Jim Szautner is the Dean of Apprenticeship at SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary, Alberta. In his role as a Dean, he works with industry, government, apprentices, students, faculty and staff to meet the labour needs of the Alberta economy for today and tomorrow by providing students and apprentices an opportunity to start or further enhance their careers.
Jim has board/committee experiences on the local, provincial and national levels. Locally, Jim has supported STEM initiatives to youth as a board member of FIRST Western Canada. He has been a champion of the skills movement locally, provincially and nationally through his participation in Skills Canada as a volunteer at WorldSkills in Calgary in 2009, provincial judge for Alberta Skills in 2012, national judge for Skills Canada in 2012 and delegate at World Skills in Kazan Russia in 2019 and Stuttgart, Germany (Mechatronics) in 2022. He currently sits on the Alberta Skills Board of Directors championing the skills movement in Alberta.
Nationally, Jim is currently a board member of the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum. Through his work with the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum Jim has developed a deep appreciation for the various apprenticeship systems across Canada. Jim is also a past-chair of the National Deans of Apprenticeship, Trades and Technology (NCDATT), which is an organization that champions development in the skilled trades, apprenticeship and technology sectors.
Jim is a lifelong learner holding multiple credentials. Jim obtained his Red Seal as a Truck and Transportation Technician journeyperson in 2001. He completed his certificate in Adult and Continue Education from the University of Alberta, College of Extension in 2009. Completed his Master of Education in Adult Community and Higher Education from the University of Calgary in 2014 and a Graduated Certificate in Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary in 2016. Most recently, Jim has completed an Executive Coaching Graduate Certificate from Royal Roads University, in 2021.