The Thompson Okanagan Workforce Development Group on the World Stage

Initiated by Venture Kamloops(VK), supported by ETSI-BC, the Thompson Okanagan Workforce Development Group addresses labor market challenges and attracts talent. Comprised of Ec. Dev. Organizations from Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Vernon, and the Central Okanagan, objectives include:

• Promote the region at Global Emigration Expos.
• Attract talent to the region.
• Support local employers with international economic immigration.
• Represent the region globally through a cost-sharing model, contributing to the regional’s economic growth together.

Effectiveness

Through strong partnerships and a regional approach:

• Website Engagement: 1,426 views as of May 2024.
• Booth Visitors: ~4,000 visitors at nine international events.
• Presentations: Over 7,600 candidates viewed presentations; virtual recordings shared 30+ times with 170 comments and 401 likes.
• Profile Submissions: 300+ profiles submitted to the Jobs in BC website.
• Resumes Collected: 199 resumes circulated to local employers.
• Candidate Visits: 10 prospects visited with the intention of relocating.
• Relocations: Facilitated the relocation of 1 individual and working with 10 others ongoing.

Partnerships and Support

• BCPNP and IRCC London: Supported at 7 European expos.
• Employer Webinars: Hosted three webinars educating 100+ employers on accessing global talent, presented in partnership with IRCC & BCPNP.
• Referral and Service Partners: VK became a GTS Category A referral partner and a Dedicated Service Channel Partner with IRCC. S.A and Vernon became RNIP partners
• Employer Meetings: VK hosted 45 one-on-one employer meetings with IRCC & BCPNP

Challenges and Solutions

• Shipping Costs: Developed compact marketing materials with QR codes and banners to reduce costs.
• Competition: Created a larger BC cluster with IRCC London, BCPNP, and other BC-based companies to enhance visibility.

Target Audiences

• Skilled Professionals: Young professionals, mid-career individuals, and highly skilled talent seeking quality of life and jobs.
• Employers: Those looking for skilled talent and support for international economic immigration.

Exemplary Partnership

The project exemplifies collaboration between Venture Kamloops, SA Ec. Dev., City of Vernon, Central Okanagan Ec. Dev., Province of BC, IRCC, ESDC, and ETSI-BC.  demonstrating mutual benefits and a commitment to regional economic development.

Improved Services and Processes

• Global Promotion: Improved global promotion of the Thompson Okanagan region, attracting skilled workers and educating employers on international economic immigration.
• New Processes: Created a dedicated website, developed promotional materials, and engaged directly at international expos.

Measurable Results

Achieved 4,000+ booth visitors, 1,426 website views, 500+ presentation attendees, successful relocations of skilled workers, and expanded service to local employers to hire internationally.

Sustainability

• Environmental: Utilized digital platforms and eco-friendly materials.
• Economic: Attracted skilled immigrants, contributing to long-term economic growth.

Creativity and Uniqueness

The project leveraged funding from ETSI-BC and combined traditional marketing with innovative digital strategies, including QR-coded handouts, video content, interactive websites, and banners.

Effectiveness and Accessibility

The project’s success is evident in ongoing talent attraction and increasing international awareness of the region. The dedicated website, QR codes, and promotional materials provided comprehensive and accessible information.

Conclusion

The Thompson Okanagan Workforce Development Group’s initiatives exemplify proactive economic development, positioning the Thompson Okanagan region as a desirable destination for skilled newcomers, contributing to workforce and economic vitality. We proudly submit this project for the Community Collaboration Award, recognizing its significant impact.