Unlocking Opportunities: The Inclusive New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program (NBCWP) for Skilled and Unskilled Workers
Responding to critical labor shortages in New Brunswick, the provincial and federal governments have launched the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program (NBCWP). Unveiled on November 7, 2022, this initiative aims to address workforce needs while prioritizing newcomer settlement and retention in the province.
Partner Employers
The NBCWP partners with six distinguished employers selected for their outstanding performance under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) and their commitment to immigrant hiring practices. These employers span diverse sectors, playing pivotal roles in the province’s economy:
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Cooke Aquaculture Inc.: A global sea food company committed to sustainability and responsible aquaculture practices, leading in New Brunswick’s seafood industry.
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Groupe Savoie Inc.: Renowned for its hardwood products in construction, furniture, and flooring, with over 45 years of dedication to quality craftsmanship.
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Groupe Westco: A key player in the poultry industry, supplying quality poultry products and contributing significantly to New Brunswick’s agricultural landscape.
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Imperial Manufacturing: A leading manufacturer of HVAC products, specializing in residential and commercial ventilation solutions, vital to the construction sector.
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J.D. Irving Ltd.: A diversified company engaged in forestry, paper products, agriculture, construction, and retail operations, deeply rooted in New Brunswick’s economic landscape.
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McCain Foods: A global leader in the frozen food industry, known for its dedication to quality and innovation in potato products, a significant employer in New Brunswick’s food processing sector.
Program Objectives
The primary goal of the NBCWP is to bridge labor gaps by collaborating with partner employers to recruit skilled & unskilled foreign workers. Beyond economic immigration, the program emphasizes newcomer settlement and integration, fostering long-term retention, and contributing to the province’s economic growth.
Settlement Services
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Comprehensive settlement support: Partner employers offer robust settlement plans to assist incoming immigrants with housing, transportation, and community integration.
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Language training: Immigrants receive up to 200 hours of language training to help them communicate effectively in English or French, the official language of Canada.
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Assistance with educational equivalency: Partner employers provide guidance and support to candidates seeking Canadian educational equivalency, facilitating their access to further education and career advancement opportunities.
Evaluating Success
Over a five-year period, the NBCWP will undergo rigorous monitoring and evaluation to assess its effectiveness in meeting workforce needs, facilitating newcomer integration, and driving economic development in New Brunswick. Through ongoing assessment, the program aims to refine strategies and achieve sustainable outcomes.
