September 2026 News Bulletin | | The NLWIC team hopes that you have had a great summer. We certainly have had a great and productive one, marked by meaningful collaboration and progress across several initiatives! We celebrated significant milestones with the Welcoming Communities-Burin Peninsula Project, and continued working with our collaborators on the Employer-led Workforce Development Project which are both Future-Skills Centre-funded projects, and deepened our engagements with partners and collaborators, creating space for insightful discussions on Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) for newcomers. We also explored opportunities through the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) powered by Magnet. Our focus has remained on fostering innovation in workforce development, and these experiences have further strengthened our commitment to supporting employment, employability, and entrepreneurship throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Read on for highlights and reflections since our last News Bulletin. | | Transforming Workforce Development: NLWIC Attends Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) National Day of Learning in Edmonton | | |
As the Future Skills Centre-funded Employer-Led Workforce Development Project advances, NLWIC is excited to share a key update from earlier this summer. Director Sharon McLennon was invited to present at the inaugural TPM National Day of Learning as one of the Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) and “TPM Adjacent” initiatives in British Columbia, Ontario, and Newfoundland currently involved in the model's implementation. The event, hosted by the Alberta Chamber of Commerce and supported by the Future Skills Centre, was held at the NAIT Innovation and Productivity Centre on June 4, 2026.
The Learning event brought together over 40 participants from five provinces, including industry leaders, government, and training providers, to launch a national network of TPM current and interested users and explore Canada-specific adaptations. Sharon provided a detailed overview of the Employer-led Workforce Development Project, focused on pilot testing and evaluating the TPM model in the mining sector in the Baie Verte Peninsula.
| | NLWIC's Director Sharon McLennon presenting on Employer-led Workforce Development Project during TPM National Day of Learning Event. | |  | Jeff Griffiths, Program Lead for the Alberta Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) Initiative, speaking at the TPM National Day of Learning Event. | | | |
Importantly, the workforce development model being implemented – the Talent Pipeline Management Model (TPM) – was designed by the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation and has been successfully applied and tested in the United States. NLWIC’s project, which centers on the mining sector, is demonstrating how employer-led approaches can create sustainable talent pipelines, foster stronger partnerships, and deliver real-time labour market insights.
Sharon’s presentation highlighted the importance of co-designing solutions with employers and engaging the community for a lasting impact on workforce development. As Alberta leads the way in TPM adoption, NLWIC was proud to be part of this kickstart event and share stories and lessons learned as NLWIC’s work shapes the next phase of employer-led and demand-driven workforce development.
| | NLWIC and Welcoming Communities Project Teams Gather for Lunch | | NLWIC was thrilled to host an in-person meeting for the Welcoming Communities Project team. They gathered to discuss the project’s final deliverables following several months of data gathering through focus group sessions, interviews, and a provincial immigrant survey. The day also brought together all NLWIC team members located across the province for lunch. It had been a while since the team had gathered, making this event a fantastic opportunity to reconnect, share insights, and strengthen our collaborative efforts in workforce development. | | |
The gathering not only facilitated discussions about ongoing projects and future initiatives but also allowed us to celebrate our collective achievements. We took advantage of the opportunity to capture a group photo with our new NLWIC banner, a symbol of our commitment to our focus on ideas, innovation and impact. A special moment occurred when Fergus O'Brien, Acting President and CEO of College of the North Atlantic, stepped in to join us for the photo.
The day was filled with great conversations, delicious food, and the connectedness that makes our team so special. We look forward to coming together again soon to inspire one another, share project priorities and planning, learn from one another, and continue our mission of fostering employment, employability, and entrepreneurship within Newfoundland and Labrador particularly for underrepresented groups.
| | Navigating Credential Recognition for Newcomers | | |
Many newcomers arrive in Newfoundland with advanced degrees but face challenges translating their education and experience into opportunities in the local labour market. This can result in underemployment, difficulty finding work in their field of expertise, or taking on ‘survival’ jobs while they navigate an often-tedious process of credential recognition.
The Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) has been a challenge for newcomers for quite some time. With the Fair Registration Practices Act and the Policy and Procedure Respecting Review of Registration and Assessment Practices, being put into action, institutions are starting to pay more attention to this issue. The Economic Immigration Ideas Lab’s is getting involved in these discussions, which is crucial for making sure that its work is evidence-driven and reflects the lived experiences of newcomers.
The EIIL has identified foreign credential recognition as a recurring issue impacting both newcomers and employers in Newfoundland and Labrador. That’s why Manager, Brian Critch and Sr. Policy, Planning & Research Analyst, Melanie C. Smith with NLWIC's Economic Immigration Ideas Lab (EIIL) attended the International Credential Recognition Information Session hosted by the Association for New Canadians (ANC) Employment Services. They got to hear about the newly established Fair Registration Practices Office, which from their perspective will be a vital resource for newcomers who seek clarity on their credential recognition pathways.
| | Marek Jablonski, Diversity Coordinator Presenting | | |
The session provided valuable insights into the steps newcomers must take to have their credentials recognized in Canada. Attendees learned about the challenges that newcomers face, such as sourcing original documents from their home countries, the processes and institutions involved, and how ANC can offer ongoing support throughout the complex process.
In conversation with some of the newcomers, many expressed the need for improved English skills to pass qualifying assessments required for their desired occupations. Some were at least able to re-enter their preferred industry because of improved processes in NL and in their countries of origin, albeit at a lower level than they previously worked. This helped them build Canadian work experience while improving their language skills and resolving Foreign Credential Recognition issues.
For Brian, it was “encouraging to see organizations like ANC stepping up to support newcomers on their journey. The foreign credential recognition process can be daunting, time-consuming, and costly, making it essential for newcomers to have guidance. Recognizing one’s credentials is just the first step toward finding meaningful employment that aligns with their education and experience.”
| | NLWIC Explores Advantages of Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) | | |
NLWIC Director Sharon McLennon and PR Specialist Lana Roestenberg recently had the pleasure of meeting with Lindsay Kane from Magnet and Deepti Mhaske, Student Development Officer from College of the North Atlantic, to learn more about the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP). They were eager to explore funding a student placement for the upcoming fall semester, and this meeting was a fantastic opportunity to dive deeper into the program's details and eligibility requirements for funding.
During the meeting Lana reflected on her positive experiences with paid work terms during her studies, saying that “I was lucky to have work terms as part of my program because I gained so much valuable experience through those placements.” This really highlights how important Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is for helping students gain real-world experience they need to thrive after graduation. So, we were thrilled to connect with Magnet and learn how they can support post-secondary students in the province and how NLWIC can support this initiative.
As a SWPP delivery partner, Magnet has supported over 40,000 student placements, making a significant impact on workforce development across Canada. Although post-secondary institutions are not eligible to receive SWPP funding themselves, by promoting SWPP, we aim to bridge the gap by promoting the program to CNA students and eligible employers with the goal of fostering valuable work experiences.
Big thanks to Lindsay and Deepti for the conversation. If you are interested in learning more or want to take advantage of this opportunity, check out the details below about how the Student Work Placement Program can support your business or organization this fall. They are offering several informational webinars as well.
| | Receive up to $5000 in Funding per Student Hire! | | |
Have you hired, or are you planning to hire, post-secondary students for the fall? Employers can receive up to 50% of the wages to a maximum of $5,000 for each eligible student hired in work-integrated learning placements (e.g. co-op or internship) with the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) powered by Magnet, which is funded by the Government of Canada.
The Fall 2026 funding portal (September 1–December 31 placements) is open, and funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply now even if you don’t yet have a student.
Upcoming English SWPP Webinars:
| | NLWIC Director Sharon McLennon Speaks on CBC Newfoundland Morning | | |
We recently announced our Workforce Development Needs Assessment Project. Following this announcement via a news release NLWIC’s Director Sharon McLennon was invited to speak on CBC Newfoundland Morning with Bernice Hillier. Sharon shared insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Newfoundland and Labrador’s labour market, emphasizing the importance of gathering diverse perspectives to inform future workforce planning. The CBC interview highlighted NLWIC’s collaborative, innovative approach to workforce development and the importance of stakeholder input in shaping a resilient, inclusive labour market.
During the segment, Working for Workers (and Employers)? Group Tries to Build the Labour Market, Sharon discussed the ongoing provincial survey and consultations, which aim to identify gaps between skills and available jobs, regional workforce needs, and the transition from declining to growing sectors. She highlighted NLWIC’s commitment to engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including employers, sector associations, unions, community organizations, and groups representing underrepresented populations such as newcomers and people with disabilities.
Sharon noted that we want to hear from employers, organizations, and individuals so we can build a more inclusive workforce that reflects the realities and diversity of our province. The Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Development Needs Assessment Survey 2026, open until September 20th, allows participants with the opportunity to participate in a follow -up discussion to deepen NWLIC’s understanding and shape best practices for government policy and workforce development initiatives.
NLWIC encourages all organizations to participate in the survey and help shape the future workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador. We look forward to sharing more information and updates as this project continues.
| | This is only the #TipoftheIceberg of what the NLWIC team has accomplished recently, as we head into the fall season. We look forward to more in-person gatherings with the NLWIC team and collaborators. These events will allow us to connect, reconnect, celebrate achievements, and spark new ideas for workforce development. As we continue to collaborate with labour market stakeholders, we look forward to new partnerships, projects, and innovative solutions that will emerge around issues, opportunities, and best practices to benefit the NL labour market. | | | | |
How to Build a Volunteer Onboarding Journey That Meets Rising Service Demand, Rosterfly, September 10, 2026, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. NT), Virtual.
Volunteers play a crucial role as an important human resource in the workforce, providing essential support to organizations and communities. This session, hosted by Rosterfy, will address the challenges of volunteer management in today's landscape, where outdated processes can deter passionate individuals from engaging. Participants will learn to identify friction points in their onboarding processes, optimize the transition from application to active volunteer, and implement automation to enhance the experience. Insights from recent nonprofit infrastructure studies will help you benchmark your practices against industry standards. Expert speakers include Chas Offutt from Rosterfy, who will share strategies for leveraging technology, and Betsey McFarland from Adisa, who will focus on strategic planning and engagement. This session is designed for coordinators, managers, and directors involved in volunteer resources, human resources, and program management. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your volunteer onboarding journey and harness the power of volunteers as vital contributors to your workforce!
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How Colleges and Polytechnics are Responding to Canada’s Defence Workforce Needs, Labour Market Information Council (LMIC) and Polytechnics Canada, September 15, 2026, 12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. ET (1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. NT), Virtual.
Join the Labour Market Information Council (LMIC) and Polytechnics Canada for an insightful webinar that will explore the evolving workforce needs within Canada’s defence and security sectors. Using Fanshawe College as a case study, the critical role of colleges and polytechnics in workforce development will be highlighted. Participants will learn how these institutions are adapting their programs to meet the demand for skilled workers in fields such as technical operations, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and aviation. The webinar will cover collaborative efforts between post-secondary institutions, industry, and government to identify skills needs and training priorities, emphasizing the importance of labour market information in shaping responsive training pathways. This event is ideal for post-secondary leaders, educators, policymakers, employers, and workforce development professionals interested in addressing emerging workforce challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical insights into establishing and sustaining partnerships that effectively respond to the needs of the defense sector.
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EDANL 2026 Conference, Economic Developers Association of NL, September 23-24, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Smuggler’s Cove, Burin, In-person.
The 2026 Newfoundland and Labrador Economic Development Conference is taking place in Burin on September 23-24, 2026. This premier event is designed for economic development practitioners, offering invaluable professional development and networking opportunities. Attendees will engage over two days with industry experts, share insights, and explore innovative strategies to enhance economic growth in the province. Registration is now open, with special rates for EDANL members and non-members. Don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow professionals and contribute to the future of economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador!
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2026 Great Coastal Trails Conference, Great Coast Trail Authority, October 5-7, 2026, Shallow Bay & Myra Bennett Centre, Cow Head, NL, In-person.
Join the Great Coast Trails Authority for their 2026 Great Coastal Trails Conference. This event, hosted by the Great Coastal Trail Authority, brings together trail builders, planners, community leaders, and outdoor enthusiasts focused on revitalizing rural communities through sustainable trail development. Themed "The Long Walk Home," the conference will delve into the role of trails as economic drivers, wellness infrastructure, and cultural connectors, fostering rural revitalization across Atlantic Canada and beyond. Building on the success of last year's inaugural conference, which attracted over 100 participants, this year's event promises enhanced opportunities for peer learning, field-based sessions, and a diverse lineup of presenters and exhibitors. Don't miss this chance to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborate on innovative trail solutions that benefit communities and enhance outdoor experiences.
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Mining Industry NL Annual General Meeting, Mining Industry NL, October 1, 2026, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sláinte Whisky & Wine. St. John's, NL, In-person.
Join Mining Industry NL for their Annual General Meeting. This event offers a valuable opportunity for networking and collaboration among industry professionals. Attendees will engage in discussions about the latest developments in the mining sector, share insights, and explore future opportunities. Don't miss this chance to connect with fellow stakeholders and contribute to the ongoing growth and innovation within Newfoundland's mining industry.
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Women in Leadership Conference, FCI-CWI, October 1, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Delta St. John’s, St. John's, NL, In-person.
Join FCI-CWI for the 25th edition of the Women in Leadership Conference, a premier event designed to empower professional women in leadership roles. This in-person gathering will provide a platform for attendees to explore contemporary leadership challenges, share insights, and learn from industry leaders. This empowering event will feature keynote speakers Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada's Ocean Supercluster, and Lisa Bragg, Director of Business Development at St. John's International Airport Authority, alongside other industry leaders who will focus on authentic leadership. Attendees will explore contemporary leadership challenges, gain insights on emotional intelligence, generational diversity, and authentic leadership, and connect with fellow professionals. Early bird registration is available until September 11, 2026. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow in your leadership journey!
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West Coast Business & Investment Summit, Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade, October 6-7, Corner Brook, NL, In-person.
The West Coast Business & Investment Summit will bring together businesses, investors, developers, Indigenous leaders, government representatives, and industry stakeholders to explore opportunities shaping the economy of Western Newfoundland. The Summit will feature working sessions and practical discussions aimed at fostering partnerships for regional growth and economic development. We are excited to say that NLWIC's Director Sharon McLennon and Atlantic Chamber of Commerce's CEO Rhonda Tulk-Lane will be attending and presenting as panelists during the event. There is limited seating available.
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Future Ready SMEs: Advancing Low-Carbon Pathways - St. John's, ECO Canada, October 14, 2026, 5:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. NDT, The Lantern, St. Johns’, NL, In-person.
Hosted by ECO Canada, the "Future Ready SMEs: Advancing Low-Carbon Pathways" event is an engaging evening that will bring together employers, industry leaders, workforce development organizations, environmental professionals, and others to discuss the opportunities and challenges in building a low-carbon economy. The event features a dynamic panel discussion where expert speakers will share insights on workforce development and decarbonization strategies. Following the panel, attendees can network, exchange ideas, and explore resources aimed at fostering a resilient environmental workforce in Canada. This is a valuable opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses, emerging talent, and community leaders to connect and collaborate on innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the conversation shaping Canada’s environmental and economic landscape!
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econext 2026 Conference, econext, October 15, 2025, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. NST, Delta Hotel, St. John’s, In-person & Virtual.
The econext 2026 Conference is a premier event that will explore the future of Newfoundland and Labrador's green economy. This year’s theme “Building Our Green Economy: Innovation, Opportunities, and Impact” will gather leaders from business, government, Indigenous and community organizations for what is promised to be a day of bold ideas and practical insights. Attendees will engage in discussions on sustainable development, hear from keynote speakers, and participate in panel sessions covering major projects, community-led solutions, and the infrastructure that is needed for a competitive green economy. Attendees will also discover how local organizations are driving innovation and learn about the technologies and solutions emerging from the province that promote sustainability. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with potential partners, gain insights, and be part of this important conversation.
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2026 Health and Safety Learning Symposium, Workplace NL, October 15, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. NDT, St. John’s Convention Centre, St. John’s, NL, In-person and Virtual.
WorkplaceNL will be hosting their 2026 Health and Safety Learning Symposium at the St. John's Convention Centre. This event offers a unique opportunity for employers and workers to enhance their health and safety knowledge through networking and engaging presentations. The keynote speaker, Alvin Law, a world-renowned storyteller and motivational speaker, will inspire attendees to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Registration is free, and a complimentary lunch will be provided for those attending in person. For those unable to join on-site, an online option will be available, including a live stream of the sessions. Registration is required for the online option. Don’t miss this chance to connect with industry professionals and gain valuable insights into health and safety practices.
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Business Conference & Expo 2026, Kin Club of Conception Bay South, October 17, 2026, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. NDT, Manuels River Hibernia Centre, Conception Bay South, NL, In-person.
The EXPO CBS 2026 is a dynamic two-day event taking place on October 16-17, 2026. The event kicks off with a Business Conference which will feature insightful talks from industry leaders addressing key business issues and opportunities in the region. Admission is free, but early registration is recommended due to limited seating. The second day will showcase local businesses and innovations. With 42 exhibitor tables available, the event will be a fantastic opportunity for networking and discovering new products and services. Throughout the Expo, attendees can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including a photo booth, live entertainment, and exciting prizes. The CBS Kin Club will also host the KIN Kafé, offering delicious food and drinks to support local charities. Don’t miss this chance to connect with the local Conception Bay South community and explore the vibrant business landscape of the area!
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SHARE (Science, Health and Research Education) Summit 2026, NL Support, October 26, 2026, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. NDT, Health Innovation Acceleration Centre, St. John’s, NL, In-person & Virtual.
The SHARE Summit, hosted by NL Support, is annual event which will spotlight applied health research in Newfoundland and Labrador and its impact on patient care in the province. The Summit features a dynamic agenda covering the latest developments from NL SUPPORT and Quality of Care NL. This year, attendees can also participate in a nano-course led by Dr. John Lavis, focusing on enabling learning health systems through evidence, data, and collaboration to foster continuous improvement in healthcare. Short student project videos will be featured throughout the day, and networking opportunities are built into the schedule. The SHARE Summit is open to all interested in health research, system improvement, and innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador. The event will be available both in-person and virtually, allowing broader access to valuable insights and training.
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2026 Women in Construction Professional Development Forum, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA), November 6, 2026, 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. NST, The JAG Hotel, In-person.
Join the Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Association (NLCA) for their 2026 Women in Construction Professional Development Forum. Presented by the NLCA and TD Commercial Banking, this empowering event aims to elevate careers, strengthen voices, and foster connections among women in the construction industry. Attendees will engage in a full day of inspiring sessions, including leadership workshops and networking opportunities designed to spark new possibilities and enhance professional growth. The Forum will feature expert speakers and interactive discussions, focusing on themes such as career ownership, well-being, and building meaningful connections. Whether you're just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, this event is a chance to connect with a community dedicated to advancing women in construction. Don’t miss this opportunity to rise up, lead forward, and thrive together!
| | Nurturing Global Talent: A look at the Study and Stay NL Initiative | | |
We are excited to highlight the Study & Stay NL Showcase happening on September 11, 2026. This important event celebrates the journeys and talents of international graduates who have chosen to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Study and Stay NL Program, a collaboration between International Education Newfoundland and Labrador, (IENL), Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), and College of the North Atlantic (CNA), provides essential support to international students in their final year. The program is designed for exceptional international students, providing them with mentorship, skills development, and connections to the local labor market so they can transition smoothly into the workforce. With an impressive 80% retention rate and 80% employment rate, students transition smoothly from academia to the workforce, fostering a vibrant community in Newfoundland and Labrador.
At the Showcase, attendees will have the opportunity to meet program partners, mentors, and successful alumni who have navigated their paths to success in NL. Open to everyone, this event is for students, professionals, and community members interested in the contributions of international graduates.
As NLWIC continues to work towards innovative workforce development, the Study and Stay NL program and the Showcase event exemplify how strategic partnerships can create pathways for international students, ultimately enriching the provincial economy and its communities.
Don’t miss this chance to learn more about the IENL Study & Stay program, recognize and support the journeys of international graduates, and celebrate their vibrant contributions to our province!
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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.
| | ©NL Workforce Innovation Centre 2026 | | | | |
