By Blending Groundbreaking Program With Real-World Learning, Calian Helps Students Unlock the Power of STEM

As global demand for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) talent rises, Calian is finding new ways to motivate young people to explore these fields. 

Through an annual hands-on program in Saskatoon and an innovative new partnership in Maui, we’re helping build the confidence and curiosity of future scientists, technologists, engineers and problem-solvers. 

The Growing STEM Talent Gap

North America is facing a widening STEM workforce shortage: 

• In Canada, more than 320,000 science and technology workers are nearing retirement, and multiple STEM occupations are projected to face significant shortages through 2033.  

• In the U.S., STEM jobs are expected to grow 10.8% by 2031, outpacing the available talent pipeline. 

Meanwhile, many students, especially at early education levels, lack hands-on exposure to real-world STEM applications.  

But the research is clear: early engagement can significantly boost students’ self-efficacy, awareness of STEM careers, and their likelihood of choosing STEM in higher education. 

Opening Doors in Saskatoon

Every year since 2019, Calian has welcomed hundreds of post-secondary students into our secure, high-tech Saskatoon facility for an interactive open house program.  

These annual visits offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge projects across hardware engineering, software development, nuclear technologies, and advanced research and product design.  

Students rotate through demonstration stations, connecting directly with Calian engineers and leaders while gaining direct exposure to real engineering environments. 

“These visits are more than a tour—they’re a spark for future innovators,” says Daryl Warkentin, Vice President of Production and Innovation. “When students see firsthand what we build and who we serve, something clicks. They start imagining themselves in these roles.” 

And many do more than imagine it. In fact, several previous open house attendees have returned as interns or employees—even becoming presenters at the annual event themselves. 

A New Frontier for STEM Learning in Hawaii

In late 2025, Calian partnered with Kihei Charter School in Maui to launch a hands-on STEM program for K-12 students. 

Together with teachers, industry partners, and contributors from the AMOS (Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies) Conference, Calian is developing a curriculum to introduce youth to engineering and space topics ranging from satellite communications and earth observation to rocket science and beyond.  

Ultimately, Kihei students will gain unprecedented access to advanced, cutting-edge concepts—much of it so new that “this stuff is being invented as we speak,” says Leeana Smith-Ryland, President of Calian US. 

Set to launch in September 2026, this first-of-its-kind program will begin with guest lectures, field trips and site tours, with the long-term goal of evolving into a for-credit high school course. 

Maui is already a critical hub for space surveillance, research and STEM development, home to the Space Force–operated Maui Space Surveillance Complex, advanced optical telescopes, and a world-class supercomputing centre. Local space-sector partners, including several Calian customers, have already expressed strong enthusiasm in delivering the training.  

“Many companies recognize Maui’s importance in the space industry and want to give back,” Smith-Ryland notes. “If we can excite even a handful of students about space and engineering, we’re helping build the future teams that will drive this industry forward in Hawaii.” 

Being Innovative about Innovation

At Calian, employees are regularly challenged to rethink not only the solutions we build, but how we build relationships and create impact.  

That innovative spirit is exactly what sparked our new partnership in Maui. When asked to look beyond traditional approaches for strengthening industry relationships, our team stepped back and reconsidered what “meaningful value” could look like.  

This approach reflects our belief that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about people, possibilities, and the ripple effects we create when we invest in the next generation. 

And this is only the beginning. The same mindset fuelling Calian’s work in Maui continues to energize youth STEM initiatives—including sparking new ideas for the Saskatoon open house program—ensuring we build stronger communities while nurturing tomorrow’s leaders. 

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