RAVNIT KAUR (she/her)

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

I have always been passionate about technology and enjoyed learning how systems work and how technology can be used to solve problems. The Information Technology program gave me the opportunity to turn that interest into practical skills and a career path. KPU was a great fit for me because it was close to home and offered a program that aligned with my interests.

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

I currently work as Manager, HR Systems and Reporting at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). In this role, I oversee the institute’s employee and HR-related systems, including the HR component of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. My team is responsible for regulatory and compliance reporting, which involves analyzing employee data and creating reports from various HR systems.
A significant part of my work involves data analysis to support strategic decision-making across the institution. I also work closely with stakeholders to identify opportunities to improve business processes, increase efficiency, and implement automation through technology. What I enjoy most is finding ways to use data and systems to help the organization make informed decisions and operate more effectively.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

The skills and experiences I gained at KPU have been valuable throughout my career. The program taught me the importance of hard work, problem-solving, and collaborating effectively with others. One of the most impactful experiences was my co-op placement, which gave me exposure to a professional work environment and helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. It allowed me to build confidence, develop practical skills, and build an amazing network of professional connections.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

My biggest piece of advice is to gain real-world experience as early as possible. Whether it's a co-op position, internship, volunteer role, or part-time job, hands-on experience helps you apply what you learn in the classroom and gives you a better understanding of how organizations operate. It also helps you develop professional skills that employers value.

I would also encourage students to build connections and expand their professional network. Many opportunities come through the relationships you build with classmates, instructors, colleagues, and industry professionals. Combining education with practical experience and strong professional relationships can make a big difference when starting your career after graduation.