Women Entering Engineering & Trades at Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Across Canada, more women are choosing careers in engineering technology and skilled trades — and this shift is clearly visible at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Recent school news highlights how students are discovering new pathways through hands-on learning environments in both engineering and trade-focused programs.

In one Electrical Engineering Technology feature, students described how lab-based learning builds confidence and skills through teamwork and problem-solving. One student, Ella Kessler-Holderness, summed it up simply by describing lab work as “like a puzzle you put together”. Instead of focusing only on theory, students gain experience by working with equipment, circuits and systems from early in the program.

A similar story appears in a trades-focused report spotlighting outreach programs that introduce machining and other skilled trades. Rylee Quinte, now studying machining, shared that taking part in a training boot camp helped her discover a career path she had never considered before, saying it made her “fall in love with the trade.”

These experiences show how access, exposure and practical learning are changing how students see engineering and trades — turning curiosity into confidence and ambition into skills.

Programs at Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is one of Western Canada’s leading polytechnic institutions, offering technical and trades education across four campuses: Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert. Programs are designed to focus on job-ready skills, applied learning and industry relevance.

Here are some examples of programs available for students interested in engineering technology and trades:

⚡ Electrical Engineering Technology (Diploma)

A multi-year diploma for students interested in power systems, electrical design and industrial technology.

Students study:

• Power generation, transmission and distribution
  
• Electrical machines and systems
  
• Automation and control
  
• Instrumentation and measurements
  
• Renewable energy systems
  
• Electrical troubleshooting and design
  

The program also includes paid co-op placements, allowing students to gain real workplace experience before graduation.

🔧 Trades & Technical Fields

Saskatchewan Polytechnic also offers programs in areas such as:

• Electrical and construction trades
  
• Welding and metal fabrication
  
• Power engineering
  
• Electronics systems
  

All programs emphasize practical learning, small classes and industry connections.

👉Explore more programs at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, view Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades

👉Check international availability by viewing Programs for International Students, Saskatchewan Polytechnic Viewbook  

Why Students Choose Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Students are attracted to Saskatchewan Polytechnic because of:

• Hands-on learning instead of lecture-heavy instruction
  
• Career-focused programs
  
• Paid co-op opportunities in many diploma programs
  
• Access to real equipment and technical labs
  
• Supportive learning environment
  
• Strong connections with the Canadian industry

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Source: Women powering change in Electrical Engineering Technology at Sask Polytech, Empowering the next generation of tradeswomen