When Deep Pandya’s parents logged in to view the livestream of his convocation ceremony from their home in Gujarat, India just over a year ago, they were amazed to see their son speaking on behalf of his graduating class in front of an audience of more than 1,000 and not just crossing the stage to receive his Supply Chain Management post-graduate certificate as expected.
“They were so happy for me” remembers Pandya, “because they saw a completely different person from the introvert they knew back home. There, I was in my room a lot. I read and kept to myself and was not social. They are proud that I came out of my comfort zone here in Canada.”
Today, Pandya is the executive assistant to the CEOs at the Construction Associations of Saskatchewan—a role that keeps him on his toes coordinating the boards and committees for five construction associations in the province. “We have been working towards unifying into a single entity. Currently there are five separate associations: the Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Saskatchewan construction associations,” explains Pandya. “It’s been an exciting start to my career.”
Pandya began working with the Saskatchewan construction associations right after graduation in June, 2023. “Everything I did up until that point prepared me for this new role,” he says. Arriving in Canada with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, the international student wanted to pursue his interest in business and policy. “A classmate from my program in India reached out from Ontario and said, ‘Don’t come here, it’s too chaotic,’” says Pandya. He suggested I look at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s program options so that’s where I decided to start my education journey in Canada.”
Pandya enrolled in the Business Management post-graduate certificate program, following that with a second post-graduate certificate in supply chain management. “At first, it was a shock,” remembers Pandya. “I remember about my drive from Regina to Moose Jaw. I wondered where on earth I was going. Time went quickly, though, and I adjusted.”
“They were both great programs,” he says. “The courses were very practical and our instructors encouraged us to think outside the box and on our feet. In my second term we had a project working with a crown corporation to find a solution to a business problem. I had to do research, prepare quotes—all helpful in preparing me for future work. I now use what I learned every day. The terminology I learned is all relevant.”
Outside the classroom, Pandya also found new opportunities to keep him busy and engaged. “I heard about the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Students’ Association (SPSA) and decided to get involved,” he explains. “Elections were over for the current year but when an opportunity came up to apply I did.”
Pandya didn’t have experience but his interest in business, policy and governance was a good fit for the work the SPSA was doing. “I got to meet the Minister of Advanced Education to bring forth issues. Soon after I joined the Saskatchewan Polytechnic board of directors as a student representative. That gave me the opportunity to do a public sector governance certificate through the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan and from there I was hooked. I’m really interested in the legislative process. Being part of student leadership was a great opportunity to expand my learning in this area.”
As a students’ association representative, Pandya attended events across the country, visiting other colleges and polytechnics and drafting a report on best practices, which he presented to Sask Polytech’s leadership team.
In his second year at Sask Polytech, Pandya took on the role of president for the SPSA, another opportunity that added to his higher learning and credentials. “My experience in student government was instrumental to my success at Sask Polytech and in the transition to my career,” says Pandya. “One of my biggest memories was passing on the role of SPSA president to my successor. Minister Gord Wyant invited the SPSA into the legislative assembly and introduced us from the gallery. It was a huge surprise and is a wonderful memory.”
“I’ve become an advocate for Sask Polytech,” says Pandya, “because I had a good experience and want to share that with others. Sask Polytech offers quality education with a focus on academic integrity. The programs are agile in terms of what industry wants. We are industry ready when we graduate.”
“Two more of my family members and friends have come here on my advice. My experience visiting other institutions through student government gave me a unique perspective. I am happy to tell others to come to Saskatchewan to learn.”
Pandya is satisfied with where his journey has taken him and looks forward to what the future brings, saying, “I like this job. Every day is interesting. I’m on the other side of the table now, advocating for these organizations. Everything I did prepared me for this—a combination of education and volunteer positions through the SPSA. Every morning is fresh and I’m happy to work on new things. I like the people here—we’re a great team. I’d also like to continue to acquire knowledge, maybe through a Sask Polytech micro credential in leadership.”
Pandya reflects on Saskatchewan’s provincial motto, Multis e gentibus vires (From many peoples strength), saying, “The spirit in Saskatchewan is to help each other. I like that, and it’s made me want to stay.”
Pandya’s parents have yet to visit their son in his new home, but he knows they are proud and happy for his success. “They still can’t pronounce Saskatchewan,” he says. “It makes me laugh. Every time the pronunciation changes. They just know I’m in a good place.”
For more information about studying in Canada, visit saskpolytech.ca/international.
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