Employee spotlight – Ken Chiang
Meet Ken Chiang, Principal Human Resources Consultant at PrairiesCan
Ken has been an integral member of PrairiesCan since May 2022, serving as a Principal Human Resources Consultant in our Edmonton office. His role involves providing strategic and operational advice on a range of human resources (HR) disciplines. Describing a typical day, Ken says, “I support executives by running staffing processes, delivering presentations on key HR topics, consulting managers and employees on HR matters, and developing and leading key strategic initiatives for Staffing and Equity, Diversification and Inclusion.”
Ken’s career in the Public Service
Ken’s journey with the Government of Canada began as a Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) student in the early 2000s. He discovered his passion for supporting and solving problems for people early on. “The joy I see in their faces when I help them has always been inspiration for my work,” he shares. Throughout his career, Ken has embraced various roles, including Finance Clerk, IT Technician, Staffing Consultant, HR Manager, and Labour Relations Consultant. Each position allowed him to make a positive impact, from providing essential supplies to employees to creating policy as part of PrairiesCan’s corporate center of expertise.
A memorable initiative for Ken
Although Ken has only been with PrairiesCan for two years, he has already contributed to several significant corporate initiatives. One notable project was the development of the Harassment and Violence in the Workplace Policy. “This policy ensures everyone at PrairiesCan has the right to a healthy working environment,” he explains. Ken also played a pivotal role in implementing a national telework approval app to support PrairiesCan’s hybrid working environment.
Ken’s career advice
Ken emphasizes the diverse career opportunities available within the Government of Canada. “Once you are working in the government, the options for your career path are endless,” he advises. He highlights the supportive environment at PrairiesCan, where managers work closely with employees to support their career development. “Not only do you get to work on corporate and national impacting policy initiatives that are hard to find working in the regions, but you also get to work in an environment that consistently tops as one of the best places to work in Canada,” he notes. When asked about his favorite aspect of working at PrairiesCan, Ken appreciates “the ability to have direct access to the senior leaders of PrairiesCan and a working environment that supports meaningful conversations to get the work done.”
Ken beyond the office
Outside of his professional life, Ken has a passion for technology and gaming. He enjoys finding technological solutions for his clients and escaping into the world of gaming during his private time. Ken is also a dedicated husband and father to two highly spirited children. When not immersed in gaming or family activities, he enjoys exploring innovative tech solutions to enhance his work and personal life.