Advanced Digital and Professional Training (ADaPT) for Indigenous and Young Adults

Build digital skills. Access new career opportunities. Shape your future.

ADaPT for Indigenous and Young Adults is a free skills-training and work-integrated learning program open to Indigenous and young adults across Manitoba, including those living in northern and remote communities.

You’ll learn in-demand digital and professional skills, get one-to-one career coaching and connect with employers ready to hire.

What is ADaPT for Indigenous and Young Adults?

ADaPT for Indigenous and Young Adults combines instructor-led workshops with optional self-paced online learning, plus dedicated coaching and job-matching support. It is inspired by the ADaPT national model designed to close the gap between job seekers and the skills employers need.

• 70+ hours of training across digital, professional and job-search skills.
• Culturally responsive, trauma-informed delivery shaped with Indigenous guidance and community input.
• No cost to participants.

Who can apply?

This program is open to Indigenous and young adults across Manitoba, including those living in northern and remote communities who are:

• A recent graduate or in your final months of post-secondary study
• Comfortable with basic digital tools, such as Microsoft Office or Google Workspace
• Motivated to build skills, confidence and gain work experience

What will you learn?

Skills for success

• Career development strategies
• Personal branding
• Communication in a digital workplace
• Understanding workplace expectations and rights

Digital skills

• Google Workspace and Microsoft 365
• Cybersecurity essentials
• Social media, SEO and analytics
• Canva and digital design tools
• HTML and CSS fundamentals
• Practical AI skills for real workplaces

Job-search skills

• Resumes and cover letters
• Mock interviews and feedback
• Using AI to support your job search
• Networking and employer meet-and-greets

What you will earn

Participants who complete at least 80% of live workshops earn an RRC Polytech micro-credential. Self-paced learners receive a certificate through the online learning platform.

Program overview

• Free program
• Two cohorts beginning April 27, 2026, and May 25, 2026
• Live virtual workshops, with recordings for flexible access
• Self-paced modules you can complete on your own schedule
• Learning circles and community knowledge sharing
• One-to-one career coaching throughout the program
• Wraparound supports based on need, including counselling, technology support and transportation assistance

Work-integrated learning (WIL) and career support

ADaPT for Indigenous and Young Adults prepares you for meaningful employment through personalized coaching and hands-on preparation. You’ll work with your WIL coordinator and career coach on resumes, interviews and job search strategies. You’ll also participate in employer information sessions, mock interviews and hiring conversations with the goal of securing a paid work placement with an employer partner.

Information sessions for prospective participants

Learn how the program works, what to expect and how to prepare your application. A recording will be available for those with limited internet access.

Register now:

Employer participation

Employers are vital to the success of ADaPT. By partnering with the program, you play a direct role in shaping Manitoba’s future workforce while gaining access to talented, emerging professionals who are ready to contribute.

There is no cost for employers to participate in ADaPT.

Employers hire participants into paid placements, but there are no program fees associated with accessing or onboarding talent through ADaPT.

Wage subsidies may be available to eligible employers through TECHNATION’s Career Ready Program. Additional details are available on the TECHNATION website.

Benefits of partnering with ADaPT:

• Access to a diverse, emerging talent pool trained with employer‑validated skills
• Improved access to talent in remote, Northern, and Indigenous communities
• Lower onboarding friction through structured tools and program supports
• Improved retention through mentorship and prepared early‑career professionals
• Community impact and social value through equitable hiring and rural/Indigenous engagement
• Contribution to a resilient Manitoba workforce that meets future digital demands

Ready to partner with the ADaPT for Indigenous Youth program?

Complete the employer intake form

How to apply

The process includes a short online form and a brief interview for selected applicants. You can identify any wraparound supports you may need during the intake process.

Frequently asked questions

Joint advisory committee

The ADaPT Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) is a collaborative advisory body representing TECHNATION’s Indigenous Advisory Group, Red River College Polytech, and the Diversity Institute. The JAC members provide high-level guidance to ensure the ADaPT program remains impactful and culturally grounded.

Members and titles:

• Matthew Foss, VP Research & Public Policy – CCIB
  • Representing the Diversity Institute
• Darian Kovacs, Partner – Jelly Academy
  • Representing the Diversity Institute
• Taz McKay, Learning Hub Coordinator – Minegoziibe Anishinabe Kina Maaga Gamik
  • Representing Red River College Polytech
• Kaley Ramage, Student – University of Calgary
  • Representing TECHNATION
• Angie Saltman, President and Partner – Saltmedia & IT Horizons
  • Representing TECHNATION

Program partners/funders: