Lifelong Learning @ UNB
UNB Centre for Learning Futures

In today's rapidly evolving workplace, professional development isn't a luxury; it's a necessity.

At the University of New Brunswick (UNB), we've been proud to work alongside IPMA-AIGP Canada to meet that need head-on, helping HR professionals build stronger skills, gain certifications, and support healthier, more effective workplace cultures.

Reflecting on the IPMA-AIGP Canada and UNB collaboration

We recently spoke with Glenn Saunders, the Executive Director of IPMA-AIGP Canada, who shared insights about what this partnership has meant for members, why it resonates in the current HR landscape, and how it continues to serve professionals who are committed to growth.

"We've seen this collaboration help professionals access relevant training, meet certification goals, and build stronger workplace cultures," says Glenn. "That's what meaningful partnerships are all about."

A shared commitment to growth

"This partnership was about meeting HR professionals where they are, and helping them get where they want to go," says Glenn.

That learner-centred mindset has shaped every aspect of the collaboration. From the start, the goal was to ensure that IPMA-AIGP Canada members could access training aligned with their professional journeys. Whether they were working toward certification, maintaining a designation, or simply strengthening their workplace skills, UNB's flexible professional development programs provided pathways tailored to real-world needs.

A vision for opportunity and growth

Glenn noted that the partnership had two key goals from the outset:

1. To expand access to professional development for IPMA-AIGP Canada members
2. To do so through a trusted, credible partner like UNB

"The partnership with UNB helped us do both," he says. "We saw interest peak and members asking questions. That's the first step, getting people engaged."

As the collaboration has matured, so too has member engagement. More professionals are exploring how UNB's programs align with their goals, and IPMA-AIGP continues to field questions about options, next steps, and how to turn interest into action.

What mattered most to members

According to Glenn, one aspect stood out clearly: relevance.

"The link to our certification program really resonated," he notes. "Members saw the connection between their professional goals and the training being offered."

That connection remains a cornerstone of the collaboration today. By aligning offerings with IPMA-AIGP Canada's mission and member priorities, the partnership continues to deliver practical value for HR professionals across sectors.

A relationship built on trust and teamwork

For Glenn, one of the most rewarding parts of the collaboration has been the relationship itself.

"The team at UNB has been incredibly responsive and collaborative," he says. "As we got to know each other and understood each other's goals, we found ways to make the partnership work well for both our organizations."

This spirit of mutual support and open communication has helped the collaboration flourish and adapt to changing needs. With ongoing input from both sides, the partnership continues to evolve in meaningful and sustainable ways.

Looking ahead

Glenn is optimistic about what lies ahead.

"We're a small team, and marketing is always a challenge, but we're making progress. There's real potential in this partnership that we've only just started to explore."

That potential includes expanding outreach, strengthening certification awareness, and continuing to make professional development more accessible for HR professionals across Canada.

As the partnership continues, one thing remains clear: the shared vision between UNB and IPMA-AIGP Canada is making a real impact, and there's much more to come.

Learn more about IPMA-AIGP Canada and our programs