Strengthening New Brunswick’s Workforce Through PETL and WorkingNB
WorkingNB, delivered by the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour (PETL), is a major initiative in New Brunswick aimed at enhancing the province’s workforce. It addresses the needs of both job seekers and businesses by providing targeted support that aligns with New Brunswick’s broader economic development goals.
Empowering Job Seekers Through Skills Development
A core objective of WorkingNB, under the guidance of PETL, is to promote skill development and workforce readiness. This is accomplished through a variety of programs and services that help individuals:
Improve their employability
Gain new, market-relevant skills
Secure stable, long-term employment
By focusing on individual growth, PETL and WorkingNB help ensure that New Brunswickers are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the labor market.
Supporting Employers With Workforce Funding and Resources
For businesses and non-profits, WorkingNB offers numerous grants and funding opportunities. These programs, funded and administered through PETL, are designed to:
Help employers train and upskill their workforce
Attract and retain skilled employees
Increase competitiveness in key industries
By collaborating with training providers and post-secondary institutions, employers can access support for tailored skills development programs.
Promoting Inclusive Hiring and Diverse Workplaces
WorkingNB and PETL also prioritize inclusive employment practices. Businesses can access support for hiring individuals from underrepresented groups, including:
Immigrants
Youth
Persons with disabilities
This focus on inclusion ensures that all New Brunswickers have the opportunity to contribute to the province’s economy and participate in meaningful employment.
Building Capacity in the Non-Profit Sector
Non-profit organizations in New Brunswick also benefit from WorkingNB's workforce support programs, which are backed by PETL funding. These include:
Assistance with hiring individuals needing training or support
Grants for staff development
Programs to strengthen organizational capacity
This allows non-profits to better deliver on their missions while contributing to the province’s overall labor force development.
Collaboration With Industry and Community Partners
A key strength of WorkingNB and PETL’s approach is their collaborative model. They work closely with:
Educational institutions
Industry associations
Community organizations
Together, they develop customized solutions that respond to the specific needs of New Brunswick’s labor market and economy.
A Long-Term Vision for a Prosperous New Brunswick
Ultimately, WorkingNB—driven by the strategic direction of PETL—is about more than just filling immediate job vacancies. It’s about building a resilient, inclusive, and highly skilled workforce for the long-term prosperity of the province.
Conclusion
WorkingNB, in collaboration with PETL, plays a pivotal role in New Brunswick’s economic development strategy. By providing essential grants, training support, and inclusive employment programs, the initiative ensures that both individuals and organizations can thrive in a competitive global economy.
