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Meet Olivia, who recently was awarded the Sgt. Bruce MacPhail Award for Academic Excellence after completing our  Police Supervisory Skills certificate. When Olivia first joined the program, she brought with her a wealth of experience from the high-stakes world of emergency communications. Yet, she recognized the potential for growth, a desire to expand her leadership capabilities. It's always inspiring to see a student like Olivia, who balances demanding work with personal commitments, embraces the challenge of further education. Her story underscores the importance of accessible, flexible learning, and the remarkable outcomes that can be achieved when dedication meets opportunity.  Read on to learn how Olivia transformed her career and gained valuable skills that allowed her to advance her career.      

1. What was your job or career before enrolling in the certificate?

Before enrolling in the certificate, I was a 911 operator for the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and worked here while completing my certificate. Before moving to Cape Breton, I worked as an Ambulance Communicator (911 Ambulance Dispatcher) for seven years in Windsor, Ontario.

2.      Did the program fit your existing career path?

The Police Supervisory Skills certificate did fit my existing career path. I graduated from the program in June 2025 and was hired as a Civilian Business Manager for the Cape Breton Regional Police Service in November 2025. I oversee the management of the civilian staff in the police department so courses that I’ve taken focusing on Human Resource Management as well as the entirety of the certificate in Police Supervisory Skills fit perfectly.

3. What were you hoping to gain from enrolling? Did you gain something different?

I was hoping to gain significant knowledge/skills on how to effectively become a leader in the workplace. I also sought to gain knowledge in legislation surrounding human resources and human rights. What I also gained was more self-confidence within this program as there were a significant amount of group projects and TEAM meetings throughout the course.

4. How did you find the courses? Did the flexibility accommodate your work and personal commitments?

I found the courses to be relevant to the field I was in, as well as to the role I was preparing for. The flexibility of the online format gave me plenty of time to finish my studies while also being a mother to two young children and working full-time shift work in an emergency services capacity.

5. What were the instructors like?

The instructors were very approachable, knowledgeable, and flexible. They were open to extending deadlines if I had an IT issue that couldn’t be remedied immediately.

6. What was the overall learning experience like?

The overall learning experience was great. I didn’t feel rushed or pressured due to strict timelines. I had access to instructors at various times and it was beneficial to be able to learn remotely and at my own pace.

7. What specific skills or knowledge did you gain from the program? Did any courses stand out to you?

Specific skills that I gained from the program focused on professionalism, leadership, business management, budgeting, and creating organization-specific work plans. The courses that stood out were Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, and Human Resource Management.

8. How has the certificate progressed, or changed your career? Did it lead to a promotion, new job, or more responsibilities?

I believe that the certificate led to a promotion. I was able to apply for the newly developed position, Civilian Business Manager, within the Cape Breton Regional Police. I had the qualifications required to apply for the position as well as the skills to grow professionally within the organization.

9. How have you applied these new skills or knowledge to your work?

Yes, I have applied these skills at work. Understanding human resource legislation helps to guide communication and decision-making. Having skills in negotiation and conflict resolution helps in managing professional relationships within the organization, as well as with external stakeholders.

10. Do you have any advice for those looking to develop their career?

I highly encourage those who wish to further their careers or to make a career change to enroll in professional development. It is very flexible and does not impede on other responsibilities due to the ability to learn at your own pace. I am an advocate of lifelong learning and I believe the more you know, the more confident you’ll be.

Let’s take a moment to congratulate Olivia on all her success! Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that professional growth is a continuous, adaptable process. From the fast-paced world of emergency dispatch to the strategic leadership of a Civilian Business Manager, she demonstrates that with determination, lifelong learning, and the right support, career transformations are not only possible but profoundly rewarding. Her story encourages us all to embrace opportunities for growth, celebrate the flexibility of modern education, and recognize that the pursuit of knowledge is a catalyst for both professional and personal empowerment.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Visit our programs to find your next professional development opportunity.