Dr. Scott MacPherson

Dr. Scott MacPherson recently joined the Keyano College team, bringing more than 25 years of senior leadership experience across post‑secondary education, private industry, and community partnership development. A collaborative, equity‑focused, and community‑rooted leader, he is deeply committed to advancing learner success, strengthening regional economic development, and fostering relationships that benefit the communities Keyano serves.

Before joining Keyano, Scott served as Dean of the School of Business and Creative Industries at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), where he led transformative academic initiatives, launched industry‑aligned programs, and built strong partnerships with Indigenous communities, industry leaders, and cultural organizations. His work included co‑developing land‑based Indigenous training initiatives, advancing entrepreneurship micro‑credentials, and securing multimillion‑dollar philanthropic support.

Prior to NSCC, he was Dean of the School of Construction at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). In that role, he guided a large and diverse academic division, expanded programs aligned with labour market needs, helped raise millions through industry partnerships, and collaborated with Indigenous communities to deliver trades training that supported both learners and community infrastructure. During this time, he also served on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF) as one of two educational representatives, providing national leadership on apprenticeship policy and representing the interests of apprentice educators across Canada.

Before transitioning into post‑secondary leadership, Scott held senior roles in the private sector, including serving as Director of Strategy & Operations at ASCO Canada, where he developed national strategies, oversaw Alberta operations, and forged Indigenous partnerships across multiple regions.

Scott holds a Doctor of Education in Distance Education with a focus in transformational leadership, an MBA, and a Bachelor of Commerce, supported by extensive professional development at institutions including Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. His leadership philosophy is grounded in integrity, collaboration, and the belief that education transforms lives and builds resilient communities.

Scott is honoured to return to Fort McMurray and lead Keyano College into its next chapter of growth, partnership, and innovation.