Keyano College’s New CEO Aims to Address Local Labour Needs

Keyano College’s newly appointed CEO, Scott MacPherson, has expressed optimism regarding the institution’s potential to address the local labour needs of Fort McMurray and the surrounding Wood Buffalo region. MacPherson, who began his tenure on December 8, 2023, emphasized the importance of local community engagement and industry partnerships as the college confronts significant challenges in skilled labour shortages.

The college has faced difficulties in the past year, including staff layoffs and a sharp decline in student enrolment. Recent figures indicate that fall enrolment has dropped to approximately 1,600 students, down from around 2,600 in the previous academic year. This decline has been attributed in part to new federal restrictions impacting international students. Some programs have been paused or cancelled, which has compounded the challenges the new leadership must address.

In an interview, MacPherson highlighted the need to foster connections with local high schools to encourage student recruitment. He stated, “You have a strong group of committed people that I’m pretty excited to work with. I think it’s a great opportunity to have a very authentic, committed group of people here.” His focus will also include enhancing partnerships with local industries to ensure that the college’s programs align with the demands of the job market.

Strategic Focus on Local Needs

Prioritizing local engagement, MacPherson noted that many graduates from Fort McMurray’s high schools leave the area without returning. “When you’re looking globally or internationally, you might take your eyes off local opportunities. I think there’s a great opportunity to focus more on local,” he remarked.

MacPherson, who previously served as dean of the School of Business and Creative Industries at Nova Scotia Community College and as dean of the School of Construction at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, intends to align the college’s program offerings with the specific needs of the region. He stated, “It’s important that your portfolio of programs at a college closely represents your geographical regional area. So there’s great opportunity here in trades, technology, health care, environmental and business programming.”

He emphasized that Keyano College is situated in a region with pronounced skills gaps in areas such as technology, trades, and health care. “Well, we offer all those things here, so it’s a great opportunity for us,” MacPherson added, indicating a commitment to tailoring educational offerings to meet local demands.

MacPherson’s approach marks a shift toward a more localized focus, aiming to rebuild trust and relevance between the college and the community. As he embarks on this journey, the college will need to navigate the complexities of increasing enrolment while ensuring that its programs remain pertinent in a rapidly changing job market.

In a landscape where educational institutions often face pressure to adapt to evolving industry needs, MacPherson’s leadership will be crucial in steering Keyano College toward a sustainable future that serves both students and the Fort McMurray community effectively.