Student Success Stories
Nearly 100 College members to embark on global learning trips
Over the next few months, nearly 100 NSCC students and employees will expand their learning and skills through study projects that span the globe – taking part in 11 projects across 11 countries.
Blending cultures, one bite at a time
The Scotiabank Entrepreneur-in-the-Making Program gives up to $3,000 to students and new graduates to start or grow a business. Learn how Sekinah used this funding to grow her business.
NSCC students excel in local and global floating wind competitions
A talented group of NSCC students in the Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) Technician-Mechanical program won first place in the first-ever Canada-based Floating Wind Challenge and were named finalists in the international competition.
Precision Machining grad pursues trades career
Learn about Mollie, an NSCC Precision Machining graduate who followed her heart and now enjoys a trades career as a Machinist in Nova Scotia.
NSCC learning exchange boosts skill diversity in hairdressing
In May 2024, 4 NSCC Cosmetology students travelled to Barbados for a unique learning exchange, bridging cultural and educational divides to expand their skills and perspectives.
Student-led campaign aims to deconstruct unconscious bias about sexual violence
NSCC student Mia Fournier White brings international campaign, What were you wearing? to campus to change perceptions around sexual violence.
First year Game Development students win big at Global Game Jam
A group of first year Game Development students from NSCC Truro Campus won an award at the 2024 N.S. Global Game Jam for their game Troubleshoot.
NSCC students and alum lead Team NS at Skills Canada National Competition
NSCC students and alumni competed at the 2024 Skills Canada National Competition in May, bringing home 8 of the 15 medals awarded to Team Nova Scotia.
NSCC names 2023 Co-op and WIL Students of the Year
NSCC named Brianna Barton and Chaweewan Saengkhunnatham the 2023 Co-op and WIL Students of the Year.
“Who Let The Dogs Out?” singer joins NSCC to expand his music career
You likely know the catchy tune "Who Let The Dogs Out?" by the Baha Men, but did you know the lead singer is studying Music Production and Engineering at NSCC?
Responsible reporting
Since 2022, NSCC and the University of King's College have come together for a course that teaches journalism students how to responsibly report Indigenous stories.
Bridge to success
Marcia Helpard is a two-time graduate of NSCC and is set to graduate from the Practical Nursing program in spring 2024.
Breaking barriers
In February 2023, Hadia Bedoui, an Electrical Construction and Industrial student, clinched a bronze Abilympics medal in Metz, France.
Empowering safety
What started as an idea to develop safety plans for students, has quickly turned into a tangible app with the potential to save lives from the dangers of human trafficking.
Microcredential grad turns carpentry passion into a career
Following a free eight-week Housing Construction Fundamentals microcredential program, April works as a Carpenter Apprentice at Wagmatcook First Nation's Housing and Public Works, where she loves helping her community.
Helping students learn and succeed with simulation
NSCC with community partners in health education are using simulation techniques to replicate healthcare situations allowing students to learn, practice, try new things and even make mistakes without injuring patients.
NSCC Women Unlimited grad finds success as a Red Seal Welder
Krista Langille wanted a hands-on, physical job. After completing NSCC’s Women Unlimited program, she discovered her passion for welding. She now works as a Red Seal Welder with Irving Shipbuilding.
Career comeback through free microcredentials
Jodi takes advantage of free microcredentials, quick courses, offered at NSCC to upgrade her skillset as she prepares to re-enter the workforce after being laid off during the pandemic.
NSCC trades grad grows skills and confidence through Women Unlimited program
Sam wanted to change careers but wasn't sure what steps to take. Thanks in part to Women Unlimited - a free program for diverse women to explore trades - she now works in refrigeration and air conditioning.
Military veteran turns passion for technology into a new career
After a 21-year career in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Keith Cusson now has a career flying drones and using other cutting-edge technology he learned through NSCC's Remote Sensing program.
NSCC student manages setbacks to pursue healthcare career
Zena Jarvis began the Continuing Care program in 2015 and returned in 2022 to continue her studies in the program. She plans to graduate in 2024 and pursue her dream of a career caring for others.
From diamond geologist to web developer
Meet Joe Kidston, a diamond geologist turned web developer who came to NSCC to completely change his life.
NSCC student pursues high school diploma and passion for baking
Donna Johnson always wanted to get her high school diploma. Just months away from retirement, she contacted NSCC and found the support she needed to achieve her goal and pursue an additional College program.
Grad builds on precision machining skills
Driven by a passion for craftsmanship and a desire for hands-on learning, Bryden Surette was drawn to the Precision Machining program at NSCC.
Plumbing graduate proud to represent women in trades
Taylor O'Hearn was encouraged to pursue a trade from a young age. She's now a graduate of NSCC's Plumbing program, working toward earning her Red Seal and aims to be an example for women considering trades careers.
A standing ovation for new grad who came out as transgender during valedictorian speech
Quinn Legg’s experience as a transgender person in his younger years caused him to become shy and fearful of new situations. But that changed when Quinn started the Automotive Service and Repair program at NSCC.
NSCC Culinary grad training to compete in WorldSkills competition
Olivia Sewell, NSCC Culinary Management graduate, will be the first Nova Scotian and NSCC Alumni to represent Canada in cooking at the WorldSkills competition taking place in Lyon, France, September 2024.
Pursuing her passion for creativity
Anisa Francoeur knew college was the right choice for her. Now she’s taking what she learned and keeping things creative with a career in graphic design. Learn more about her journey and tattoo-inspired art.
Students give back to community while exploring trades careers
NSCC’s Construction Fundamentals program is introducing students to a variety of skilled trade careers and apprenticeship, while also allowing students to give back to the community.
Starting your career: resume and cover letter tips
Learn easy tips to make your resume and cover letter stand out from the rest.
Students develop safety app to combat human trafficking
What started as an idea to develop safety plans to prevent students from violence has quickly turned into a tangible app with the potential to save lives.
Launching a label
Music Business grads have created their own record label business and are already signing local artists.
2022 Graduate Survey Results
Within one year of graduation, 96 per cent of NSCC students find employment, with 83 per cent in a field related to their program.
Students building for future students
Carpentry student Hilary Ward embraces hands-on learning as she works on-site at Akerley Campus’s student housing build while completing her Carpentry Diploma.
Design for difference
Paul Adams is a two-time NSCC grad and the official designer of Nova Scotia’s annual African Heritage Month posters - a role he was honoured to take on following his NSCC co-op placement.
Behind the scenes
After studying at NSCC, two time grad Keandre Johnson entered an industry where less than 19% of people identify as Black, Indigenous or people of colour. The TV and film production newcomer has since lent his skills to award-winning programs including Diggstown and This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
A natural storyteller
Stephanie Joline is part of a new generation of filmmakers using their art and influence to share the stories, voices and experiences that are often forgotten.
Building a future
When Jerry Lewis applied to carpentry at NSCC, his reasoning was simple: proximity. He never dreamed the decision would lead to owning and renovating multiple event venues popular with brides, Instagram influencers and musicians alike.
Leading the charge
When Kohltech Windows and Entrance Systems wanted to determine if their residential windows could function as solar panels, they contacted NSCC’s Applied Energy Research Lab and researcher Cole Gregory for help.
Celebrating a milestone
For more than two years, the pandemic disrupted NSCC's in-person convocation ceremonies. However, this June, more than 4,000 students from 14 campuses graduated during 20 individual ceremonies held in communities across the province and live-streamed around the world.
Chefs, partners build life on Easy Street
Culinary Management grad Kelly-Jo Beck and her fiancé Lalanya Kaizer (Cook Apprentice) are two-thirds of the talented trio behind the award-winning Easy Street Diner in Halifax.
Nova Scotia is Where It’s At
There’s no shortage of things to see, do and taste in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley region, and Jeremy Novak, owner of Where It’s At Tours, is excited to show it all off.
A nursing dream fulfilled
It was an unexpected visit to the Valley Regional Hospital that first sparked Tyler Wentzell’s interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. Today, the nurse and Middleton native is a three-time NSCC graduate and one of two fall Convocation valedictorians.
Where she’s meant to be
Enrolling in the Practical Nursing Diploma program was an easy career decision for Mary Durant, one of two fall Convocation valedictorians.
A new career in tech
Sandrico Provo’s decision to go back to school for IT Programming at NSCC helped him find a tech career in Nova Scotia that he loves.
Grad-owned business 'Ups' their NSCC connection
Kate Elliot (Public Relations ‘14) has always been an active alum in the NSCC community. During the College’s 25th anniversary, she reached a personal goal when her business was hired to help with celebrations.
Alum duo makes visual reconnection with College
A few months before convocation, classmates Jane Nicholson and Kristen Brown created Arrow & Knot Productions in an editing room at NSCC’s Ivany Campus. This year, their videography company reached a huge milestone after being selected to be part of NSCC’s 25th anniversary.
Grad builds innovative new school in Barbados
When Ryan Massiah left Barbados at 20-years-old to pursue new opportunities in Canada, he couldn’t have imagined that he’d one day return as the CEO of a multi-stream organization building a not-for-profit school in his home community in cooperation with the United Nations.
The Magic of Sea Salt
Kim, NSCC Business Administration - Accounting student, and her partner Onya are the founders of OK Sea Salt in LaHave, Nova Scotia.
Connection and community
With support from NSCC International and EduNova’s Study & Stay™ in Nova Scotia program, Amelia arrived in Springhill ready to build a career as an early childhood educator. Today, she’s an active alum who helps others forge connections and build community.
Recipe for success
Chefs Mark Paterson and Krista LeTerte are building a culinary empire on Cape Breton Island. The two, award-winning talents and their team create hundreds of thoughtfully curated, expertly prepared apps, entrees and desserts each day for clients across four lines of business.
A life’s purpose
At the age of 6, Vanity Thompson knew she wanted to become a nurse. While life took a different path than expected, she discovered her dream was within reach when she enrolled in the African Canadian Transition Program. Today, she’s a nurse in the QEII’s COVID-19 Unit.
A life's purpose
Vanity Thompson is a two-time NSCC grad and nurse at the QEII's COVID-19 Unit. Learn how she gained the confidence at college to pursue her dream career.
Strength through story
Andre Fenton is a two-time NSCC graduate, award-winning writer and youth mentor. Learn how he draws on his skills and experience to help young people find their voice and the strength to tell their stories.
An excellent student leader
Levi Ogbaje, a 2nd-year Welding Inspection and Quality Control student at NSCC Pictou Campus, has received the 2021 Silver Award for Student Leadership Excellence from Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).
NSCC grad launches local meal-kit business
Learn how Kara Friesen launched PieceMeal Food Provisions after winning the Scotiabank Entrepreneur in the Making Program at Kingstec Campus.
Protecting Cape Breton waters from marine debris
Award-winning environmentalist uses NSCC education to inspire others
Smarts, strength and resilience
At 52, Christine MacKenzie enrolled in Welding Inspection and Quality Control at Pictou Campus, returning to the classroom after more than 30 years in the workforce. Today, she is a Certified Welding Inspector and a committed life-long learner.
Shipbuilder achieves childhood career dream during pandemic
Unique Jones-MacKenzie achieved a childhood dream when he became one of 20 graduates from the Pathways to Shipbuilding Program for African Nova Scotians, which concluded at the Halifax Shipyard during the global pandemic.
Sharing Black stories, amplifying Black voices
More than five years ago, Radio Television Journalism students at Ivany Campus began investigating a generations-old injustice in the historically-Black community of North Preston. Second-year student Matthew Byard and his fellow continue this work today.
A virtual exchange
When COVID-19 required Culinary Management students and faculty to cancel a planned NSCC International trip to the Philippines for the Culinary Cup, an international culinary competition, all was not lost. Students and faculty organized a virtual, culinary exchange that would bring the tastes of Nova Scotia to the Southeast Asian nation.
Building a legacy
Antonia (Wareham) Bown graduated from the first Pathways to Shipbuilding Program, offered in partnership with Women Unlimited in 2015. Today, she's a Red Seal Welder at the Halifax Shipyard and a mentor to others.
Two-Eyed Seeing
Kieran Wasuek Johnson spent her summers discovering nature alongside Mi'kmaw Elders on the Bras d'Or Lakes. Today, she's a camp mentor who weaves traditional knowledge and formal training to protect, discover and experience Unama'ki.
From the ground up
André Rosnok completed his Carpenter apprentice technical training and Red Seal Exam at Marconi Campus. Today, he's leading the team of skilled workers building the campus's new home in Downtown Sydney.
Standing on guard
Trinidadian army veteran Davis Whittle came to Canada in search of new opportunities and to complete the Criminal Justice program at NSCC. He's now a Correctional Officer at the province's largest correctional facility.
From nursing to carpentry
NSCC grad builds award-winning brand, business and Instagram following.
An ocean of opportunity
NSCC grad, researcher joins research project to protect Nova Scotia’s seabed.
Follow your passion
Eskasoni's Kieran Wasuek Johnson is committed to a career in sustainable natural resources development.
Floating into entrepreneurship
At a crossroad, NSCC grad reinvents herself, creating calm in the chaos.
The Revival Initiative
NSCC students launch online music series during pandemic.
Culinary student feeds 300 long haul drivers
Kingstec Campus Culinary Management student Joan Godsey is making to-go meals for the 300 commercial drivers of Eassons Transport Group in Kentville, NS., during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Covers for Comfort
NSCC grads use music to spread happiness amid pandemic.
Ensuring Quality
NSCC grad helps Ubisoft gain international recognition for app.
Designing a New Future
Korean-born digital animator chases her dream at NSCC Truro Campus.
Coaching Greatness
NSCC grad, Coach Colter Simmonds, inspires young leaders through sport.
Soldiering on
After near-death experience, veteran enrols in Radio Television Journalism Program at NSCC.
Welcome to Wedgeport
NSCC diploma becomes pathway to permanent residency for Korean-born grad.
Perfect blend
NSCC student looks to perfect Nova Scotia’s red and white wines.
Hunting for treasure
NSCC community helps bring History Channel’s hit show to international audiences.
Maritime made television
NSCC Radio Television Journalism grad brings Maritime culture and communities to the big screen.
My future is not determined. I am.
Carpentry grad Denika Coakley was born to be a creator.
Perfect your passion
Learn what NSCC student Jerusha Young-Connor thinks about Nova Scotia wine.
Raise your own bar
Get to know NSCC alumni and music producer, Jordan Williams.
Dreaming is easy. Doing takes courage.
At NSCC, a former Nepalese refugee realizes her childhood dream of becoming a nurse.
Designing her own future
Lindsay McMullen's co-op placement led to a design career in the tech industry.
Creating a unique career as a booking agent
Stephanie Purcell is a NSCC grad devoted to promoting Nova Scotia talent and bringing talent to Nova Scotia.
Pursuing a passion for entrepreneurship
Yarnell Arsenault is a NSCC alumni and entrepreneur taking charge of his future.
Making a career change
Karina Matthews-Denny graduated in 2001 and then went back to school later for a new career.
Blazing a trail in the music industry
Corey LeRue's determination and education have helped him realize his dreams.
Determined in Delhi
Writing passion and outstanding community support brings law student sisters from India to NSCC.
Managing talent
Multi-award-winning NSCC PR grad heads talent management agency.
Following parents’ entrepreneurial footsteps
NSCC grad supports 500 events annually through party supply and rental company.
The right fit
NSCC Office Administration grad Karina Matthews-Denny is supporting Senator Dan Christmas in Membertou.
Lead by example
NSCC Non-Profit Leadership grad Brenda Francis works to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.
From COGS to NASA
NSCC grad a world-wide expert and advocate for free and open geospatial sharing.
Legacy in action
NSCC Kingstec Campus grad inspires free market with stylish business initiative for those in need.
Using GIS data to build accessible, interactive maps
NSCC grad empowers Halifax residents to make a difference in their community with interactive maps.
Telecommunications company relies on GIS grad
NSCC grad uses advanced diploma to meet growing demands of Eastlink customers.
A titan in the field
NSCC grad Ashley Innocente opens bi-coastal security firm.
Navy Petty Officer gets start at NSCC
NSCC Electro Mechanical Tech program inspires military career and builds confidence.
Big dreams, big heart
After showing a film at TIFF, Abdullah Kafashe returned to NSCC to take his filmmaking knowledge to the next level.
Cape Breton company supports entrepreneurs with innovative tech
NSCC Business grad creates online ordering system for small, family-owned restaurants.
An innovative proposition
Proposify Co-Founder and CEO Kyle Racki and Community Manager Lindsey Ward are both NSCC Graphic Design grads.
Quality, honesty and integrity
NSCC International Business grad, inspired by grandfather’s legacy, creates artisanal pens for clients around the world.
Nurturing the minds of tomorrow
Frankie-Rae Quinn found her dream career close to home thanks to NSCC's Early Childhood Education program.
Having a ball at REDspace
NSCC Web Development grad builds career and creates showpiece VR game for Steam.
Thriving in the right learning environment
Business Administration student driven to make the most of NSCC opportunities
From India to NSCC for an aviation career
Mithun Mathew is looking forward to working in Canada after completing the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program.
Producing the sound of success
Two-time NSCC grad Corey LeRue is the producer, songwriter and DJ for Neon Dreams.
Grad opens therapeutic mini animal farm in Mount Denson
NSCC grad opens therapeutic mini animal farm in Mount Denson.
Kingstec student vying for spot on Canada’s Paralympic Team
Ben Brown is on track to become the world’s fastest wheelchair athlete.
Anything but average
NSCC Business grad opens salon and spa in Bridgewater.
Chef at sea
NSCC grad's comfort food helps Coast Guard search and rescue crew feel at home in the Arctic.
Music to his ears
NSCC grad Tyler Surette found a career as a diesel mechanic that combines his passion and interests.
It's never too late
After two decades working out West, Shawn Goulding is fulfilling his dream as a practical nurse.
Savouring success
World-travelled NSCC grad showcases Nova Scotian tastes to global audience.
Sibling success
Five siblings complete Adult Learning Program after arriving in Canada.
Redefining professional headshots
NSCC grad creates automated photo booth that snaps professional-quality photos.
Mastering the mainframe
NSCC students come out on top in IBM Master the Mainframe Contest.
Artistic ability overcomes injury
Injury leads to opportunity for NSCC grad and airbrush artist Andrew Burgess.
Grads share Mi'kmaw culture through tourism operation
Kluskap Ridge in Cape Breton offers unique experiences for campers.
Sheet Harbour brewery encourages tourism
NSCC Tourism Management grad behind Sober Island Brewing Company.