THUNDER BAY – Confederation College is accepting applications for their EMBARK, an Indigenous Journey in STEM education, a program designed to reflect Indigenous knowledge and honour the cultural tradition of Indigenous people.
The EMBARK Indigenous STEM Education program was introduced in 2021. The project aims to remove barriers and ground students in cultural knowledge while helping them excel in STEM fields.
“We’re excited to continue to expand this program and provide pathways for Indigenous women and youth to study and work in STEM fields,” said Kathleen Lynch, president of Confederation College. “This is an important program that supports different learning styles and creates an affirming space for our students to thrive.”
The program has:
- A dedicated Elder
- A dedicated Indigenous Navigator – who can help connect students to services in the city or at the College
- Additional supports as needed (Daycare, housing, books, technology requirements)
Students will gain the skills they need to succeed in our Technology, Natural Resource, or Skilled trades programs.
The program is overseen by Elder Melissa Roberts and Alice Brinks, the Manager of the STEM program at Confederation College. They are both responsible for incorporating Indigenous learning into the program’s coursework. Roberts and Brink have extensive knowledge in creating compelling Indigenous content and a background in experiential learning.
In addition, a partnership with Fort William Historical Park has created the opportunity for students to learn how to build a birchbark canoe, which is widely considered a fantastic feat of engineering. The complex style and construction of birchbark canoes are thousands of years old, using different elements of nature to build a strong transportation vessel.
“It is an honour to work with the students creating Indigenous technologies, such as the canoe. It is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. We have built a unique community in the classroom that all students enjoy while learning STEM principles,” explained Alicia Brink
Graduates of the program will continue to be supported by a Student Navigator and Elder throughout their diploma program. The program still accepts applications from Indigenous women and youth (18-29). Those interested can contact Emily Mackenzie, Indigenous Navigator, at (807) 475-3867 by email: [email protected]
