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).
Devon joined Polytechnics Canada as a policy analyst in January 2022. His work focuses on policy research and writing related to supporting learners for a changing labour market and enabling innovation activity through applied research. Devon holds a Master of Arts in Political Studies and Bachelor of Arts, Honours in Political Studies, both from Queen’s University.
Alyssa joined Polytechnics Canada as a policy analyst in January 2023. Her work focuses on policy research, writing and advocacy related to diversity and inclusion, supporting lifelong learners, and innovation capacity through applied research. Alyssa holds a Juris Doctor degree specialized in Aboriginal and Indigenous law, Honours Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Criminology, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, all from Lakehead University.
Elizabeth joined Polytechnics Canada in October 2022. Her role is supporting the communications team in planning and creating content that will help further advocacy goals and build awareness for polytechnic education. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Sciences Po Campus de Reims.
Matt joined Polytechnics Canada in February 2017. He leads the policy team in the research, writing, advocacy and government relations that supports member institutions. Matt’s research and writing focuses on post-secondary education, workforce development, and innovation. He currently manages a number of member working groups, including the Vice Presidents, Academic from each institution.
Matt holds a Master’s degree in International Public Policy from the Balsillie School of International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Alex joined Polytechnics Canada in January 2021. She 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.