Resources and insights

Careers in Technology and Innovation 2025 year in review reflects a year of intentional building, focused on meaningful careers, deeper community, and long-term growth. From peer circles to CITI Advance, discover how CITI is evolving toward its next chapter, CITI 3.0.

Meet Abimbola, the EdTech innovator behind Ingenious Learners Academy (ILA), a fast-growing tutoring platform using technology and data to personalize learning for students from Grades 1–12. With a background spanning product management, IT, education, and data analytics, Abimbola is redefining what modern learning can look like. In this interview, she shares her journey from Nigeria to Canada, the turning-point moments that sparked her passion for educational technology, the challenges she overcame, and the digital tools she’s building to help students learn smarter. Her story is a powerful reminder of how technology, curiosity, and purpose can come together to transform education.

Discover the most in-demand tech leadership and advanced technical paths expected in Canada by 2026. A strategic guide for experienced developers, engineers, and tech leaders looking to elevate their careers and expand their influence.

Discover how Blaine Kovacik built a career at the intersection of technology, strategy, and people. From wildfire response to leading industrial tech transformation, Blaine shares lessons on adaptability, mentorship, and finding the right fit in tech.

Discover the top trends transforming Canada’s tech and innovation ecosystem, from AI and clean tech to digital transformation. Learn how professionals can develop hybrid skills and prepare for future-ready careers in a fast-changing world.

When Anna May Taylor says leadership, she doesn’t mean a title — she means creating the space for others to lead. As Director of Service Delivery, Anna’s day-to-day work looks less like command-and-control and more like connection: building opportunities, amplifying other people’s stories, and helping teammates find the confidence to own their career paths. “My role is about creating space for others to lead and grow. I help people own their stories and find their voice.” — Anna May Taylor

On September 26, 2025, Canada’s Innovation, Science and Economic Development arm announced a renewed push to define the country’s next AI strategy — this time with more public involvement and a mission-driven task force to guide the path forward.

Tune in for a monthly recap of August highlights for notable event and unique speaker insights

The Shifting Landscape for Canadian Startups in 2025 - Tune in for 5 Major Venture Capital Raises of 2025

Tech Talent Tuesday powered by CITI and Platform Calgary is the networking hub for inspiring tech leaders and recruitment opportunities. Learn more about its impact!

Careers in Technology & Innovation (CITI)'s blog has been revived, tune in for the latest updates and exciting changes made during summer 2025

Discover 5 EDI tips that could create significant progress in fostering inclusivity and innovation within Edmonton's tech industry.

The CITI Summary from the Spring 2024 Tech Talent Tour. Discover what’s holding back diverse professionals from finding meaningful employment.

A letter from our founder, Zachary Novak. Sharing where CITI has come from, what we have accomplished and where we are going next.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a city into a top-tier tech hub? Discover how Vancouver is rising as a top tech hub with insights from CITI and Vancouver Startup Week.

After delving into PMI.org's report titled “Pulse of the Profession 2024”, CITI member, Jeremy Rivard, shares his insights on the crucial role of enablers in driving project success. He discusses understanding enablers and how you can support them for success in your organization.

After a sudden career shift from over two decades in the oilfield to software development due to a pandemic layoff, Tracy embraced change and found a new purpose at CITI. His journey illustrates the power of adaptability, self-reflection, and the importance of community support in overcoming challenges and pursuing personal growth. Tracy's story is a testament to resilience and the willingness to learn, positioning him for future opportunities in an ever-evolving job market.

Barbara transitioned from environmental engineering in Brazil to front-end development in Canada, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Her journey underscores the importance of embracing change, learning from setbacks, and the power of community support in career transitions. Barbara's story is an inspiration for those contemplating a new career path.

For this years (2024) International Women's day we hosted three events. In the spirit of continuous learning and sharing, we have compiled some key insights and highlights from the discussions and activities that unfolded during the events.

Ksenia Soldatova highlights the shift in celebrating International Women's Day, stressing the importance of advocating for women's equality and empowerment. With extensive HR experience, she acknowledges progress in gender equity but underscores the need for ongoing efforts. She advises young women to seek mentorship and self-advocacy, emphasizing continuous support for women's advancement.

Careers In Technology and Innovation (CITI) is actively working to bridge the diversity gap in Calgary's rapidly growing tech industry. Following a successful four-part event series, the Tech Talent Impact Series, which resulted in over 50 hires from more than 450 jobseekers, CITI has outlined actionable recommendations based on comprehensive data and insights gathered. These focus on four key areas: Mentorship, Leadership Development, Career Growth and Professional Development, and Community Engagement.

Kareem's transition from petroleum engineering to software development underscores the importance of adaptability, networking, and community support in career development. His involvement with CITI highlights the value of meaningful work aligned with personal values. Kareem's journey reflects resilience and the significance of professional communities in achieving career goals.

Learn about Minaoar's transition from tech management to pursuing a master's in machine learning, followed by a return to the tech industry in Canada. Key to this journey were strategic networking, selective job applications, and leveraging resources like CITI and executive coaching. Minaoar's experience, marked by adaptability and continuous learning, offers insights and inspiration for professionals navigating career changes, especially in new environments.

Meet Radka, a remarkable woman who took an extraordinary journey from working in the legal field to the exciting world of technology and innovation. This wasn't just a job change; it was a big shift in her career and life.

After facing a layoff from his tech job, Alex Zaitsev used the setback as an opportunity to pursue his dream of relocating from Europe to Canada. He prioritized personal networking over traditional job applications, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and the Calgary IT Community (CITI) to build meaningful connections within the tech industry. Through proactive engagement, continuous learning, and sharing his expertise, Alex eventually secured a role at Kidoodle.TV, underscoring the significance of networking, adaptability, and a positive mindset in career success.

Think it's too late to pivot? Think again. This blog goes into the incredible journey of Jean Armstrong, who was able to re-enter the workforce after leaving it or over two decades.

Ever wonder what a career pivot looks like? Everybody's journey is different, but it is a life-changing experience for most people. Whether you are considering one or not, Adrian's blog shows the peaks, valleys, and learnings in his journey.

The history of CITI!