The Valley Regional Enterprise Network has developed a comprehensive Regional Workforce Development Strategy to address and provide recommendations to develop, attract and retain labour in the Annapolis Valley region.
The strategy was developed through a collaborative approach with members of the Workforce Supports Response Team (part of the Regional Economic Recovery Taskforce) and a steering committee with representation from Acadia University, Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), Nova Scotia Works and the Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education (AVRCE).
The Strategy, Towards Workforce Prosperity, is an enabling environment that ensures:
- A strong supply of appropriately skilled, educated, and able workforce
- Employers have access to skilled workers, and businesses can grow and thrive in the community
- Residents have good jobs, an equal chance to prosper and can benefit from lifelong career pathways.
The Strategy outlines a detailed roadmap and action plan for all partners within the Annapolis Valley’s workforce ecosystem and presents four goals and corresponding objectives as outlined below.
“It is important for Acadia to be a full partner in the development of a regional Workforce Development Strategy, not only because of the interconnectedness the university shares with the residents, organizations and communities that comprise our great region, but because we see it is our mission to inspire our students to become critical thinkers, lifelong learners, engaged citizens, and responsible global leaders. As the largest post-secondary institution in the Annapolis Valley we recognize and value the role we play in developing a ready workforce in support of established and emerging industries, but also in nurturing the confidence and skills of future entrepreneurs”
Michelle Larsen, Manager, Co-operative Education, Acadia University
It is essential that the needs and skills of both labour and employers are better understood so that area training and programming truly meets the needs of both. For that reason, Community Inclusion Society is a full partner in the development of a Regional Workforce Development Strategy. It is essential that the voices and experiences of area job seekers, businesses and community stakeholders are heard to create a strategy that is responsive, relevant, diverse, and inclusive. Community Inclusion Society offers a variety of employment-based programs in the Kings and Hants County areas that serve the needs of employer and job seekers alike.
Mary Fox, Executive Director, Community Inclusion Society
(Currently delivering NS Works Centres in Kentville and Windsor, and the Edge in Kentville)
“Listening to businesses and industries of all sizes, we know that access to talent is critical to their success and sustainability. We are happy to have the support of community stakeholders and the business community to develop this strategy”
Jennifer Tufts, CEO, Valley Regional Enterprise Network
“The workforce development strategy is an important step in attracting and retaining young talent in our region. Our youth need to see that there are a multitude of viable career opportunities within our region. I believe that this strategy is the first step in working to accomplishing this.”
Chris Bigelow, Youth Pathways Consultants for AVRCE
“Opportunities for job seekers and employers alike, who are clients of PeopleWorx, benefit from our membership in the Regional Workforce Development Team, as do all those living and working in the Valley. The collaboration to find creative solutions during these times and with a view to the future and efforts coming from the strategy to maximize opportunities will strengthen the community for years.”
Kim L. Aker, Executive Director, PeopleWorx
