Our role as development advisor on this transformative project is to guide and support the planning and execution of a state-of-the-art tradeschool that meets the educational and economic goals of York Factory First Nation.

1️⃣ Visioning & Strategic Planning

• Collaborated with community leadership to define project goals, program requirements, and long-term benefits.

• Supported integration of cultural values and priorities into the tradeschool concept.

2️⃣ Stakeholder Coordination

• Facilitated alignment among key partners including CMHC, ISC, and UoM to secure technical guidance, funding pathways, and program support.

• Provided advisory input on agreements, roles, and responsibilities.

3️⃣ Site Planning & Design Advisory

• Advised on optimal site selection, building orientation, and layout to enhance functionality and sustainability.

• Promoted design approaches that support energy efficiency and adaptability for future expansion.

4️⃣ Capacity Building & Community Engagement

• Encouraged strategies for local workforce participation during construction and operations.

• Supported planning for trades programming that meets community and regional labour needs.

5️⃣ Ongoing Support

• Continued advisory assistance through design finalization, permitting, and pre-construction phases.

• Ensuring alignment with funding and regulatory requirements at each milestone.

💡 This tradeschool project represents a major step in strengthening skills development, economic independence, and community resilience for York Factory First Nation.