REGINA — Before the first keynote speaker took the stage at the Project Management Institute Regina South Saskatchewan Chapter (PMI-RSSC) Professional Development Conference, a sold-out conference on artificial intelligence and automation, Saskatchewan Polytechnic students were already at work. They were involved in planning logistics, coordinating speakers, greeting attendees and supporting the event both on stage and behind the scenes.
Students in the first cohort of Sask Polytech’s new Information Technology Project Management (ITPM) post-graduate certificate program, offered in-person at Regina and Saskatoon campus locations, played key roles in delivering the annual industry conference. Their volunteer involvement with PMI-RSSC highlights how Sask Polytech students gain meaningful, hands-on experience, build professional networks and create real impact in their community.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the strength of our PMI-RSSC community,” said Eli Rizk, president of PMI-RSSC. “The engagement and professionalism demonstrated by these students reflects the value of collaboration between academia and industry. Their contributions help advance the project management profession while strengthening the future workforce in Saskatchewan.”
Sask Polytech’s one-year ITPM post-graduate certificate was launched to meet the growing demand for skilled project management professionals. Developed in collaboration with industry, the program prepares graduates to apply project management principles across diverse industries within both private and public sectors.
Students enter the program with an undergraduate degree in any field and build on their existing academic and professional experience by developing knowledge in areas including project risk management, purchasing processes, information security and quality assurance. These learning outcomes add practical, transferable value to their prior areas of study.
For ITPM students, volunteering with PMI-RSSC provides an opportunity to apply both project management and communication skills while contributing to a respected professional organization, strengthening soft skills and expanding their networks.
ITPM student Noelia Ortega Inoa, who has previous experience in digital marketing and website management, regularly volunteers with PMI-RSSC, assisting with marketing materials and event support.
“I value the networking events because I can learn firsthand about local companies and the impactful work happening across Saskatchewan,” Inoa said. “During my recent collaboration, I had the opportunity to learn about award-winning projects and connect with industry leaders who offered valuable guidance and advice.”
Another student, Jessica Ruiz, served as emcee at the annual conference. Drawing on her background in industrial psychology and human resources, she confidently introduced speakers, guided sessions and facilitated discussions throughout the day.
“When we volunteer, we don’t just show up and leave. We collaborate, deliver value and build real connections that help both us and the community grow,” Ruiz said. “The conference showed how much you can give and receive when you get involved.”
“This collaboration delivers clear, mutual value,” said Nadene Joy, vice-president Communications at PMI-RSSC. “Students gain applied experience and direct exposure to the profession, while PMI-RSSC strengthens its programming through engaged, capable volunteers. This model supports our mandate to advance project management excellence and build a sustainable talent pipeline in Saskatchewan.”
