September 2025 News Bulletin | | |
As the summer season came to a close, the NLWIC team entered a typically slower period of attending events around the province. This time allowed us to reflect on and complete work not only on our existing and upcoming collaborations but the impact of those efforts in enhancing employment, employability, and entrepreneurship within our communities.
NLWIC's PR Specialist dove into a topic of interest with ‘The Workplace Power Shift’ webinar by Great Place to Work. In the session, current workforce dynamics between employee expectations and employer offerings, and relationship changes of work culture took front and centre in the discussion. It was great to hear the experts talk about different realities and disconnects surrounding the delicate balance between what was available to employees in the past versus what is framed as expectations now. Lana’s one key takeaway was connecting a company’s core values to how workforce expectations have evolved in recent years. Interested in watching the recording of the webinar? You can access the YouTube video.
| | NLWIC Director Sharon McLennon had the pleasure of attending the news conference on August 8th at the Carpentry and Millwright Union headquarters in Paradise. At the event, the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Jobs, Immigration and Growth announced the funding and launch of OAWA’s new social enterprise initiative - The Built Collective. This transformative initiative, being led by the Office of Advancing Women Apprentices (OAWA), highlights ongoing efforts to support diversity and inclusion in the workforce. NLWIC is thrilled to be a collaborator as evaluators of this groundbreaking social enterprise initiative. This project will be led by three female journey persons who will manage contracts and bids, specifically aimed at employing first-time female apprentices. Under the mentorship and guidance of these experienced professionals, the apprentices will gain invaluable skills and support. Apprenticeship projects like these are crucial for fostering innovation and diversity in the workforce, as they not only empower women but also contribute to a more inclusive and skilled labor market. Over the next three years, NLWIC is proud to evaluate this innovative project and look forward to its progress and impact during and after the Project's completion. Stay tuned for more exciting developments! | | |
The NLWIC team joined techNL virtually on Thursday, August 28th for the release of The State of Tech in Newfoundland and Labrador, a new report created for techNL by the Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University in collaboration with NLWIC. The report explores the sector’s economic impact, workforce trends, diversity, and emerging issues. Viet Vu, Manager of Economic Research at the Dais, presented the findings, with a live Q&A session afterwards. During the webinar, Viet revealed his surprise at the diversity and vibrancy of the province's economy and sector due to his work with the techNL project on the Newfoundland and Labrador technology sector, and a previous NLWIC collaborative initiative which focused on possibilities of transitions in the province's economy. It was also great to hear that the tech sector is continuing an upward growth trend to contribute to the NL econom. Viet noted this is quite remarkable for a relatively small tech ecosystem in comparison to North America as well as challenged his own assumptions. This insight not only highlights the impressive growth of the tech sector but also aligns NLWIC's commitment to help foster innovation and collaboration to increase employability, employment and entrepreneurship across various industries, including the dynamic tech sector!
Later in August, NLWIC Director Sharon McLennon attended the Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade "Breakfast with the Premier of NL" event at the Glynmill Inn in Corner Brook with the Honourable John Hogan, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Jennifer Williams, President and CEO of NL Hydro. The event provided a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with key leaders and gain insights into the Churchill Falls Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). During the insightful joint presentation, Premier Hogan and Ms. Williams discussed the implications of the MOU for our province's energy future and economic development. Sharon emphasized the significance of attending such events on behalf of NLWIC, stating, that “Attending the breakfast was invaluable. Engaging with leaders like Premier Hogan and Jennifer Williams allows us to better understand the strategic initiatives that will shape our workforce and economy. It is crucial for NLWIC to stay connected with these developments to support our mission of fostering innovation in workforce development.”
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2025 MAPLE Awards nominations continue! We couldn’t be prouder to be in the running for the Collaboration Catalyst Award! This award celebrates organizations that excel in fostering partnerships and innovative collaborations to enhance employment and training solutions.
NLWIC’s nomination by Magnet at the Toronto Metropolitan University recognizes our commitment to fostering partnerships and innovative collaborations to enhance employment, employability and entrepreneurship. The nomination serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication that our team has invested in initiatives like the Best Practices Repository (BPR). This project was co-designed and developed by Magnet, in collaboration with us, and was specifically highlighted in their nomination recognizing its impactful contributions.
Join us in this exciting journey! We need your support to bring the Award home. By casting your vote, you are not just supporting NLWIC, you are highlighting the important collaborative work of NLWIC to create a more inclusive and responsive labor market in our province with benefits across Canada, and beyond.
Please take a moment to help us secure the award. Vote for us as many times as you can until voting ends on September 30th, 2025!
| | This is only the #TipoftheIceberg of what NLWIC has been doing since last month’s news bulletin to demonstrate our committment to actively participate in and support initiatives that foster innovation in workforce development. | | |
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced the launch of a $5 million Workforce Relief Fund (WRF) on August 25, 2025 to support businesses affected by tariffs. This fund will provide up to $250,000 per organization to help cover costs related to training, retaining, and upskilling workers impacted by these economic challenges. To qualify, applicants must clearly demonstrate the direct and indirect effects of tariffs on their operations, detailing necessary responses such as wage support or training programs.
Businesses facing staffing changes or sales fluctuations from 2024 to 2025 are encouraged to apply, as the fund aims to assist in adapting to increased costs, supply chain disruptions, or reduced customer demand. This program is a vital resource for organizations looking to navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape.
Eligible employers include:
- A private business (including self-employed)
- Federal Crown corporations
- Provincial and Territorial Crown corporations
- Public health organizations
- Educational institutions
- Indigenous Government or Organization
- City, Town or Local Service District
- An employer group or industry association
- Group that represents more than one business or organization (like a Chamber of Commerce or a labour union)
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Pathways & Perks: The Untapped Talent Advantage, Amal Unite & Empower, Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. NDT, Co. Innovation Centre, In-person.
Amal Unite & Empower is hosting a "Pathways & Perks: The Untapped Talent Advantage" event to bridge the gap between employers and the untapped newcomer workforce in Newfoundland. Attendees will gain insights from a panel of experts, including immigration lawyers and HR professionals, on how to effectively navigate immigration pathways to enhance workforce planning. The agenda includes a fireside chat, expert presentations, and a Q&A session, followed by networking opportunities with refreshments provided. This is a must-attend for employers, recruiters, and community leaders looking to leverage immigration as a strategic advantage in their hiring practices. Register now, as spaces are limited!
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Employee Engagement: Best Practices from the Best Workplaces in Canada, UKG, September 11, 2025, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. EDT (3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. NDT), Virtual.
Join UKG for an insightful webinar as they delve into the essential elements of employee engagement with Alison Grenier, Head of Culture & Research at Great Place To Work Canada. In the 90-minute session, attendees will discover several important topics such as proven high-trust leadership behaviors that foster engagement, practical insights on measuring the effectiveness of your people leaders, real-life examples of successful employee engagement strategies from Canada’s Best Workplaces of 2025, and tips on enhancing organizational practices to cultivate a thriving workplace.This webinar is a must-attend for organizations looking to adapt and retain talent in today’s unpredictable market. Register to secure your spot and gain access to valuable resources. Can’t attend live? No worries! Sign up anyway, and they will send you the recording.
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AI in Nonprofit Finance: AI’s Growing Impact on Your Mission, Charity Village, September 11, 2025, 1:00 p.m. EST (2:30 p.m. NDT), Virtual.
We are excited to share information about an upcoming webinar hosted by Charity Village titled AI in Nonprofit Finance: AI's Growing Impact on Your Mission. This free session will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming nonprofit operations, particularly in finance. AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s actively reshaping how nonprofits manage their resources and fulfill their missions. From automating budgeting and reporting to enhancing decision-making, AI can significantly reduce administrative burdens, allowing organizations to focus on strategic initiatives. This webinar is ideal for Executive Directors, nonprofit leaders, and board members. While registration is open to all, attendance is limited to the first 1,000 participants, so we recommend signing up early. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how AI can support your mission-driven work. Register now to secure your spot!
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Drive Change with AI Workshop, Navigate Small Business, September 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. NDT, In-person.
Unlock the potential of Artificial Intelligence at Navigate’s upcoming AI Workshop with Magnet’s Mark Patterson, designed specifically for small business dreamers and doers! As AI rapidly transforms the business landscape, this workshop will equip attendees with the knowledge to map out its opportunities and challenges to stay resilient and competitive. Whether you're a novice or an expert, this inclusive event welcomes everyone to learn and grow together. Don't miss your chance to stay ahead of the curve. Registration closes on September 9th, so secure your spot today! Deadline to register is September 9, 2025.
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AI in Reshaping the World of Work, Expertise Hub Cooperative, Wednesday, September 17, 2025, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. NDT, Bonavista Room, The Lantern, In-person.
Equip yourself for the future of work with an engaging session focused on how technologies like generative AI are influencing careers, competencies, and opportunities. This upcoming event titled "AI in Reshaping the World of Work," hosted by Expertise Hub Cooperative and IENL - Study and Stay NL in partnership with Magnet, at Toronto Metropolitan University is a must for those interested in people and technology. Participants will explore the pace of AI adoption, the evolving relationship between people and technology, and the essential skills needed for resilience in a dynamic labor market. Register now to secure your spot!
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PBIS 2025 Conference, Placentia Chamber of Commerce, September 17-18, 2025, Port of Argentia Arena, Placentia, In-person.
Back again this year is the Placentia Bay Industrial Showcase (PBIS) 2025, taking place on September 17th-18th at the Port of Argentia Arena in Placentia, NL. The conference promises to be an exceptional opportunity for industry professionals, stakeholders, and innovators to gather together and explore the future of workforce development for the region. PBIS 2025 will feature keynote speaker Seamus O'Regan and other industry-leading speakers, who will share their insights on the latest trends and developments in industrial activities around Placentia Bay. Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions that foster innovative discussions and networking opportunities designed to connect you with like-minded professionals. Whether you're looking to gain valuable knowledge, meet new contacts, or discover innovative solutions to enhance your business, PBIS 2025 has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of shaping the future of the region!
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Disability Confident: Built Environment, Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW), September 17, 2025, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST, (2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. NDT), Virtual.
Join CCRW for their engaging session to delve into the CCRW's Built Environment Toolkit. Designed to help HR professionals, DEI committees, and facility teams create more accessible spaces, participants will learn about the foundations of inclusive design, how to identify barriers, and the importance of performing accessibility audits. This webinar is an excellent opportunity to move beyond minimum compliance and champion inclusivity in your environment. Don't miss out on this chance to make a meaningful impact!
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National Networking Day for Career Professionals, Canadian Job Development Network, September 19, 2025, 8:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. pan-Canadian, In-person.
Join in on the fun with National Networking Day for Career Professionals on September 19th. Canadian Job Development Network is looking for organizations leading career development organizations to host sessions. Taking place in individual Canadian Communities across the country, this is a unique opportunity for job developers to connect within their own communities! These free, locally hosted sessions will bring together employer engagement professionals to share best practices, explore collaboration opportunities, and build effective employer messaging. CERIC is excited to partner with Christian Saint Cyr and the Canadian Job Development Network to facilitate these important conversations nationwide. If your organization is a leader in career development, we encourage you to consider hosting a session in your Newfoundland and Labrador. Let’s work together to enhance workforce development and create impactful connections!
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2025 Newfoundland and Labrador Economic Development Conference, EDANL, September 24-25, 2025, St. Anthony, NL, In-person.
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Newfoundland and Labrador Economic Development Conference, hosted by the Economic Development Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (EDANL), taking place on September 24-25, 2025, in beautiful St. Anthony, NL. Join us for the premier event for economic development professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador — two days of learning, networking, and inspiration! Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions, including how AI can transform economic development strategies and enhance decision-making, learning about the latest tools and resources available to support your initiatives, all while exploring the local culture and connecting with fellow professionals in a relaxing setting. Secure the opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping the future of economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador!
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Future Innovation Skills in Canada's Resource Sectors: Stakeholder Engagement, The Conference Board of Canada, September 29, 2025, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. EST (2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. NDT), Virtual.
Join The Conference Board of Canada for their Future Innovation Skills Virtual Event, a Stakeholder Engagement Forum focused on technology adoption, shifting skill needs, and emerging talent gaps in Mining and Oil & Gas. Designed for leaders in HR, operations, and technology, this session will equip participants with essential skills for the evolving job market, and feature expert panels, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees will also be provided valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices in workforce development and be able to connect with industry leaders and fellow professionals, enhancing employability and entrepreneurial skills. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of work!
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Forecasting Skills Supply: A Career-Centric Approach to Labour Market Models, The Conference Board of Canada, October 2, 2025, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. EST (2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. NDT), Virtual.
The future of work relies on accurate forecasting of skills supply! In this upcoming webinar, The Conference Board of Canada, in partnership with the Future Skills Centre, will examine the current state of skills supply forecasting in Canada, discussing what works, what’s missing, and its significance. Insights from recent research will be shared, aiming to enhance how we model the evolution of skills over time by incorporating demographic and educational trends. This session is particularly relevant for policymakers, educators, and workforce planners seeking reliable tools to inform their decisions in an ever-changing labour market.
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Cannexus26, CERIC, January 26-28, 2026, Rogers Centre, Ottawa, In-Person, and Virtually.
Join CERIC for Cannexus26 from January 26–28, 2026! This year’s theme, "Evolving Work, Expanding Impact," highlights the transformative changes in the workforce and the essential role of career development in navigating these shifts. For those attending in person, the conference will take place over 2.5 immersive days at the Rogers Centre in Ottawa. Expect engaging discussions and workshops focused on innovative practices, emerging labour market trends, and inclusive career development strategies. Prefer to join virtually? The online conference will be held on January 26 and 27, with all sessions recorded and accessible for three months afterward, ensuring you won’t miss any valuable insights. Cannexus26 will address critical issues and ideas shaping today’s career and workforce development landscape, offering a unique platform for networking and collaboration across various sectors and communities. Get ready to be inspired!
| | The AMP-UP Program is Shaping Canada's Cleantech Workforce | | |
As Canada’s manufacturing sector faces a critical skills gap, innovative solutions are essential to ensure a robust workforce for the future. Exciting times are ahead for the country’s environmental and cleantech workforce! The Advanced Manufacturing Engineers Upskilling Program (AME-UP) - launched by Foresight Canada with funding by Upskill Canada and powered by Pallette Skills and Government of Canada - is stepping up to address this challenge by creating a dynamic talent pipeline that connects skilled individuals with the growing demands of the industry. Foresight Canada is hopeful for the continued success of the Program model. This innovative initiative is an 8-week career accelerator initiative which focuses on practical training and real-world applications.
AMP-UP is designed to connect Canadian technical talent with the cleantech sector, serving as a gateway for participants to enhance their skills and for employers to shape the next generation of talent to meet the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector. By investing in upskilling, Foresight Canada is not only empowering individuals but also fostering a more resilient and competitive industry. Through the program, this project can create pathways for growth, innovation, and success for all participants. The AMP-UP program is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in workforce development!
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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 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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