Indigenous employees to Canada’s ocean economy

Together with four program partners, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced the Indigenous Career Pivot Program. The program will facilitate and support meaningful work placements for up to 17 Indigenous People wishing to explore new careers options in Canada’s ocean economy.

Following the successful pilot program which saw 11 mid-career Indigenous People pivot to careers in the ocean economy, the program represents a total investment of more than $1 million of which $750,000 is funded by the Ocean Supercluster.

“Employers have an incredible opportunity to listen, understand, and work with the talented new generation of Indigenous knowledge leaders and workers. The program is an important step forward in advancing reconciliation as set out in the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.” Sarah Thomas, Director of Indigenous and Coastal Community Relations at Clear Seas

Led by Clear Seas Centre for Responsible Marine Shipping with their project partners of British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), the College of the North Atlantic (CNA), and the Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society (ACCESS), the program will provide Indigenous Peoples with 12-month employment placements where they will gain valuable experience in the ocean sector and enhance their knowledge through work experiences that complement their existing skillset and natural aptitudes.

The program offers learning and support opportunities for both participants and employers through career mentoring support provided by Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and employers, a Peer Support Network for Indigenous participants, and cultural awareness training provided to employers.

“We are very pleased to support a continued collaboration with project partners, OSC members and Indigenous communities that facilitates new, exciting careers in culturally safe and inclusive work environments for mid-career Indigenous persons keen to explore opportunities within the sustainable blue economy while enhancing the cultural competencies of the participating workplaces.” – Melody Pardoe, Chief Engagement Officer, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

The Ocean Supercluster recognizes that Indigenous Peoples are natural collaborators in the ocean sector because of their lived experiences in coastal environments and their historic, cultural, and spiritual connection to the waters. With this understanding, the Supercluster is working to build mutually beneficial relationships with First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities to better understand how to sustainably develop ocean opportunities that enhance Indigenous communities.