March Newsletter

Sarath is re-training in a high demand field thanks to funding available through the Better Jobs Ontario program. On March 2nd, Sarath enrolled in Heavy Equipment Training at Taranis Training. This training will fast-track Sarath’s ability to gain skills and earn more for himself and his family.

Sarath was among the many workers who experienced layoffs at Alstom in August of 2025. He was a licensed Mechanic in his home country but after his layoff, he realized that the credentials that he held were not recognized in Canada. With the help of YES he pursued apprenticeship opportunities, but after many interviews, he realized that starting over in his field was going to be a long process. Sarath worked with Employment Coordinator (E.C.) Janet to explore his options. Part of the advantage of working with YES is having access to the Integrated Employment Service program. For those wanting to pivot in their career, working with an E.C. is key. E.C.’s are advocators and collaborators and they are experts at researching the local labour market for opportunities, and understanding re-training institutions and funding.

In discussions with Janet, Sarath’s path became clear. He considered Truck Driver training, but with a young family, he was not keen on being away from home. Janet also pointed out that Heavy Equipment Operators are in high demand. Taranis offers a 5-week training program and that would mean a good income sooner for Sarath and his family. Janet was able to assist Sarath with an application for funded training through Better Jobs Ontario. For Sarath, the application process started with an information session at YES that describes eligibility for the funding:

You may qualify for Better Jobs Ontario if you have either:

• been laid off and have not been working (ongoing job search efforts must be demonstrated)
• been laid off and are working a temporary job just to cover costs
• not been laid-off, but have been unemployed for 12 weeks or longer and are part of a low-income household

The Better Jobs Ontario program provides up to $28,000 for training that is 1 year or less in duration, and up to $35,000 for programs that are more than 1 year and up to 2 years in duration. The costs this funding can cover include basic living allowance (up to $500 per week for those who qualify), tuition, books, other instructional costs, including student fees, supplies and electronic device and transportation.

Once Sarath decided on the training, he completed a more complex eligibility matrix with Janet and she supported him through the application process. His application was approved in time to start his training on March 2nd and he is enjoying it a lot. Sarath’s background as a mechanic makes this training an excellent fit. ” It was all Janet,” Sarath explains “She was very prompt with everything” he said impressed that the training was approved on the timeline he wanted. Sarath also complimented the efficiency of our Resource Area staff as the application process requires a lot of paperwork, and he appreciated that he could come in and provide signatures and drop off items to speed up the process.

In about 5 weeks, Sarath looks forward to finding work as a Heavy Equipment Operator locally, ensuring that he has a good income, and is able to stay close to his family. All of us at YES would like to congratulate Sarath as he embarks on this new stage of his career.

Our Second Annual Recruitment and Retention Conference took place on February 26th at the Italian Cultural Centre. The conference was a great success and we were thrilled that so many local business joined us and were so engaged with our speakers and discussions. Thank you for attending and we look forward to working with you soon. We want to give a big shout out to all our presenters starting with our keynote Deanne Gagnon, Deanne Gagnon Dynamics CEO who provided three key strategies about The Human Skills That Help Teams Thrive Through Change. Charla Robinson, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce President shared some key economic updates about the current state of business in our city and region. Mourad Zahri, Senior Policy and Program Advisor at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shared programs and information in his presentation: Immigration 101 for Employers. Gary Christian, North Superior Workforce Planning Board Executive Director provided an Overview of the Labour Market in the Region. Stacey Gleeson, St. Joseph’s Care Group Clinical Consultant spoke about the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OPS) available to individuals looking for mental health support. The break-out discussions yielded some lively discussion and highlighted some great recruitment and retention strategies which we will share with all our participants. Thanks to everyone who has helped us grow our conference in year two including our valued sponsors: Employnext powered by Serco, MNP, the North Superior Workforce Training Board and the Government of Canada’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.

YES was in Toronto on March 1st to 4th for PDAC, the World’s Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention. Northern Ontario is well-represented at the conference and Employer Relations Coordinator Tracy Laffin and Executive Director, Lorna Hunda were thrilled to see some familiar faces; the Honourable Patty Hajdu and Mayor Ken Boshcoff.

On February 19th, YES took advantage of the opportunity to exhibit at the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce AGM and Member Appreciation at the Delta Hotel. It was the perfect time to fill up the last remaining spots for our Recruitment and Retention Conference.

Testimonial alert. We are so grateful for all of the local businesses who recognize the value of the programs we deliver. Visit the Employer’s page of our website to read Jesse Haveman’s testimonial. Take advantage of the Employment Ontario programs that can help you recruit, onboard and retain staff! https://yesjobsnow.com/employers/