Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) has launched a new Indigenous Workforce Program aimed at increasing Indigenous representation within the organization.
The program, unveiled Thursday, includes a reimagined summer student initiative called Kiskiyihta (pronounced Kiskee ih-taah), a Cree word meaning “to learn” or “to know.”
Four students are participating in the inaugural cohort and will work in SRC’s Rare Earth Element Division, Nuclear Division, Environmental Remediation and External Relations teams.
“Through SRC’s Indigenous Workforce and Kiskiyihta Summer Student Programs, more Indigenous youth will have the chance to work in a specialized research and technology environment, gaining valuable job experience, coaching and mentorship,” said Warren Kaeding, minister responsible for SRC.
The initiative forms part of SRC’s wider Indigenous Action Plan launched earlier this year. The organization is partnering with the First Nations University of Canada, Gabriel Dumont Institute, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and Saskatoon Tribal Council to identify candidates for summer work placements, internships, apprenticeships and co-op opportunities.
The program also focuses on retention strategies, including creating more leadership opportunities for Indigenous employees and organizing events that celebrate Indigenous culture.
“We want to be an employer of choice for Indigenous Peoples by providing unique job experiences they may not have had prior access to,” said Mike Crabtree, SRC president and CEO. “Our goal is to engage and empower Indigenous Peoples so they can thrive in a culturally safe workplace and achieve their professional goals.”
SRC, Canada’s second largest research and technology organization, employs more than 350 people and serves 1,400 clients across 22 countries.
