Sharon Ferriss is the Senior Director, Marketing and Communications with CERIC, where she provides leadership in the development of all communications strategies for CERIC’s network of projects and programs. She has 20 years of experience as a marketing and communications professional, primarily in non-profit organizations, as well as having worked as a journalist for print and television. Sharon has had senior roles with the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC) and the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). She holds a Bachelor of Journalism, an MBA in marketing and non-profit management, and is an Accredited Business Communicator (ABC).
Ryan Fredrickson serves as the Provincial Director of Advocacy and Procurement at the Construction Associations of Saskatchewan, representing the Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw, and Saskatchewan Construction Associations. Committed to enhancing the construction industry in Saskatchewan, Ryan collaborates closely with stakeholders to drive positive changes. With a tenure of 5 years at the Construction Association, Ryan brings a wealth of experience to his role. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, specializing in Operations Management and Human Resources. Before joining the Association, Ryan spent a decade working in various capacities for an excavating company in Saskatoon, building on a legacy of three generations in the construction field.
Andrea Fruhling is the Founding Director of Doubleknot Works, which was created to help people have more effective career conversations. Through innovative and combined approaches to career conversations and team development processes, Andrea works across disciplines, delivering group coaching programs, and developing easy to use resources for coaches and career practitioners to use in their daily work. She enjoys helping people find engaging ways to support growth and increase individual and collective hopefulness, using the Hope-Action Theory as a foundational model in her work.
Andrea is a Certified Organizational Coach, with the designation of Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation. She is the co-author of the recently published book Career Wayfinder: Discovering your career through delightfully practical projects (2024). She teaches and supervises learner coaches seeking certification, and is the lead instructor for the Career Coaching Masterclass at the University of British Columbia. Andrea is the developer and an instructor of the Certification in Hope-Action Theory & Practice course, and has taught and certified learners all over the world. She leads the International Coaching Federation’s Global Career Coaching Community of Practice, and is a Trained Facilitator in the LEGO® Serious Play® Method and Materials.
Andrea has delivered keynote presentations and workshops for national and international conferences, career development associations, and organizations. She works with a broad range of client groups from tech startups, to indigenous communities, youth, and senior level management. Her work is practical and engaging with a focus on creativity, strengths-based learning, and hope.
Lori Gasper serves as the Practical & Applied Arts (PAA) Programs Manager for Sask DLC, where she and her team work with school divisions across Saskatchewan to provide high school students with meaningful work placement opportunities. With a background in agriculture, Lori brings a unique perspective to her work, understanding both the importance of hands-on experience and the value of connecting students with real-world learning environments. She aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career exploration, empowering students to develop skills and insights that prepare them for future success.
Tara has strong background in policy and program design with a focus on gender and intersectional analysis as the Workforce Inclusion Specialist at WBF and in her previous work as a public servant for the Government of Alberta.
As a facilitator, advisor and advocate, Tara believes in lifelong learning and is always happy to share her leadership experience to help others advance in their careers.
Tara continuously strives to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the trades industry in Alberta as she leads the Employer of Choice membership program and Work Proud Inclusivity Training for WBF.
As Executive Director of the Canadian Career Development Foundation (CCDF), Sareena works in Canada and internationally to strengthen the reach and impact of career development. With her team at CCDF, she moves from ideas to action in areas of public policy, research and development, capacity building and advocacy. Sareena has been instrumental in a wide range of strategic leadership initiatives in Canada and internationally, including the development of our field’s Competency Framework, Code of Ethics, and approach to national certification. She is Chair of the International Centre for Career Development and Public Policy and is an active member of the Forum of Labour Market Ministers’ National Advisory Panel on Labour Market Information. In 2014, Sareena was awarded the International Gold Medal for Leadership in Career Development. Sareena lives, works, and plays (most of the time!) in Ottawa with her partner and a poorly behaved, but extremely sweet cat. Sareena can be reached at [email protected]
Evan Jamieson is the Director of Program Development at the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. He has several years of experience working in Alberta and Saskatchewan as a Construction Electrician, and is a Red Seal Journeyperson in that trade. As Director of Program Development, he manages all of the curriculum, assessments and supporting documents for trades training in the province. His team works with training providers and industry advisory boards to help deliver Red Seal training and assessments that incorporate relevant knowledge and skills for industry in the province. Additionally, the Program Development team provides quality assurance for trades training in the province and provides valuable information and reports to apprentices on their path toward journeyperson certification.
Kim Jasken is the Product Development Consultant within the Centre for Continuing Education at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, and has worked for the last 4 years as a curriculum developer with a passion for education and extensive experience and knowledge in micro-credentials.
Kim has a Master of Education in Educational Technology and Design as well as her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
Keiran has been in the HR field for nearly twenty-five years and a CPHR since 2010. He joined the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in 2016 as an HR Strategic Business Advisor and in 2022, moved into his current role as Director, Human Resources. He leads a portfolio which includes pensions, benefits, compensation, wellness, talent acquisition, immigration and organization development. Prior to joining USask, Keiran spent close to fifteen years in the mining industry, working in the potash, uranium and exploration fields, primarily at operations and projects. From 2009 to 2016, Keiran was a member of the Saskatoon Industry Education Council’s Board of Directors, serving as chair in 2010 and 2011 and today, encourages his kids to take part in the SIEC’s programs as often as possible.
Since 2006, Ashlee has worked in many areas of Human Resources, including organizational development, recruitment, and diversity, equity and inclusion. Prior to joining CPHR Saskatchewan, she was the Executive Manager of Human Resources at Farm Credit Canada (FCC) where she supported the HR division with strategic and operational leadership. Before joining FCC, she was a consultant for a global HR consulting firm in the employee engagement space.
Giving back to her community and profession is important to Ashlee. She is currently the President of the Board of Trustees for the MacKenzie Art Gallery. She has been on the Board of Directors for Regina Work Preparation Centre, YWCA Regina, and Eden Care Communities Foundation. She has also served as a member of CPHR Saskatchewan’s Mentorship and Professional Development Committees.
Ashlee holds a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Business Administration (HR) from the University of Regina. She completed her Masters of Applied Industrial Organizational Psychology from Colorado State University in 2019. She holds her designation as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) and the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) designation from the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
Jaimie Malmgren is a seasoned professional serving as a Senior Account Executive with the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training. With a diverse background spanning over 13 years across the private, non-profit and public sectors, she has earned a reputation for her unwavering commitment to assisting businesses throughout Saskatchewan. She has a deep understanding of the business landscape, enabling her to provide tailored guidance and support to enterprises of all sizes and sectors. Her experience lies in cultivating strategic partnerships and facilitating collaborations that drive economic growth, innovation and workforce development across the province. Committed to excellence, she is dedicated to providing strategic guidance and steadfast support to organizations seeking to thrive in Saskatchewan’s dynamic business landscape.
Kemi Medu is the Director of Labour Market Intelligence at the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training and has over seven years of experience in data-focused roles within the Government of Saskatchewan.
With a strong foundation in economics, public policy, and international affairs, Kemi thrives in the dynamic and challenging environment of her role.
Outside of work, Kemi enjoys exploring new destinations and spending time with her family.
Bunmi Omeke is a dynamic and certified HR professional with a wealth of experience across North America and Nigeria.
She has worked as an HR Advisor at Central Plains Co-operative Limited in Rosetown, Saskatchewan, and as an HR Advisor at Sure Health Medical Centre, where she now serves as a board member. In these roles, she provided strategic HR support, developed workplace policies, and promoted employee well-being and compliance.
As the co-founder of GETWORK Nigeria, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between job seekers and employers, Bunmi has made significant strides in supporting the career development of fresh graduates. She spearheads initiatives such as the GETWORK Nigeria Graduates National Conference, which gathers graduates, employers, and industry leaders to inspire change and improve employability outcomes.
In recognition of her impactful work at GETWORK Nigeria, Bunmi was selected in 2023 as one of 50 women globally for the prestigious VVVisionaries program, co-founded by Hillary Clinton. She subsequently became a Vital Voices Fellow, further amplifying her efforts to create opportunities and drive systemic change.
With a solid background in law, Bunmi has led impactful social development projects, including her tenure as Director of the Legal Aid Unit at the Occupational Health Safety and Empowerment Centre in Nigeria. There, she advocated for justice in occupational accident cases and championed workplace safety compliance.
Bunmi holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Igbinedion University, Nigeria, and an LLM in International Commercial Law from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. She is a certified professional with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) in Canada.
Passionate about mentorship and innovation, Bunmi is committed to fostering environments where talent can thrive. Her unique blend of global experience, legal expertise, and dedication to service positions her as a key contributor to advancing the future of work in today’s dynamic landscape.
Michelle has worked in all aspects of human resources for over a decade in the private and public sector. A majority of her HR focus has been in the financial, hospitality, retail, and healthcare sectors. Michelle has her Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Human Resources from the University of Saskatchewan, Masters of Human Resources Management from the University of Regina and holds her CPHR designation. Michelle is a self-declared HR Nerd and believes that compassion is the key to organizational success. Her favourite areas of human resources include innovation, engagement, total rewards, and learning and development. In her free time, she is running kids to activities and spending time with her family on her acreage located outside of Saskatoon.
David Potts-Schwinghamer grew up next to a potash mine and didn’t know anything about the careers mining offered or the vital role of mineral resources in Saskatchewan and beyond. Today, as Program Manager, Minerals Connected at the Saskatchewan Mining Association, David is passionate about sharing about the province’s mineral resources and the diverse, rewarding careers the industry offers.
David holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan, blending business acumen with an educator’s perspective. Beyond work, David serves on the Board of Directors of the Lung Foundation of Saskatchewan and enjoys long hikes with his basset hound, Copper.
About the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA): The SMA is an industry-driven organization representing the mining and mineral exploration industry within Saskatchewan. SMA’s mission is to advance a safe, sustainable, and globally competitive exploration and mining industry in Saskatchewan that benefits all residents of the province.
Ann Reinhart is the Manager, Product Development within the Centre for Continuing Education at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, providing leadership and guidance of large scale training projects and overseeing the curriculum development team. Ann has lead the development of micro-credentials, contributing to the framework and processes implemented. Ann’s background and education is in Civil Engineering and has both her Professional Engineering and Project Management Professional designation.
Tristyn serves as the Lead for the Indigenous Student Employment Readiness Program. As a proud Métis woman, she deeply values the opportunity to celebrate her culture alongside friends and family. With a rich background as a middle-year classroom teacher, Tristyn has dedicated her career to working with Indigenous youth, finding great joy in helping them explore and embrace their cultural identities.
A graduate of the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teachers Education Program, Tristyn holds a Bachelor of Education and is driven by a passion for deepening her understanding of her Indigenous heritage. She is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Indigenous Education, furthering her commitment to both personal and professional growth in this field.
In her spare time, Tristyn enjoys canoeing, getting lost in a good book, and practicing her skills in beading—a craft that connects her more deeply to her cultural roots.
As a 21st-century thought leader in the neurodiversity space, Principal consultant of Next Level ASD, and Project Manager of Spectrum Advantage, Sarah has spoken at dozens of conferences for Career Development Professionals, Post-Secondary Organizations, Human Resource Professionals, and companies in a variety of sectors across the country. Her education in Psychology, Communications, and Theology, along with over 20 years of experience as a Psychometrist and Behavioral Consultant, has developed her skills in assessment, advocacy, organizational leadership, and public speaking.
Sarah is passionate about building community, working with leaders and empowering people in all aspects of life. She is a frequent speaker uniquely equipped to bridge the gap between traditional career development tools and the neurodiverse population.
Janvi is an experienced counselor, coordinator, and collaborative professional known for her creativity, innovation, and dedication to providing exceptional services. Born and raised in India, Janvi’s passion for social reform inspired her career. She excels at building cohesive teams through her outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
Janvi holds a degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminology from the University of Saskatchewan, along with a diploma in Human Resources and multiple Mental Health certifications.
Deeply committed to community engagement, she works actively with youth and adults at risk, newcomers, Indigenous Peoples, and local organizations. A strong advocate for volunteering, Janvi encourages everyone to give back to their communities.
Her guiding principle? Kindness costs nothing but means everything.
Emily Worthen is dedicated to supporting and championing the field of career development through her work at CCDF. She is thrilled to be involved in a number of CCDF initiatives including the Career Development Professional Centre, the Real-World Challenge and Thriving Workplaces. She has worked in the front lines in career development in non-profit, post-secondary, professional development, and private environments. She advocates for experiential, client-centred approaches to career development, that encourage individuals to shift their self-perspective and feel empowered to take control of the direction of their lives. She is a passionate facilitator who is dedicated to helping Canadians access meaningful career development support at all stages of their lives; she thrives when working and learning in partnership with CDPs to make this happen.
