The Nuu-chah-nulth Employment and Training Program (NETP) hosted its annual career fair on April 9, 2026, at the Alberni Athletic Hall in Port Alberni, British Columbia. The event connected local job seekers with regional employers from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering a vital opportunity for community members to explore employment and career development options.
The career fair comes at a time of shifting local and provincial economic conditions. While recent reports indicate significant job losses across British Columbia, particularly for workers aged 15 to 24, the Alberni Valley faces a different challenge. The local employment landscape has seen a persistent labour shortage, with the Alberni Valley Employment Center reporting double the number of monthly job postings compared to levels seen before the pandemic.
The event is a cornerstone initiative of the Nuu-chah-nulth Employment and Training Program, which serves Indigenous peoples from the West Coast of Vancouver Island. The program provides essential support for those entering or advancing in the workforce, including assistance with resume creation, trades training, and obtaining certifications like First Aid, WHMIS, Food Safe, and traffic control. This support is increasingly important as the Alberni Valley deals with an aging population, with a higher percentage of residents over 65 than the provincial or national averages.
Organized by Special Projects Coordinator Shan Ross, who has managed hiring events since 2016, and NETP Office Coordinator Kirunn Sharma, the fair serves as a hub for both job seekers and businesses. Residents looking for more information on available employment services or future training opportunities can reach out to the coordinators at [email protected] or [email protected].
The career fair is supported by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation, which was incorporated in 1984 and provides financing and business support to Indigenous entrepreneurs. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, which represents the 14 member nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth, operates the NETP. By fostering these connections, the event aims to help bridge the gap between regional employers and the local workforce.
