February 2021 Volume 22, Number 6

The Employment Journey website attracts users from We recommend that job seekers research each of these sites Visit our website homepage and click PEI Job Opportunities. around the world. The most popular page for the third year to determine if there are job leads that suit the nature of Take a look through them all, and if you have any questions in a row is PEI Job Opportunities. their search. about the site or as you do your research, let us know. The PEI Job Opportunities page features most of the job The job posting sites listed below advertise jobs that are Email [email protected] posting websites that advertise PEI jobs. available on PEI.

Federal Employment Government of Canada Opportunities Job Bank PEI Public Service Commission

Further work options for youth to explore on the website: Government of PEI – Provincial jobs: Service Canada – Federal jobs: • Student Opportunities • Post-Secondary Recruitment – Government of Canada • Resources & support programs for training & job search • Canada Summer Jobs Other student/graduate job options • Canada Revenue Agency • Parks Canada • UPEI – student positions within the university • Young Canada Works – Canadian Heritage • UPEI – student positions outside of the university • Federal Student Work Experience Program • Holland College – student positions via WorkPEI • Odyssey – work in French • PERCÉ program– work in French and English • First Nations and Inuit Summer Work Experience Program • WorkSmarts – wage subsidies available on PEI • Student Work-Integrated Learning Program • Access Ability for youth with a disability Canadian Armed Forces Forces Armées Canadiennes Call to employers to participate in a Virtual Career Fair at UPEI submitted by UPEI Career Services, Experiential Education and Work-Integrated Learning, University of Prince Edward Island UPEI is hosting an online Career Video Fest to connect employers with job-seeking If you will be hiring university students or recent graduates students and alumni through pre-recorded recruitment videos. this spring and would like to submit a recruitment video for the Video Fest, please email UPEI Career Services at Video Fest submissions will be posted on a special playlist, shared on social media, and [email protected] promoted through a live-streamed viewing event on March 10, 2021. UPEI students and alumni will be able to stream the full playlist or re-watch specific videos at any time. You will be sent the registration form and instructions for how to create and submit your video. The deadline for video submissions is February 24, 2021. Participation is FREE for all employers.

The UPEI Career Services team is here to answer questions and provide support at [email protected] or call 902- 566-0794. For more information about the online Career Video Fest, visit www.upei.ca/exed/students/career-fair Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Helping international students Jobs available at start a career by Gloria Welton bioscience company by Heidi Riley How do we encourage international students to stay on PEI after they graduate? How to we help them achieve their goals and succeed On PEI, Sekisui Diagnostics has a workforce of here on PEI? 155 full-time employees and 15 to 20 contract temporary employees. The Atlantic Student Development Alliance (ASDA) is tackling these issues by providing international undergraduate and graduate The company produces the chemicals and reagents students with soft skills and industry-based training, resources, and used in testing for and diagnosing diseases. networks to help them transition into, and become active participants in the labour market. “Currently, we are going through an expansion project and we expect the creation of quite a few new roles and positions by early 2021,” says “We also offer Equity Diversity and Inclusion training and consultation,” says Daniel Ohaegbu, Krishna Burugadda, Senior Human Resources Administrator. a UPEI graduate and international student who founded the ASDA. “As we provide employers with a diverse group of talents, we also offer them workplace EDI training to ensure and Employment opportunities support employers towards recruiting, managing, and maintaining an equitable workforce. Packaging Associates: These entry-level positions are a great opportunity for individuals “My colleagues at ASDA, who are also recent graduates, understand the experiences and who would like to work in a manufacturing facility. These employees work in groups that challenges of being international students,” says Daniel. “We don’t want other students to complete automated and manual packaging of goods. experience the same challenges that we did. Production Technicians: These positions have a diverse range of duties in laboratories and “There are labour market shortages, especially in Atlantic Canada, and employers are looking on the production floor. Candidates with a post-secondary education in science or previous for graduates. At the same time, we see skilled international students leaving the region or production experience would be ideal for these roles. working odd jobs even after they have a degree.” “We recruit for a diverse range of opportunities with Sekisui Diagnostics, in various ASDA aims to bridge the disconnection gap between employers and international students departments including Quality, Research & Development, Environmental Health & Safety, by providing employers with skilled and well-qualified candidates. Regulatory Affairs, Supply Chain, Maintenance, Human Resources, Finance and Production. More than 75 international students who are studying at Holland College and UPEI are now Positions range from entry-level to senior leadership roles. connected to ASDA, which offers resources and information through virtual networking events, coaching, workshops, training, and needs assessments. “Due to our continued growth, we are always interested in speaking with professionals with manufacturing experience in the health science industry.” Three pillars of support Jobs are posted on the Careers page on the company website, and through job boards such • The Peer Mentor/Networking program helps students develop connections and networks as WorkPEI, Indeed, LinkedIn, and the PEI BioAlliance. and build relationships beyond the people they already know. Visit www.sekisuidiagnostics.com • The Easy Learn program focuses on training, workshops, and coaching. • The Connections program encourages employers to offer volunteer opportunities, For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Sekisui internships and job connections. “We understand that international students may not have the experience or the skills, so volunteering and internships help to familiarize them with the industries here and help them make connections and develop skills employers need.” Daniel says they are also reaching out to first-year, second-year and third-year students to Careers in Bioscience help them develop the skills they need. by Heidi Riley For more information about Atlantic Student Development Alliance, contact The Island’s bioscience sector Daniel Ohaegbu at [email protected] is involved in the research, Visit Facebook and search Atlantic Student Development Alliance development and commercialization of bioactive-based products for human, animal, and fish health and nutrition. Examples of jobs in Bioscience include Research Scientists, Lab Technicians, Quality Control Diverse job opportunities in Managers/Technicians, Chemical Process Engineers/Operators, Maintenance Technicians, Production Technicians, and business administration roles that include the areas of finance/ healthcare by Heidi Riley accounting, HR, and sales. “PEI’s Bioscience sector has 60 companies and more than 2,000 employees working across “Murphy Healthcare operates pharmacies, PEI,” says Vivian Beer, Manager, HR Strategy, PEI BioAlliance. “In 2019, we advertised about medical centres, and retirement living facilities across Atlantic Canada. The company owns and 350 jobs, and despite COVID-19, we exceeded that number in 2020.” operates five Andrews Senior Care residences on PEI, as well as Murphy’s Pharmacies, Atlantic Medical Centres, and other businesses. How to find a job in bioscience “Andrews of PEI most commonly hires Community Caregivers, Dietary Aides, and • Check the open positions listed at www.peibioalliance.com Housekeepers,” says Anne Doucette, Human Resources Corporate Recruiter. “Andrews • Contact Vivian Beer at [email protected] and ask to join the mailing list to Senior Care has a structured training program with excellent Team Leads who provide all the receive up-to-date job listings. necessary skills needed in that role.” • Send Vivian your resumé. She will add it to the BioAlliance resumé library and share it with Murphy’s Pharmacies has 13 locations across PEI. “At the moment we are most commonly PEI employers. hiring Pharmacy Assistants and Pharmacy Technicians. There are also jobs for Customer Care Representatives and Pharmacists. We have a formalized Pharmacy Assistant training program • Vivian will also take a look at your resumé and have a phone conversation with you to using a learning management system. Experienced Team Leads provide the training needed identify the best job matches. for these posts. • Check out the latest news to find which companies are growing and expanding. “Atlantic Medical Centres located in Cornwall, Charlottetown, and Stratford typically recruit for • BioTalent Canada has a bioskills recognition program that can identify where you fit in the medical secretaries and LPNs. bioscience economy. Visit www.biotalent.ca/get-started/ “Murphy’s Community Centre is a not-for-profit facility that looks for staff for the after-school • BioTalent Canada also offers courses such as Essential Skills that bioscience companies are drop-in service and to host various community events. It also hires Attendants for the bowling looking for. alley and hires Dishwashers, Cooks, Bartenders, and Servers for the restaurant. • The Canadian Alliance for Skills Training in Lifesciences (CASTL) is a first-of-its kind partnership between academia, industry, and government to address the future skills needs “We are most in need of hiring Caregivers for our long-term care homes and Pharmacy Assistants.” of the Canadian life sciences sector. CASTL offers multiple applied learning streams and Open positions are posted on WorkPEI, Indeed, Facebook, LinkedIn, and the Murphy’s pathways for individuals to acquire the academic knowledge and technical and professional Pharmacy website under Join Our Team. skills to have a successful career in life sciences. Visit www.peibioalliance.com/castl/ Candidates can send their resumés to [email protected] Visit www.murphyhealthcare.ca For more information, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Murphy Healthcare Careers in bioscience

2 February 2020 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Helping employers find the Career opportunities with right staff by Gloria Welton the City of Charlottetown by Stacy Dunn Island Recruiting provides professional recruiting and outsourced human resource services to The City of Charlottetown has companies across North America and around the approximately 600 employees in late world. They recruit locally and through immigration. summer and approximately 400 employees Kalie MacKinnon from Island Recruiting assists in the winter months. Employees can be employers with recruitment and human resource permanent, seasonal, casual, or work on contract. consulting. “With the HR side of the business we do everything from employee handbook development, The city’s Human Resources department stresses that applicants must learn all policies and procedures, to training and planning. As they can about the city and the job. Applicants may be required to submit a the needs of employers grow and employees’ range driver’s license or driver’s abstract depending on the job applied for. All successful in diversity, HR skills are becoming more sought after. Kalie MacKinnon, Island applicants will be required to submit a criminal background check. Recruiting. Submitted photo “With recruitment, we work with employers to discuss The city is an equal opportunity employer and is proud to be an inclusive workplace. their hiring needs and develop a plan to assist them in attracting the right candidate. “Applicants may request an accommodation so that we may assist in submitting Recruiting for labourers has become our biggest area because of the growth in a timely application to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to compete for construction.” jobs,” says Human Resources Officer Emilee MacLeod. Kalie says job seekers are welcome to submit their resumé to Island Recruiting. “If we are advertising jobs that may be a fit, we could contact those applicants. For more information on employment with the City of Charlottetown, call the However, we don’t work directly with job seekers to help them find work as there Human Resources Department at 902-566-5548. are organizations in the community that help those needing specific assistance with The city advertises job opportunities in The Guardian newspaper and at their job search.” www.charlottetown.ca/employment As a result of COVID-19 the job market has shifted. More people are without Find the seasonal/casual application form here: employment and more are rethinking their career path and considering other fields www.charlottetown.ca/employment/online_job_application of work. “There have been layoffs and wage decreases, which negatively impact For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and the labour force and bring new challenges,” says Kalie. “As well, some people want search Career opportunities with the City of Charlottetown to move to PEI because we are known as the safe province, which helps to fill what once was considered hard-to-fill jobs. “Across PEI we are now seeing new positions being created in the Information Steps to successfully find Technology sector such as IT assistants and expertise working with online meetings, conferences, and training. Also, demand for sanitation and janitorial services are on employment at this law firm the increase because of COVID-19 restrictions and operational plans.” by Gloria Welton For more information about Island Recruiting, email [email protected] Visit www.islandrecruiting.com. Cox & Palmer is a full-service, For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Atlantic Canadian law firm with PEI Helping employers find the right staff offices in four locations: Montague, Charlottetown, Summerside and Alberton. Their wide range of services in family law, litigation, corporate law, and property law make up the biggest percentage of Tips for applying to the their business. Ella Kelly, Human Resources Manager, has worked with this company for about provincial government two years, and feels this has been the best career decision she has made to date. by Stacy Dunn “We have a terrific group of people here, and we have all the benefits of belonging to a big regional firm but with a small firm feel. The PEI Public Service Commission is an independent “Most of our employment opportunities are for lawyers, paralegals, and legal and impartial agency that is a key human resource assistants. We also have shared services such as IT and accounting, but those are partner in the Public Service. A variety of comprehensive services are offered by the smaller groups.” Commission, including screening, testing, and recruiting of potential employees for “For Legal Assistant and Paralegal roles, we are interested in people with a college provincial government departments and agencies and Health PEI. diploma or university degree in many areas, but education in administration, Tips when applying for PEI Government jobs business, or accounting would stand out. “We screen and interview applicants almost every day,” says Janet Horne, a Bilingual “We also look for transferable skills such as critical thinking, strong verbal and Recruitment Coordinator. “Besides permanent, full-time positions, the Commission written communication skills, attention to detail, ability to manage multiple helps fill short-term vacancies such as casual and temporary job opportunities. projects and competing priorities, and the ability to work in a high pressure, fast- paced setting.” “Temporary or casual job opportunities are a good way to get your foot in the door. They can lead to more permanent opportunities. Job openings are on the company website and on Indeed.ca. “I am happy to accept a resumé at any time. When we have openings, I first go back to the resumés “Read the job ad closely to see what qualifications are being asked for, because on file to see if we have someone who may be a good fit. I am also happy to do you will be asked how your background matches these qualifications during the informational interviews, which is a chance to talk about your skills and what we do interview,” Janet says. at this firm.” “Make sure your qualifications stand out in your resumé and cover letter. Experience and education are key. References from previous employers will be required.” For more information, contact Ella Kelly at Cox & Palmer at 902-629-3920 or email [email protected] To learn more about Government departments, visit www.princeedwardisland.ca For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For more information on provincial government job opportunities, visit Cox & Palmer www.jobspei.ca or call the PEI Public Service Commission at 902-368-4080. For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Tips for applying to the provincial government Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram February 2020 3 Home healthcare Demand for Resident positions available by Heidi Riley Care Workers by Heidi Riley

Bayshore HealthCare provides PEI Seniors Homes includes home and community healthcare Garden Home and Whisperwood Villa services and customized care plans in Charlottetown, and Lady Slipper Villa and solutions that allow clients to in O’Leary. remain in their own homes. “The population is getting older, and there “In addition to homecare, we also provide therapy and rehabilitation,” says Angel Griffin, Area will be an increasing demand for services,” Director. “We have a specialty pharmacy network, infusion clinics, and community care clinics. says Ryan MacLean, Human Resource Officer. “I can’t think of any long-term care home that is not hiring right now. A career in long term care is a safe bet. We provide services such as companionship, housekeeping, meal preparation, personal care, medication reminders, nursing and palliative care. “Our biggest need is for Resident Care Workers or equivalent. Usually we hire only those with an RCW certification, which is available through at Holland College and other institutions. “We look for staff who have the right qualifications, but also have the heart to be that We have hired some people who have foreign nursing and medical degrees and are in the difference in our seniors’ lives.” process of getting their credentials recognized in Canada. “We hire people from a wide variety of backgrounds, and we have created a pathway to help “Most important in the long-term care world is having experience in a hospital or long-term you reach the position you want,” says Irwin Ian Cababasay, Talent Acquisition Specialist. care setting. If someone has taken care of the personal care needs of a family member, we “If you have no background in healthcare, we are open to having you begin as a Home would take that into consideration.” Support Worker. This is an opportunity to explore your options and perhaps become a Registered Care Worker. Open positions are posted on Indeed, WorkPEI, or email Ryan directly at [email protected]. “Employees can enroll in a program and we support them by providing complementary hours so they can go to school and work at the same time. If staff want to become an LPN or “Highlight your work experience on your resumé so that it is easy for me to see if you have a Registered Nurse, we have different positions to support their career. Our goal is to support the experience we are looking for.” employees from the beginning until their end goal, and we will work around work availability.” For more information, visit www.peiseniorshomes.com Bayshore offers benefit plans, training and education, employee recognition programs and For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search flexible hours. PEI Seniors Homes

Visit www.bayshore.ca For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Applicants wanted for the Bayshore Healthcare Medical Device Reprocessing Employment opportunities Technician program with RBC: what background Susan Mackinnon, Supervisor of the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) at the and experience works best Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, by Gloria Welton says in the next few years, about 30 percent of our current staff members in this department will be retiring and they need On PEI, RBC employs over 50 staff who work out of four to start gearing up to replace them. branches and an RBC Dominion Securities office. “We are the first line of defence for infection Employees often start at a customer service level, which control. We do the reprocessing and introduces them to the bank’s many products and services and sterilization of all surgical instrumentation allows them to work with clients face-to-face. related to all surgeries and clinics. After a procedure is done in the Operating Room, Li Yuan has been in Canada for 16 years, graduating from the in Ambulatory Care, or in Emergency, the business programs at McGill University & Concordia University surgical instruments are returned to the in Montreal and UPEI. Eight years ago, she started with RBC on SPD to be properly cleaned, disinfected, and PEI as a Customer Service Representative, moved to Account sterilized, ready for re-use. Beth Murray, Medical Device Reprocessing Manager, and three years later became a Commercial Associate Li Yuan, Market Manager, Technician. Account Manager, and then moved to Commercial Account Sales Support, RBC. “After the instruments are reprocessed, the Manager in two years. Now she is a Market Manager, Sales Technicians rebuild the trays of instruments needed for each procedure. Everything has to Support. She says there are lots of opportunities at RBC if you be 100 percent accurate. If the tray is not correct and the instruments are not all there, the work hard, and there is lots of support. surgery will be cancelled.” Frank Chen is a Commercial Account Manager for RBC PEI. Wages start at about $23/hr. It is a unionized workplace, and employees are entitled to He graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a benefits, paid holidays, and pension plans. Bachelor of Finance in Accounting in 2005. He is from China A number of institutions across Canada offer training for this role. The QEH works closely and has lived on PEI for five years with his wife and three with Saskatchewan Polytechnic (SIAST). There is also a 400-hour unpaid practicum. children. He started with RBC a very short time ago and says “We make sure students meet all the competencies required by the practicum, so that all is going very well. when they graduate, they are qualified entry-level technicians,” says Susan. “The qualifications that work best for me to be employed at Tuition for the 10-month online program is about $2,800 to $3,200. Contact SkillsPEI at RBC are my education, sales, and financial experience,” says www.skillspei.com or Career Development Services at www.cdspei.ca to find out if you Frank. “I didn’t have any banking experience coming into this are eligible for financial assistance to cover the cost of the program. job, but based on my past experience and education, I have Frank Chen, Commercial related transferable skills from working in the fields of law, Account Manager, RBC. accounting, and the hotel industry.” For more information or to take a tour of the SPD at the QEH, contact Susan MacKinnon at 902-894-2088 or For RBC job postings, resumé and interview tips, visit www.rbc.com/careers email [email protected] or [email protected] For the full article visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Employment opportunities with RBC: what background and experience works best Applicants wanted for the Medical Device Reprocessing Technician program

4 February 2020 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Career choices in A love for animals turns manufacturing by Stella Shepard to self-employment in

Livingston Steel is a family-owned rural PEI by Stella Shepard business specializing in the manufacturing and erection of industry structural steel products. Becky Batchilder launched Ruff Life Professional Grooming in Riverton near Lorne “The steel industry will be booming in the Valley in 2020. The home-based business offers coming years,” says Paul Livingston, President of Livingston Steel, which has locations in grooming for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Charlottetown and Summerside. “My work commute went from an hour and half “We could currently use four or five more experienced welders, but they are just not available drive to Summerside to steps away from my right now,” says Paul. living room,” says Becky. “I am co-owner of three stainless steel fabricating companies which employ more than 100 To prepare for this career, Becky took a tradespeople. PEI has many tradespeople, but there is still a shortage. I think employment Companion Animal Enterprise course at the prospects are better now than they have ever been. Nova Scotia Agricultural College. “We have hired newcomers recruited through the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada, She worked as a Veterinarian Technician which has worked out very well. We are prepared to help newcomers through the steps to Assistant, completed a dog grooming program get the proper certifications for trades and engineering. in Moncton, New Brunswick, and worked as a “We are presently hiring welders, labourers and steel fabricators. On the engineering side dog groomer in Eastern Kings, and offered a we are hiring estimators, steel detailers, and project managers. Age is not a barrier in this mobile dog grooming business. business. A person who worked in shipbuilding industry could transition to this type of steel Becky and a business partner operated fabricating.” Becky Batchilder, Ruff Life Professional a successful dog grooming business in Grooming Summerside from 2016 to 2020 before For more information about Livingston Steel, visit www.livingstonsteel.com branching out on her own. For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Livingston Steel “You can make a living in rural PEI,” says Becky. “Before opening a business, do your research. Talk to people in the community to confirm a need and a support of the services you plan to offer.”

Accomplishing longtime For more information, contact Becky Batchilder at 902-326-6525. For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search dream to become an Ruff Life Professional Grooming event planner by Stella Shepard Ferry service hires a wide “I have been interested in event planning for a very long time,” says Helena Wood of by Stella Shepard Charlottetown. She followed her dream by variety of positions launching Mosaic Management Events in May of 2019. Northumberland “I can be hired to do everything from guest list Ferries Limited crosses management, social media, decorating, or just between Wood Islands, PEI being there to oversee the day to ensure that and Caribou, Nova Scotia. everything goes as planned,” says Helena. The ferry service operates from May to December with “In my first year, demand for my services was two vessels. amazing, but my industry got hit very hard with COVID-19. All my 2020 events were cancelled.” “We have up to 175 employees from March In June 2020, she started a second business to December,” says in partnership with Chef Jen McKenna. Andrea Bird, Human Cured Creations in Charlottetown is PEI’s first Resources Director. charcuterie box delivery and takeout and event catering company. The company partners with “Employees return to more than 10 Island producers. work each year based on their seniority and we hire new people as well. We hire for the Helena Wood service-oriented positions in the spring and throughout the summer. Many Engineering and “I have a caterer, chef, sommelier, and support Navigation Officers are hired team I subcontract for events.We will need to hire for the summer of 2021 to assist at the year-round.” shop to create the charcuterie boxes while Jen and I are doing larger events and catering.” As she developed her business, Helena reached out to community groups like Community Job titles: Toll Booth Attendant, Cashier, Terminal Attendant, Cook, Electrician, Business Development Corporation (CBDC), Empower PEI, SkillsPEI and the Startup Zone. Marine Engineer, Maintenance, Parking Lot Attendant, Engineering and Navigation Officers, Captain, Deckhand, Steward and Lunch Counter Servers. “CBDC East was a great resource for helping with my business plan and assisting in getting a loan to get my business started,” says Helena. “Martina MacDonald, Executive Director of “There will be a huge shortage of Engineering and Navigation Officers in the coming years CBDC East, promoted my services to other people searching for event management help.” for Northumberland Ferries Ltd. and in the shipping industry generally,” says Andrea.

For more information about Mosaic Management Events, contact Helena Wood at “We invest in our employees with training and support to staff wanting to progress to 902-940-6263 or [email protected]. higher-level positions in the company. You can start at an entry-level position and work your Visit www.mosaicmanagement.ca way up to become the Captain of the ship.” For more about Cured Creations, visit www.curedcreations.ca For more information about Northumberland Ferries Ltd., visit www.ferries.ca For more information about CBDC East, call 902-838-4106 or visit www.cbdc.ca For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For the complete interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Mosaic Management Events Northumberland Ferries Limited

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram February 2020 5 Welding company growth An inside look at the role results in hiring more of a Recreation Director staff by Ruby Arsenault for the Town of Tignish by Ruby Arsenault Myers Welding Inc. located just outside Tignish is seeing the Meet Tina Richard, the Recreation Director for the business grow and has a growing Town of Tignish. She is passionate about her community need to hire more Welding and its residents. For the past two years, she has been Fabricators. planning and implementing various activities and functions for Tignish and enjoys every moment. The company fabricates equipment for the aquaculture, fishing, and In her role, she organizes activities and sports for all age farming industries, specializing in groups. “To be successful in this line of work, you have to aluminum, steel and stainless steel. know and understand your community and help create things that are needed,” says Tina. “Working with local They do custom welding, custom businesses is vital. I like to ask them what they would like fabrication of trailers, fishing to participate in. equipment, boats, oyster barges, booms and boats, and other metal Brian Myers, Myers Welding Inc.. “The most rewarding part of my job is being able to fabrication. offer help to locals who perhaps do not get a lot of social interaction or to assist youth with the cost of attending Tina Richard, recreation “Customers come to us with their ideas and needs and we get to work to meet these an event. Part of my job includes fundraising so we can director for the Town of needs,” says Brian Myers, Owner. afford such great services. Our biggest fundraiser is the Tignish. “As with most Canadian trades, finding experienced staff can be a struggle, and it’s Fisher’s Awards Banquet.” rough when companies have to decline work due to a lack of employees,” says Brian. “The best advice I can share with anyone who may be interested in this line of work is to volunteer or do job shadowing,” says Tina. “I was offered this position because of the “I could hire up to six new Welding Fabricators if I could find them. I hire two at a time amount of volunteering I did in the town. Within the recreation department we often and get them up and going and feeling comfortable before I add a few more. seek volunteers to assist with various events and programs, so please feel free to contact “I presently have six full-time staff and have had as many as 11 in the past. Included in us directly. my staff are two excellent women who contribute a great deal to our production, and I “Volunteering is an excellent way to try out work in the field and to network.” encourage other women to apply.”

To apply, contact Brian Myers at 902-853-5821 or [email protected] or drop in For more information, contact Town of Tignish at 902-882-2600 or to 44 Christopher Road, Tignish. Tignish Recreation Department at 902-882-2476. Visit www.facebook.com/myerswelding Visit Facebook: www.facebook.com/TignishRecreationDirector For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Myers Welding Inc. An inside look at the role of a Recreation Director for the Town of Tignish O’Leary Co-op thriving Turning a healthy lifestyle and hiring by Ruby Arsenault into a viable business by Stella Shepard The O’Leary Farmer’s Co-op has 45 employees working in three locations: Wingspan Wholistic offers personalized Food Market, Shell Gas Bar, and Feed Mill wellness plans, realistic meal planning, Country Store. wholistic wellness workshops, life coaching, “The most challenging aspect of my job is complete personal fitness planning, and staffing, which has become a real issue in the new environment as COVID-19 adds even supplement guidance. There are also programs for pain reduction and weight loss. more challenges,” says Dawn Helm, General Manager. “As a Fitness Facilitator, I have been Currently the Co-op is looking to hire a Gas Bar Attendant, a Cashier for the grocery who honoured to witness many clients over the is available during the day, and a Grocery Department Manager for the Food Market. years, women mostly, improve their health “For the grocery manager position, I am seeking a highly qualified, motivated person and quality of life through wholistic nutrition with retail food experience and knowledge. The ideal candidate would have a business and fitness practices,” says Rhonda Gallant, background as well.” Owner. New positions are posted on Facebook and through word of mouth and WorkPEI. “Currently, I’m a one woman show, but as I have already expanded my classes in Resumés are kept on file for upcoming openings. Charlottetown and Souris. I plan to hire another Groove Facilitator to Wingspans’ class schedule in the future. To apply, email [email protected] or pick up a job application at the cash “Also, as I continue to grow my weight loss, nutrition, and life coaching client list, I plan office and drop off the resumé at the store anytime. to hire an Administrative Assistant to help with accounting and scheduling, as well as marketing and promotion.” For more information, visit O’Leary Farmers Co-op Food Market on Facebook. For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search For more information about Wingspan Wholistic, contact Rhonda Gallant O’Leary Co-op thriving and hiring at 902-327-1035 or email [email protected] Visit www.wingspanpei.com or www.facebook.com/wingspanpei For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Wingspan Wholistic

6 February 2020 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Career Bridges is helping Island Adventure Group offers help residents and newcomers gain for a fresh start by Ethan Paquet employment on PEI by Ethan Paquet Many people need help to get a fresh start at a better life. With the help of The The four locations of Career Adventure Group, dreams can come true. Bridges on PEI in Charlottetown, The non-profit organization provides O’Leary, Summerside, and Montague, customized programs to help hold programs designed to help participants build a solid those looking to re-enter the foundation that includes stable workforce, make a career change, or housing, childcare, employment just find a helping hand. skills, self-confidence, financial The 12-week vocational assessment literacy, a strong social network, and guidance program is for and much more. people considering a career change Participants include people who or further training. Along with may have fallen through the cracks classroom time, participants hear and find themselves facing barriers from guest speakers and take part Bruce Cluney points to the countries their past clients such as lack of work experience, in a six-week job placement or self- were from. addictions, or an abusive employment option. relationship, and are looking to find Bruce Cluney, Coordinator, says he has seen groups come in as strangers and leave as friends. success in life. Programs can also “What they get out of the program is only limited by what ideas or suggestions they may have.” help those relying on financial assistance, those with disabilities, and newcomers. Bruce understands the difficulties people can face when trying to find employment, and the first The Adventure Group’s 10-week program helps participants break free of the cycle they’ve job participants find after they complete the program is a steppingstone on their career journey. been living by creating goals to work toward. The next session in Montague begins February 16. Sessions in Charlottetown, Summerside The seven-week Prosper Program helps participants transition into the workforce with a and O’Leary begin March 29. There is no cost to this program. focus on sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture, tourism, and construction, which hire large numbers of people. For information on Career Bridges and upcoming programs, contact the Charlottetown Career Bridges office at 902-566-2811. To learn more about The Adventure Group and how to apply for the next session, call Visit www.careerbridges.pe.ca 902-628-8668 or visit www.adventuregrouppei.ca A list of resources and services for job seekers can be found online at For a list of resources and services for job seekers, visit www.employmentjourney.com/resources-services-for-job-seekers/ www.employmentjourney.com/resources-services-for-job-seekers Services help newcomers Financial support for navigate the transition to internationally trained rural life by Stella Shepard newcomers by Ethan Paquet

“PEI Community Navigators assist with growing the rural population by supporting Newcomers to Canada can have many new residents who come here through immigration as skilled or unskilled, temporary different barriers to overcome when or permanent, and interprovincial or international newcomers, including refugees,” says looking for work in Canada. What can Maxine Rennie, Project Lead and Executive Director of Community Business Development they do when they learn their foreign Corporation (CBDC West Prince Ventures Ltd.). credentials are not recognized here, or when they wish to embark in a new “The role of the Community Navigator is to support the community and new residents and career direction? bring everyone together. Without community support, we will not be able to retain new residents and grow the workforce.” The federally sponsored Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund (AICLF) is there to help. Through micro-loans, newcomers can access extremely low cost funding to help them Meet the PEI Community Navigators overcome financial barriers to become licensed in their fields, enter the workforce, and pay for the costs of acquiring new training, education, and credentials so that they may be more Maxine Rennie Scott Smith competitive in the job market or embark on a new career path. Project Lead Western PEI The maximum amount available through the program is $15,000. The interest rate is bank Executive Director Community Navigator prime rate plus 1 percent. The funds can be used to pay for registration fees, examination of CBDC 902-853-3636 fees, training fees, travel costs, living expenses, study materials, tools, or equipment. Other 902-853-3636 [email protected] types of expenses may also be considered, as long as they are related to a person’s career and [email protected] training plan. To be eligible, you must be a Permanent Resident or Canadian citizen, a resident of Atlantic Canada, and have the required English or French skills for your chosen program or profession. You must also be a registered client with a designated immigrant services agency such as Peggy Miles Lindee Gallant the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada (PEI ANC), and have no un-discharged Central PEI Eastern PEI bankruptcy. Community Navigator Community Navigator 902-598-7560 902-969-5989 For more information about the Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund and how to apply, visit www.aiclf.ca or contact John Warr at [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] or 902-213-9968. To learn more about the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada, call 902-628-6009. Visit www.peianc.com For more financial help for PEI residents, visit www.employmentjourney.com/financial-help/ For the full-length article visit www.employmentjourney.com and search for For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search PEI Community Navigators Financial support for internationally trained newcomers

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram February 2020 7 Education savings Many construction jobs for children offered available on PEI by Stella Shepard by the federal PEI’s construction industry employs government by Stacy Dunn about 6,500 workers, and that number is steadily rising. Building permits are up on PEI since spring of 2020. Families are encouraged to start early in saving for post-secondary education for their children. The Government of Canada has a variety of savings plans to help youth. The “Currently, there are about 600 open following programs are: positions in the construction industry on PEI,” says Sam Sanderson, General Manager, CAPEI. Canada Learning Bond (CLB) – A savings plan which provides up to $2,000. Children must be born in 2004 or later and are from a low-income family to be eligible. “Roughly 1,500 skilled workers will be retiring by 2029, which will open many job opportunities. We need to consider newcomers, Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) – An education savings account registered with women, Indigenous people, and youth for future employment in the Government of Canada. A relative, guardian, or family friend of the child can put aside the industry. money for the child. An RESP can be opened at a financial institution, such as a bank or credit union, or through a certified financial planner or a group plan dealer. “Employers will help you advance in the industry if you show incentive and a willingness to learn.” Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) – For a child to get the CESG, personal contributions must be made to an RESP. The lifetime maximum amount of CESG a child can get is $7,200. The grant may go to an apprenticeship program, trade school, as well as a For more information about the construction industry on PEI, college or university. call 902-368-3303 or visit www.capei.ca Visit www.employmentjourney.com and search construction. Sam Sanderson, For more information on these plans, go to the Education Savings page on the Government General Manager, CAPEI. of Canada website: www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/education/education-savings.html For employment opportunities within the construction industry, visit www.workpei.ca and www.islandbuilder.ca For more information on education financial help, go to the Financial Help for PEI Residents & Organizations page: https://employmentjourney.com/financial-help/

Career choices in the trucking sector on PEI by Stella Shepard “On PEI, about 4,000 employees Career examples include: Truck Driver, work in the trucking industry, and about Heavy Equipment Mechanic, 2,000 are truck drivers,” says Brian Oulton, Freight Broker, Driver Trainer, Dispatcher, Executive Director, PEI Trucking Sector Parts Technician, Safety and Compliance Council (PEITSC). “We are looking for 500 and Human Resources. to 800 new employees in the industry. We have a population of truck drivers who are “New US Long Haul Truck Drivers start at reaching the age of retirement, and we have about $50,000 to $60,000 per year,” says Brian. companies that want to expand and grow. If they are willing to drive longer distances, Team drivers on PEI can earn up to $100,000 There is certainly so much opportunity. they could earn $70,000 to $80,000. Drivers or more per year and are home about eight For more information about careers in are paid by the mile; the more miles they to 10 days a month. trucking, call the PEI Trucking Sector “The key opportunities in the industry and Council at 902-566-5563. drive, the more money they make. “Drivers who haul specialized loads such as the most challenging positions to fill are for Visit www.peitsc.ca truck drivers and mechanics. As well, we hire “If two people share a truck, which is called fuel or B-trains (two trailers hooked together) human resources specialists, dispatchers, team driving, it becomes much more also make more money. The further you go and management. If 100 truck drivers productive – one person sleeps while the away from home and the longer you stay applied today, we could hire all of them.” other drives. away, the more you are paid.” Calendar of Events Check out all employment-related events online such as virtual conferences, workshops, courses, information sessions, training, programs, and much more. www.employmentjourney.com

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The Employment Journey Inc. Publication Manager/Owner: Gloria Welton is a monthly publication available to residents and businesses Queens County Reporter/Copy Editor: Heidi Riley of PEI. The publication is produced by Gloria Welton. Kings County Reporter: Stella Shepard Funding for The Employment Journey is provided by the Reporter/Public Relations: Stacy Dunn Canada/Prince Edward Island Labour Market Agreements. EJ Promoter/Reporter: Ethan Paquet The Employment Journey Inc. The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors West Prince Reporter: Ruby Arsenault 129 Harrod’s Lane, Fairview, PE C0A 1H2 and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of Design/Pre-press: TechnoMedia Inc. E-mail: [email protected] Canada, the Government of Prince Edward Island or the Webmaster: TechnoMedia Inc. Employment Journey © 1998 Publication Manager. 8 February 2020 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram