Estevan’s Tech Hub is making waves beyond Saskatchewan. Gordon More, Executive Director of the Southeast Tech Hub, visited Drayton Valley last week to share insights from Estevan’s growing tech scene and demonstrate how rural communities can embrace innovation to thrive.

“It was an honor to step into Drayton Valley with the knowledge and experience we’ve been building here in Estevan,” said More. “The first thing I asked the group was how many people had heard of Estevan, and everyone had. Then I asked how many had connections to the city, and again, everyone raised their hands. That shows the reach and recognition our community has achieved.”

The visit highlighted the challenges that small communities face when innovation disrupts traditional industries. Like Estevan, Drayton Valley contends with a digital skills gap, particularly in areas critical to sustainable growth. Local industries, youth retention, and technological adaptation are all part of the conversation.

Programs like Southeast College’s computer science training projects, led by Tanya Andrist and Ryan Gustafson, were identified as key initiatives that address both youth out-migration and industry digital needs. The Tech Hub model, which engages youth in solving real industry problems, impressed Drayton Valley stakeholders.

“Both our youth and local businesses are facing the same challenges,” More said. “When young people leave for education or jobs in tech, it creates gaps in our communities. Similarly, local businesses need support navigating technology changes, like migrating from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Programs that bridge that gap are vital.”

The visit also emphasized the entrepreneurial spirit that exists in rural areas. More toured a local machine shop in Drayton Valley and noted similarities to Estevan. “This is a place where creative ideas turn into real products shipped around the world. That is what we’re seeing in both communities,” he said.

The takeaways for other rural communities include collaboration, community-driven programs, and embracing technology to retain talent and ensure local industries thrive. Estevan’s example is not only inspiring but replicable across the prairies.

“People are watching what we’re doing,” More added. “It is a testament to the fact that when communities come together to innovate, the results speak for themselves.”

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