Careers

Are you a creative and ambitious problem solver looking to start your career in technology? Are you looking to gain exposure, build new skills, and discover your passion? We chatted with Kate, Senior Program Manager of our TILT Ignition Technology New Graduate Development Program, to learn about what makes the Ignition program so unique!

Meaghan: Hey Kate! Can you start by telling our readers a bit about yourself?

Kate: Hi everyone! My name is Kate, and I am a Senior Campus Program manager at Scotiabank. I joined the bank in March 2021 and have been thrilled to support the Ignition program as we welcomed our 4th cohort in July 2021; our first cohort where half of our associates are based in Colombia at ScotiaTech! I have a strong background in Campus - I worked at both Western University and Wilfrid Laurier University prior to moving to the campus recruitment team at PwC in 2016. I am passionate about helping associates learn and develop early in their career and have thoroughly enjoyed focusing on associate development for both Ignition, and my other new grad program in Strategic Functions, Activate. Outside of work, you'll often find me working on my Olympic Weightlifting technique, swimming, or walking on the Bruce Trail with my French bulldog, Ruby. 

Meaghan: Can you tell us about Ignition and why it was developed?

Kate: Ignition was developed to bring talented technology associates into our Technology groups at Scotiabank! Associates experience a variety of roles across our technology teams through four 6-month rotations. These rotations and the development opportunities provided by the program set our associates up to become future leaders in technology! Associates build their tech skillset in their rotation and receive multiple layers of mentorship (including a dedicated Program Manager – me!) to support them on their journey. Cohorts learn from alumni and each other and connect regularly with executive mentors and program sponsors.

Meaghan: Ignition sounds like the perfect opportunity for students looking to experience a career kickstart in one of Scotiabank’s Technology groups! What’s one reason a student might want to join Ignition?

Kate: It’s hard to narrow it down to just one reason! Ignition is a great way for technology talent to experience a variety of roles and learn how to code, project-manage, and build technical expertise. The breadth of exposure associates receive in their first 2 years with the bank is amazing and really provides them with the opportunity to see 3-4 years’ worth of experience in a condensed time frame. Associates can build their skills and their network, receive mentorship, take courses, obtain certifications, attend masterclasses, and more. Not to mention, we have a lot of fun along the way! 

Meaghan: What are some qualities that would make a student successful in Ignition?

Kate: Students with a strong technology foundation from any undergrad or graduate program will be successful in this program. Successful candidates will be strong problem solvers with curiosity and interest in supporting all areas of technology! Those who want to work hard, learn a lot, meet amazing people, and have fun will LOVE this program! Candidates should have strong communication skills and be self-starters who are invested in supporting their team to succeed. Above all, a positive attitude and willingness to learn will be keys to success for any TILT associate. 

Meaghan: What could a career path look like for someone who joins Ignition?

Kate: There are a variety of career paths to follow for individuals who graduate from Ignition! We’ve had graduates land in Programmer Analyst, Software Developer, and Senior Technology specialist roles. We’ve also seen Associate Cloud Engineers, DevOps Engineers, and Scrum Masters! Associates can land in any area of technology upon graduation and enjoy a long and diverse career at Scotiabank and Tangerine. 

Meaghan: Ignition really does sound awesome, Kate! Last question for you - if you had one piece of advice for students what would it be?

Kate: My one piece of advice would be to focus on learning everything you can and bring a great attitude, a focus on ownership of your work, and an open mind to take on every opportunity along the way, and you'll be set up for success! #AOO. If you're interested in joining Ignition, or any other TILT program, be sure to meet our recruiters during our campus events to learn more! We can't wait to meet you. 

Interested in learning more about Ignition and how to apply? Click here!