SYDNEY, N.S. — Upcoming ‘generational infrastructure investment’ is the reason behind the opening of a new branch office for the Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council (NSCSC) in Sydney.
Rochelle Hatcher will take on the role of industry community engagement co-ordinator in the Charlotte Street space to connect the community with employment opportunities related to this investment and to support a more diversified construction workforce.
“Cape Breton is my home, and I am looking forward to finding innovative ways of bridging gaps between those who want to work and those who need skilled workers,” she said in a press release.
“Whether it’s helping to identify opportunities, making connections with unions and community, assisting contractors, or identifying community supports that would allow an individual to take training that leads to employment — I’m here and we are ready to help.”
The province has included contract requirements to motivate the sector to better reflect the diverse nature of Nova Scotia. The construction sector council, in partnership with the Nova Scotia Construction Labour Relations Association and the Cape Breton Island Building Trades, is poised to help the sector facilitate this goal.
Hatcher has a background in community development and relationship management and will work with contractors, labour organizations, community groups, and government to identify challenges and barriers related to accessing employment for underrepresented groups and develop cooperative solutions to addressing these challenges.
“In a region that has seen years of outmigration and families resigned to being separated in order to find work, this is a huge opportunity to turn things around,” Executive Director Trent Soholt said in a press release.
“These projects are expected to take 5-7 years to complete, with direct and indirect employment spinoffs for Cape Bretoners. This is a chance to build a stronger, more resilient workforce by breaking down barriers to employment.”
The construction sector council is a not-for-profit, industry-driven organization that partners with industry, government and community groups to support the development, responsiveness, and sustainability of the industrial-commercial-institutional construction sector.
