Six students from the Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) recently had the transformative experience of attending the 2025 American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference in Toronto. This premier event gathers Indigenous high school and post-secondary students from across North America, alongside educators and industry professionals, to explore opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The students’ participation was generously supported by sponsorships from Kitsaki Management and its operating companies, recognizing the profound importance of investing in Indigenous youth and their potential, especially in the STEM space.
“Attending the AISES conference was full of learning, talking to new people and deciding what I would like to do for my future,” said Madison Dreaver from Little Red River.”
Held annually, the AISES National Conference draws over 400 attendees from across Turtle Island and offers a robust schedule, including a career expo, research presentations, cultural tours, Elder teachings, learning circles, and interactive workshops. The students also enjoyed evening banquets featuring vibrant cultural performances by the Eddie Thomas Troupe, Smoke Dancers from Six Nations of the Grand River, Inuit throat singers Siqiniup Qilauta (SUNSDRUM), and Métis fiddlers and jiggers from Manitoba.
Shawna Kay, Kitsaki’s Office Manager, who organized the entire trip, including finding the students and chaperoning, underscored the significance of this opportunity: ”The AISES conference represents much more than STEM opportunities; it is showing them what possibilities exist for them. We’re incredibly thankful for the sponsorship from Kitsaki and the operating companies; their commitment ensures LLRIB youth can access opportunities that are truly life changing.”
Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, AISES is dedicated to increasing Indigenous representation in STEM careers. Its Canadian operations connect with over 7,000 members and 500 First Nations, building vital pathways that encourage Indigenous youth to pursue education and careers in STEM fields.
When asked what advice she would have for future LLRIB attendees, Emily Aldridge from La Ronge said, “Don’t wait around for opportunities to come to you; instead, seek out your own adventures.”
