November 2025 News Bulletin | | The NL Workforce Innovation Centre (NLWIC) team has been actively engaged in various events across the province, showcasing our commitment to fostering innovation in workforce development. From workshops to community events, the team has been dedicated to actively participating in various events to explore ideas, engage in collaboration, and share insights and best practices. | | At the beginning of October, Sharon McLennon and Susanne Dawe attended an invite-only event on October 7, 2025 at the Centre for Research and Innovation in Corner Brook, NL. Hosted by Paul Preston, Executive Advisor with the Conference Board of Canada to facilitate two sessions - one in Corner Brook, in collaboration with NLWIC, and the other in St. John's. The Future Skills Centre (FSC) supported the initiative which included a presentation and roundtable discussion titled "Shift Insights on Skills Strategies for Innovation and Good Jobs in Newfoundland and Labrador," focused on economic development opportunities in the province, particularly in energy, manufacturing, and technology. Director Sharon McLennon addressed over 20 attendees, with Sharon and Susanne engaging in discussion about the critical skills gaps that often hinder progress. Experts Daniel Munro, Co-Director of Shift Insights, Greig Lamb Co-Director & Chief Economist of Shift Insights, and Paulina Lake, Executive Director of Manufacturing Renaissance, provided insights into regional economic and labor challenges, referencing successful global initiatives like Chicago's Manufacturing Renaissance. The event served as a valuable platform for the team to share their observations on the skills necessary to leverage these opportunities and to discuss strategies for developing a skilled workforce in NL. | | Director Sharon McLennon addressing attendees at Future Skills Centre event. | | | A few days later, NLWIC had a visit from the College of the North Atlantic's Centre for Teaching and Learning Innovation (CTLI) team and colleagues to Corner Brook. We were pleased to welcome Director Jenn Wicks and her team to the NLWIC office at the CNA Corner Brook Campus. Their visit was part of a broader effort to promote CTLI’s services and offerings, including the Coaching Classrooms initiative - a strengths-based, non-evaluative approach that supports instructors through reflective conversations and evidence-based teaching strategies. With a shared commitment to innovation in teaching, learning, and workforce development, we enjoyed the opportunity to connect and celebrate the spirit of innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador. | | CNA's Centre for Teaching & Learning Innovation team visiting with NL Workforce Innovation Centre team in Corner Brook (L-R: Lisa Skinner, Sashka, Sharon, Robin Regular, Angela Beck, and Jenn Wicks) | | | While a few of the NLWIC team members were visiting with CTLI the team, Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator Susanne Dawe was attending the econext 2025 Conference on October 9, 2025. Hosted at the Delta Hotel St. John's Conference Centre, it was great to be among business and thought leaders to discuss pivotal topics related to innovating the electricity sector and workforce development approaches for the province’s green economy. By participating in this conference, the highlight for Susanne was being able to engage with key stakeholders, share insights on workforce strategies during networking, and explore collaborative opportunities. | | Later in the month, the NLWIC team was also thrilled to present at the first day of the 2025 Atlantic Canada Economics Association (ACEA) Conference, hosted by Memorial University’s Department of Economics. The three-day conference in St. John's focused on key themes such as Human Capital, Labour Productivity, and Regional Economy, addressing economic uncertainties in Atlantic Canada. NLWIC Director Sharon McLennon and Faculty Researcher Aleksandra Stefanovic-Chafe represented the organization, with Aleksandra presenting findings from the Job Transitions Pathways research project, conducted in collaboration with the Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University, during the Productivity & Growth Session on October 17, 2025. The presentation showcased innovative models and best practices aimed at enhancing workforce attachment and skill acquisition, crucial for economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. NLWIC was delighted about being approached after the presentation about potential collaborative opportunities related to the project. | | Alexsandra and Sharon at ACEA Conference | |  | Alexsandra presenting at ACEA Conference | | | NLWIC's participation at ACEA 2025 was vital for sharing insights and solutions to positively impact the province's labor force in support of sustainable economic development. This commitment to innovation was further exemplified when NLWIC team members, Aleksandra Stefanovic-Chafe, Lana Roestenberg, Ariyana Gomes, and Brian Critch, had the privilege of attending the Official Launch of the Newcomer Navigator NL platform, a groundbreaking Collective Interchange initiative. They had the opportunity to discover how the platform will support the community, connect with other organizations, and explore exciting opportunities for collaboration. At NLWIC, we believe in the power of innovation and collaboration, and this platform is a meaningful step towards contributing to the journey of newcomers. A big congratulations to everyone involved in making this resource a reality and to creating a brighter future for newcomers to strengthen our communities and the workforce. | | NLWIC team with Collective Interchange staff | | | NLWIC staff with fellow Launch attendees | | | This is only the #TipOfTheIceberg of the recent activities of the NLWIC team and other organizations in the province aimed at fostering innovation and making a meaningful impact in the Newfoundland and Labrador labor market. Participating in events not only provides us with invaluable knowledge but also helps to strengthen our partnerships with local organizations. | | | | |
Outlook Conference 2025, Atlantic Economic Council, November 13, 2025, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NST, Emera Innovation Exchange, In-person.
The Outlook Conference 2025, hosted by the Atlantic Economic Council, will take place in St. John’s on November 13, 2025. The conference will bring together attendees to discuss and explore strategies for navigating our economy amid tariffs and trade uncertainty. AEC’s team of economists will present the latest data and analysis, providing a comprehensive overview of the Atlantic Region's economic landscape for 2026. Featuring keynote speaker Pattie Lovett-Reid, a trusted financial expert and former CTV Chief Financial Commentator, as well as Senior VP at TD Waterhouse, she will deliver an insightful presentation on "Leadership and Navigating Uncertainty Within the Current Economic Climate," sharing her expertise and perspectives on effective leadership in challenging times. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with fellow professionals as we all tackle the pressing economic issues of our time!
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Beyond the Optics: Understanding Inclusion Metrics That Matter, Women in Resource Development Corporation (WRDC), November 13, 2025, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Virtual.
WRDC is hosting a webinar entitled "Beyond the Optics: Understanding Inclusion Metrics That Matter," an interactive webinar designed to help participants shift their focus from mere numbers to meaningful, measurable change in diversity and inclusion efforts. This session will explore essential strategies for tracking inclusion and belonging metrics throughout the employee experience, utilizing data that extends beyond hiring statistics to encompass retention, advancement, and engagement. Facilitated by Mónica Murias Cato, participants will engage in real workplace scenarios and interactive activities, equipping them with practical tools to enhance equity and inclusion within their organizations.
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Central IDEAS 2025, Association for New Canadians, November 14, 2025, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. NST, Evangel Pentecostal Community Church, Gander, In-person.
Join Association for New Canadians at their Central IDEAS 2025 event for an engaging day, themed "Culture at Work: Celebrating Differences, Building Belonging". Featuring keynote speaker Shaun Majumder, alongside insightful discussions and interactive workshops, attendees will be able to explore the business and human value of cultural inclusion, participate in a panel discussion, and enjoy a cultural food market with local vendors. The event also includes an IDEA Award Ceremony and opportunities for networking with industry leaders and like-minded professionals. Cultural inclusion is vital as it fosters innovation, enhances employee engagement, and drives business success by embracing diverse perspectives. So, don’t miss this chance to expand your knowledge and connect with the community!
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Breaking the Cycle: Practical Strategies for Increasing Your Client’s Self-Sufficiency, CERIC, November 14, 21 and 28, 2025, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. NST), Virtual.
The webinar series "Breaking the Cycle: Practical Strategies for Increasing Your Client's Self-Sufficiency" is designed for career practitioners aiming to empower clients rather than enable dependency. Scheduled for November 14, 21, and 28, 2025, this series addresses the growing anxiety and reliance among clients due to shifting employer expectations and the need for self-driven career paths. Participants will learn to differentiate between enabling and empowering behaviors, explore case studies, and engage in role-playing activities to reinforce new skills. The series emphasizes practical strategies that can be tailored to various client contexts, including newcomers, youth, and individuals facing barriers. Presented by Herky Cutler, a seasoned career development expert known for his engaging style, this professional development opportunity aims to enhance practitioners' effectiveness and align service delivery with best practices in career development. Don't miss out on this chance to attend.
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Qalipu Business Forum, Qalipu First Nation, November 19, 2025, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. NST, College of the North Atlantic, Stephenville, NL, In-person.
The Qalipu Business Forum is returning with the aim to foster collaboration among entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry experts. Attendees can look forward to an engaging event of insightful discussions, innovative technology demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Targeted towards entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry experts, attendees will hear opening remarks from Vice Chief Charlie White, Jonah Rowsell and Wayne Howlett, get a tour of the College of the North Atlantic Centre for Heavy Equipment and Transportation Technology (C.H.E.T.T) building, and take in panel sessions featuring key topics such as technology in the mining industry. Lunch will be provided, making it a perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and grow your network!
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Genesis Ignite: Problem Discovery Toolkit, Genesis, November 25, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. NST, Emera Innovation Exchange, Memorial University Campus, In-person.
Interested in starting a tech-based startup? Join Genesis for their "Genesis Ignite: Problem Discovery Toolkit" workshop, designed specifically for women and gender-diverse founders. This event includes a balance of presentations and hands-on sessions focused on becoming a master problem identifier and learning how to shift perspective and identifying high-value startup opportunities in the tech ecosystem, which will equip you with essential skills to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. This event promises to be an engaging and insightful experience, fostering innovation and collaboration among attendees. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and grow within the startup community!
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CES-NL Conference 2025, Canadian Evaluation Society - NL Chapter, November 28, 2025, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. NST, Memorial University of Newfoundland, RBC Atrium Business Building, In-person.
Join the CES-NL Professional Development Conference 2025 for a day of learning, networking, and growth. This event brings together professionals from diverse industries to explore strategies and best practices. Whether you're an expert or new to the field, the conference offers valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and expand your knowledge. Non-members can receive a one-year CES-NL local membership with admission. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Mark your calendars today!
| | Unlocking Workforce Potential with FutureFit AI | | |
In a time when the job market is constantly evolving, transformative solutions for workforce development like FutureFit AI are needed. The technology stands out as a pioneering force for leveraging advanced artificial intelligence and big data to enhance career navigation, upskilling, and labor exchange, ultimately empowering both job seekers and employers., FutureFit AI connects job seekers with tailored career pathways, ensuring that individuals can navigate the complexities of employment with ease.
What we love about the technology: (1) Personalized Career Guidance: FutureFit AI's platform offers customized career navigation, helping users identify their starting points and recommend skills-based paths tailored to their unique needs, (2) AI-Driven Talent Matching: The platform bridges the gap between job seekers' skills and employers' needs, ensuring that the right talent meets in-demand opportunities and (3) Scalable Solutions for Workforce Partners: FutureFit AI empowers workforce development organizations by providing a unified product that enhances service delivery and fosters efficient ecosystems.
With over 350 million talent profiles and 50 million job postings, FutureFit AI utilizes real-time labor market intelligence to keep pace with rapid changes in the job landscape. This innovative approach not only enhances employability but also drives economic growth by connecting local talent to in-demand jobs.
| | Magnet's is Empowering Future Talent though Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) | | |
If your business has hired or plans to hire students for paid work experiences, you can receive up to $7,000 in wage subsidies for each eligible student you hire through the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) Powered by Magnet.
Funded by the Government of Canada, SWPP helps eligible employers build new talent pipelines and save costs.
Funding is limited, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t miss out.
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Like the iconic iceberg, there’s more beneath the surface to see and understand when it comes to the NL Workforce Innovation Centre (NLWIC) and the workforce innovators who lead in research and innovation projects and collaborations to address the most pressing problems and opportunities in the labour market in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Established in 2017 by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and administered by College of the North Atlantic, NL Workforce Innovation Centre (NLWIC) has a provincial mandate to provide a coordinated, central point of access to engage all labour market stakeholders about challenges, opportunities and best practices in workforce development.
NLWIC’s goal is to promote the research, testing and sharing of ideas and models of innovation in workforce development that will positively impact employability, employment and entrepreneurship within the province’s labour force and particularly underrepresented groups. Funding for NLWIC is provided by the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills (IPGS) under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement.
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