Career Accelerator and Skills Development Program

With an existing program in place, it was essential to understand the rationale for the redesign—what was working, what wasn’t, and the goals for the new iteration. Through discussions and brainstorming with TGC’s CEO, we reviewed past course materials and participant experience surveys. These insights formed the foundation for designing an updated program that better meets the needs of TGC and its community members.

We learned that the redesigned program needed to focus on career advancement for women and gender-diverse people who are employed or underemployed in Canadian workplaces. It wasn’t meant to be a job-search toolkit. Instead, it would offer practical, accessible supports for upward mobility, career pivots, and ongoing career development.

We began mapping a new career curriculum and course experience by integrating Hope-Centred Career Development theory alongside clear learning outcomes and participant outputs.

Our Solution: 3-Day Catalyst Course
The redesigned Catalyst course is a three-day, cohort-based program that empowers women+ in STEM, business, and high-growth strategic sectors to advance their careers. Across nearly 20 hours of instructor-led sessions, peer networking, hands-on exercises, and fireside chats, participants build skills to set meaningful goals, grow confidence, advocate for their needs at work, and develop authentic professional relationships.

Multi-Day Program for Impactful Learning
A three-day learning journey covering key career topics such as crafting an authentic career story, leveraging “managing up” to build skills, and strengthening professional relationships. A pre-course assessment and reflection exercise jumpstarts participants’ understanding of their skills, strengths, and growth areas before the program begins.

Interactive Workshops for Stronger Engagement
Three four-hour sessions facilitated by experienced career practitioners, designed for shared learning, peer-to-peer networking, and practical application. The curriculum uses scenario-based learning, storytelling, and open discussion to meet varied learning needs and foster genuine engagement.

Participant Guide with Practical Exercises
Before the program begins, participants receive a guide that includes a skills assessment, session curriculum, exercises, reflection prompts, and additional resources to support long-term development. These materials reinforce confidence, comprehension, and day-to-day application of new skills.

Implementation was supported through practical tools, team training, and a program feedback survey.

Tools Provided

• Course backgrounder and planning strategy
• Facilitator and program support guides
• Accessible participant materials for future updates and improvements
• Recommended program experience survey questions

Strategic Alignment with TGC’s Objectives

• Ensured the program design met commitments to government funders
• Aligned the values underpinning the program with TGC’s vision and culture