Guest speakers will discuss attracting, hiring, and retaining international workers

The East Kootenay Career and Job Fair is set to take place on March 6, offering a valuable platform for individuals seeking new career opportunities, recent graduates entering the job market, those exploring summer employment or diverse career options, and for employers looking to hire new talent.

A partnership between College of the Rockies and Kootenay Employment Services, the Fair will be held in the College’s gymnasium from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On the evening of March 5, from 5 – 7 p.m., a Career and Job Fair Welcome Reception, a free event open to all community members, will feature three distinguished guest speakers.

Janet Fan is an Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officer who, along with Aireen Luney and Yohan Lamoly from the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), will speak about Accessing International Workers Through Immigration.

They will explore how to use provincial and federal economic immigration programs to attract and retain international employers and explain the BC PNP and federal immigration program criteria and processes, including Express Entry. The evening, which will take place at the College’s main campus in Room 250, will wrap up with a question-and-answer session.

Kerstin Renner, Regional Community Development Manager at Kootenay Employment Services, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “Aireen and Yohan will provide valuable insight into immigration and the local workforce. Opportunities to hear such knowledgeable speakers demonstrates that the East Kootenay Career and Job Fair is not just a job-seeking opportunity; it’s an opportunity to explore diverse career paths and unique ways of addressing needs. We are thrilled to have these speakers share their insight on the evening of March 5 and look forward to welcoming more than 70 potential employers and vendors to the Career and Job Fair on March 6. This event provides both job seekers and employers with a unique chance to connect and explore.”

To ensure inclusivity, a sensory-friendly environment will be available prior to the main event, between 10 am and 11 a.m. This tailored setting includes a quiet space with low lighting and few others, accommodating individuals who may require a more sensory-conscious approach.

“We believe in creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and comfortable exploring their career options,” said Jenn Smith, Co-op and Employment Services Coordinator at the college. “The sensory-friendly hour allows us to cater to diverse needs and promote inclusivity.”

Admission to both the Welcome Reception and the Career and Job Fair is free and the events are open to all interested individuals. To register for the Welcome Reception, go to cotr.ca/events.

Learn more about the East Kootenay Career and Job Fair and find a comprehensive list of participating vendors on the event website: cotr.ca/career-fair.

Lead image:  After exploring accessing international workers through immigration March 5, the March 6 Career and Job Fair will provide a prime opportunity for job seekers and employers to connect. Photo submitted

College of the Rockies

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