Working as a court reporter is not just my profession; it's my passion. Every day, I take pride in providing an essential service to the community, ensuring that everyone, regardless of hearing ability, has access to accurate, real-time transcription of legal proceedings and other important events. This role is crucial for maintaining transparency and upholding justice in our society as well as offering access to information.

When I heard about the potential discontinuation of the Captioning and Court Reporting Program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), I felt compelled to act. This program has been a cornerstone in training individuals to enter this vital field, equipping them with the skills necessary to perform these essential duties. Not only does it prepare students for a rewarding career, but it also addresses a growing need for qualified professionals in an increasingly digital world.

The demand for court reporters and captioners has never been higher. According to the National Court Reporters Association, there is an expected shortage of 5,500 court reporting professionals in the coming years. This shortage poses a risk not only to the career prospects of individuals like myself but also threatens the access to justice for countless citizens who rely on these services daily.

Continuing this program at NAIT is not only a matter of preserving educational opportunities but also a necessity for ensuring that our legal and media systems remain accessible to all. These services are vital to the futures of both trained professionals and those who depend on their expertise.

NAIT is currently the only school in Canada that offers the CACR program.  It is a program that is recognized globally.  Graduates of the NAIT CACR program are coveted around the world.  It truly puts Alberta on the map.

I urge NAIT to reconsider its decision and keep the Captioning and Court Reporting Program alive and thriving. By doing so, they will support the professional community by ensuring that new generations of skilled reporters can continue contributing to our society's need for transparency and accessibility.

Signing this petition is a step towards securing the future of this indispensable service. Please join me in advocating for the continuation of the Captioning and Court Reporting Program at NAIT.