Students Awarded Certificates in BTEST’s First Supply Chain Management Program
Blood Tribe Communications Officer Henry Heavyshield
Standoff AB, — The Blood Tribe Employment and Skills Training (BTEST) Department recognized graduates of its Supply Chain Management Program during a luncheon held on January 16, 2026, at the Multi-Purpose Building in Standoff, AB. The event celebrated eight students who successfully completed the program and were presented with certificates alongside family members, BTEST staff, and program partners.
The Supply Chain Management Program is delivered through partnerships with Channer Consulting and Training and Supply Chain Canada. The five-month program blended classroom instruction with networking and mentorship opportunities and a four-week work experience placement. It was designed to bring accredited industry-recognized training directly into the Blood Tribe community.
BTEST continues to deliver programming and services that breaks new ground as this is the first time SCC has delivered one in a First Nation community.
“BTEST is always trying to be at the forefront, doing new things, whether it’s Supply Chains or Energy Efficiency. We tend to go that direction, and I think that’s the direction that we’re going to keep moving forward in,” said BTEST Director, Levi Little Mustache.
BTEST and its partners emphasized that delivering the program within the Blood Tribe was a key factor in its success. Miranda Tilley of Channer Group said bringing training directly to learners helped to remove barriers while creating a supportive and culturally grounded learning environment.
“Programs like this are so important because they open doors for Indigenous learners to step into supply chain careers with confidence and the right skills. They bring fresh perspectives and diversity to the industry, help increase Indigenous representation, and give local businesses talented, well-prepared team members who are ready to make an impact. It’s about building opportunities, supporting people, and strengthening both the community and the workforce,” said Tilley.
BTEST staff and partners highlighted the commitment shown by graduates throughout the program. They described the cohort as determined and resilient, noting that completing the program required perseverance.
“It was a very intense program, you know, because usually it’s spread out within a certain time, but we squished it all in, but the students managed,” said Little Mustache.
“You guys are capable of anything.”
Program graduates faced the everyday challenges of student life, such as transportation, balancing studies with part-time work, and personal hurdles, but their dedication to the program shone through.
“The learners were also creative and demonstrated a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which I feel is reflective of where they come from and the community that shaped them,” Tilley said.
Desirey Juan, Membership Services and SMT Coordinator of Supply Chain Canada, added that, as the first cohort, the group reflected a wide range of strengths and career interests within the supply chain field.
“What stood out most was their determination and commitment. Admittedly, it’s a challenging program, and completing it required perseverance, and this group demonstrated a strong willingness to learn, grow, and see the program through to the end. Their resilience and dedication were truly inspiring,” said Juan.
Students themselves pointed to the instructors as a highlight of the program, frequently noting the quality of teaching and the supportive classroom environment.
“I enjoyed the teachers and instructors we had. They were useful and thoughtful, and, you know, they explained everything well to us.” said Brayden Smith, who works as an Educational Assistant with the help of BTEST and the program.
“They brought a lot of curiosity to the classroom. At the same time that they were teaching us, they were also asking questions on how we interpret what they’re teaching,” said Justin Little Shields, who now works as a Data Entry Clerk for Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) upon completing the program.
Securing employment for graduates was one of the key end-term goals for BTEST and its partners. With their support, many of the successful students are now working for departments and entities both on and off reserve.
“The focus is you on guys, and the focus is your future, and your career. […] There is employment out there, and we’ll be working hard to make sure that before they close off this program, I want to see everyone employed,” said Little Mustache.
Supply Chain Management is a critical and growing sector that supports nearly every part of the economy, from Procurement and Logistics to Inventory Management and Operations. Programs like this one help address workforce needs by developing local talent and increasing Indigenous representation within the industry.
“Over the long term, we hope this program helps build capacity within the Blood Tribe community by opening doors to employment, career growth, and leadership opportunities in Supply Chain Management. We also hope it inspires future participants and helps uncover emerging leaders who can contribute to both their community and the broader industry,” said Juan.
Program graduates are now poised to pursue entry level roles, such as Supply Chain Coordinators, Logistics Assistants, Procurement Clerks, and Inventory or Operation support roles across a range of industries.
With their certificate, graduates may choose to continue their training through additional Supply Chain Canada programs, including advanced diplomas and professional designations, supporting long-term career growth.
When asked if he had any advice for potential students considering this program in the future, Little Shields had the following to say:
“Just take it. With the direction our Reserve is going and the growth that we have, we have a new rink going up, have ball diamonds going up, a new BTA building, supply chains are key in all of it. Further your education, and it will just guarantee you, like, more management style roles and opportunities.”
We would like to congratulate all the program’s successful graduates and their families for their support. We would also like to thank all BTEST staff, instructors, and partners for making this program, the first of its kind to be delivered on reserve, a success.
