MLT Aikins has been selected as one of Saskatchewan's Top Employers by Canada's Top 100 Employers. The honour was just announced in a special magazine published in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and Regina Leader-Post.

The firm is proud of this high recognition, which is bestowed selectively. Since 2006, Canada's Top 100 Employers has evaluated the nation's employers based on criteria that includes mentorship opportunities, work atmosphere, vacation time, health, financial and family benefits.

Career growth is top-of-mind at MLT Aikins. After arriving in Canada from Nigeria, Olamide Pedro initially worked at the firm's Regina office as a paralegal. When she wanted to study for her exams in order to practise law in Canada, her manager granted her time off and offered encouragement. After she passed, Olamide approached MLT Aikins with the hope of articling with the firm. The response? "If you want this, we'll support you. When can you start?" Olamide was amazed. "I have friends at other firms, and no one has been supported the way I have." She was called to the Saskatchewan Bar in 2023.

Says MLT Aikins managing partner, Aaron Runge, "Our people are our most valuable asset, and their development is important. So, from the start we provide mentorship that stays with them until they become a partner."

Employing more than 80 dedicated community members, MLT Aikins occupies two floors in Saskatoon's River Landing development. In Regina, the firm has more than 120 lawyers, staff and associates based out of the city's downtown.

MLT Aikins also prioritizes mental health, a common issue in the legal sector, given the pressures of tight timelines and the needs of clients. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the firm responded by offering flexible work schedules and mental health services to its employees. "In the past few years," says Aaron, "we've done a lot to de-stigmatize mental health issues and provide more opportunities for our people to get help."

Among the other benefits that MLT Aikins offers is 17 weeks of maternity leave top-up pay. Gender diversity is another priority at the firm, where women account for 86% of managers.