Getting Canadian Experience

Gaining Canadian experience as an internationally educated or trained IT professional can help you showcase your skills, adapt to the local work environment, and increase your job prospects. Some resources will be provided where you can access information and programs that can help you gain Canadian experience.

Strategies

Professional Networking

  • Attend IT-related networking events, conferences, and meetups to connect with professionals in the Canadian IT industry.

  • Engage in conversations, exchange business cards, and follow up with new contacts to build relationships.

Bridging Programs

  • Bridging programs in Canada for internationally educated or trained IT professionals are specialized initiatives designed to assist individuals with international IT credentials in bridging gaps between their previous education and experience and the Canadian IT job market.

Resources

Volunteering

  • Offer your IT skills as a volunteer to nonprofit organizations, community initiatives, or startups. For instance, you can help design a website for a local charity or provide technical support for community events.

Internships, Apprenticeships, or Co-op Programs

  • Seek internships, apprenticeships, or co-op programs that provide structured work experience and an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with local IT professionals (e.g., programs offered by colleges, universities, or organizations like Career Edge).

Resources

  • Software Development - Apprenticeship Style

    • The program through Bow Valley College equips learners with the necessary skills and experience for employment in the technology industry. Through part-time work on real-industry projects and completion of an accredited college diploma, learners gain practical expertise in software development, emphasizing problem-solving, effective communication, adherence to development standards, and documentation, preparing them for careers in various domains such as full-stack web development, application development, mobile application development, database administration, and agile project management.

  • Information Technology Diploma Co-op: Network and System Administration

    • The program through Medicine Hat College enables highly motivated students to integrate their academic program with paid, relevant work experience in their chosen field.

  • Information Technology & Co-op (Diploma)

    • This program through Canadian College is designed for students pursuing a career in IT. The coursework gives students an understanding of various computer systems and several recognized certifications commonly required by industry professionals. A 12-month co-op provides valuable work experience in the field.

IT Meetups and Hackathons

  • Participate in IT-focused meetups or hackathons to collaborate with other professionals, showcase your skills, and expand your network. These events bring together individuals with similar interests, allowing you to collaborate on projects, solve problems, and connect with potential employers or mentors.

Resources

  • HackIT.AB Innovation Hackathon

    • Registration is now closed; however, follow the link for future events.

  • Technology Events Near Calgary

    • Frequently check the link on Meetup’s platform for current events in the Calgary area.

    • You can also change the location to find other technology events in your area.

  • “How to Get Involved in Calgary’s Tech Scene”

    • The article at https://www.lighthouselabs.ca/en/blog/calgary-tech-community provides insights into the tech community in Calgary, Canada. It discusses the growth, opportunities, and vibrant ecosystem of the city's tech sector, highlighting the collaborative spirit, supportive networks, and initiatives contributing to its development.

Open Source Contributions

  • Contribute to open-source projects relevant to your expertise. Engage with the open-source community, share your code, and collaborate with other developers.

    • For instance, you can contribute to projects on platforms like GitHub or GitLab.

  • Open source contributions help you demonstrate your skills, build a reputation, and connect with IT professionals in Canada and worldwide.

Industry Certifications

  • Obtain industry-recognized certifications valued in the Canadian IT industry.

    • Examples include certifications in project management (e.g., Project Management Professional - PMP), cybersecurity (e.g., Certified Information Systems Security Professional - CISSP), or specific technologies (e.g., Cisco Certified Network Associate - CCNA).

  • These certifications validate your knowledge and skills and can make you more competitive in the Canadian job market.

Resources

  • IT Training in Alberta

    • Various IT Training Programs through CDI College

  • Information Technology, Diploma/Certificate in Alberta

    • On this website, you will be able to find different programs that are available throughout Alberta.

  • NPower Canada Tech Training

    • NPower Canada provides free tech-training employment programs and IT certifications in multiple provinces across Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Québec, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia, catering to Canadian job-seekers. The upcoming Junior IT Analyst Program sessions will run from August 8 to November 10, 2023, while the Junior Data Analyst Program will occur from August 21 to December 1, 2023. Please see their application page to determine the next program's availability in your province. Graduates from both programs receive comprehensive support, including personal and professional development, job placement services, post-hire coaching, access to corporate mentors, and guest speakers.

  • Cyber Security Specialist

    • The 74-week Cybersecurity Specialist program can give you the training you need to pursue a career in helping to secure networked computer systems and their users. Your courses will cover everything you need to know about managing networks and computers, cybersecurity techniques, digital forensics, and more. You'll also get prepared to write exams for valuable industry certifications, including: Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+, Net+, Security+, CySA+, PenTest+; Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA); and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).

Professional Development Courses and Bootcamps

  • Enroll in professional development courses or boot camps offered by educational institutions, training centers, or online platforms.

    • Examples include courses on cloud computing, data analytics, programming languages, or IT project management.

  • These programs help you update your skills, gain exposure to industry trends, and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.

Resources

Informational Interviews and Mentorship

  • Connect with IT professionals working in Canada through informational interviews or mentorship programs.

  • Contact professionals on platforms like LinkedIn and request a virtual or in-person meeting to gain insights into the Canadian IT job market, gather advice, and build relationships.

  • Industry associations or networking events may also offer mentorship programs that match you with experienced professionals.

Resources

See The Seeker’s general guide on getting Canadian experience for more information.