"Pace gave me insights from the technical aspects of this industry to landing my first job here in Canada," says Juan Bernardo Santos, who graduated from the Project Management Diploma program at UWinnipeg PACE in April 2023.
Originally from the Philippines, Juan is now working as a Project Manager at the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba, a role he credits PACE for helping him obtain.
"I chose PACE because of its relevance to my experience. I wanted to hone my skills further in this field, and it is an understatement to say that PACE helped me," Juan says. "Now, I'm working as a project manager at the Workers' Compensation Board. Without PACE, I wouldn't have been able to get my first job here that is related to my work experience back home."
As an internationally educated civil engineer and PMP-certified professional, Juan's passion for innovation drives him to continuously develop new skills and embrace the latest trends in project management. He believes success lies not just in delivering projects efficiently, but in creating a positive impact on people's lives.
Juan emphasizes the importance of trusting the process and diligently following PACE's guidance. "Another thing I want to emphasize is that trusting the process and following PACE's guidance from the start will make a significant difference."
Juan's success story highlights how PACE's project management program equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to transition seamlessly into his professional journey in Canada, aligning with his experience and aspirations.
Munira shares that embarking on the Financial Management Diploma at PACE in January 2022 was a pivotal step in her career. Originally from Pakistan, Munira chose PACE for its reputable curriculum and the promise of real-world applicability.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Munira notes, “The education and experiences with the professors gave me insight into what to expect in a Canadian workplace and what a Canadian employer would expect as well.” This holistic understanding proved invaluable as she transitioned into her current role as a Corporate, Compliance Privacy, and Risk Analyst at Manitoba Blue Cross.
She mentions that her days at PACE were challenging yet enriching, shaped by a rigorous curriculum designed to mimic the pressures and demands of a professional environment. “I was part of a two-year program, which was strenuous yet rewarding. I've seen students take it easy towards the end, and that's where you lose your way,” Munira observes.
Munira’s success is a testament to the efficacy of PACE’s educational model, preparing students not just academically but also for the nuanced demands of the Canadian job market. Her advice to students echoes her own practices: “You need to know what you need to do throughout the program, right from the start to the end.” Munira’s emphasis on planning and maintaining consistency throughout the program was her secret to success.
For prospective students considering PACE, Munira’s story exemplifies the transformative potential of dedicated study and the practical rewards of a well-rounded educational experience. Her journey from Pakistan to a crucial role at Manitoba Blue Cross underscores the global relevance and impact of the education provided at PACE.
Munira Stationers Corporate, Compliance Privacy and Risk Analyst Manitoba Blue Cross
Financial Management Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
"Joining PACE was a transformative decision for me," shares Sanchit Shangari, who completed his Marketing Management diploma in January 2024. Sanchit’s journey at PACE began with a curiosity and passion for digital marketing, which evolved into expertise through hands-on learning experiences.
“The courses at PACE are designed to meet the highest industry standards, and the faculty comprises professionals who are actively engaged in the marketing sector,” Sanchit explains. His academic projects, often centered around real-life case studies from local Winnipeg employers, not only enhanced his learning but also helped him establish a strong network within the professional community.
After graduating, Sanchit secured a role as the Digital Marketing and Student Engagement Coordinator at PACE, where he applies his knowledge daily. “The transition from student to professional was seamless, thanks to the quality of education and guidance I received at PACE,” he notes.
One of the highlights of his education was the classroom environment. “You get to share the class with industry professionals with years of experience and get taught by experts with extensive Canadian experience. The quality of education will leave you satisfied and land you a job with a top employer,” Sanchit enthusiastically states.
Reflecting on his time at PACE, Sanchit believes that the practical approach to education is what sets PACE apart. “What I learned during my time as a student at PACE has helped me tremendously because I use it every day. I highly recommend becoming a part of this wonderful institution because here you'll not only learn from the instructors but also from your fellow classmates.”
For current and prospective students, Sanchit offers invaluable advice: “Networking is crucial. PACE provides several networking opportunities through various events and professional associations. Be a part of these associations and become an integral part of the Winnipeg community.”
Through his success story, Sanchit hopes to inspire others to explore the opportunities at PACE, encouraging them to take advantage of the well-rounded educational experiences and the thriving professional network it offers.
Sanchit Shangari Digital Marketing and Communications Coordinator PACE, The University of Winnipeg
Marketing Management Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
“I chose PACE because it felt like the perfect choice for continuing education,” says Aseem Attrey, who graduated from the Advanced Business Management program at UWinnipeg PACE in 2021.
Aseem’s cohort completed their entire program online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I loved interacting with my classmates and the instructors, I learned a lot from them and made some lifelong friends, despite not getting to be on campus,” he says.
Prior to studying at PACE, Aseem earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Delhi University and a Diploma in International Business Operations from Indira Gandhi National Open University in India.
“Advanced Business Management is one of the best programs to choose. It teaches you so many different aspects of business, from accounting to project management and even adaptive leadership,” says Aseem.
Aseem works in Accounting Services at Trevello, a Canadian leader in travel industry marketing and support services. He says his experience at PACE helped prepare him for the Canadian workplace.
“PACE gave me a head start in the Canadian corporate world and helped me to understand Canadian work culture,” says Aseem. “Additionally, the University is very well recognized among the employers here.”
Aseem says his experience at PACE taught him a lot about teamwork, which has helped him in his workplace.
“I would say that my most valuable lesson was how to work in teams and how to be a good listener and respect your team’s opinion even when you disagree with them. PACE has helped me be a good team player.”
“Taking this program was a great decision and I ended up being successful in my dreams and building so many good relationships,” says Aseem.
Aseem Attrey Membership and Engagement Specialist Manitoba Trucking Association
Advanced Business Management Post-Degree Program for International Students
"Graduating from PACE in the Artificial Intelligence Diploma program was the beginning of a rewarding journey," says Yuri H. Galvao. The immersive learning environment and diverse community at PACE provided Yuri with a foundation that extends beyond academic knowledge.
Reflecting on his time at PACE, Yuri remarks, "I had the opportunity to meet amazing people from all around the world. I learned from incredible instructors who are experts in their fields, and I had an exceptional experience in the ever-welcoming city of Winnipeg, Manitoba." This global exposure and expert guidance equipped him with a unique perspective on artificial intelligence and data science, fields that are pivotal to his current roles.
Currently, Yuri is making strides as a Software Engineer at JasperVOCAL, as well as Web Developer at PrintPro Digital while also managing responsibilities as a full stack web developer at a local print shop and a data engineer at a Winnipeg startup. His roles involve harnessing the power of AI to develop solutions that are both innovative and effective.
Yuri's journey is a testament to the practical and impactful education provided at PACE. "Seize this opportunity and get the most from the materials and the instructors that you have or will have here at PACE," he advises current students. This proactive approach has enabled Yuri to apply his learning directly to his professional tasks, showcasing the real-world applicability of the PACE curriculum.
For those contemplating a journey at PACE, Yuri’s story is a beacon of potential, highlighting how the institute not only nurtures technical skills but also fosters connections that are crucial in the professional world.
Yuri H. Galvao Current Designation: Software Engineer, JasperVOCAL Web Developer, PrintPro Digital
Artificial Intelligence Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
“One of the primary reasons I chose this program was its comprehensive approach, beginning with fundamental concepts and concluding with advanced AI models,” says Gisela Sanchez, who earned her Artificial Intelligence Diploma from UWinnipeg PACE in 2023.
“While I had prior experience in data, analytics, and business, I recognized that I needed to improve my skills and knowledge in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The program facilitated this growth by leading me through each step of the development process,” she says.
Gisela says the highlight of her experience at PACE was learning from the diverse background of instructors and classmates in the program. She added that connecting the instructors, classmates, and PACE staff team has helped build her professional network in the local community.
“[The program] presents an excellent opportunity to connect with highly skilled professionals in the industry, learn from them, and build a network” says Gisela. “This experience provided me with invaluable insights into the skills and knowledge required to be a valued contributor of the local workforce.”
After completing her program, Gisela landed a role as IT Consultant at Integrationworx Ltd. In her role, Gisela leverages the skills she acquired at PACE in AI and machine learning. She credits her ability to integrate and analyze data, design impactful visuals, and help clients to make informed decisions.
“I enjoyed this one-year, full-time course. It was the perfect time for me to enhance my technical and soft skills, enabling me to make more significant contributions in the local market,” she says.
“The most memorable point of the program for me was midway when I connected the dots between what I had learned previously and the application of AI models,” Gisela says. Before studying at PACE, she held a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Business Administration at the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina; and an MBA, which finished at Kellogg School of Management, USA.
Gisela leveraged the internship opportunity in her program and completed a 4-week placement with EMILI Canada. EMILI Canada is a firm that works with industry and academia to accelerate the adoption of intelligent technologies in digital agriculture.
“After the AI program, I got a job in the data field” she says. “While my background and prior experience were important, I believe that taking this program greatly enhanced my chances of getting a great job opportunity that would have been challenging to achieve otherwise.”
Gisela’s advice to aspiring PACE students? Embrace the program as an opportunity for academic growth, cultural enrichment, and networking.
“The program is not only an academic pursuit but also an immersion into the Canadian experience. ,” she says. “I gained a better understanding of Canadian culture, developed new skills and knowledge, and, most significantly, built connections with local peers . Additionally, the program gave to me a Canadian credential, which is recognized both in Canada and worldwide.”
“The field of AI is highly valued in Canada and worldwide, and undertaking an AI program can be a great opportunity to start learning from scratch and become a master in this field, says Gisela. “As companies in Manitoba increasingly require AI capabilities, the PACE program is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in this market. As a student, experienced professional, tech lover, and newcomer to Canada, I am immensely grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of this program and complete it with such a valuable professional experience.”
“I chose PACE because of the opportunity to update my professional knowledge in supply chain, improve my management skills, and the opportunity to get a Post Graduation Work Permit following the program,” says Albani Da Silva, who earned her Supply Chain Management Diploma from UWinnipeg PACE in 2022.
“PACE helped me to enhance my professional knowledge and managerial skills to be able to apply them to find solutions to achieve the best outcomes,” she says, adding that the program also helped her understand the workplace culture in Canada.
After graduating, Albani landed a position on the recruitment team at PACE and has since moved into another role as interim Program Coordinator of our Part Time and Web Development programs. As Program Coordinator, Albani works to ensure PACE continues to offer the best experience in our programs to increase our students’ knowledge and improve their skills to support them in achieving their professional goals.
Albani says the program’s diversity was a significant aspect that left a lasting impression on her. She says being part of a diverse class consisting of individuals from various cultures and backgrounds enriched her learning experience. Collaborating with professional instructors and classmates from different walks of life broadened her horizons and provided unique perspectives.
“My most valuable lesson from PACE was understanding other people’s cultures and respecting them accordingly,” says Albani. “I learned how in Canada we all are welcome no matter where we come from.”
She offers some valuable advice for aspiring students interested in a program at PACE.
“I would also suggest they keep in contact with PACE staff before and after being admitted to the program,” she says and adds that attending events like the webinars offered to prospective AND admitted students are a helpful resource to get valuable information and to be able to clarify any questions.
"My graduation ceremony was my most memorable moment," says Albani. "I was able to share and celebrate all my effort with my family in person, my husband, my twins, and my mother-in-law, and also with my family in Spain who was able to join the ceremony in real-time via the live steam."
Albani Da Silva Program Coordinator PACE, The University of Winnipeg
Supply Chain Management Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
“PACE helped me bridge the gap between my prior experience and current industry trends," says Amit Saini, Senior Data Engineer at Economic Development Winnipeg, the city’s lead economic development agency and champion for local growth.
“The curriculum offered best matched my learning goals and predilections within an optimized duration,” says Amit, who had a formal education gap of 17 years before deciding to pursue a post-degree program.
Prior to studying at PACE, Amit held a Bachelor’s degree in Technology (Electronics and Communication) and a Post-Grad in Advanced Digital System Design from the University of Pune, in north-western India.
In his role as Senior Data Engineer, Amit converts complex data into usable insights that improve business operations and outcomes for Economic Development Winnipeg's business development teams. He also proactively looks at improving existing processes and research to see how to best harness the vast amount of data for the betterment of Winnipeg.
“My program was unique because we got to work on real world problems under the guidance of the instructors who are masters of their streams,” says Amit. “The content has been well-designed by keeping the latest trends in the industry in mind. You get many opportunities to interact with industry professionals to make connections.”
Amit says the range of students from different backgrounds in his cohort helped him understand different viewpoints for solving the same problem. His graduating class has 23 students from 10 different countries with a range of educational backgrounds and professional experience.
Amit says his most valuable lesson from PACE was to put in “an honest effort” to complete assignments on time. “If you put your honest efforts for the curriculum, the course gives back for your hard work.”
“If you are looking to upskill or change your field, this is the place for you,” says Amit to anyone considering taking the Predictive Analytics program. “The duration and content have been designed keeping in mind the diversity of the class.”
“If you are one who has played with data throughout your life or if the word “predictive analytics” sounds bizarre to you, this is the place which will make sure that you advanced to a level where you can enter the industry comfortably at the end of one year.”
Amit Saini Data Engineering Manager Economic Development Winnipeg
Predictive Analytics Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
“PACE helped me level up my marketing skills and ensure a smooth transition into the Canadian work culture,” says Shaily Nag, who earned her Marketing Management Diploma from UWinnipeg PACE in 2021. Shaily spent nine years working in various roles in the travel and tourism industry, each with a marketing component, before deciding to pivot a pursue a career fully focused on marketing.
“Marketing is a dynamic and ever-evolving field. Staying up to date with the latest trends and best practices is critical for success. PACE was the right place for me to be in order to connect with like-minded people and exchange knowledge,” says Shaily. Before studying at UWinnipeg PACE, Shaily earned an MBA in 2009 from the University of Liverpool, UK.
“The intense program at PACE helps students earn an additional credential and also opens the doors to a lifetime of professional opportunities. PACE attracts students worldwide, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment that is valuable in today’s globalized workforce.”
Shaily landed a job in client engagement at the Women’s Enterprise Centre of Manitoba the month after completing the internship component of her program. In her role at the Centre, she is responsible for various tasks that involve providing administrative, communication, and event support to internal and external program stakeholders. Women’s Enterprise Centre of Manitoba (WECM) supports women-owned and partnered businesses province-wide as they launch, scale, and expand their ventures.
“My favourite is creating WECM’s bi-weekly newsletter, which is tailored to serve the needs and interests of Manitoba’s business community,” says Shaily.
“Every day I take pride in applying the knowledge and experience gained from my time at PACE and my years of prior experience to my work. As a result of my PACE experience, I feel confident and capable of completing tasks in my current role and adding value to WECM’s service offerings,” she says.
Shaily was among the students who experienced the sudden pivot to online learning in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic reached Canada. Shaily reflected on the experience of pivoting to online learning coupled with being away from her husband and the rest of her family during those years.
“Since the shutdown in March 2020, we have all experienced a range of reactions, from pain and struggle to adjustment and triumph. Despite these obstacles, I am proud to say that I persevered and graduated with flying colours,” she says.
“In June 2022, after the travel restrictions were lifted, I finally reunited with my husband in Canada,” says Shaily. “It was an incredibly beautiful moment and one that I will cherish forever. On my Convocation day, it was even more special to have my husband by my side, supporting me as I achieved this important milestone.”
Shaily's advice to others pursuing a program at PACE: “Your patience, persistence, and perseverance are all key to your success.”
Shaily Nag Partner and Client Admin Women’s Enterprise Centre of Manitoba
Marketing Management Post-Degree Diploma for International Students
"I had been looking to shift my career from Supply Chain to HR when I came across PACE and the program, and the courses were perfect for me to get the education I needed to make a move in my career," says Alonso Aguayo Topete, who earned his Human Resource Management Diploma from UWinnipeg PACE in 2022.
Alonso says he found the PACE unique because of the industry-connected instructors in his program.
"The instructors are professionals that work in the HR field. All of them brought meaningful and valuable experience I could put into practice in the real world," says Alonso.
Alonso credits PACE with helping him reinvigorate his professional life.
"PACE helped me re-kindle the passion I was losing for my professional life. After PACE, I realized that I'm capable of much more than I gave myself credit for. PACE also served as a platform to find my current employment; without PACE, I would not be where I am today."
Alonso landed a role as a Recruitment Consultant at Pinnacle Staffing Solutions, a recruitment firm with two main areas of focus: staffing & recruiting and executive & professional search, shortly after graduation.
"My job is basically being a matchmaker between aspiring candidates and organizations to make sure they have a solid and rewarding professional relationship," says Alonso, who assists clients in finding the best talent to work in their organization by doing market research, interviewing, and selecting the best-suited talent for the opportunities.
Before studying at UWinnipeg PACE, Alonso earned a Bachelor's Degree in Administration and International Business from Universidad Panamericana in Mexico.
"PACE helped me understand the Canadian working culture," says Alonso. "Canada is such a diverse country, and PACE gave me the tools I needed to be able to thrive in a multicultural environment."
Alonso says the most memorable moment for him was hearing his name and walking to the stage to receive his diploma.
"Best feeling ever!" he says.
Alonso's advice to others taking the Human Resource Management program?
"Be ready to start your journey. This is a work-intensive program that will give you the necessary tools you need to consolidate your previous experience with new learning."
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