As the Digital Innovation and Leadership (DIAL) initiative celebrates three years of empowering professionals and organizations, it reflects on a transformative journey in shaping Canada’s workforce for the AI-driven digital economy. By offering a systems change solution for Canadian employers, DIAL provides access to new talent and rapid upskilling for current employees, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
3 Years of DIAL Impacts:
- Thriving Alumni Community: With over 700 graduates, DIAL alumni are driving innovation and transforming industries across Canada, breaking down silos, and fostering cross-departmental collaboration.
- Elevated Organizational Impact: Partnering with over 200 organizations, DIAL bridges the gap between academia, industry, and the public sector, delivering tangible, lasting impact across diverse sectors.
- Experiential Learning with Real Impact: Over 20 successful student-led projects have connected participants with top Canadian employers, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.
- Empowered Leaders Across Sectors: Participants from small to medium-sized enterprises, not-for-profits, and Indigenous-led organizations gained leadership skillsets to navigate complex digital landscapes, ensuring their organizations remain adaptable and resilient.
- Fostering Inclusivity: DIAL remains committed to fostering diversity and representation, creating a dynamic and equitable workforce prepared for the digital age.
- AI-Enhanced Curriculum: Continuous program updates ensure DIAL stays at the forefront of market needs, integrating cutting-edge AI and digital innovation into its offerings.
- Addressing Job Market Gaps: The program bridges critical skill gaps, equipping professionals with digital and leadership capabilities that are highly sought after by employers in an evolving economy.
“The DIAL initiative reflects DIGITAL’s commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable digital skilling opportunities that champion diversity, strengthen communities, and cultivate a highly skilled digital talent pool—making a meaningful difference for B.C. and Canada.” – Sue Paish, CEO, DIGITAL
“SFU is committed to making a difference for B.C. and Canada through educational programs that support industry and businesses to meet their goals. Through upskilling and training initiatives such as the DIAL program, we are helping businesses to adapt and flourish in the AI-driven digital economy.” – Joy Johnson, President & Vice-Chancellor, Simon Fraser University
Read more on the DIAL initiative here.