Soaring to New Heights: Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program Empowers Northern Saskatchewan Youth

May 13, 2025 in News
Explorer: Spring 2025

In northern Saskatchewan, a groundbreaking initiative has taken flight. The Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program, spearheaded by Rise Air, is a fully-funded endeavour designed to train candidates from the Athabasca Basin to become professional pilots, addressing a critical pilot shortage and longstanding barriers to entry in the aviation industry.

The Dziret’ái program, aptly named from the Dene word meaning “flying” or “soaring,” is more than just a training course; it’s a comprehensive pathway to a career in aviation. Launched in September 2024, the program began with 15 participants in the Elevated Skills Program, a preparatory phase focusing on skills and education upgrading. By January 2025, 12 students progressed to the intensive pilot training phase at Mitchinson Flight Centre in Saskatoon, an increase from the initially planned 10 students, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.

Upon completion in June 2026, graduates will have earned their private and commercial pilot licenses and additional qualifications such as night rating, multi-engine rating, instrument rating, and Intermediate Air Transport Rating (IATRA). Importantly, each graduate is guaranteed a First Officer position with Rise Air, where they will achieve their type rating for either King Air or Twin Otter, allowing them to transition seamlessly into the aviation workforce.

Understanding the unique challenges students from remote communities face, the Dziret’ái program offers comprehensive support beyond technical training. Participants receive transportation to Saskatoon, accommodations in one or two-bedroom apartments, and scheduled breaks to return home for cultural events like pilgrimages, Christmas, Easter, and winter carnivals, with travel costs covered by Rise Air.

Cultural integration is a cornerstone of the program. Elders and Knowledge-Keepers are present in Saskatoon to provide guidance, and students are invited to participate in events such as the FSIN Cultural Celebration and Powwow in 2025. Social activities, including Friends and Family Day and monthly staff luncheons, further nurture a sense of community and belonging.

The success of the Dziret’ái program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. Rise Air has invested $690,000, with additional contributions from the Prince Albert Grand Council ($315,000), mining companies Cameco, Orano Canada, and SSR Mining ($300,000 collectively), and over $1 million from federal and provincial governments through PrairiesCan and Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Immigration and Career Training.

This substantial financial backing ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of tuition or living expenses. Ya’thi Néné Lands and Resources and the Prince Albert Grand Council work directly with applicants to secure funding for living expenses.

The impact of the Dziret’ái program resonates deeply with its participants, particularly now that they have experienced their first flights as student pilots. Joseph Randile, a participant from Fond du Lac, shared, “I was working in the mines before, and I always looked up at the planes flying overhead, wondering what it would be like to be up there. This program has given me the chance to turn that dream into reality. The support from the instructors, the community, and my fellow students has been incredible. It’s not just about learning to fly; it’s about reconnecting with my roots and showing others in my community that it’s possible.”

Randile’s journey reflects the transformative power of the program, inspiring others to pursue their aspirations, as highlighted by Prince Albert Grand Council Vice-Chief Joseph Tsannie: “The success of the Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program is an inspiration for our youth, showing them that Indigenous people and women can thrive in non-traditional roles like aviation. Seeing our own people take flight – both literally and figuratively – proves that there are no limits to what we can achieve with the right support and opportunities.”

Mary Denechezhe, Elder and Board Chair of Ya’thi Néné Lands and Resources, emphasizes the program’s broader significance, adding, “The Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program is a shining example of what we can accomplish through collaboration and strategic investment. With the support of our partners, we have provided meaningful opportunities for Indigenous pilot trainees while strengthening the economic and transportation infrastructure in the Athabasca Basin.”

Beyond individual achievements, the Dziret’ái program addresses a critical pilot shortage affecting industries across northern Saskatchewan, particularly mining operations that rely heavily on air transportation. By training Indigenous pilots, the program fills this gap and ensures that the aviation workforce reflects the communities it serves.

“This strategic initiative will strengthen our ability to meet growing customer needs and support social and economic development in northern Saskatchewan. As an Indigenous-owned airline, we look forward to employing pilots who live in our communities,” says Derek Nice, CEO of Rise Air.

As the Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program progresses, its influence extends beyond the cockpit. By empowering Indigenous youth with the skills, support, and opportunities to succeed in aviation, the program fosters economic development, strengthens community ties, and paves the way for future generations to soar.