Post-secondary Institutions and technology providers connect with government through a number of programs under various plans and strategies. This presentation is designed to provide clarity on the goals of B.C.'s Digital Learning Strategy, the Administrative Services Collaborative, and the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Skills Training Chief Information Office and how they are linked. There are common themes and opportunities for collaboration in the sector and attendees will have the opportunity to better understand who leads various initiatives within the BC Government.

Speakers

Ben Ferrel
Executive Director, Post-Secondary Digital Policy and Programs | Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

Ben Ferrel is currently working within the BC Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills as the Executive Director responsible for Post-Secondary Digital Policy and Programs. Ben brings to this role professional experience gathered working in both private and public sector, applying a variety of strategic policy approaches to promote the use of digital technologies to enhance learning experiences and support individuals in their lifelong learning journeys. Ben completed the Master of Educational Technology program from the University of British Columbia and continues to pursue lifelong learning opportunities personally and professionally.

Kashi Tanaka
Executive Director, Sector Partnerships and Emergency Supports | Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

Kashi has worked in the BC Public Service for 18 years. Starting in the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch and has had stops in Social Development and Poverty Reducation, Finance on joined the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills in 2022. His two primary portfolios are student housing and supporting sector partnerships through the Administrative Services Collaboration.

Marlowe Stone
Executive Director and CIO | Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

Marlowe Stone is the Chief Information Officer with BC’s Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. Marlowe’s varied career has spanned business and technical positions through many areas including Small Business and Economic Development, Trade and Invest BC and the BC Pension Corporation. Marlowe’s experiences in program delivery on the front line earlier in her career fuel her passion for ensuring technology supported initiatives put program and business area needs and desired outcomes at the forefront of digital delivery. Marlowe holds a Master of Business Administration from the Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University and certification as an Enterprise Business Architect.