Working NB

Steve Carle from Working NB provided an overview of the services available to businesses, emphasizing that we are all in this together in trying to navigate the current challenges. He reinforced that, along with the Chamber and the Regional Service Commission, Working NB, Opportunities NB (ONB), and many other government departments are here to support businesses with their workforce, HR, and economic development needs.

Working NB’s Role & Services

Working NB serves as a key point of contact for employers seeking support with workforce development. They assist with connecting employers to potential employees and provide HR support to address challenges such as recruitment, retention, and performance management.

To help businesses upskill their workforce, Working NB offers reimbursements of up to 50% for training costs, provided they are contacted before training begins. Their Training Needs Assessment (PETL) helps identify essential workplace skills, enabling businesses to access customized, on-site training tailored to their needs. Training concludes with an impact evaluation and recommendations for future learning opportunities.

Additionally, businesses can access Human Resources Support Services, which include:

• Expertise in HR policies, recruitment, and retention strategies.
• Labour market insights to support informed decision-making.
• Assistance with training programs and performance management.
• Support for recruitment efforts at local, provincial, and national levels.
• Customized training solutions and other employment-related assistance.

For businesses looking for workforce support or training opportunities, Working NB provides a comprehensive suite of services to help navigate HR challenges and strengthen their teams.

Steve also brought a one-pager explaining the roles of various government departments, as well as information on the Work-Sharing Program (Service Canada). This program may allow employers to reduce employee hours instead of laying them off, providing an alternative during times of reduced business activity. Both documents can be found here.