First Nations Technology Council and TECHNATION to co-host first-ever Kinship Career Summit

(Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) – The First Nations Technology Council (“Technology Council”) and TECHNATION are co-hosting a virtual career summit to connect their growing learners and alumni networks with 20 or more top tech companies. The Kinship Career Summit allows participants to meet their peers, hear from Indigenous leaders, and gain practical advice for their career journeys. 

The one-day agenda includes alum storytelling, networking opportunities, a panel of technology experts, career coaching, one-on-one employer and talent matching, and more. An elder will also offer an opening and closing prayer. The Summit will happen on Thursday, November 7, on vFairs, an intuitive virtual event platform.

“We’re excited to take the next step in helping our students transition from learning to work with the Kinship Career Summit,” said Natiea Vinson, CEO of the Technology Council. “This event offers an incredible opportunity for students to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and explore career pathways that align with their passions and skills.”

Across 18 courses, the Technology Council has trained more than 1,600 Indigenous Peoples living in BC and has seen a 35% higher completion rate than non-Indigenous programs.

All current or past learners of either the Technology Council or TECHNATION who identify as Indigenous are invited to attend, whether still enrolled in courses or well into their careers. Free registration is available here.

In partnership with TECHNATION, the industry-government nexus for technology prosperity in Canada, the career summit also provides a forum for employers to showcase their commitment to reconciliation and digital equity.

"As Canada's leading technology association, TECHNATION is committed to reconciliation, aligning our programming with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 92. Indigenous peoples represent 4% of Canada's population but less than 2% of the STEM workforce, therefore, it is vital to bridge this gap,” said Angela Mondou, President and CEO of TECHNATION. "This event will connect TECHNATION members with Indigenous talent, and we encourage the broader tech industry to partner with organizations like ours to build a workforce that better reflects our population. Our partnership and mission with FNTC is to bring equitable access to jobs, training, and education for Indigenous professionals."

Companies interested in attending the career summit as employers are encouraged to contact events@technologycouncil.ca. Sponsorship packages are also available.

About the First Nations Technology Council

The First Nations Technology Council is an Indigenous-led, innovative non-profit mandated by First Nations leadership in British Columbia. We work to advance digital literacy, improve internet connectivity, and provide guidance on data and digital technology for all 204 First Nations across the province.

About TECHNATION

TECHNATION is Canada’s leading technology association, uniting industry, government and communities to drive economic prosperity across the nation. Our members encompass Canadian and global SMEs, multinationals and innovators who contribute to enhancing Canada’s economic growth and global competitiveness through technology. At TECHNATION, we champion digital innovation, technology prosperity and shape tech policy through advocacy, thought leadership, talent development, networking and business development opportunities. Learn more at www.technationcanada.ca.

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