Session T-19 - Topics: Experiential Learning Innovation; Changing Job Market Skill Building; Promoting Student Retention

Launched in 2022, Champlain College’s Millennium Certificates Program (MCP) recognizes experiential, co-curricular learning. By 2025, it reached capacity, supporting 50+ new students annually. Participants earn themed certificates and digital badges through mentored, flexible learning across coursework and real-world experiences. This presentation highlights MCP’s grassroots design, core mechanics, and growth, offering a practical framework for institutions seeking to replicate or adapt a scalable, student-centered certificate program.

Graduates of CEGEP technical programs are entering a changing workplace. Developing transversal skills such as collaboration, time management, and professionalism will keep them resilient. We are working with employers to learn what transversal skills they value in new employees, implementing mentorship programs for students, and creating games to help students develop the skills they’ll need in today’s job market. Join us as we share progress and challenges in our attempts to integrate transversal skills training in the CEGEP context.

Grounded in a pragmatic framework, this participatory study included the collaboration of diverse cégep students to co-create a “mind movie”—a short inspirational video featuring campus imagery, affirmations, common challenges, and the shared goal of graduation. Students contributed to filming, content development, and evaluative feedback, reflecting on its influence on their visualization of academic success. Preliminary findings indicate the mind movie fosters strong engagement, enthusiasm, and positive perceptions of students’ educational pathways and future achievement.