Saskatchewan Polytechnic partnering with Lighthouse Labs to offer new tech programs

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“The intense boot camps are intended to take people with skills in technology and really ratchet up their skills and ability in that tech space, and the introductory programs are more of a slower, part-time based program that gives people the introductory skills to get a career started,” said Carter.

To gain admission to the boot camps, prospective students will need to complete a technical skills test and interview. No prior experience is required for the introductory programs. While the programming will be offered remotely to start, Carter said the school will look at options for in-person classes once the COVID-19 pandemic has passed.

Saskatchewan’s growing tech sector has been facing a labour shortage for some time, and Carter is hoping the new programs can alleviate the need for workers.

“We need top tech talent in this in this province in order to help our tech industry really start to flourish and grow. They’re starving for talent in the industry,” said Carter.

Aaron Genest, the chair of the advocacy organization Sask. Tech, said Lighthouse has had a successful track record of preparing students to enter the technology industry. While the COVID-19 pandemic put a pause on hiring, Genest said many companies are starting to aggressively recruit once again.

“We have an enormous amount of investment from venture capital into startup companies. Some of those companies are being successful, and ramping very quickly,” said Genest.