Alumni Profile: Michelle Michaud, Human Resources Management, 2014

When Michelle Michaud graduated from Laurier University with a degree in Psychology and minors in Sociology and Women’s Studies, she knew she wanted to spend her working life helping people.

What she didn’t know yet was what her path would look like.

Looking to complement her university education and return home, the Quinte West resident enrolled in Loyalist College’s one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management. More than a decade later, she’s helping shape workplaces across the region and preparing the next generation of HR professionals.

Michelle’s first HR role was with Youthab, where she supported young people as they entered the workforce. The position gave her a firsthand look at the impact human resources professionals can have throughout a person’s working life and confirmed she had found the right field.

“If it wasn’t for my time at YouthHab/Career Edge, I might not have pursued a career in Human Resources,” she says. “I am grateful to have worked in multiple industries. It has significantly shaped my skills and knowledge.”

Today, Michelle is a Human Resources Business Partner with the City of Quinte West. Her work spans recruitment, labour relations, compensation, training and professional development, helping build a strong and supported workforce.

Her professional journey also brought her back to Loyalist as a professor in the Human Resources Management program, where she shared real-world examples with students preparing to enter the profession.

Whether working with municipal employees, mentoring students or reflecting on the experiences that shaped her own career, Michelle believes growth comes from saying yes to new opportunities.

“Put yourself out there, and don’t shy away,” she advises. “You can gain connections even from volunteer opportunities because you never know where they might lead. Try different things to find what you enjoy and excel at, and don’t be afraid to apply for a job even if you don’t meet all the requirements. Be an advocate for yourself!”

Looking back, Michelle credits every stage of her professional life—from the non-profit sector to municipal government and the classroom—with helping her become the HR leader she is today. Each role built on the last, reinforcing the value of staying curious, building relationships and remaining open to unexpected opportunities.

Discover how Loyalist’s online Human Resources Management Ontario College Graduate Certificate can support your next career step.