McMaster Continuing Education recognized at CAUCE 2025: Key takeaways from this year’s conference

The 2025 Canadian Association for University Continuing Education (CAUCE) conference brought together educators, administrators, and thought leaders from across Canada to exchange ideas and showcase innovations shaping the future of adult learning.

McMaster Continuing Education was proud to receive the CAUCE Excellence Bronze Award for edXpress: Reimagining Lifelong Learning with Innovation and Inclusion – a recognition of our commitment to accessible, future-focused education that meets the evolving needs of today’s learners.

As McMaster Continuing Education representatives attended sessions and engaged in meaningful dialogue, several themes emerged, from the responsible use of AI to inclusive programming for newcomers and data-informed program development. These highlights, shared by our colleagues, offer valuable insights into how continuing education can continue to adapt and lead.

Responsible use of AI and data-driven decisions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly integrated into continuing education, but its use requires careful oversight. Generative AI platforms like ChatGPT can produce inaccurate or incoherent responses up to 30% of the time, highlighting the importance of expert supervision and alignment with institutional policies.

While AI can support communication and streamline routine tasks, it should never replace authentic human writing. At the same time, data-driven decisions remain vital to responsive program management. Effective program reviews rely on a range of data, including student demand, labour market trends, competitive analysis, and program performance metrics.

Supporting newcomers through inclusive and accessible programming

Continuing education plays a critical role in helping newcomers navigate challenges such as language barriers, unfamiliar terminology, and cultural differences. Many also face limited awareness of continuing education opportunities.

Success for these learners depends on factors such as financial support (bursaries or scholarships), flexible course scheduling, and targeted outreach. Innovative approaches include teaching industry-specific language, partnering with local newcomer and settlement services, and leveraging McMaster’s reputation to attract learners looking to grow professionally and build a life in Canada.

Technology integration and skills development to meet labour market needs

The conference highlighted advancements in micro-credentialing and deeper integration with Learning Management Systems (LMS), enabling short, targeted learning experiences that quickly address workforce skill gaps.

Continuing education programs are well-positioned to help tackle the growing skills shortage across Canada and other G7 nations. In a fast-changing economy, we must respond to labour market signals with agility, offering learners not just technical training but also cross-disciplinary “soft skills” such as critical thinking, empathy, and teamwork. While often challenging to measure, these human skills are essential to success in modern workplaces.

Building programs and leadership that put people first

A recurring theme was the need to support the whole learner through thoughtful program design that integrates career development and community-based mentorship. One standout example was a partnership-led initiative for Indigenous learners that combined skills training with personal growth.

Leadership in continuing education was also a hot topic, specifically the need for transparency, empathy, and honest conversations. Rather than promoting “toxic positivity,” many presenters advocated for people-first leadership rooted in authenticity and courage.

Team connection beyond the sessions

Beyond the professional sessions, the conference offered meaningful moments of connection. Several McMaster Continuing Education team members explored the “Journey Behind the Falls,” descending 125 feet to experience the roar and spray up close. The evening wrapped with a stroll along the illuminated falls, capped off by a vibrant fireworks display. These shared experiences offered a welcome balance of inspiration and relaxation, deepening our sense of team and purpose.

Looking ahead

Whether through AI, learner support, or data-informed innovation, CAUCE 2025 reinforced that continuing education must remain adaptable, people-centred, and future-focused.

For a comprehensive overview, please refer to the full CAUCE 2025 conference summary here.

These shared reflections help keep us aligned with an evolving educational landscape and strengthen our collective impact as educators, administrators, and changemakers.