AGA: Education and Employment Sector Director Report

By Ray Warden
Interim Sector Director (Senior Manager)

Hi Everyone,

Starting in September 2020 I have been serving as Director of the Education and Employment Sector and so far it’s been a remarkable experience.

Key learnings from this reassignment are many – from getting to know what drives the sector, its systems, processes and the people that make it happen, to gaining a more in-depth understanding of how we work together/support other KNC sectors, Ktunaxa communities, citizens and youth.

My previous role as KNC Lands Director allows me to see the direct connection with our stewardship responsibility to ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa and the role Education and Employment Sector can do to support capacity building of Ktunaxa People.

Three examples that come to mind are:

The Qat’muk Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) located in the Purcell Mountains;

the recent KNC-Teck Coal Conservation Lands Joint Management Agreement in the Elk and Flathead Valleys;

and taking the next steps in implementing aʔknusti (Ktunaxa Lands Guardian) Initiative, all of which require strong collaboration between KNC sectors, communities and citizens including Ktunaxa youth and elders.

From a personal perspective, it is quite awesome to see the many Ktunaxa People on the path of achieving their high-school diplomas to eagerly pursuing post-secondary education and finding employment opportunities of one’s personal choice.

I’m very glad that we have capacity in place to support citizens to the best degree possible and also would like to express appreciation to the Federal and provincial departments, funders and local businesses for the support provided in furthering our objectives.

Ray Warden

Interim Director (Senior Manager)
Education and Employment Sector