Indigenous 
Written by SLC Communications
St. Lawrence College's Program Advisory Committees (PACs) exist to keep college programs connected to what's happening in the workplace. Each committee brings together five to 12 people, such as business owners, industry professionals, government representatives, and community leaders who meet regularly with faculty to ask a question: what do graduates need to succeed?
PAC Members commit to three-year terms. They review curriculum, identify gaps, suggest industry partnerships, help set up work placements, and sometimes assist with scholarships. The goal is practical: make sure what students are learning reflects what employers need.
We spoke with Addison Pelkey, Deputy Fire Chief of Operations for the City of Cornwall, who has been on the PAC for SLC’s Pre-Service Firefighter program offered at the Brockville campus since 2023. He currently serves as PAC Chair.
Q. What are the ways you see the PAC influencing program content? Can you share any examples?
A. The PAC is aware of the program metrics review that happens every five years — there's one coming for the Pre-Service Firefighter program in 2027. The equipment is in good shape, but technology in the fire service is always evolving, and the curriculum needs to keep pace. The instructors are knowledgeable and committed, and that comes through in the student experience. Students are getting adequate hands-on time to build skills they can use on the job.
Q. What is a strength of SLC's program?
A. There are ongoing opportunities for students to engage with the community through volunteering and local events. The PAC has strong representation from multiple surrounding municipalities, working alongside the program coordinator and associate dean. That range of voices helps keep the program grounded in what different communities actually need.
Q. How has the work you lead changed over the years? Has SLC's program adjusted to reflect that?
A. There have been some administrative changes, including a new program coordinator position, but keeping things consistent is what moves the program forward. Virtual meetings help accommodate everyone's schedules, and there's still an annual in-person meeting at the Brockville campus. There's always room to improve.
Q. What advice would you give someone considering joining a PAC?
A. If you're an industry leader who wants to help shape the next generation in your field, it's worth considering. The students and the program are what benefit from your time and input.
Tell us about your program’s PAC! We’d like to tell more stories about how programs reflect the current needs of industry, and the ways SLC graduates get prepared for their careers. Email: Communications@sl.on.ca.