February 2018 Volume 18, Number 6

Featuring many sec tors/ industr ies needing to hire + much more

SPECIAL

EDITIO

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Employment inthe InformationTechnology sector on PEI

by Stacy Dunn

Finding potential employees

Some employers have found success finding potential employees through GitHub.com. It is a code development platform where developers post and collaborate on projects. “We have seen the work of some developers at GitHub.com and offered them jobs,” says Dustin.

Vivian Beer is the HR Strategy Manager for the PEI BioAlliance, which supports bioscience companies’ recruitment strategies, skills development, and community outreach.

“Further to ongoing demand for those with a science/research background, we have noticed more recently companies seeking candidates with software developer/IT backgrounds. I encourage IT professionals to join our mailing list to hear about these career opportunities.”

Best way to stand out

All the employers agreed job seekers must go beyond listing their knowledge of computer languages, and describe specifically what they have done and what outcomes were achieved.

“When you respond to a specific ad, make sure your resumé matches what the ad says,” says Patrick Charles of DeltaWare, a MAXIMUS Canada company. “If you send a resumé looking for future job prospects, explain your skill set in detail and what type of position you are looking for.

“Be honest, be yourself, and be enthusiastic. Tell us how well you work independently and with a team. We also want to see how well you test code in addition to writing it.”

What to include on the resumé

“List just the jobs that are relevant to the position you are applying for,” Jordan says. “I also like to see personalized cover letters and a portfolio showing examples of their coding work.”

Dustin agrees that a portfolio is beneficial to job seekers, and looks for applicants who are engaged, willing to learn, and hard working.

Communication skills are also important. “At silverorange, we talk with co-workers and others working in tech, and also with clients about their projects,” says Michael Gauthier, Owner. The company hired six people in 2017, and now has 15 full-time and two part-time staff.

Interview process

“Many job applicants have a variety of education backgrounds,” Michael says. “Our current staff has a healthy mix of educational backgrounds and there’s no difference in the quality of their work. During the interview, we always ask what aspect of their education they found valuable.”

silverorange and forestry.io test their applicants by asking them to write code as part of the interview. “We also review applicants’ code with them to judge their reaction to criticism,” Jordan says.

“As with any job, employers are seeking skills and technical abilities, but candidates have to show that they can also work well with people,” says Wendy MacIntyre of resolveHR.

“Contrary to the stereotype of the IT sector, hardly anyone works in isolation, so being able to communicate is a skillset employers are also looking for.”

Other jobs these IT companies hire for:

• Sales & Marketing• Graphic Designers • User Interface Designers• User Experience Designers For more information on PEI Devs, visit https://peidevs.github.io

Many Job Options on PEI

Dustin Sparks, left, organizer of the PEI Devs IT panel on hiring practices, chats with Evan Porter, the event’s moderator and co-worker at Binary Star.

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

A recent panel of local IT employers at the Startup Zone in Charlottetown focused on hiring and recruiting practices within the industry.

The first-time event was hosted by PEI Devs, an informal group of computer programmers and developers who have met monthly since 2012. They gather in Charlottetown for social events, to write code, and to discuss topics of interest. The group includes students, graduates, developers, entrepreneurs, IT employers, and others interested in this field.

Employers on the IT panel

• Binary Star www.binarystar.ca • silverorange www.silverorange.com • ScreenScape Networks www.screenscape.com • DeltaWare, a MAXIMUS Canada company www.maximuscanada.ca • forestry.io https://forestry.io• resolveHR www.resolvehr.ca

Advertising jobs

The job openings the companies advertise most often are for Computer Programmers and Developers.

“We use our own website, social media, and various job search sites like Indeed,” said Dustin Sparks, Chief Technology Officer at Binary Star. This consulting firm specializes in cloud-based software, startup company software and talent reinforcement services in Canada and the US.

Jordan Patterson is a founding partner of forestry.io, a website development start-up with eight staff. He has found success in finding the right candidates by posting jobs on IT-specific websites such as Hacker News, TechStars network, and the PEI Devs website portal.

Difficult job to fill

The employers agreed there is a shortage of Developers on PEI. When they hire, they look on PEI first, and then across Canada, and they have had to widen their search to other countries as well.

Ian Morse, a Software Developer at ScreenScape Networks, a digital sign company, says his company found success hiring students who have done on-the-job training with them. “Holland College and UPEI students have great talent.”

Matching job seekers with employers on PEI Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

2February 2018

PEI’s economic forecast for 2018by Heidi Riley

Two of the four companies highlighted at the conference

A conference hosted by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council (APEC) in Charlottetown presented an economic update and forecast of PEI’s economy, and featured local businesses that successfully export their products to the world.

APEC’s Director of Research David Chaundy expects PEI to lead Atlantic Canada in economic growth in 2018.

PEI’s economic growth was estimated to be 2.4 percent in 2017, on par with 2016. Immigration is boosting the population, household spending, and residential investment.

PEI gained more than 2,500 people between July 2016 and July 2017, which is the largest population growth of any Canadian province.

APEC’s 2018 forecast for PEI

• “In a slower for longer world, we will need to look beyond our borders to larger market opportunities, and continue to innovate to respond to client needs and to invest in our people and in our businesses,” says David.

• Continued population growth should support real GDP growth of 1.9 percent in 2018, although household spending, tourism, and exports are expected to slow, due to higher interest rates and a higher Canadian dollar.

• As the provinces try to balance their budgets, fiscal restraint will continue to slow economic growth.

• “US growth is expected to remain strong in 2018, supporting demand for Atlantic exports, although uncertainty about the renegotiation of NAFTA may have a dampening effect,” says David. “Growth in the EU has also improved, and with most tariffs eliminated on trade with the EU, there should be a boost to Atlantic exports.”

For more about APEC, visit www.apec-econ.ca

Thane Smallwood, General Manager.

Oliver Technow, President, BioVectra.

“It is easier to do business in Boston, New York or Toronto, but I don’t think there is a better place than PEI to capitalize on the tremendous human aspect of your business.

“On a weekly basis, we bring CEOs and heads of manufacturing, supply chain, and research and development from big pharmaceutical companies to the Island to tour our facilities. We demonstrate to them that we are in a good location to conduct business in a professional and effective way.”

No complacency. Always strive to be the best. Instead of complaining about the way things are, ask yourself what you can do to change things.

“Buyers can go to China or India to get cheaper active pharmaceutical ingredients, but they get a first-class experience with us, and they get better access to a team that is highly dedicated to their needs and solves every problem they have. This is where our competitiveness comes from.”

“A company from PEI can succeed because we have a very business-friendly environment. I have lived and worked in many jurisdictions, and I have not seen a more dedicated effort.”

“The government develops the business environment on the Island so that companies can succeed. We also receive tremendous support from provincial and national industry associations such as the PEI BioAlliance, BioNova and BIOTECanada which all help to accelerate the advancement of life sciences.”

“Atlantic Canada is our primary market, with about 20 percent of sales delivered to US customers.

“Part of the PEI potato crop is shipped in large 2,500 lb.totes into larger markets such as Boston, New York, Quebec, and Ontario. We sell final packaging to some of those customers as well.

“The next opportunity will be in Quebec and Ontario, where we will be competing against China. We can’t compete exactly on price, but we are willing to fill a need for small orders, offer a quicker turn-around, and buyers don’t need to wait four months for their product to arrive in large containers.

“Our biggest barrier to expansion is workforce resources.”

“We are training business development resources in-house with education and knowledge, and we are also trying to hire expertise to assist as we expand sales.

As well, the PEI BioAlliance, which consists of 50+ companies, contributes to the fact that PEI is leading Atlantic Canada in growth and economic outlook.

“In the last year, we invested $25 million in a new facility in Windsor, Nova Scotia. It means the world to us to give young people an opportunity to grow in Atlantic Canada.”

“The Nova Scotia location also offers us access to a different, larger labour market, so that we can make sure to get the right talent to drive our future growth. We are maintaining our investment in Charlottetown, and we are expanding our facilities here.”

For more information about BioVectra, visit www.biovectra.com or follow on Twitter (@BioVectra) and LinkedIn (/company/biovectra-inc-).

“It has been a challenge to find sales people who have the expertise to be off and running within six months.

“We need to train current employees who can grow their knowledge of our business, help with our export growth, and ramp up our sales revenue.”

For more information, visit www.peibag.com

BioVectra Inc., Charlottetown

BioVectra is a contract development manufacturer. They serve global pharmaceutical and biotech companies with full-service outsourcing solutions for intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients. The company has three cGMP facilities in Charlottetown, PEI and one in Windsor, Nova Scotia.

Oliver Technow’s advice to other businesses in this time of change

Focus on your vision and consider the things you need to do differently in order to succeed.

Surround yourself with the right people and the best talent. “At BioVectra, our 300+ employees are the heart and soul of the organization. Many have been with us 10 to 27 years. We benefit so much from employees who live and breathe innovation and knowledge. We keep them engaged, develop them, and let them grow.”

“Our employees are relentless problem solvers who take tremendous pride in finding solutions to any issue presented by our clients. There is a huge sense of pride in this organization. You can’t buy that kind of dedication.”

Be courageous. If you hesitate in times of change, you will be left behind.

Be determined. Identify the things that do not work in your favour and turn them into strengths. “For example, PEI is not the most logical geography to succeed on a global scale.

PEI Bag Company Ltd., Central Bedeque

Since 1935, the PEI Bag Company has supplied packaging to industries such as agriculture, aquaculture, food, and construction.

The company has almost 40 employees. “On the production floor, we have many people with 10 to 20 years of experience, and one staff member had 55 years of service before she retired last summer,” says Thane Smallwood, who is a Mechanical and Industrial Engineer by trade.

“Our long-term staff are the heart and soul of the company. However, we are always looking for new employees as well. Typically, our new staff start in entry-level positions and if they prove themselves, we try to advance them as opportunities present themselves.

“We do more than $10 million in sales annually. Roughly 40 percent of our sales are finished products brought in from India, China, and Halifax. Sixty percent of our sales are products manufactured in Central Bedeque by our own employees.

The Employment Journey Inc. is a monthly publication available to residents and businesses of PEI. The publication is produced by Gloria Welton. The Employment Journey is funded in whole or in part through the Canada/Prince Edward Island labour market agreements.The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of Canada, the Government of Prince Edward Island or the Publication Manager.

The Employment Journey Inc.Box 8816, Yorkdale Estates, PE C0A 1P0Telephone: Charlottetown (902) 894-4100 Montague (902) 838-4030 ext. 237E-mail: employ@employmentjourney.comEmployment Journey © 1998

Publication Manager/Owner: Gloria WeltonQueens County Reporter/Copy Editor: Heidi RileyKings County Reporters: Stella Shepard & Cody McInnisReporter/Public Relations: Stacy DunnWest Prince Reporter: Ruby ArsenaultDesign/Pre-press: TechnoMedia Inc.Webmaster: TechnoMedia Inc.

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3February 2018

JC Handy Man Services & Sales in Alberton is expanding and moving to a new and larger location at 530 Main Street, next to the curling club.

“The new location for the retail renovation and supplies business will offer more products, along with access to a more convenient parking lot for customers,” says Joey Carragher, Owner and Operator. “I am proud to say we have outgrown the present location.”

Joey began his business in 2013 with one employee. Today, he has up to eight employees during busy times, and a fleet of service vehicles.

The new location is presently under construction. It has double the square footage of the previous location. Joey hopes to offer new products, and will continue to sell paint products and building supplies such as windows, doors, siding, steel roofing, and flooring.

“We provide price estimates and measuring for home repairs, we order the products for customers, and they are free to choose who does the installing,” says Joey.

Joey also manages a busy construction crew of six, and offers services from home repairs and painting to new residential and commercial construction.

Paint & décor

Staff member Meagan Deagle, a certified Home Decorator, assists customers with choosing colors and the proper type of paint for various projects from home interior/exterior to restoring furniture. She is available for in-home consultations as well.

Qualifications needed

• Assets: food safety course, beverage server certificate, and/or WHMIS• Strong customer service skills • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends

Owner expands his construction company and takes over local restaurant by Ruby Arsenault

New staff

The store also has a new building supplies Sales Associate with years of experience in home/commercial renovations and construction. “I foresee more positions opening in the future,” says Joey.

Restaurant expansion

Joey’s newest venture, the Sidewalk Grill Restaurant on Main Street in Alberton, will be expanding. He owns the building where the restaurant is located. When the present tenant retired from the business, Joey came up with a plan to continue operations of this busy establishment.

“We are going to expand the restaurant with more seating and updating the kitchen, and we are considering getting a pizza oven. We are going to have it licensed and open seven days a week.”

Staff required for the new restaurant

A new manager has already been hired. Other positions to be filled include Servers, Cooks, and Prep Cooks. “We are accepting resumés for both full-time and part-time positions, and we welcome student applications as well. Training will be provided.”

Sam Sanderson of the Construction Association of PEI (CAPEI) says there’s every indication the sector is booming and moving forward on the Island.

“There are bigger and better things to come in 2018 and 2019 with recent announcements of plans for residential and commercial construction,” he says. “Residential housing starts were up 43.7 percent in 2017 compared to 2016, and PEI is leading the nation in commercial construction per capita.”

Recruiting challenges

“We have great opportunities and partnerships within the community to make the trades a great career path and build the Island’s economy,” Sam says. “Our members are looking to hire up to 400 additional workers to keep up with the extraordinary demand.

“Multiple companies are looking for estimators and they can’t find them. Some companies have been looking for two years; one company has hired a head hunter in Ontario and has had no success in three months.”

Youth in trades

CAPEI has administered a Youth in Trades program for 25 years. The program accepts youth at risk and helps them build a trades career.

“The program is tremendous in helping youth get apprenticeships. The Government of Canada has given funding for the next three years through its Youth Employment Strategy to continue the work.”

In 2017, the Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning, through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements, supported CAPEI to form Team Construction which included a Youth in Trades program.

Recruitment campaign

“All government levels are listening to the needs of the industry and are working in partnership to get people interested in the trades sector.”

Sam says construction associations across Canada are seeing similar skill shortages. CAPEI is working to attract skilled trades workers with IslandBuilder.ca funded by SkillsPEI, a division of Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning. This recruitment campaign will feature radio and poster ads across the country in 2018. “We want to let people know the industry is strong on PEI, and you can build a career and a life here.”

Human resources support for members

CAPEI has 190 active members, and numbers are growing. Sam notes many of the member companies need support for their hiring needs.

The association has hired Kevin McGee as HR Manager. He regularly meets with CAPEI members and will post open positions on WorkPEI.ca for them. “I am working with the companies to see what their needs are now and what positions are hardest to fill. I look forward to raising awareness of the construction industry on PEI and helping to attract skilled trades workers.”

“Our members are so busy managing their work such as accounting, estimating, scheduling and staff,” Sam says. “They have told us time and time again they don’t have the time to post a job. We hope the service will promote trades and help match job seekers with employers.”

For more information about the Construction Association of PEI, call 902-368-3303. Visit www.capei.ca

Construction outlookfor 2018 by Stacy Dunn

Sam Sanderson, General Manager, Construction Association of PEI.

Joey Carragher, Owner, and Meagan Deagle, certified Home Decorator.

How to apply

Send a resumé to joey@jchandyman.ca or drop off a resumé to 469 Main Street, Alberton, PEI For more information about JC Handy Man Sales & Services, call 902-853-4009. Visit www.facebook.com/JoeyCarragherHandymanServicesandSalesInc For more about the Sidewalk Grill, call 902-853-4211. Visit www.facebook.com/TheSidewalkGrill

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Sheila Kerry, Health Recruiter, Health Recruitment and Retention Secretariat, PEI Department of Health and Wellness. Submitted photo

Mohammed Moin, Vice President. Submitted photo

4February 2018

Recruiting Healthcare professionals in demand

The Health Recruitment and Retention Secretariat provides recruitment support to Health PEI in its efforts to staff hard-to-fill healthcare positions.

The Secretariat was established in 2008 and currently has five employees. Positions at the Secretariat include:• Health Recruiter focussed on the areas of Nursing and

Allied Health Professionals such as Speech Language Pathologists, Psychologists, and Physiotherapists.

• Physician Recruitment Coordinator focussed on recruiting Family Medicine and Specialist Physicians

• Recruitment Assistant also provides financial, immigration, and administrative support

• Health Human Resource Advisor determines healthcare data for the Secretariat and the Department, including healthcare system vacancies, demographics of healthcare professionals, etc.

• Manager of Recruitment and Retention

Sheila Kerry, is the Health Recruiter for Nursing and Allied Health Professionals. She provided this list of PEI Healthcare careers currently in demand:• Registered Nurses • Nurse Practitioners• Psychologists • Social Workers• Medical Laboratory Technologists• Physiotherapists and PT Assistants• Occupational Therapists and OT Assistants

Mohammed Moin, Vice President of Somru BioScience Inc. in Charlottetown, came to UPEI in 2001 as an international student to study Computer Science. He co-founded Somru BioScience Inc. with his brother from the USA, who is a molecular biologist.

The brothers were motivated to succeed in drug development after their father died of esophageal cancer without access to groundbreaking medication. “Biologics are expensive,” says Moin. “They cost tens of thousands of dollars, and a course of treatment could cost $200,000 per year.

“The goal of our customer-oriented biotechnology company is to come up with a set of tools to develop antibodies and immunoassay solutions for research, diagnostic, and therapeutic applications. We are always looking to partner with pharmaceutical companies to accelerate their biosimilar drug development process.”

Somru BioScience Inc. started in 2012 with one scientist in a 500 square foot space in the National Research Council incubator at UPEI.

In 2014, Somru moved to a 3,000 square foot space in the West Royalty Industrial Park, and employed eight staff.

In November 2017, the company finished building its own 5,000 square foot research laboratory facility at the BioCommons Park. About 14 employees work there now, and there are plans to hire 100 more people over the next five years and expand the physical space to 20,000 square feet.

“There is an ongoing need to support Health PEI in its nursing recruitment efforts,” says Sheila. “Hard-to-recruit nursing positions tend to be within the specialty areas of nursing, such as Intensive Care and finding qualified individuals with nursing experience.” Determining future opportunities in PEI’s healthcare system

“We work to promote current opportunities and to determine future job vacancies. People who are planning their careers need to know about future job vacancies so that they can choose a career that is likely to be in demand when they finish their education.”

One way of determining future job vacancies is to study the demographics of current healthcare professionals. For example, the average age of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) working at PEI hospitals is 40, with a handful in the 60 to 65 year range who may soon be thinking of retirement planning.

“That information is a good indication that it is likely that some of those individuals will choose to retire within the next few years.

“On the other hand, we are seeing a different trend with Medical Laboratory Assistants. Right now the average age of these individuals is 30 years old, and the majority is female. Because of this trend, we can reasonably assume that some may be considering planning a family, so we should expect some temporary full-time opportunities in the future.

Future outlook

In 2017, Somru signed a joint venture partnership agreement with Radiant Pharmaceuticals to establish and operate an independent state-of-the-art diagnostic and research laboratory in Bangladesh. Radiant will market Somru-developed biomarker-based laboratory test kits for diabetic and oncology patients in Bangladesh.

“We export to 20 countries now, and are looking to double our workforce in 2018,” Moin says. “We are looking to grow further in Europe and Asia with a strong focus on improvements to our systems and processes such as automated kit assembly, electronic assay worksheets, and data analysis tools.”

Job titles in demand

• Bioscience Technologist and Senior Scientist (Diploma, BSc, MSc, PhD)

• Senior R&D Manager (MSc, PhD)• Manager with experience in human diagnostics• Data Scientist (MSc) • Senior and Intermediate Software Developer

(Diploma, BSc, MSc) • Sales and Marketing Manager (Asia and Europe)

How to stand out

“We invite people with the skillsets we are looking for to email their resumé or visit our facility to drop it off in person,” Moin says. “We also encourage grade 12 students to job shadow our scientists and college or university bioscience students to apply for internships.”

by Heidi Riley

PEI BioAlliance support

“We are grateful to the PEI BioAlliance for their support,” he says. “At one of their networking luncheons, a woman with PhD gave her resumé to the BioAlliance’s HR manager, Vivian Beer. Vivian emailed me the same day about this applicant. An hour later, I contacted the woman to ask her to come in for a job interview.

“She contacted me two hours later to agree to the interview.

“She told me she had flown to PEI that day, attended the BioAlliance event, and never dreamed she would be contacted for a job interview the same day.”

For more information, visit www.somrubioscience.com For more information about careers in Bioscience on PEI, call Vivian Beer at 902-367-4407. Visit www.peibioalliance.com/job-postings.php

“For those looking for a career in healthcare, physiotherapy is a really great option. Physiotherapists in Canada have endless career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. The unemployment rate for Physiotherapists in Canada is very low – back in 2014, it was 0.3 percent. Physiotherapists are often not actively seeking new employment, so we engage with individuals who may be employed now, but would consider job opportunities on PEI.”

Meeting with professionals

Individuals interested in a career in health can meet with the Health Recruiter directly. Alternatively, the Health Recruiter can also arrange meetings for candidates to connect with healthcare professionals and experts within the system.

For more information about healthcare opportunities on PEI, call 902-620-3872 or email healthrecruiter@gov.pe.ca

To learn more about the Recruitment and Retention Secretariat, or for a list of healthcare opportunities and programs, visit www.healthjobspei.ca

Bioscience company looking to continue to expand in 2018 by Stacy Dunn

Matching job seekers with employers on PEI Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

5February 2018

HR Manager Dianne Griffin, 3 Points Aviation.

CNC Machinists are in great demand on PEI and across the country. “I recently made a recruiting trip to western Canada, and found that there are no CNC Programmers or Machinists available to hire,” says Dianne Griffin, HR Manager, 3 Points Aviation.

“We currently have 63 employees. Our company cannot expand and grow on PEI without help to get more people interested in a career in this industry. We currently have openings for three CNC Programmers and five CNC Operator/Machinists.

“To address this problem, 3 Points is collaborating with Holland College and UPEI to attract more people to the trades. It will take five to 10 years to develop the skills we need.”

3 Points Aviation is a Transport Canada approved facility which manufactures, repairs, and overhauls aircraft components. The company’s departments include manufacturing, programming, HR, front office and administration, quality control, shipping, sales, repair & overhaul, and research & development.

“There is still a need for Manual Machinists, but we employ one Manual Machinist for every 10 CNC Machinists. CNC is the skilled trade to be in.

“We are also looking for people with previous experience in the aerospace industry with a minimum of five years of experience in this industry or in a similar industry.”

Training for Machinists

Holland College has an agreement with NBCC that allows graduates of their one-year Precision Machining course to enter the second year of the CNC Machining program at NBCC. “We would be happy to hire more people who take this educational path,” says Dianne. “3 Points offers an apprenticeship program for those graduates.”

For more about the Precision Machinist program at Holland College, visit www.hollandcollege.com/programs/precision-machinist For more about the CNC Machining program at New Brunswick Community College, visit http://nbcc.ca/programs-courses/program-details?baseCurriculumId=7d54776b-649c-42c4-ae46-fd56c12ba46e For more about 3 Points Aviation, contact Dianne Griffin at dgriffin@3pointsaviation.com Visit www.3pointsaviation.com For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Precision Machinist or 3 Points Aviation.

More CNC Machinists needed at Aerospace company by Heidi Riley

Jobs at 3 Points include Aircraft Maintenance Engineers with an M2 certification, CNC Programmers, CNC Machinists, Manual Machinists, and Repair and Overhaul Technicians.

Hiring needs

“The Charlottetown facility has expanded to a 24/7 schedule, so we are presently recruiting across the country for more skilled trades people,” says Dianne. “Over the next six to eight months, we plan to add another 10 to 15 employees.

“These careers are not gender specific. We need women to get interested in this field and willing to take the training. They can do the job just as well as their male counterparts with the proper training and mentorship.

“This career is a sustainable opportunity to keep people on PEI making a good salary with lots of room for advancement. CNC Programmers and Machinists are in great demand by this company and by many other manufacturing firms.

Darren Noonan, President, PEI Automobile Dealers Association. Submitted photo

PEIADA is the only Automobile Dealers Association in Canada which has 100 percent membership of all the new car dealerships in the province. This self-funded, non-profit organization represents the 21 new car dealerships on PEI. “PEIADA is the dealerships’ collective voice for sharing the opinions and needs of the automotive industry,” says Darren Noonan. “The association meets regularly with the Government of PEI to give input on pending legislation affecting the automotive industry, and it protects the interests of dealers and tries to protect the interests of the consumer when new fees are introduced.” Sector at a glance

Lisa Doyle-MacBain, Executive Director of PEIADA, says new automobile dealerships on PEI have 574 full-time and 22 part-time employees, and an annual payroll of approximately $14 million. “The automotive sector is a significant contributor to the PEI economy. In 2016, PEI was the second-highest per capita in new car sales in Canada. There were 8,768 new motor vehicles sold, valued at $287.1 million. Both numbers are all-time highs.

“Sales have increased by 7.7 percent seven years in a row. During that same time period, car parts and accessory sales have increased by 13.4 percent for a total of $65.1 million.” Difficult position to fill

Darren says it’s a challenge finding good quality staff for all positions at the dealerships. “There’s a misperception that car dealerships just sell and fix cars,” he says. “It’s a big business supported by receptionists, car detailers, accounting, and human resources. “Auto Technicians are no longer covered in oil and grease all day, as perceived 20 years ago. They have to be able to read vehicle computers to determine what the problem is. “Technicians need to be comfortable with computers and have a mechanical skillset to be able to work in the industry.” Promotion in high school

In 2015, PEIADA formed a working group to promote the industry in high schools. “Students and parents need to consider automotive careers as rewarding. High school counsellors are welcome to send in students to talk to us,” Darren says.

“There are people working in the industry who earn over $100,000 and there are technicians earning over $80,000. I don’t think students know about the income potential of these jobs.”

Scholarships available

Darren says enrollment in Holland College’s Automotive Technology program is low. “We have met with college officials to see how that could change. “PEIADA offers four annual $1,000 awards for auto technician students and one annual $1,000 award for business students.” For more information, call Lisa Doyle-MacBain at 902-566-3639 or e-mail peiada@bellaliant.net Visit www.peiada.com

New car dealerships offer a wide variety of jobs with good wagesby Stacy Dunn

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by Cody McInnis

Jenna MacNeill on the worksite at Province House in Charlottetown.

6February 2018

From left, Debbie Perry, Priscilla Gaudet Keenan, Judy Hennessey, and Colleen McIntosh.

Finding out about a career in trades is a life-changer

Jenna MacNeill was determined to change her life, and with the help of labour market programs and funding, she now has a viable career and a bright future.

Two years ago, she was unemployed or working a series of short-term minimum wage jobs. She decided to participate in a program called Trade HERizons, which helps women explore careers in trades and technology.

“Once I joined Trade HERizons, everything changed. We toured every trades program Holland College offers. When we visted Heritage Retrofit Carpentry and I built my first-ever project, Learning Manager Josh Silver sold me on the program.”

In order to get funding from SkillsPEI to cover some of the cost of tuition for the Heritage Retrofit Carpentry program, Jenna needed to be EI eligible. She found work in a seafood plant in Montague, where she was offered 40+ hours a week and free transportation from Charlottetown to the plant.

In addition to wages earned at the seafood plant, Jenna received a $1,000 Team Seafood Bursary to help with tuition. That bursary is awarded to students working more than 500 hours in a seafood plant.

SkillsPEI covered 70 percent of the cost of tuition, and with her savings from her job, the bursary, and a small student loan, she was able to afford to take the Heritage Retrofit Carpentry program. “It was a dream come true. I learned a lot about myself, I made a lot of friends, and had a great relationship with the Instructors. I found out carpentry really is my calling.”

Harbourview Training Center in Souris is a non-profit organization that has worked with adults with intellectual disabilities since the 1970s. Harbourview promotes inclusion in the community and helps clients develop a greater sense of independence and confidence.

Services include vocational training, on-site employment and job training, and a broad range of supports for clients. They operate year round, five days a week.

Presently, Harbourview has more than 33 clients. Executive Director Judy Hennessey says the most rewarding part of the job is seeing clients becoming empowered and proud of their workspace and what they have created.

Community involvement is paramount for them. “We work with Holland College to bring their students into our facility,” says Judy. “We partner with the Souris High School Leadership class to help our clients participate in activities set up by the class. We are always looking to place clients into the community to work and we also have projects done on site.”

Hiring needs and process

“We currently have 13 staff ranging in age from under 30 to over 60,” says Judy. “Over the past three years, we gained some new staff to serve new clients who need specialized support systems. Hiring needs are typically based around the needs of clients.”

“It is definitely beneficial for staff to have taken the Human Services program at Holland College. We don’t have any bilingual staff, but a student who speaks French

and English would be an asset in the operation of our ice-cream shop on the Souris beach in the summer.”

SkillsPEI Graduate Mentorship Program

With support through the Graduate Mentorship program, Jenna was able to find a position working on the project to restore Province House in Charlottetown. The program, which is offered by SkillsPEI and funded through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements, contributes towards the graduate’s wages for training and mentorship in their field of study.

Jenna’s job duties

On the job at Province House, Jenna documents each window, door, doorframe, baseboard, floorboard, and plaster piece that is being removed. She and her fellow workers build crates to hold the pieces, wrap each piece, and tag them. After preparing the paper records she inputs the data and photos into a computer.

Jenna has been promoted to Site Safety Officer. In addition, she has begun the apprenticeship process and is planning to go on to earn her Red Seal.

A changed life

“I am now moving in a good direction instead of wondering how I will put food on the table,” says Jenna. “The programs I used showed me that there is a lot more out there for me than the random jobs I had before.”

Judy asks those interested in working at Harborview as a full time staff member or as a volunteer to drop off a resumé on site. Resumés are kept on file to fill an immediate need to hire someone to work with a new client.

“During the interview process, the board of directors and some members will usually be present. Applicants must also pass a background vulnerability check and police screening.”

Programs at Harbourview

The center offers three main programs: the Woodworking shop, Bakery, and Skills Enhancement Day Program.

The Woodworking program is designed to promote teamwork, wood construction, job-site safety, physical skills, employment skills, social skills, and problem solving.

“Our clients trace designs onto plywood, and use a jigsaw to cut them out,” says Collen McIntosh, who oversees the woodworking division. “The pieces are then sanded, primed and painted. We also strip and refinish furniture. Custom wood products are made in this area as well, with many of our seasonal wood creations going to local gift shops in the summer.” The crafts are also available for purchase at the Harbourview gift shop.

“Some clients can make a project such as a lobster trap from beginning to end by themselves. Others like to specialize in one task.” Arthur McKenzie is a long-time client at Harbourview. He takes great pride in doing the wood staining.

by Heidi Riley

The Bakery produces fresh baked goods five days a week. On an average day, the bakery produces 12 dozen rolls, 10 dozen biscuits, at least two cakes, and 12 dozen cookies or cinnamon buns. During the 2017 Christmas season, they baked and sold over 160 meat pies.

“Clients bag and price the products, which are delivered to the Souris Co-op,” says Debbie Perry, who runs the bakery. Two days a week, the bakery also provides a hot lunch to the high school, which the clients help bag and deliver. In October, we start making mustard pickles, pickled beets and chow. The Lion’s Club buys 60 bottles to add to Christmas boxes for the needy. They also buy 120 dozen squares from us.”

The Skills Enhancement Day Program promotes individualized social skills, rapport building skills, personal care, community awareness, physical activity, and travel outings.

“We work on a lot of life skills here, and every day is different,” says Pricilla Gaudet Keenan, who runs the program. “On Tuesdays we do meal prep and serve lunch. On Wednesdays, we go to the high school. Some of our clients also do mail and flyer deliveries.”

The supervisor’s perspective

“Six graduates of Heritage Retrofit Carpentry and two from the Construction Technology program are working on this project,” says Brian Willis, one of the Site Superintendants of the Province House project. “It is a tremendous learning opportunity for everyone.”

For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Jenna MacNeill. For more information about the Graduate Mentorship program, visit www.skillspei.com and click Programs for Job Seekers. For a video about Jenna MacNeill, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5_eofIctgA For more about Trade HERizons, call Women’s Network PEI at 902-368-5040 or visit www.wnpei.org

Training center highlights staffing needs, services, and programs

For more information about Harbourview Training Center, contact Judy Hennessey at 902-687-3032. Visit www.harbourviewtrainingcenter.ca

2017 Youth Entrepreneurship Forum videos about the speakers and the panelists:Lacey Koughan: www.facebook.com/HigherDesignInc/videos/10155979831948593/?fref=mentions Damien Packwood: www.facebook.com/CBDCPEI/videos/975313342624747/Suzanne Keough: www.facebook.com/CBDCPEI/videos/975320382624043/Chef Sarah Bennetto O’Brien: www.facebook.com/HigherDesignInc/videos/10155998243023593/

Chef Sarah Bennetto O’Brien, Owner, The Handpie Company. Submitted photo

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

7February 2018

Food entrepreneur looking to expand

What a difference a year made to Chef Sarah Bennetto O’Brien, Owner of the The Handpie Company, which operates year-round in Borden-Carleton.

In March, 2017, she launched an eat-in/takeout business offering handpies – savory, flaky pastry with a choice of 10 fillings. Sarah is making plans to move her location in Gateway Village a few doors down to a larger building with room for more seating.

“I also hope for a future move to a manufacturing plant to be able to supply the current wait-listed retailers and to explore new partnerships,” says Sarah.

Beginnings

An experienced Red Seal Chef who has traveled the world, Sarah took the Applied Degree in Culinary Operations at the Culinary Institute of Canada in Charlottetown in 2008.

In 2014, she settled in Borden-Carleton and opened a restaurant called Scapes. The most popular menu item was the handpie.

She took her idea for The Handpie Company to Island Food Partnership’s Food Xcel program. The program began in November, 2016 with 39 entrepreneurs learning about turning an idea into a business. Sarah was one of seven entrepreneurs selected for the final competition.

About the staff

In the fall and winter, a Kitchen Assistant/Packaging Coordinator, a Pastry Chef, and a Baker join Sarah making the pies. In the busy summer months, the staff goes up to seven and includes a part-time Kitchen Assistant, a full-time Retail Manager, and a part-time Retail Associate.

If sheer numbers are an indication of interest, the answer to youth being interested in self-employment as a career choice is yes.

The third-annual CBDC Youth forum in Summerside attracted 400 youth, up from 70 youth in attendance three years ago.

The goal of the forum, which was held in late 2017, was to engage and educate youth, and encourage them to consider self-employment as a career option.

“CBDC assists in the creation of small businesses and in the expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and technical services to entrepreneurs,” says Ron Holley, Executive Director of CBDC. “Our services certainly extend to youth as well.

“The forum informed youth about the services available to assist them in an entrepreneurial journey. The panel at the forum provided the opportunity for successful youth entrepreneurs to share their stories of establishing a business. Each panelist is a living example of youth starting and growing a business on PEI.” Youth also heard from motivational speakers Alex MacLean, owner of East Coast Lifestyle, and Sarah Bennetto O’Brien, owner of The Handpie Company. For more information about the many services available through CBDC such as access to capital (repayable loans), business skills training grants, and free counselling, call 1-888-303-2232. Visit www.cbdc.ca/en/what-is-cbdc

“I have found good staff through word of mouth,” Sarah says.

“I have also hired graduates from the Culinary Institute of Canada, and I am impressed by their high-calibre work.”

Talking with youth

High school students have job shadowed at The Handpie Company.

“I recently spoke to a huge group of students at a CBDC Youth Entrepreneurship Forum in Summerside. I encouraged them to volunteer at farms, markets, and restaurants and learn everything they can about where our food comes from.”

Future hiring needs

Hiring for the future manufacturing facility would include Packagers, Operations Manager, Sales and Marketing Manager, Shipping and Receiving and Production Crew.

Community supports

Sarah credits the Self Employ PEI program through SkillsPEI for allowing her to pursue her business and to hire staff.

Sarah was eligible for assistance through the Self Employ PEI program, which is administered through SkillsPEI, a division of Workforce and Advanced Learning. The employment benefit program is designed to help people start and succeed with owning and operating their business.

“I also received funding through Innovation PEI to purchase a bigger freezer, which ramped up production 400 percent.”

by Stacy Dunn

For more information, call 902-437-3100. Visit www.handpie.ca. Follow The Handpie Company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search The Handpie Company. Video about the business journey of Chef Sarah Bennetto O’Brien: www.facebook.com/HigherDesignInc/videos/10155998243023593/ For more information about SkillsPEI programs, visit www.skillspei.com

CBDC Central PEI hosts a Youth Entrepreneurship forum by Gloria Welton

Self Employ PEI is funded in whole or in part through the Canada-PEI labour market agreements.

Submitted photo

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Hiring process

Depending on the position, applicants may be tested to evaluate their skills or asked to do a presentation as part of the interview process.

After the interview, candidates are rated. Then the interview panel chooses the top candidate for the position and HR will check references.

“To be successful in the interview process, be clear in your cover letter and resumé about how the qualifications asked for in the job posting match your qualifications. We don’t want to go looking for your information, or guess or assume.”

Applications can be made online or in person. For more information about job opportunities at Holland College, call 902-629-4217. Visit www.hollandcollege.com For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Holland College Hiring Practices.

Patty Bell, Staffing Officer at Holland College.

8February 2018

Monique Guerts, Human Resources Officer, UPEI.Submitted photo

Holland College hiring practicesHolland College employs 771 full-time and part-time staff, made up of a culturally diverse work force. The college also employs over 30 students in positions such as Library Assistants, Canes Camp Counsellors, and Front Desk Clerks.

Examples of job titles

• Learning Managers • Program Managers• Service Workers • Admissions Clerks• Computer Service Technicians

At present, Holland College has 2,467 full-time, 126 part-time, 4,905 continuing education students, 764 adult education students, and 596 language training students.

There are 13 locations across PEI. Each year, approximately $450,000 in scholarships, bursaries, and awards are available. The College has made more than 150 articulation agreements with a worldwide network of post-secondary partners.

Holland College programs

• Adult Education • Applied Sciences• Business • Computer Studies• Engineering Technology • Tourism• English for Academic Purposes• Health and Community Studies• The Culinary Institute of Canada• Marine Training Centre• Police/Law Enforcement/Firefighting • School of Performing Arts• School of Visual Arts and Journalism• Sport and Leisure• Trades and Industrial Technology

The University of Prince Edward Island campus is located on 140 acres in PEI’s capital, Charlottetown. UPEI has approximately 1,100 employees who serve a student body of about 4,400 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students.

The University houses six faculties, each with many departments:• Arts • Business • Education • Nursing • Science • Veterinary Medicine

About the staff

Staff members range in age from 18 to 65 and come from many different cultures. “Our staff diversity is one of the highest on the Island,” says Monique Geurts, Human Resources Officer at UPEI. “The university attracts employees from the Island and from all over the world. Some employees are UPEI students as well.”

Some job titles

• Professor • Administrative Assistant • Librarian • Human Resources Officer • Lab Instructor • Lab Technician• Service Worker • Security • Tutor

Retirements and turnover

Patty Bell, Staffing Officer at Holland College, says Holland College has a voluntary turnover rate of about 2.5 percent, not counting retirees. There is more turnover in part-time positions.

Patricia says there is a steady increase in the number of retirees. “Last year, 26 people retired from Holland College, which is the largest number we have seen.”

Hiring needs

“We’ve been lucky to have found really great staff to replace the 26 people who retired last year,” says Patty.

“Hiring has been ongoing throughout the year with the majority of the hiring happening during the summer months. Certain term positions are more difficult to fill.

Education requirements vary, depending on the position. “For example, a Learning Manager in our Nursing program must be an RN. Educational development assistance may be available to employees who want to further their education.”

“Holland College is a great place to work, and has a reputation for being a good employer offering excellent benefits.

“I think the reason staff stay with Holland College is because of the opportunities to grow in their careers, further their education, move up in the organization, and get great wages and benefits.”

Hiring needs

“We quite regularly have a lot of employment opportunities, with a number of open competitions,” says Monique. “More specialized faculty positions can be harder to fill, for example Veterinary Surgeons.”

About 80 percent of jobs at UPEI are full-time. “At present, the majority of job openings are for academic positions. Currently, there are openings for Instructors and Professors at the School of Nursing, the new School of Sustainable Design Engineering, and in Health Sciences, the Veterinary College, and the library.”

She says there is more turnover in student positions. This is because students graduate and move on in their careers.

Most jobs at UPEI are unionized. “Wages and benefits for unionized employees are determined through collective agreements determined by management and the unions.”

Recently, the UPEI Board of Governors signed a new pension agreement with the four unions at UPEI, including the UPEI Faculty Association, IBEW 1928, CUPE 1870, and CUPE 501.

by Cody McInnis

“We post all open positions on our website, and the only way to get your foot in the door is to apply online,” says Monique. “Make sure you submit a good resumé and cover letter to get your name in the competition.

“For staff positions, the hiring team includes a hiring manager, selection committee members, and an HR representative. The team screens candidates, conducts the interview, and may recommend some testing.”

When asked about how UPEI retains its workers, Monique says, “I think it is because we offer really good benefits, competitive salaries, unionized jobs, and great opportunities for growth. We also have a performance review system and professional development funds.”

Hiring practices at UPEIby Cody McInnis

For more information about careers at UPEI, visit www.upei.ca/hr/employment-opportunities For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search UPEI Hiring Practices.

Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

by Cody McInnis The interview process is conducted by a board that includes a supervisor, the manager of Human Resources, and a third person from the college or the community. The interview may include questions about how one might act in certain situations.

“To stand out, try to demonstrate in your cover letter and resumé that you have the qualifications listed in the job description,” says Donald. “During the interview, look people in the eye when answering their questions. It doesn’t bother me if people say ‘That’s a tough question and I just need a minute to think about it.’ That’s just being honest.

“It is important to ensure that the fit works for both the college and the potential employee.” Donald adds that they look for applicants who are energetic, fit the culture of the organization, and are passionate in upholding the values and mission of the college.

Five-year outlook

Donald says the Collège plans to offer more online programs which involve specific competencies. The Collège will continue to deepen cooperation with Holland College and has a number of initiatives planned in cooperation with the faculties of Arts and Education at UPEI.

Donald DesRoches, President, Collège de l’Île. Submitted photo

Katherine McQuaid, Director of Training, Academy of Learning College. Submitted photo

9February 2018

Hiring practices at Academy of Learning College in CharlottetownAcademy of Learning College is a post-secondary educational institution which offers programs in Office Administration, Accounting/Payroll, Business Administration, Graphic & Web Design, Healthcare Administration, and Information Technology. It currently has 50 campuses across Canada.

In the 1990s, the Academy of Learning College was the first post-secondary school to develop an interactive classroom environment. They called in the Integrated Learning System. “Other universities and colleges now offer online classes, but Academy of Learning remains the leader of the pack with their learning technologies and platforms,” says Katherine McQuaid, Director of Training at the Academy of Learning College in Charlottetown.

Virtual classrooms have also been added. “We noticed that people taking online courses still wanted to have that classroom experience and talk with the Instructor and other students,” says Katherine.

“Students can interact online with Instructors and students from other provinces, and they can all ask questions, just like a normal classroom. The lectures are recorded, so if you miss a class, you can come in and watch what you missed.”

Programs offered at the Charlottetown location

• Accounting/Payroll • Business Administration• Customer Service • Graphic & Web Design• Healthcare • Information Technology• Office Administration

Over the years, Academy of Learning College students have completed over one million training courses.

Collège de l’Île is Prince Edward Island’s public French Language community college. It offers eight college-level programs, as well as French language training. There are campuses in Wellington and Charlottetown, and a training centre in Deblois.

The college has approximately 200 full-time and part-time students. College programs and language training are delivered in class, online, or with a tutor. Since fall 2017, Collège de l’Île and Holland College have offered bilingual pathway programs for students who wish to continue pursuing part of their post-secondary education in either language. Programs

• Accounting Clerk • Practical Nursing• Resident Care Worker • Early Childhood Assistant• Early Childhood Educator • Youth Worker• Human Services• Bilingual Administrative Assistant

General adult education programs

• General Educational Development Test (GED) preparation• Grade 12 upgrading for equivalency or academic certificate

For more details about adult education, contact Natalie Arsenault at 902-854-3010, ext. 246, or email natalie.arsenault@collegedelile.ca

About the staff

The Collège has approximately 16 full-time staff and 16 part-time staff who work in the daytime and in the evening. Some job titles include Instructors, Administrators, and Tutors.

About the staff

The Charlottetown location currently employs 10 staff. Most work full time. Depending on the area that they teach or work, all staff are required to have post-secondary education.

Katherine says about a third of the staff has been with them for 20 years. “Our long-time staff stays due to a positive atmosphere, competitive wages, good benefits and holiday time off.” There is some turnover of part-time workers.

Some job titles

• Instructors • Student Services• Administrative Support • Accounting• Bookkeepers • CleanersThey offer competitive wages and a great work environment. Katherine says employees get more holiday time off than the average business.

Hiring process

When hiring, Academy of Learning College looks for applicants who express interest and enthusiasm. “We teach our students that you create your own opportunities, so showing up with a resumé sets you apart. Most people express an interest before we even advertise a position.”

During the interview, they have a conversation with the person to gauge past experience, interest, and a desire to help people.

The interview usually takes 45 minutes. Katherine says the keys to success include a professional appearance, enthusiasm, understanding the institution you are applying to, and expressing yourself clearly.

Donald DesRoches, President of Collège de l’Île, says he places a high priority on creating an environment which encourages strong employee engagement. To increase engagement, they administer an annual survey and implement an annual action plan.

“Engagement is one of our key indicators,” says Donald. “We support staff training, and we try our best to create strong relationships between our staff to make sure they are happy and connected. It’s not just about money. It’s also important to develop a positive connection with colleagues.”

At Collège de l’Île, all staff are provided an Insights Discovery personality profile as a means to facilitate connections between staff. Efforts are made to ensure that communication is open and transparent.

“Salaries are competitive, and benefits include health and dental, RRSP contributions, and more.”

Employment opportunities

“Turnover for part-time faculty is quite steady. We are almost always recruiting for someone to teach a French course or in a more specialized area such as in the health field. We have just completed competitions for two permanent positions. I am not sure when the next opportunity will be. I don’t see anything else on the horizon, but you never know.”

How to apply

Applicants can submit a resumé at any time to the college, and they will keep it on file until an appropriate employment opportunity arises. The resumé and cover letter should emphasize your practical experience.

by Cody McInnis

Collège de l’Île hiring practices

“Once hired, there is a training period and a probationary period. We usually tell people that they should feel settled after 12 months. A mentor guides the new hire during the first year, and in-house training outlines the Academy of Learning College teaching platform. New Instructors need to learn how the platform works, and that takes time.”

Katherine also says that she likes to see an employee who recognizes what students go through, and can reflect on their own time as a student.

“When you can understand where a student is coming from, and express what tweaks and changes might need to be made to help those students succeed, that tells me how well you will succeed here.”

For more information about Academy of Learning College, call 1-888-328-8973 Visit www.aolpei.ca/how_we_teach.php and www.academyoflearning.com

For more information, call 902-854-3010 or email info@collegedelile.ca Visit www.collegedelile.ca For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Collège de l’Île.

From left, Chamber Board Member Tara Connely and Executive Director Tammy Rix.

10February 2018 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Chartered Professionals in Human Resources working on PEIHuman Resources (HR) professionals often come from a variety of backgrounds. They work across a broad spectrum of functional areas such as general, benefits and compensation, legal, recruitment, occupational health and safety, training and development, employee/labour relations, strategy and organizational design.

Some professionals work their way up the corporate ladder into HR management, while others launch their careers directly from university or college. Still others transition into HR from other career paths.

With the exception of Ontario, the CPHR designation is considered the standard of quality for HR professionals across Canada. Every CPHR must regularly demonstrate their knowledge and experience in addressing the factors that contribute to an organization’s immediate and long-term success. Throughout their careers, CPHRs advance and expand their professional knowledge to ensure they are aware of the most current, evidence-based practices.

Over the next few months, we will profile Chartered Professionals in Human Resources who work on PEI.

This month, we feature Murray Murphy, an Employment Lawyer and CPHR. Murray is a partner at Stewart McKelvey in Charlottetown, where he practices workplace law.

Tammy Rix, Executive Director of the West Prince Chamber of Commerce, is very much enjoying her role and is busy promoting the Chamber to individuals and businesses in the area.

“The Chamber is a not-for-profit community member organization that is a voice for all businesses and industries in Western PEI,” says Tammy. The Chamber has 130 members and 12 board members.

“There is a need for more members to step up and join the Chamber from the farming and fishing industry in particular. PEI is branded as Canada’s Food Island, so it is important to make sure we have a full representation from these industries around the table.

“Our goal is to promote economic growth in our area and foster partnerships with business and industry. We want to support businesses, get people involved, and promote growth in our communities.”

Tammy, who has been self-employed herself, understands local business and what is viable in the area. “My role includes educating people on what the Chamber is about and bringing the communities of West Prince together.”

The Chamber hosted various events throughout the summer and fall, such as a golf tournament and business mixers. These activities give members an opportunity to network, gain insight on what is happening in the area, and share ideas.

Business Excellence Awards Gala

The Chamber will hold its first-ever Business Excellence Awards Gala at Mill River Experience on February 22, 2018. “This will be an amazing event to reward local nominated businesses in our area,” says Tara Connely, a Chamber board member and commercial services officer at the Credit Union-Evangeline-Central in O’Leary.

Murray grew up in Kinkora and studied politics, history, and law at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton.

After graduating, he returned to PEI to practice law. Early in his career, he began to concentrate on workplace issues.

“I didn’t plan to become a HR lawyer, it just happened,” Murray recalls. “At the time, my law firm needed someone to develop a specialty in HR issues, so I started working in the area. I quite enjoyed it and worked to develop my skills and experience.

“Dealing with workplace issues is exciting and fast-paced. You never know what issues you may be consulted on, so it’s always challenging and never boring.”

Murray deals with a diverse range of issues, including preparing employment contracts, dealing with employee terminations, and workplace disputes. Sometimes those disputes find their way to court or hearings before labour arbitrators, the Human Rights Commission, the Employment Standards Board, and other boards.

“HR issues usually affect people on an emotional level. A person’s job is a significant part of his or her life.”

Plans to engage & support youth members

Programs such as Young Millionaires, Future Farmers, and Futurpreneur are already offered, and they are looking to add more initiatives to attract youth. “We would like to see a youth entrepreneur program, and we plan to encourage employers to both hire and mentor youth.”

The Chamber’s ideas for growth in West Prince

• Support local businesses and encourage members to patronize them as often as possible.

• Promote buying locally. • Welcome newcomers and invite them

to support local, invest and start new businesses, and participate in local events.

• Get to know local business owners and find out what growth is needed and how it could be supported.

• Listen to, assist, and nurture new ideas. • Support existing entrepreneurs such

as dairy farmers, agriculture harvesters, and oyster growers.

• Provide support to local agriculture sector. Help plan and promote buying local products, farmers markets and consumer connections.

• Help farmers grow and encourage and promote customer sales of close-to-home products fresh from West Prince farms.

submitted by Detry Carragher, Chair of CPHR-PEI

• Work closely with communities help in the beautification of West Prince, which will attract more visitors.

• Collaborate and coordinate a strong voice to lobby government.

• Assist businesses; stay up-to-date on programs available such as wage subsidies.

Becoming a CPHR was important to Murray’s career. “The CPHR designation ensures HR professionals continually expand their knowledge and skills through ongoing professional development. It also provides an opportunity to connect with others working in the HR field. We are able to share our broad experiences.”

For Human Resources professionals interested in membership or information about becoming a Chartered Professional in Human Resources on PEI, visit www.cphrpei.ca

West Prince Chamber working to nurture ideas and grow businesses by Ruby Arsenault

Murray Murphy. Submitted photo

For more information, contact West Prince Chamber of Commerce at 902-853-3616, westprincecc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/westprincechamberofcommerce www.westprincechamber.com For the full interview, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search West Prince Chamber of Commerce.

Troy Martin owns Knits and Notes, a new business in Montague.

Knits and Notes is a knitting craft store on Main Street in Montague owned and operated by Troy Martin. Troy officially took over the business originally called “Stitches and Crafts by Karen” in June, 2017.

Troy says that Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC) funding available through the Rural Action Centre (RAC) was vital to him taking over the knitting craft shop. New to business, Troy hopes to gain more business knowledge; therefore, he is interested in taking the RAC’s Successful Business Basics program.

“Primarily, this is a craft, knitting, and crocheting supply store,” says Troy. “I stock some embroidery and sewing supplies, and I also teach people how to knit and crochet.”

The “Notes” side of the business comes from Troy’s music background. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from UPEI, and specializes in the clarinet. Troy offers classes to those wishing to learn woodwind instruments, such as the clarinet, saxophone, and flute.

Troy’s interest in the craft business comes from a love of the knitted items his grandmother made him when he was a boy. “She created a lot of handmade items for us, but unfortunately her arthritis became so bad she couldn’t do it anymore. I decided to learn the craft, and it turned out I was pretty good at it.”

Troy says that opening the shop was a “happy opportunity.” He was working at a tech support job, and decided he needed a change. The knitting shop has allowed him the opportunity to bring together his musical vocation and his love of knitting.

Troy says his store offers items for people of all skill levels. “I have a little bit of everything. For beginners, I have bargain brands and cheaper needles to get started.

“For more experienced knitters and crocheters, I carry higher-end materials and products. I’m the only place on the Island that sells yarns by Rhichard Devrieze. The next closest shop is on Cape Breton.”

In the future, Troy would like to expand the storefront and hire staff. Though he is not hiring right now, Troy says he would look for experience and knowledge, like how to tell the difference between acrylic and organic wool.

Rural Action Centre helps new business owner access funds by Cody McInnis

11February 2018 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Manual offers hope for homelessness

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) is a national community-based program. Those involved in the strategy are working to end homelessness on PEI and believe everyone plays a role.

With the support of HPS funding, many Island projects are meeting a range of needs for people experiencing, or at risk, of homelessness. One such project is the Hope for Homes Resource Manual. Homelessness Reduction Coordinator Olivia Maynard has been hired under a six-month contract through the Native Council of Prince Edward Island.

The resource manual provides information on services and resources that prevent or reduce homelessness in rural and urban PEI. It includes the contact information for community and government agencies that offer supports to those facing housing challenges.

Resource listings in the manual include:• Emergency Shelters • Housing Services and Programs • Housing for People with Addictions• Housing for People with Mental Health Challenges• Housing for People with Disabilities • Housing for Women and Children Experiencing Abuse • Home Repair Services • Food Resources • Resources Related to Abuse and Violence • Mental Health and Addictions Services • Employment Services • Financial Support Services

“The manual is available online and in print,” says Olivia. “Homelessness is such a complex issue, and each individual situation requires a unique combination of supports. In addition to addressing housing needs, supports for addictions, mental health, and employability may also need to be implemented for a successful transition to stability.

“Raising awareness of the available resources is a first step in the collaboration process. It would be great to see services work together and share information with the common goal of helping people across PEI.”

Support for this Native Council of PEI project, was made possible through the PEI Homelessness Partnering Strategy’s Rural and Remote funding stream.

Future sessions

Olivia plans to organize sessions to educate members of the Native Council and the public on the many resources offered on PEI. Organization representatives will give presentations and share information.

“We hope this effort to promote the services available will benefit all, and will perhaps provide awareness of some gaps. It was great to meet many of the passionate people who work with these community resources.”

For more information about the Hope for Homes Resource Manual and to get a copy, call 902-892-5314. For the online manual, visit www.ncpei.com and search homelessness.

by Gloria Welton

“The Hope for Homes Resource Manual is a very rewarding project for me as I start my career on PEI,” says Olivia Maynard, Homelessness Reduction Coordinator. She is a recent graduate of UPEI with a Bachelor of Science degree, with a major is in psychology and a minor in business. Over the last four summers, she also worked with the PEI Council of People with Disabilities children’s tutoring program.

For more information about Knits and Notes, call 902-838-5648. Visit www.facebook.com/knitsandnotes For more information on the Successful Business Basics program, visit www.employmentjourney.com/building-stronger-businesses/ The next Successful Business Basics program will be held on March 6 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Rural Action Centre in Montague. To register, contact the Rural Action Centre: Montague: email chantale.ansems@cbdc.ca or call 902-838-4030 ext. 221. Souris: email lori.macgregor@cbdc.ca or call 902-687-4084. For more information, visit www.ruralactioncentres.ca

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A shout out to seniorsand youth to get involved in an intergenerational program by Gloria Welton

The City of Summerside Age-friendly City Committee (AFCC) is looking for seniors ages 55+ and youth ages 12+ to participate in an Intergenerational program. The program is open to all residents of Prince County. It started on January 9th 2018, and there is still time to get involved.

Youth can choose a senior to partner with according to their interests, life experiences, andcareer path. This match can help youth learn about a wide range of topics such as horsemanship, genealogy, engineering, teaching, banking, technology, medicine, and many more.

The AFCC is in year four of a five-year plan to help Summerside become age-friendly. This year is dedicated to promoting relationships between seniors and youth so they can connect and learn from each other.

Peter Holman, Co-Chair of Age-friendly Cities Committee for the City of Summerside, says the intergenerational program will provide an opportunity for seniors and youth to be viewed as leaders and contributors in the community. “It is also an opportunity to develop relationships, build connections, and enhance understanding and appreciation between generations.”

“The first event pairing youth with seniors according to their interests and careers took place on January 9,” says Shirleen O’Brien, Age-friendly Coordinator. “We have many seniors who have a great interest in pairing with youth who have registered for the project.”

Further meetings will take place at mutually-agreed upon public venues. The final gathering, which will be open to the public, is The Wisdom and Experience Fair at Credit Union Place (CUP) on February 24, from 9 am to 4 pm. Refreshments will be provided for all participants and attendees.

The City of Summerside AFCC and the Mayor and Council hope that more youth will join in the month of February and come to the last gathering at CUP, where they can talk with people who can share their interests and careers.

Prince County is rapidly aging. Statistics Canada showed the following demographics for 2016:• 16,220 residents were 55 and over • 9,210 residents were 65 and over• 1,000 residents were 85 and over • Total residents over 55: 26,430• Total population: 43,730

Peter says there is a critical need to involve seniors in the community. “We picked this project to engage youth because we think both groups of people have so much to offer one another.”

Benefits of the program to seniors and youth

“For seniors, it is about inclusion,” says Shirlene. “Getting people out of their homes to participate and develop long-term friendships is so important. It is about self-worth and a feeling of belonging. They will find it so rewarding to have a youth take the time to ask questions and value their knowledge. Also, there is much value in listening to youth about their experiences in today’s world and comparing to their own.”

“Youth will benefit from a wealth of knowledge when they meet a senior who is willing to share and is interested in what they are doing,” says Peter. “They can stay connected through texting or social media and remain in contact to keep the support and trust going.

“Both groups offer rich experience and wisdom, and this is one avenue to meet and begin a rewarding connection.”

To join the Intergenerational program, youth and seniors can call Shirlene O’Brien at 902-206-1352 or email agefriendlycoordinator@gmail.com To view a CBC interview about the program, visit www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-summerside-inter-generational- mentorship-1.4480330

Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.

The January 9th meeting gave seniors and youth an opportunity to match-up based on interests and expertise. Dr. Danny Dalton, Veterinarian with West Prince Veterinary Services with over 30 years of experience, is now matched up with Patrick Murphy, middle, with his mother Nancy Murphy. The other two youth are Braden Gaudet, second from left, and Malcolm Mery, far right.

Calendar of events – February to March 2018

12February 2018 Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

February 7, 10:00 am: CAPEI Youth in Trades Program-2018 Information session: Charlottetown: Lions Bingo Hall, main floor- Connolly Street (by Value Village) February 7, 10:00 am: Summerside: Holland College Waterfront Campus, Room 73February 26: CAPEI Youth In Trades Program begins in Charlottetown and Summerside.For more information, call the Construction Association of PEI, 902-368-3303.

February 13, 6:00 to 9:00 pm: Eastern PEI Chamber of Commerce Annual Business & Community Excellence Awards, St. Peters Bay Complex, 1968 Cardigan Rd, St Peters BayKeynote Speaker: Michel Neray www.neray.com To reserve tickets, visit https://bit.ly/2CUC4d7 contact info@epeicc.ca or 902-838-3131.

February 15 and March 1, 7:30 - 9:00 am: Are you an employer facing a shortage of skilled labour? Join us for Boots & Bacon, a 3-session breakfast series for trades employers. Sessions will target recruitment and retention with a focus on gender diversity in the workplace. Sessions will support employers to advance their workplaces and their bottom line. To register, call Women’s Network, 902-368-5040 or email admin@wnpei.org

February 15 and March 22, 9:30 am: Career in Trucking information sessions: Farm Centre, Charlottetown. Industry presentation followed by TOWES assessments. Prior to writing the TOWES assessment, individuals must pay $150 for the cost of assessment and register 24 hours ahead. Contact PEI Trucking Sector Council, 902-566-5563.

February 15, 1:00 to 2:00 pm: Do you need money for school? Explore your funding options for training with Allan Fraser at Career Development Services, 160 Belvedere Ave., Charlottetown. To register for this free session, contact Patsy at 902-626-2014 or chtown@cdspei.caBasic Computer Job Search Workshop: Do you need help with your computer skills? Do you avoid online job applications? Career Development Services will help you navigate through your job search needs. To register for this free session, contact Emily at 902-626-3680 or erutledge@cdspei.ca Date to be determined each month. Location: Career Development Services, 160 Belvedere Ave., Charlottetown.

February 20: Passport to Employment, Sherwood Business Centre, St. Peters Road, Ch’town. Register ASAP. Call 902-566-2811

February 21, 2:45 pm: PEI Business Women’s Association Annual General Meeting + Get Connected Mixer, Rodd Charlottetown Hotel. Registration info: www.peibwa.org/event-2750372 *AGM is open to everyone but only current PEIBWA members in good standing are eligible to vote.UPEI programs: February 21, 22, 23: Interest-Based MediationMarch 22 – 23: Team Dynamics in the WorkplaceMay 7 – 9: Advanced Mediation: Preparing Yourself and the Parties for SuccessMay 15 – 17: Introduction to Project Management (2018) Note: Some courses have prerequisites. For a complete course calendar, visit www.upei.ca/professionaldevelopment/professional-development For more information on course offerings, call 902-620-5216 or sdl@upei.ca

February 26: Passport to Employment, Holman Building, Water St., S’side. Register ASAP. Call 902-436-5739

February 24, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm: Wisdom and Experience Fair, Credit Union Place, Summerside. Seniors 55+ and Youth 12+ are welcome to meet to exchange life experiences and career paths such as horsemanship, geneology, engineering, teaching, banking, technology, medicine, veterinary medicine, and sailing. Call 902-206-1352 or email agefriendlycoordinator@gmail.com

February 26, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Loyalist Lakeview Hotel & Resort, SummersideApril 16, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, 14 Capital Drive, CharlottetownFood Safety Course: Early registration is recommended to ensure seating is available. Contact Environmental Health: 1-902-368-4970.Visit www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/service/register-food-safety-course

March 2, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm: Construction Association of PEI annual AGM/Trade Show, Rodd Charlottetown Hotel. For more information, call 902-368-3303.

March 3, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: Tourism Job Fair, Charlottetown: Delta Prince Edward HotelApril 21, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: Tourism Job Fair, Cavendish: location to be determinedFor tourism operators, Tourism job fairs are an opportunity to recruit staff for the upcoming year. For job seekers, job fairs are an excellent opportunity to meet with employers from the tourism industry representing over 50 businesses, hiring for hundreds of jobs, all in one day at one location. For more information about the Tourism Job Fairs, contact Debbie at 902-566-5008 or dmol@tiapei.pe.ca

March 7, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm: 2018 UPEI Career & Summer Employment Fair (snow date: March 8) Don and Marion McDougall Hall. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to attend and develop networks with on- and off-Island companies, organizations, and businesses. Organizations who wish to have a booth at the fair can request a registration form at careerservices@upei.ca For more information, email jengaudet@upei.ca or visit www.upei.ca/skillsdevelopmentandlearning/upei-career-and-summer-job-fair

March 15, 9:00 am: Business Startup 101, PEIBWA office, 25 Queen St., Suite 25, Charlottetown. Registration info: www.peibwa.org/event-2750363 *workshop is free for PEIBWA members and $25 for non-members.SkillsPEI Job Fairs 2018April 9: Charlottetown (storm date April 10) East Link CentreApril 11: Summerside (storm date April 18) Credit Union PlaceApril 16: Montague (storm date April 17) Cavendish Wellness CentreApril 19: O’Leary (storm date April 20) Mill River ExperienceFor more information, call 902-368-6524 or kfraser@gov.gc.ca

April 24, 9:00 am: 2018 Women in Business Symposium, Memorial Hall at Confederation Centre of the Arts. Registration info: www.peibwa.org/event-2688744 *early bird tickets available until February 25th or until they are sold out.PEI Agriculture Sector Council Employment services are available for employees and employers for free. Call Charlottetown at 1-866-892-1091.

Collecting names for Job Seeker Support Group – CDS, MontagueContact Krista at 902-838-5179 or Helena at 902-838-5453. Collecting names for Basic Computer Skills for Job Search – CDS, SourisContact Nicky at 902-687-1494 or Jolene at 902-687-1526.