Survey says: Very high percentage of employees enjoy working at this growing manufacturing company
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
October 2021 Volume 23, Number 3
Survey says: Very high percentage
of employees enjoy working at this
growing manufacturing company
by Heidi Riley
A t PEI Bag Company in Bedeque, work is busier than
ever, and 95 percent of the workforce enjoys the work
they do.
In 2020, Detry Carragher, Chartered Professional in HR with
Carvo Group, administered a survey to the employees at
PEI Bag Company to determine their satisfaction with their
workplace. “We found that 95 percent of the employees
enjoy their work and are generally quite satisfied with
workplace health and safety, support, and leadership on
the job.
“However, that high number doesn’t mean the work stops to
ensure employee satisfaction stays high. PEI Bag Company
continues to make improvements to pay structures, working
conditions, equipment upgrades, training programs, and Jason Arsenault from Summerside is a Machine Operator Judy Peters from Summerside has worked with the company
communication.” and has worked for the company for 18 years. “My for 16 years. She is a Team Leader/Quality Control, and she
responsibilities are to watch my machine and oversee the also is a laminator, fixes the sewing machines, and takes care
About the company other staff on my line. When I first advanced to my present of all the documentation for her area. Through the years, she
Since 1935, PEI Bag Company has supplied packaging to position, I was nervous, but now I have a system that works has gained experience on most aspects of the manufacturing
well for me and the people I am responsible for. A lot of our areas. “I have been in my present role for about four years,
industries such as agriculture, aquaculture, produce, and
staff have been here for a long time but now we are starting and I love the responsibilities and the variety. I like the
construction. to fill up with new staff. It is important that new staff be very team of people I work with, and the hours of work. The pay
The company’s annual sales are about $10 million. PEI observant on the floor, punctual, and ask questions. I am so and benefits are good. ” Her advice to new people being
customers in the potato, produce, and aquaculture impressed when I see someone sweeping the floor when hired is to work hard, and it will pay off. “Showing initiative
industries are the foundation of the business. However, they there is some downtime. It is important for me to keep the is something we all like to see in each other. I have great
also have large customers in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, facility in order and it certainly helps when others have the people working with me who just started, and because they
and in Ontario, Quebec, and western Canada. About a same mentality.” are taking a strong interest in their work, I am able to move
them around a bit and let them try other areas of the facility.”
dozen years ago, they started selling products into the US
market, and now 20 percent of sales are from the eastern The company is currently posting job opportunities for
seaboard of the US. Quality Control/Labourers, whose starting wage is $15/hour, Skills required
$16/hour when fully trained. Equipment Operators start at
Hiring needs $16/hour and earn $17.50/hour when training is completed.
“The most important skill a new employee can bring to
any workplace is integrity and work ethic. This builds trust
“PEI Bag Company is projected to grow into the fall and over Employees receive overtime pay after 40 hours and a premium between coworkers, supervisors, and the employee. Most
the next few years, and we need to expand our workforce,” for evening hours worked. Medical and pension benefits are other skills can be taught with proper training programs.
says Thane Smallwood, General Manager. “We would be all available after standard waiting periods.
happy to hire at least 20 more staff.” “When we hire Machine Operators, ideally, we look for a solid
Other benefits mechanical aptitude or experience working in a production
Close to 50 people work there now, year-round, including • Safe indoor workplace, clothing allowance, and great work environment. However, some of our most successful
some foreign workers. “About half of our employees have hours new hires have transferred to manufacturing via service
been with the company between 10 and 35 years,” says industries as well,” says Thane.
Thane. “Our long-term staff members are the foundation of • More stable job through an economic downturn
our company. However, as we expand our sales, and as folks • Benefits package with medical, dental, defined Position titles
move on to different careers, we are always looking for new contribution pension plan, and employee assistance
programs (eligibility requirements apply) • Machine Operator • Quality Control Labourer
employees.
• Job-specific training is provided • Printing Press Operator • Printing Press Helper
“Typically, most of our new employees start in entry- • Accounting • Sales/Purchasing
• More opportunity for growth as new skills are learned
level positions, and then as they are successful, they have • Production Supervisor • Maintenance Operator
the opportunity for other machine helper and operator Shift work • Delivery Driver to move product throughout the Maritimes
positions.
The company runs two production shifts from Monday and the United States
“Some new hires have previous experience in manufacturing through Friday: • Customer Service Support to answer phones, take orders,
or as machine operators, and they can start immediately at • 6 am – 2 pm organize shipping/ transportation, and more
higher levels, depending on their individual experience and
• 2 pm – 10 pm
skill. As we grow, opportunities will present themselves.” The best way to apply is through the website.
Overtime may be offered or required to meet operational
demands. Visit www.peibag.com and click careers to find a
list of open positions, videos, and contact information.
Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Many employment Growing IT company looking
opportunities in to hire more staff by Heidi Riley
Residential Construction P
on PEI
roServeIT supports companies
in North America and Europe with
managed services, cyber security, cloud
transformation, professional services,
by Heidi Riley
change management, and infrastructure.
T he Canadian Home
Builders Association-PEI
The company headquarters are in
Mississauga, Ontario, and there are offices
in Charlottetown, the US, France, and
(CHBA-PEI) is the voice of Vietnam. “PEI is home to the second
residential construction across largest location,” says
PEI and represents contractors, Tom Shkrabuik, who heads the
builders, trades, plumbing Managed Services team on PEI.
& heating, windows, interior
design, electrical, building “We have been on PEI for almost three
supply stores, and many more. years, and we expect lots of growth
within the next couple of years,” says
“In 2020, the industry ramped Tom. “Because of our rapid growth,
up, and it is busier now than Alicia Packwood, Canadian Home Builders we just moved into a bigger office Tom Shkrabuik, who heads the Managed Services
before the pandemic started,” Association-PEI, is happy to connect job seekers downtown and we are looking forward Division, and Tejpreet Bal, Junior Systems Administrator
says Alicia Packwood, with residential construction employers looking to continuing to grow.” at the ProServeIT office in Charlottetown.
Executive Officer of CHBA-PEI. for workers.
About 18 people work on PEI. Most of the work done in the Charlottetown office is in Managed
“Our builders are booking two or three years into the future, and those future Services, a helpdesk which helps companies manage their computers and other digital devices such
bookings translate into long-term job security for anyone working in residential as modems, mobile phones, servers, and networks.
construction. We are not seeing long lulls with layoffs – there is no longer an off-
season for most workers in this sector. The office also offers development services such as programming and building customized software,
project management, and sales.
“The residential construction industry continually needs more workers,” says Alicia.
“In early spring of 2021, we held a virtual job fair for our members. Most of their “During the pandemic, when things slowed down with project management and development, our
hiring needs are still valid now.” managed services team grew three times larger, because a lot of companies were shrinking what
they did internally and outsourced their IT support.”
“People interested in working in residential construction may want to get some
actual experience in the field to find out what they like to do. Many of our members The PEI office is currently looking to hire two Junior Systems Administrators and an intermediate-
are willing to work with entry-level individuals. They don’t need extensive previous level Systems Administrator. Over the next year, they will also be looking for salespeople,
experience. The skills can be learned on the job. All they need is a passion for learning programmers, and project managers.
and a willingness to put in the work.” They look for certifications such as A+, macOS, and any type of Windows or CISCO certification in
networking. The ability to speak French is also an asset. “We have hired a very wide range of skillsets
Another employment opportunity because IT needs a wide range of skills,” says Tom.
Energy Advisors are needed to do energy audits for homeowners interested in taking Customer service skills are important, and they look for new hires with previous experience in
advantage of a Greener Homes Canada initiative, which offers rebates to improve phone-based support roles. “They need to be able to visualize the problem and try to drill down to
energy efficiency in their homes. Funding is expected to be announced soon to train find out when it happened and what systems are affected.
and hire more Energy Advisors across Canada.
“The company has just over 100 employees in all,” says Tom. “We still have a small company feel, and
“Those interested do not need an extensive background, but they should have a keen it is a very family-oriented atmosphere. Staff members know everyone’s name, even those working
interest in learning,” says Alicia. “Candidates take a week of training, and the cost of the remotely. It says a lot when you like what you do and who you work with.”
training is provided by the program. We expect this program to roll out in the late fall.”
Open positions are posted on Glassdoor, Indeed, and WorkPEI. The best way to apply is online.
For more information, call Alicia Packwood at 902-393-2093 or email alicia@chba-pei.ca
Visit www.chba-pei.ca For more information, visit www.proserveit.com Connect with the company on Twitter and LinkedIn.
To check out the latest CHBA-PEI virtual job fair, visit www.chba-pei.ca/wp/employment To check out a video about ProServeIT, visit www.bit.ly/3A7ft7l
For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search
search Residential Construction. Growing IT company looking to hire more staff.
Bioscience cluster is growing faster EMPLOYMENT GROWTH 2214
2000 1877
than any other PEI Sector
1691
1534 1571
1500 1410
1270
1067
submitted by the PEI BioAlliance 990 1027
1000 906
786 750
705 750
T
The Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences
(CASTL) provides world-class training that will result in a rich 500 452
he PEI bioscience cluster is growing at a rate that
talent pool of individuals who are work-ready and prepared
outpaces any other industry in the province. The recently
to enter, thrive, and meet the needs of the Canadian 0
launched PEI BioAlliance Strategic Plan outlines goals to 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2012 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
bioscience industry.
continue this growth, including increasing bioscience sector Private Sector Companies Public Sector Organizations
employment, driven by private enterprise, to 3,000 persons Earlier this year, CASTL, in partnership with Holland College,
by 2025. launched a 12-week reskilling program to train individuals To find out more about career options in bioscience, job
to move into entry-level roles in PEI’s bioscience sector. Two seekers can check available job opportunities at
Within the last year, the cluster grew by just over 350
cohorts of participants have already completed the program. www.peibioalliance.com/job-postings
employees. High demand is fully expected to continue
for production roles. There is also demand for Research/ Job seekers can send their resumé to
The PEI BioAlliance is expanding the bioscience network
Scientist, Quality Assurance/Quality Control, and Business vivian@peibioalliance.com or request a meeting
through career fairs, outreach activities, and one-on-one
Administration roles. with Vivian Beer, Manager, HR Strategy.
meetings with job seekers. These new contacts are added
To meet the growing demand for talent, there is a critical to a career news mailing list and their resumés to the
need for more skills, training, and infrastructure. BioAlliance online resumé library, which is regularly shared For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com
with employers. and search the article title.
2 October 2021 Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
PEI Tourism industry remains strong into
the fall offering many career options
by Gloria Welton
O n PEI, fall visitations continue to be strong, and
many job openings have been extended into the
“We are looking at the causes of the shortages and how to engage and retain
employees. There are a lot of factors in play such as hours of work, wages,
shoulder season. With a shortage of workers, the professional development, and training.”
tourism industry is looking at how to attract and retain
more people to tourism careers that offer a vast variety To help people enter the industry, TIAPEI offers entry-level cook training, e-merit
of employment choices. training, and programs such as Passport to Employment, which helps mature
workers enter this industry.
“Labour shortages are the biggest issue on PEI and
across the country,” says Corryn Clemence, CEO of the “I think the labour shortages provide great opportunities for individuals looking
Tourism Industry Association of PEI. for careers. In this industry you can work part-time, full-time, or seasonally,
or you could start up a business. Every choice offers lots of opportunity for
“When border restrictions lifted, PEI got busy. However, Corryn Clemence. Submitted photo.
advancement and growth.”
in August the labour shortage hit hard and many food
and beverage operators reduced their hours and some For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search PEI Tourism industry comes back
accommodations did not open fully. strong offering many career options.
“We have always had a shortage of kitchen and room To explore job options in tourism, visit www.choosetourism.ca and www.workpei.ca
attendant staff. Now we have another layer of difficulty For more information about the many career options and pathways in tourism, contact TIAPEI at 902-566-5008.
because pandemic restrictions resulted in many layoffs, Visit www.tiapei.pe.ca
and many did not return to the industry.
Young Millionaires Program helps
youth run their own business by Stella Shepard
T he Young Millionaires Program (YMP) gives
youth ages nine to 16 the opportunity to explore
“The purpose of the program is to instill confidence, to
learn the value of establishing and working towards a
entrepreneurship. goal, to provide inspiration and motivation, and to
help youth discover the essential skills that will grow
YMP has been operating on PEI for 29 years, with with them as they and their goals mature,” says Cora.
more than 1,800 youth participating in the program.
Participants submit a business plan outlining their “The program is delivered through workshops that With the help of YMP, from left, sisters Cora and Isla Thomas established
business ideas, goals, and a request for funding of up to help build basic business skills such as writing a Cottage Crafts, making custom made jewelry. Sisters, Rayawyn and
$150 towards start-up costs. business plan, branding, and doing market research,” Averyn Thomas start a business called Frost Sisters. Submitted photo
says Emma Gamble, Client Information Officer with
This year, there are 113 participants across six Island Montague Rural Action Centre, and Regional Coordinator with YMP.
regions with a wide variety of businesses from jewelry
making to producing other unique and creative Martina MacDonald is the Executive Director of CBDC East, and Helen Antle is the Business Development
products. Officer. “CBDC East helps YMP participants build and succeed in their summer businesses by helping find selling
opportunities in the community, doing site visits to their businesses, and being available for any ongoing support
Cora Sonier, Provincial Coordinator of the Young they may require,” says Martina.
Millionaires Program, was once a participant in the
program. She attributes the personal and financial For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Young Millionaires.
skills learned through the program to the development
For more about the Young Millionaires Program, visit www.youngmillionairesprogram.ca
of a career later in life.
For more about Community Business Development Corporation East (CBDC) visit www.cbdc.ca or call 902-838-4030.
UPEI hires year-round by Ethan Paquet
T he University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has
about 1,200 employees on staff, including student
Open positions are posted on UPEI’s website. “The best
way to get your foot in the door is to apply for posted
employees, staff, and faculty. positions that you believe you are qualified for. Submit
an application, a cover letter, and resumé online.
“Positions range from senior management to
professors, administrative assistants, lab technicians, “To stand out from the competition, tailor the cover
programmer analysts, animal care technicians, utility letter and resumé to the job you are applying for,”
and facilities management, and service workers,” says Virginia. “Often, people make the grave error of There are many options for students looking for work.
says Virginia Wickstrom, Manager of UPEI Human submitting a cover letter and resumé which is very “Our academic departments may need 50 to 75 lab
Resources. general and does not reflect the requirements of the assistants, markers, and other positions. Our athletics
job they are applying for.” department is probably one of our larger hiring bodies
“Most positions are permanent. Salaries range from
for students.”
$16 to $47 per hour and include one of the most Those interested in applying but are unsure of
robust benefits packages in the province.” whether they are qualified for a position should apply For student positions, salaries range from $13 to $23
if they have transferrable skills that may meet the per hour.
Virginia says UPEI has been hiring year-round for staff, requirements for the position.
student, and faculty positions. “Our most difficult
positions to fill include medical lab technicians and For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search UPEI hires year-round.
programmer analysts.” For more information about UPEI, visit www.upei.ca or email hr@upei.ca
Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram October 2021 3
It is never too late to start a new
learning journey Programs available for
by Gloria Welton children and adults at LDAPEI
“A bout 35,000 people on PEI live with a learning
disability,” says Martin Dutton, Executive Director of the
The organization works with, on average, 65 students weekly
throughout the year. “The main focus is on the child and
on helping their parents understand what is taking place. It
Learning Disabilities Association of PEI (LDAPEI). takes tremendous courage to ask for help, especially in an
area that is not often talked about and not well known.
LDAPEI works mainly with school age children to address
and improve reading, writing and math skills, and is looking “Our programs and one-on-one instruction are designed to
for ways to increase their work with adults. meet students at the level they are at and are implemented
at a pace they are comfortable with.”
“Learning disabilities are invisible and not normally picked
up early,” says Martin. “Generally, children are not mature In the near future, LDAPEI will be offering a prototype
enough to respond to psychological educational assessment program for adults called Never Too Late. The 20-week
tests until they are at least seven years old. program will take 10 adults for one hour a week.
From left: LDAPEI tutors Cindy Lapena, Holly Pierlot, and Chevon
“Research has found some alarming statistics. “This program can help tremendously in transferring what
McPhee. All LDPEI tutors are certified teachers registered to work
they have learned to their daily living. We are actively with the Public Schools Branch.
One study from the University of Toronto in 2017 looking for adults who wish to join the program, and they There is a need for more tutors across the Island.
done with 23,000 people found that the lifetime can start when they are ready.”
prevalence of suicide attempts was much higher for
women and men who had been diagnosed For further information about the new adult program, or for parents looking to enroll their child into the
with learning disabilities.” year-round program, call 902-894-5032 or email info@ldapei.ca Visit www.ldapei.ca
For the full article visit www.employmentjourney.com and search the article title.
Mi’kmaw lawyer recently called to the
Bar thankful for community support
along his journey by Gloria Welton
M ichael Sima is believed to be the first Indigenous
person to be called to the Bar on PEI.
Michael addressed the court to express his gratitude. “We can
succeed in any goal with the right supports,” says Michael.
Pamela Large-Moran, founder of PLM Law in Charlottetown, “I encourage my people to work towards change for our
filed the requirements to the court on behalf of Michael and families and community. Many people have helped
spoke of the honor of having Michael working as an articled me to grow to be a better person and I am thankful.”
clerk in their office this past year. Michael Sima, left, with Martin Dutton of the Learning Disabilities
Michael credited Martin Dutton, Executive Director of the Association of PEI.
She spoke about his deep desire to focus on social justice, Learning Disabilities Association of PEI, for providing
his concern for the high number of Indigenous people tremendous support and guidance. “Michael’s call to the Bar is a clear example of how
incarcerated in Canada, and the importance of the organizations can adapt systems and practices without in
“Michael’s life journey included recognizing a learning
appropriate preventives and representation. any way diluting a profession’s required standards.”
disability and seeking the help he needed to reach his goals,”
The Honourable Terri MacPherson, Justice of the Supreme says Martin.
Court of Prince Edward Island also spoke of Michael’s strong LDAPEI provides help with learning for children and adults.
“The Law Society accepted our recommendations on For more information, call 902-894-5032 or
values and principles, and how he has made it his life’s
how Michael could demonstrate his knowledge by some email info@ldapei.ca
work to support, teach, and advocate for those traditionally
adaptation to the examination process. His mark overall Visit www.ldapei.ca
overlooked.
increased to over 90 percent.
For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com
and search Mi’kmaw lawyer recently called to the Bar.
Youth reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic
and vision for future by Stacy Dunn
C laire Byrne says the pandemic renewed energy to
create programs that may not have existed before at the
Claire’s comments were part of the recent Atlantic Summer
Institute on Healthy and Safe Communities 2021 Policy
Black Cultural Society of PEI, where she is part of a team of Forum on Health Promotion.
community organizers.
The three-day virtual conference brought together
“The combination of everyone being inside for many professionals in areas such as healthcare, social work,
months and the growing Black Lives Matter movement community advocacy, and public policy. They discussed
kickstarted many projects the Society wanted to work on,” ways governments, educational institutions, community
she says. “During that time, funding for youth programming organizations, and the private sector can raise awareness of
the importance of programs and services to support mental Claire Byrne, Co-facilitator of the Black Cultural Society of PEI Girls’
became more accessible.”
Group. Submitted photo.
health in children and youth.
Claire is one of the co-facilitators with the Society’s Girls’
Group, which brings together BIPOC (Black/Indigenous/ “Great moments happened in this group when the girls
People of Colour) girls ages 5 to 15 in Charlottetown. helped each other with coping skills for going into the new For more about the Black Cultural Society of PEI, call
school year amid the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. 902-367-3390 or email info@bcspei.ca
“Two groups of 10 BIPOC girls met every week. The groups We also talked about any bullying or racism they may have Visit www.bcspei.ca
became safer spaces to connect and process what was seen or experienced.”
happening during this pandemic and gain support through For more about the Atlantic Summer Institute on Healthy
the school year.” “I hope this group will continue to grow and reach other and Safe Communities, visit www.asi-iea.ca
youth across the Island. It has shown that sharing lived For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com
experiences gives people a sense of relief.” and search Youth reflect on the COVID Pandemic.
4 October 2021 Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Creating a business with the right
entrepreneurial support by Stacy Dunn
N atalie Haddad was inspired by her life-long interest in
event planning, design, and esthetics to start her business,
“They learned about start-up business methods. Some of
our participants may use the knowledge they gained in the
Cordial Picnics. future, and some have launched straight into brand-new
businesses.
She creates luxury picnic experiences for couples and
groups, from first dates and proposals to bachelorette “I think the HIVE showed participants that starting a business
parties and work gatherings. does not need to be intimidating. If you are willing to learn
and to improve and have lots of heart, you can achieve it.
“I love to put together bright colours and flowers for the It is an incredible experience.”
guests, and PEI has so many beautiful locales to set up a
picnic,” says Natalie. “Since I started in June, I have been busy
almost every day this summer taking bookings. I also received
Working though COVID-19
a request to do an indoor picnic for the Christmas season.” As COVID-19 restrictions ease, Robyn says the creative
industries will help people make the genuine connections
CreativePEI’s HIVE Program helped Natalie transform her
they have missed since the start of the pandemic.
ideas into a business plan. The program, offered this past
winter and spring, helps aspiring cultural entrepreneurs “I believe art, music, culinary, and storytelling will be a
develop business skills. problem-solver for many of the challenges the local business Cordial Picnics is a new business started with help from the Creative
community is facing, such as: How do we begin to ease PEI HIVE program. Submitted photo.
In addition to mentoring and support from industry peers and
some of the stress and trauma that we have experienced
professionals, the program offered a Business of Art Bootcamp. “Film, video games and writing were largely unaffected
over the past 18 months? How do we get creative about
This year, 25 entrepreneurs from the fields of film, theatre, by the pandemic and continued to do well through the
improving our workforce, inspiring our employees, and gain
music, design, and visual art, went through the program. summer.
real relationships with our customers?”
“I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and I am “The fall should be busy as restrictions are lifted further. It
grateful to the HIVE for the opportunity to build the proper Outlook for 2022 looks like tourism will continue to pick up with a very busy
foundation to start my business,” says Natalie. “I love the shoulder season. Touring musicians are beginning to get
connections I made, especially the one-on-one mentoring. CreativePEI’s Executive Director Mark Sandiford says creative bookings for the fall. Things are looking up.”
They were always there for me when I had a question. My industries had begun to recover this summer. He notes the
fellow HIVE members gave me helpful advice as well.” areas that had been hardest hit, such as live performance, crafts
and museums, started picking up with the return of tourists. For more information on Cordial Picnics, visit
HIVE Community Manager Robyn Gallant says HIVE gave www.cordialpicnics.com
participants confidence and provided a safe space for them “Full recovery will need to wait until 2022, though. While
Follow on Facebook or Instagram.
to freely express their art, their financial situations, and their tourism numbers are rebounding nicely, some COVID-19
challenges. restrictions are still in place, and most venues did not plan a For more information about CreativePEI, call 902-367-3844.
full season this summer,” Mark says. Visit www.creativepei.ca
Woollen mill looks for more employees
by Ruby Arsenault
M acAusland’s Woollen Mills Ltd., located in Bloomfield
PEI, is famous for its high-quality woollen blankets, which are
To apply for a position as a General Mill Labourer, email
info@macauslandswoollenmills.com
sold and shipped all over the world. Monica MacAusland is Due to COVID-19 restrictions, they are asking applicants not to drop off
the sixth-generation owner/operator of the business. resumés in person.
“To meet the demand for our products, we often seek to hire
staff,” says Monica. “During the pandemic, orders increased, Two employees share their stories
and tons of wool were delivered from across Canada. We
hired two new staff members because we needed extra Kelly A’Hearn began working at the mill in January 2017. “My present
hands to get the job done.” position is as a blanket finisher. When a cut of 17 blankets comes up to my
Rich in history, this western PEI business started as a sawmill department, we cut them into queen, double or throw size. Then I hem and
and gristmill back in 1870 and is now the only mill in Atlantic put labels on the new items and get them ready for shipping. “I loved meeting
Canada still producing traditional blankets of 100 percent and talking to the tourists who dropped in prior to the pandemic, but at
present we offer only curbside pick-up. Kelly A’Hearn works at her sewing machine.
virgin wool. The mill still uses old-fashioned machinery to
produce a top-quality product woven with old-fashioned “What I like about my job is that it is stress free, Monday to Friday. It is never
charm. an issue if you need time off for a medical or dentist appointment. I have an
awesome boss, and I mostly work alone in my room. The pay is good, and vacation
Hiring needs time and benefits are offered as well. I never wish I didn’t have to go to work.”
The company is looking to hire Machine Operators to Christina Green began working at the mill in April 2016. “My present title is
operate various equipment in the processing line. “Attention weaver. I run the looms, make blankets, tie in warps, make custom patterns,
to detail and accuracy is a must as we want to ensure each and fill orders.
and every product comes out perfect for our customers,”
says Monica. “What I like about my job is that I work alone. Anytime I get a request for a fun
new pattern, I love and enjoy the creativity and the end results. I work for an
“We currently have 10 employees, and we are like a little excellent employer who respects and appreciates their staff and allows me the
family here. I like to provide a laid-back work environment hours and flexibility I require.”
and I pride myself in carrying on this traditional family
business.” Both Kelly and Christina were active clients of the Tignish Employment
Resource Centre. I helped both to apply to MacAusland’s Woollen Mills
Currently, there are nine full-time General Mill Labourers. because I knew they would be valuable employees to an outstanding
New hires start at this entry-level position and work their way local employer. I recently assisted in the hiring of more staff and had the
up to specific areas or tasks. opportunity to spend some time with Monica and tour the facility. Christina Green cuts material into blankets.
“The main job requirement is to not be scared of hard work,”
says Monica. “Potential applicants need to want full-time Anyone wanting to have their resumé placed on a list for future positions may contact:
regular hours Monday to Friday.” Ruby Arsenault, Tignish Employment Resource Centre, 902-882-2498, rubyarsenault@rcli.ca
5
Tignish ER Centre on Facebook.
Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram October 2021
Hiring practices at provincial long-term
facilities across PEI by Stella Shepard
West Prince East Prince
T here are two provincial long-term care facilities in West Prince. S tewart Memorial Home in Tyne Valley has 24 long-term care beds and two respite
care beds. There are 45 staff members.
Margaret Stewart Ellis Home in O’Leary is a 39-bed long-term care facility with one
respite bed. Summerset Manor in Summerside has 82 long-term care beds and two respite beds.
There are 140 staff members.
Maplewood Manor in Alberton is a 48-bed long-term care facility with one respite bed.
Wedgewood Manor in Summerside is a 75-bed long-term care facility with 140 staff
Staff titles at both locations include:
members.
• Nurse Manager • Clinical Resource Registered Nurse Staff titles at the three facilities:
• Licensed Practical Nurse • Resident Care Worker
• Nurse Practitioner • Recreational Manager & Assistant • Nurse Manager • Registered Nurse • Clinical Resource Registered Nurse
• Clerical Staff: Scheduling, and Financial • Resident Care Worker • Physiotherapist • Occupational Therapist
• Maintenance Staff: Generalists, Carpenters, Plumbers, and Electricians • Recreational Staff • Summerset Manor - Licensed Practical Nurse
• Cooks, Nutrition and Environmental Services Staff • Occupational-Physiotherapy Assistants
• Occupational Therapist and OT Assistant • Clerical staff (scheduling staff, financial clerks, nursing clerks)
“Employees have the opportunity to advance to other positions and to increase or “Full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, permanent, and year-round positions are
reduce the number of hours they work,” says Darlene Oakes, Administrator, Rural Long- available,” says Gayle LaMont, Administrator. “Wages, healthcare benefits, insurance, sick
Term Care, Health PEI. and vacation time are determined by collective agreements.
“We offer on-the-job placements for students in nursing, Resident Care Worker, and “Our hiring needs are on-going, year-round,” says Gayle. “The most difficult positions to
nutrition programs, as well as positions for students during the summer,” says Darlene. fill are Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Resident Care Workers
(RCWs), and Red Seal Cooks. At Summerset Manor, we have bilingual positions for nurses,
“Our hiring needs are on-going, year-round. We are currently recruiting all levels of service workers, clerks, and an OT Assistant.”
nursing staff, as well as support service workers (Housekeepers and Nutrition Services).”
A bursary program for high school students called Youth and Elders in Action allows 30
students to volunteer and gain bursary hours.
For more information:
Margaret Stewart Ellis Home: 902- 859-8750. Open positions are posted at www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei. “The best way to get your foot in the
door is through volunteering, student placements, and applying for casual work,” says Gayle.
Maplewood Manor: 902- 853-8610.
Summerset Manor: call 902-888-8310.
Prince Edward Home, and To volunteer, apply online or call 902-888-8327.
Stewart Memorial Home: call 902-831-7900. To volunteer, apply online or call
Beach Grove Home 902-831-7900 (ext. 237).
Wedgewood Manor: call 902-888-8340. To volunteer, apply online or call 902-888-8327.
P rince Edward Home (PEH) is a 120-bed combined long-term care home. One respite
bed is available.
Beach Grove Home is the largest provincial run long-term care facility in the province.
Kings County
There are 127 long-term care beds and three respite beds.
Services focus on an individual care model that puts the residents in the center of the
R iverview Manor in Montague has 48 private long-term care beds, a respite care
room, and a day program. It has 110 employees, including casual positions.
care circle. “We focus on providing high-quality care service in an environment that sets
our team up for a successful and rewarding career,” says Trevor Cudmore, Administrator Colville Manor is a 52-bed long-term care facility in Souris. It has one respite bed.
Long Term Care, Queens. Services include a wide range of activities, personal assistance, supervision, health, social
and recreational activities.
Services provided at Prince Edward Home and “Our hiring needs are on-going, year-round,” says Darlene Oakes, Administrator, Rural
Beach Grove Home Long Term Care, Health PEI. “Currently, we are recruiting for all levels of nursing staff, as
well as support service workers (housekeeping and nutrition services). Casual workers
• Nursing Services • Medical Services • Dental Care • Foot Care are needed in all areas and can lead to full-time positions when an opening arises.
• Physiotherapy • Speech Therapy • Nutritional Services • Social Work
• Recreation • Occupational Therapy “We offer on-the-job placements for students in nursing programs and nutrition
programs, as well as positions for students during the summer.”
There are 250 staff members working at PEH, and they have a wide range of
backgrounds. “The most challenging positions to fill are traditionally for Registered Nurses and
Licensed Practical Nurses. However, currently we also are looking for Resident Care
Approximately 200 staff work at Beach Grove Home in a wide range of disciplines. Workers and Support Services Workers at all four rural sites.”
Hiring needs Wages, health care benefits, insurance, sick and vacation time are determined by
collective agreements.
“We need to hire nursing team staff on a constant basis,” says Trevor. “The most
challenging positions to recruit vary depending on the availability of trained
For more information about Riverview Manor, call 902-838-0772.
professionals, and may include Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses,
Resident Care Workers, and Service Workers.” For more information about Colville Manor, call 902-687-7090.
How to apply
1. Open positions are posted at www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei
2. Apply by submitting a hard copy application form, which is available at the PEI Public Service Commission or at Access PEI sites.
3. Apply on-line. This method of application is encouraged, especially when applying to a specific competition. Visit www.gov.pe.ca/jobspei
For the full articles, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search each home by name.
6 October 2021 Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Human Resource Workforce inclusion:
program for businesses job seekers and
expands to Summerside employers coming
and area by Gloria Welton together by Gloria Welton
T he Momentum HR program created by CBDC Eastern PEI about
six years ago is now available to companies in rural central Queens
P EI Council of People with Disabilities (PEICOD)
is encouraging a new approach to support job seekers
County as well. Gabrielle Blanchard, and to help employers hire and retain staff, in particular
Human Resources (HR) those with diverse abilities.
The program offers Human Resource Management advisory services Specialist, at her office at
to five companies per year in each of the two locations. It has been CBDC Central PEI, 11 Water “Employers are reporting challenges in finding suitable
created to support Island entrepreneurs and businesses to help them Street in Summerside. candidates,” says Devon Broome, Employment Sarah Bennetto O’Brien receives a
manage their most important asset: their people. Services Manager, PEICOD. “However, there is an workplace inclusion award.
untapped workforce of persons with disabilities who
The program was started in eastern PEI by Martina MacDonald, Executive Director, CBDC are struggling to find employment. It is all about addressing misconceptions and opening
Eastern PEI. “Strengthening human resources is a vital link to business success, economic the possibilities of healthy and appropriate employee/employer matches.”
growth, and job creation,” says Martina.
E3-Effective Employer Engagement project is for job seekers and employers who have
“Businesses that participate in this program should see better-engaged employees, improved been directly impacted by the pandemic. The focus is to ensure job seekers obtain skills
leadership, and increased productivity and management capacity.” that truly reflect the needs of today’s employers.
Welcoming new HR Specialists to CBDC Central PEI Chef Sarah Bennetto O’Brien, Owner of The Handpie Company, was recognized as an
outstanding employer who made significant contributions to employment inclusion on PEI.
CBDC Central PEI is excited to announce the hiring of Gabrielle Blanchard, Human Resources “I am honored to represent employers who hire people with many abilities,” says Sarah.
(HR) Specialist. “I am fortunate to have met the person I hired through the PEICOD. He started as our
She holds a BSc Degree from the University of Prince Edward Island and is a graduate of Holland Dishwasher, moved into packaging handpies, and now he is our Packaging and Facilities
College’s Human Resource Certificate program. Manager, and trains all new staff in his department. It is all about focusing on abilities,
helping to make each staff person comfortable, and supporting each one to flourish.”
“Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and working in both rural businesses and the
provincial government, her varied background will help her connect with business owners and For more about the Effective Employer Engagement project-E3, contact Devon Broome
build client success in the rural Central Queens region,” says Tina Dickieson, Executive Director, at 902-892-9149 ext. 225, employment@peicod.pe.ca Visit www.peicod.pe.ca
CBDC Central PEI.
PEICOD’s new Equity Diversity and Inclusion Training Module is now available to
Gabrielle says she looks forward to working with the staff team and the local companies. “I am employers, organizations, governments, and more by contacting the PEICOD office.
excited to get to know the companies that will take part this year and learn about their needs and For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Workforce inclusion:
challenges. By working together, we will determine the best supports that need to be in place.” job seekers and employers coming together.
The program is flexible and ready to assist with the following areas: The E-3 project is funded by the department of Economic Growth, Tourism, and
• Recruitment and selection • HR planning and leadership • HR policy manuals Culture through the Canada-PEI Labour Market Agreements.
• Employee and labour relations • Organizational behaviour • Compensation and benefits For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search the article title.
• Training and development
The HR Specialists work with companies to ensure their Human Resources system is solid. “We
work with businesses and entrepreneurs in all stages, whether companies are just starting up or Maintaining employee
looking to expand,” says Gabrielle.
engagement is key
For more information about the CBDC Central PEI, contact Gabrielle Blanchard at
902-394-3573 and gabrielle.blanchard@cbdc.ca to moving forward
For more information about the CBDC Eastern PEI, contact Margaret Gallant at by Ethan Paquet
1-855-297-9898 and margaret.gallant@cbdc.ca
Visit www.momentumhrprogram.com E ddie LeMoine is an expert on employee engagement,
changing demographics, diversity, and performance
Helping newcomers overcome development. He recently spoke at the Atlantic Canada
Aerospace & Defence Association (ACADA) Sea to Sky
financial barriers to education
Conference 2021 in Charlottetown.
“People ask me what the labour market will look like after the
and work by Ethan Paquet
Eddie LeMoine. Submitted photo.
pandemic, or what work will look like. I’ll tell you one thing;
it’s never going to go back to the way it was.”
N ewcomers often face many unexpected costs as they consider entering the workforce
by furthering their education or training on PEI. The Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund
Eddie talked about how companies can look at engagement as a way to attract people to
their organization and getting people to stay.
Eddie defines engagement as aligning the individual strengths of an employee with the
(AICLF) is available to help.
goals of the company. “Engaged employees have a better home-life balance and a clear
Through a low-cost loan of up to $15,000, newcomers can access funding to become licensed in idea of their strengths and what the workplace is trying to achieve. From an employer’s
their fields, enter the workforce, and pay for the costs of acquiring new training, education, and perspective, you contain costs, have a safer work setting, and deliver better service.”
credentials.
The reality is that both the labour shortage and the pandemic make it difficult to find
David Harper, Program Coordinator for AICLF, says the main goal is to help newcomers to return workers to fill vacant positions, let alone replace employees.
to the profession they worked at in their home country by working toward getting their foreign
“This year, 8,500 Canadians are retiring every week, and that trend is not going to change
credentials recognized. It can also help them change their career direction.
for a number of years. Meanwhile, we need about 450,000 people to enter the workforce
Since the program began, 17 loans have been approved to work towards professions in nursing, every year to offset the aging population and declining birth rate.”
accounting, and project management.
With this shortage, it is important for employers to work with their present staff members
and find ways to re-engage the disengaged.
For more information about the Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund and how to apply,
contact David Harper at 902-388-7116 or email david@peianc.com Eddie says employers who engage employees by showing gratitude and making sure
employees are working at tasks they enjoy and are capable at is their best defence
Visit www.aiclf.ca against losing people.
For more about financial help for PEI residents, visit
www.employmentjourney.com/financial-help/ For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search Employee engagement.
7
For the full article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search the article title. To connect with Eddie LeMoine, call 902-943-4501 or email eddie@eddielemoine.com
Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram October 2021
RISE program addresses workplace
sexual harassment by Stacy Dunn
T he RISE program provides free legal resources and
support for people who have experienced sexual violence or
People can contact RISE by phone, text, email, or live chat
via the website. “RISE helps by providing information that
workplace sexual harassment. is accurate and easy to understand,” says Sarah Dennis, the
program’s Legal Navigator.
The program offers up to four hours of free advice from a
lawyer, support to navigate the justice system, and referrals
to other community support services. RISE offers services in For more information on the RISE program, call or text 902-
French and English. 218-6143 or email rise@legalinfopei.ca
RISE is offered through Community Legal Information (CLI), Live chat at www.risepei.com RISE Program Manager Cassandra
a registered charity that helps PEI residents understand the RISE is funded in part by Justice Canada and the PEI Department of
law and navigate the justice system. Justice and Public Safety.
Their latest publication is called Addressing Workplace Sexual
Harassment: A Guide for Employees. The PEI Human Rights Commission’s SHIFT project provides
education and resources on workplace sexual harassment to
“The publication is an overview of what someone can do if employers and employees. RISE Program Manager Cassandra Goodwin.
they experience workplace sexual harassment, information
for bystanders on what they can do if they witness For more information, call 902-368-4180 or email lkbird@peihumanrights.ca Visit www.peihumanrights.ca
harassment, and tips on prevention,” says RISE Program
SHIFT is an initiative of the PEI Human Rights Commission, with funding from Justice Canada.
Manager Cassandra Goodwin.
For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com and search RISE program.
UPEI offers new way to apply for scholarships,
bursaries, and awards Reach out for guidance by Stacy Dunn
U PEI has a new Scholarship and Award Application portal
where students can apply for scholarships, bursaries, and awards
“They must write a personal statement tailored to the
awards criteria they are applying for. If they chose a financial
Erin encourages students to call, email, or drop
by UPEI’s Scholarships, Awards, and Financial
Aid Office to ask about the application process.
for the first and second semester award cycles each year. needs-based award, they provide information to help assess
their financial needs.” For more information, call 902-620-5187 or email
“The portal is a simple, four-step electronic process,” says scholarships@upei.ca
Scholarships, Awards, and Financial Aid Officer Many scholarships are based on more than academics,
Erin Morozoff. and consider volunteerism, leadership, and extracurricular Visit www.upei.ca/scholarships-and-awards
activities such as involvement in campus or community For the complete article, visit www.employmentjourney.com
Students use their UPEI ID to log on to the portal and choose activities, athletics, clubs or societies, or paid work. and search UPEI offers new way to apply for scholarships,
the awards they are interested in applying for.
bursaries, and awards.
New Summerside company provides support for
self-employment and job search by Gloria Welton
L awrence Wong moved to Summerside PEI from Hong
Kong with his wife and family in February 2021. In August,
“For those looking for help with job search we can provide
pre-employment training such as interview preparation and
his new business called Co-work Co-win Training Centre basic social media skills training. We will actively contact
Limited celebrated its grand opening. businesses on PEI and talk with them about job openings and
help match job seekers with employers.”
The company offers help to individuals interested in
self-employment or employment opportunities. Services Lawrence is partnering with community agencies to offer
include co-working space rental, event venue rental, and job job search support for individuals such as youth, single
placement. parents, people with disabilities, seniors, or those dealing
with special needs such as autism and ADHD.
“There will be an affordable membership fee for clients
using our co-working space,” says Lawrence. “Client “We want to meet with each person who is looking for work
members can work at the co-working space to re-establish to understand their abilities, interests, and expectations.”
their abilities and confidence levels, to showcase their
craftsmanship and do business with their customers, and Cindy Gallant has been hired to work as an administrator
take some training courses. with the company. “She is a very caring person and realizes
how our company can help people making employment
plans,” says Lawrence. “It is a pleasure to have her on staff.” Lawrence Wong, President, and Cindy Gallant, Administrator of Co-
work Co-win. The newly set-up social enterprise provides workforce
For more information about Co-work Co-win, call Lawrence Wong at 902-888-2488 or 902-393-2849. solutions for those seeking to start a small business or looking for
work. The company is located at 271 Water Street, Summerside, PEI.
Email coworkcowintrainingcentreltd@gmail.com Visit www.coworkcowin.ca
The Employment Journey Inc. Publication Manager/Owner: Gloria Welton Design/Pre-press: TechnoMedia Inc.
is a monthly publication available to residents and businesses of PEI. The publication is
produced by Gloria Welton. Funding for The Employment Journey is provided by the Queens County Reporter/Copy Editor: Heidi Riley Webmaster: TechnoMedia Inc.
Canada/Prince Edward Island Labour Market Agreements. Kings County Reporter: Stella Shepard The Employment Journey Inc.
The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily
Reporter/Public Relations: Stacy Dunn 129 Harrod’s Lane, Fairview, PE C0A 1H2
reflect the views of the Government of Canada, the Government EJ Promoter/Reporter: Ethan Paquet E-mail: employ@employmentjourney.com
of Prince Edward Island or the Publication Manager/Owner. West Prince Reporter: Ruby Arsenault Employment Journey © 1998
8 October 2021 Upcoming Events, Daily News Blog www.employmentjourney.com Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
You can also read
