After Graduating from College I Started My Own Company

Studied: Indigenous environmental stewardship and reclamation at Yellowhead Tribal College (2016–19)
Current job: Consultant with environmental/cultural focus
Location: Devon, Alberta
Age: 31

I grew up in Devon, a small town southwest of Edmonton, and I also spent a lot of time at my family’s farm just outside Devon. From a young age I was always out on the land. I loved seeing deer, coyotes and porcupines out in the bush. It sparked an interest and passion for nature in me. I was happiest when I was outside. 

After high school, I studied agriculture at Lakeland College then worked on a bison and oak ranch before going into the trades. I apprenticed in autobody and vehicle restoration shops, but the work wasn’t fulfilling to me. I thought back to my interests in nature and considered getting into environmental conservation, which had always intrigued me.

I came across the Indigenous environmental stewardship and reclamation program at Yellowhead Tribal College. It was a unique program that combined traditional conservation methods and a focus on connection to the land from First Nations and Métis cultures with Western science. I’m not Indigenous myself, but the college welcomes students from all cultures and backgrounds. ​​Indigenous peoples have always protected, managed and conserved the land, so to be a part of an industry that works together with First Nations to ensure the environmental health of the land really appealed to me. The program launched in 2016. I applied and was accepted to be part of the program’s first class.

Our courses covered a variety of subjects, from native studies to Cree languages, air quality monitoring and soil science. I loved learning about how traditional knowledge was interconnected with science. Our classes were small, about 10 to 15 people, and there were lots of opportunities for hands-on learning. One of our instructors was a resident Elder who brought us out to Jasper to share stories of growing up in the area. We participated in cultural events and gatherings. I’d often volunteer as an oskâpêwis, an Elder’s helper, at these events, serving food to guests and assisting with whatever the Elders needed.

The program also included two practicum placements. My first one, in 2017, was with the First Nations Technical Services Advisory Group in Edmonton. I helped create maps and other datasets for wildlife areas and other significant sites on the land, and studied traditional land use. My second practicum, in 2018, was with Delta Remediation—a soil remediation company based in Acheson. After graduation, I worked for Delta as a field technician and an Indigenous engagement coordinator, forging relationships with Indigenous organizations across the region. We also did various site remediations, including a land farm up in Ekati, N.W.T. 

After Delta, I worked with the town of Devon as their Indigenous engagement coordinator. In full consultation with First Nations, we created the Pimiy Ôcenas Nâtawîhowin Askiy Medicine Grounds. I also started my own company, working with various Nations and municipalities to assist with engagement and partnership development.

I’m really glad I went to YTC. I found a meaningful new life path, forged new friendships and connections and became a lot less ignorant about how Canadian society works. I’ve learned about the various laws, acts and rules that have been enacted over Indigenous Peoples in Canada and how that has affected their lives. It was a real eye-opener and I developed a greater respect and understanding for First Nations cultures and world views. The program really has changed my life.

This story appeared in the 2025 edition of the Ultimate Guide to Canadian Colleges. Order your copy here.