My name is Lisa Fitzsimmons and I am Métis of the Métis Nation of Alberta. I found out about Trade Winds from Rupersland Institute when I was inquiring about what programs where available to get me employed. I was really excited and motivated to enroll […]
Tansi, my name is Agathe-Mae Steinhauer. I am from Saddle Lake Cree Nation Alberta and have a daughter whom I raise on my own. I grew up in Edmonton, Alberta, and I didn’t really have the best upbringing due to the fact that both of […]
My name is Ladaria Scott, from the Kinistin Saulteaux Nation in Saskatchewan under the Treaty Four territory. I am 27 years old and became independent at a young age who bounced between Saskatchewan and Alberta as I grew. I now live in Edmonton, Alberta working […]
I am North Slave Dene, born and raised in Inuvik, Northwest Territories. I moved to Edmonton in September 2018 to try and build a different life. I wasn’t happy with the one I had in Inuvik. Unfortunately, I gave into my past trauma and became […]
January 29, 2025 Edmonton, AB A momentous step forward was taken in the advancement of the Indigenous workforce as Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, Steven MacKinnon, officially announced an investment of $5 million over five years for Trade Winds to Success’ Residential Construction […]
Edmonton, Alberta – December 6, 2024 The continued success of Trade Winds to Success is driven by partnerships that result in a comprehensive training and support system for its students. On December 6th, the Government of Alberta announced their pivotal partnership with Trade Winds through […]
In 2019, Lonnie Machatis, a member of Cold Lake First Nation, found himself at a crossroads. After spending years working in the oil fields as a Rig Technician, he felt the pull to shift gears and pursue a new career path. His sights were set […]
“I discovered a goal to reach for, with a sparkle in my eyes.” Dante Houle grew up in Wabasca, Alberta, a small reservation town where everyone knew who you were. He says he was never a great student, especially when it came to math. After […]
The journey of Trade Winds to Success is a story of vision, resilience, and impact. It began in the late 1990s as a series of discussions to address Alberta’s need for skilled tradespeople while creating opportunities for Indigenous communities. These conversations took root, growing into […]
“The best decision I ever made.” Justin Halcrow grew up in gang violence, where things were very dark for him at a young age. After serving time in the Drumheller Penitentiary, Justin knew it was time for a change. “I was sick of trying to […]
