Sarah Watts-Rynard assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Polytechnics Canada in July 2018. Prior to this role, she served as Executive Director of the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum, supporting Canada’s apprenticeship community with research, promotion and by connecting stakeholders across trades, across sectors and across Canada.
Sarah has a degree in Journalism and English from Carleton University. Since graduating, she has built a career that includes time in government, the private sector and at skills-focused non-profit organizations. She has experience related to non-profit governance, fundraising, advocacy and marketing. She leads a team of passionate and dedicated employees committed to high-quality skills and innovation policy, reflecting the strengths of polytechnic education in Canada. In 2018, Sarah was awarded an honorary diploma in the Skilled Trades by Niagara College.
Sarah is Chair of the CWB Welding Foundation and Vice-Chair of the Canadian Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Trades and Technology (WinSETT Centre).
Kamila spearheads the development of strategic communications plans, event coordination and digital media initiatives with the aim of elevating the corporate brand of Polytechnics Canada and its members. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in History and Political Science from the University of Ottawa.
Alex oversees the operational activities for Polytechnics Canada and the CEO. She is also responsible for planning and executing projects and events that support the association’s advocacy initiatives and raise awareness about the polytechnic model of education. Alex holds a Master of Arts in Brand Management from Coventry University and a Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies from Carleton University.
Margaret coordinates the development of strategic communication plans, event coordination and digital initiatives that aim to elevate corporate branding. Margaret holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies from Carleton University. She has a background in strategic communications, multimedia design and social media management.
Diana’s work focuses on research, writing and advocacy related to innovation policy and the role of polytechnics within Canada’s science, technology and innovation ecosystem.
Her background includes academic research and teaching, as well as a consulting role, in which she led specialized research projects analyzing national research and innovation systems. Diana holds a Master of Arts in Public Affairs from Carleton University.
Jonathan’s work focuses on labour market development, legislative monitoring and tracking, mid-career training, and the newly-established Workforce Alliances. He brings a number of years of experience working in the federal government to this role, giving him a strong understanding of how polytechnics respond to federal objectives and priorities. He holds a Master of Political Management from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Studies from Queen’s University.