When Arlene Pinay, Planning Consultant for the Red Circle Planning Group, first connected with CCE, she was in search of a customized project management training program for community planners/community navigators and First Nation professional staff across 70 First Nation communities in Saskatchewan.
“We had created a comprehensive community plan a few years ago and a lot of the work that stems from that plan involves managing projects,” says Pinay. “We have 43 community navigators with varying backgrounds and experience in this area and they told us that they not only wanted to build their knowledge in managing projects but they wanted to earn an accreditation from an educational institution.”
"Project management participants were excited about this learning opportunity...They were learning new skills and enhancing their tool kit. I’ve heard nothing but positive things." - Arlene Pinay
Heather Renshaw, Business Development Consultant – Custom Training, recalls their initial approach. “Based on the group’s needs we customized our Project Management Certificate. Some of the students live over 10 hours away from Regina so we needed a blended format – something that could work for everyone. We held the first and last class in person on campus and the remaining classes took place online.”
CCE also brought in an Indigenous advisor to review the curriculum for each of the courses, says Renshaw. “With that input we tailored the case studies and scenarios for training as well as some of the imagery on materials. Ultimately this evolved into a co-branded partnership between Red Circle Planning Group and CCE.”
Participation and interest in the program was strong so CCE divided the larger group into two smaller cohorts of 15 students to ensure maximum engagement.
"CCE is an excellent resource for us." - Arlene Pinay
“Project management participants were excited about this learning opportunity because everyone could participate regardless of their experience or education,” says Pinay.
“They were learning new skills and enhancing their tool kit. I’ve heard nothing but positive things.”
For many, earning the Project Management Certificate is just the first step. “The Project Management Institute (PMI) recognizes the training hours the students now have and
they can be applied towards eligibility for the CAPM® (Certified Associate in Project Management) or the PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification,” adds Renshaw.
An additional benefit is that project management participants now have alumni status at the University of Regina. “This is a good foot in the door and our community planners/community navigators and First Nation professional staff take pride in putting that on their resumes,” says Pinay.
With the door firmly open, new opportunities for collaboration are being discussed. “CCE is an excellent resource for us,” notes Pinay, “and we’re already talking about introducing other potential training programs. We see this as just the first step.”
Learn about Our Programs
Professional Development Funding Options
Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant for up to $10,000 for employee training.
Re-Skill Saskatchewan Training Subsidy for 100% training cost coverage.
URAA Alumni Professional Development Award valued at up to $500.
Canada Training Credit for $250 per year (unused years carry forward).