MCCARTNEY WADE

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

I came to KPU after taking a couple of gap years because I knew I wanted to go to university, but I was looking for a smaller and more personal learning environment. I wanted to be somewhere I could actually get to know my classmates and professors, and that was a big part of what drew me to KPU. I eventually transferred into the Human Behaviour and Applied Psychology program because I wanted to study something that felt meaningful and would give me practical tools for a career focused on helping others. The program and my overall experience at KPU helped me better understand people, build confidence, and develop skills I could carry into different work roles while I was in school. Looking back, it really helped prepare me for where I am now as I begin my career as a union representative.

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

As a Provincial Representative with CLAC, I work directly with members and employers across the province to support fair and respectful workplaces. My day-to-day involves answering member questions about their collective agreement, handling workplace concerns and grievances, and helping resolve conflicts in a collaborative way. I regularly visit job sites to meet with members, build relationships, and stay connected to what’s happening on the ground, while also working with employers to address issues before they escalate. I’m involved in administering and sometimes negotiating collective agreements, providing training or guidance to members, and keeping detailed records of cases and discussions. Overall, my role is about advocating for members while fostering positive, solutions-focused labour relations.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

The applied, hands-on part of my degree in human behaviour and applied psychology gave me practical experience that directly translates to a role like a Provincial Representative. Through semester-long projects, I built strong communication, active listening, and problem-solving skills by working with real people and real situations rather than just theory. It helped me learn how to understand different perspectives, navigate conflict, and respond in a calm and professional way. I also gained experience gathering information, documenting findings, and presenting solutions, which are all important when supporting members and resolving workplace issues. The practicum program was especially important, as it gave me real workplace experience and helped me build confidence and connections, which played a big role in helping me find a career quickly after graduating.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

One piece of advice I’d give current KPU students is to treat every project you do in school like it could become part of your portfolio. Keep track of the papers, presentations, group projects, and other work you’re proud of, because those pieces can be really valuable later on. When you’re in an interview, it helps so much to have strong academic examples you can speak to with confidence, especially when you’re just starting your career. I’d also say it’s important to always keep learning and not just aim to get through the course. Having a development plan, setting goals for yourself, and being honest about where you want to grow can make a big difference over time.