H AL IFA X C HA MBE R OF COMME RCE | SEPT EMBER 2021 | VO LUME 30 I SSU E 0 9
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Choosing a skilled trades career Apprenticeship programs provide options for trade professionals
SELF-CARE ROUTINE
WE ALL PLAY A PART
HELPING GAIN CAPABILITY
Fostering a healthy lifestyle Pg 16
Solving our housing crisis Pg 18
Improving employee financial health Pg 19
AFFINITY PARTNERS
As a member of the Chamber you gain access to many benefit programs that can save you & your company money. You can recover the cost of your membership many times over just by taking advantage of these money and time saving benefits from our Affinity Partners. Find out more here.
COVER STORY:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS: 04 Chamber Events 05 President’s message 06 New & Noted 08 Members in the news 12 Choosing a skilled trades career Apprenticeship programs provide options for trade professionals
16 Profile:
Massage Addict Spring Garden
Board of Directors – Officers
Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power, Chair Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem, Vice-Chair Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer, Past Chair Roger Boutilier, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership Karim George, InTouch Communications
Directors
Michele Peveril, Halifax Port Authority Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper Richard Butts, Clayton Developments Limited Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing Andrew de Freitas, Canadian National Railway Christopher Googoo, Ulnooweg Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals Nova Scotia David Rideout, MetroWorks Chris Cowper-Smith, Spring Loaded Technology Martha Casey, VOLTA Captain (N) A.S. Williams, CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic Kimberly Stephens, Appili Therapeutics Inc. Denise Allen, Food Processors of Canada Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers Paul Way, TD Private Wealth
Chamber Staff
Volume 30 • Issue 09 Business Voice is published 11 times a year for members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice are those of the contributors and individual members, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to: Halifax Chamber of Commerce 100-32 Akerley Boulevard Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 Tel: 902-468-7111 Fax: 902-468-7333 info@halifaxchamber.com www.halifaxchamber.com
Cover photo credit:
Chevanon Photography/Pexels
Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing Kent Roberts, Vice President, Policy Sandra White, Director of Finance and Administration Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager
18 Trends BUSINESS VOICE
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EVENTS
CHAMBER EVENTS
For a full and up-to-date list of our Chamber events, please visit www.halifaxchamber.com/events
Contact chris@halifaxchamber.com for partnership opportunities BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES:
Selecting a PMO Solution That is Right for You TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 10:00AM – 11:00AM PRESENTED BY: Capstone Project Solutions
REGISTER HERE
BLANKET EXERCISE
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
REGISTER HERE
BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES:
The SuperPower of Employee Engagement During COVID TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 10:00AM – 11:00AM
AN OCEAN OF OPPORTUNITY WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 11:00AM – 12:30PM VIRTUAL EVENT PRESENTED BY: Dalhousie University, Faculty of Management, Rowe School of Business
REGISTER HERE
VIRTUAL CHAMBER 101
REGISTER HERE
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY AMBASSADOR WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 9:00AM – 12:00PM PRESENTED BY: Person-Centred Universe and the Halifax Chamber
With Shannon Monk, Sakatay Global
THANK YOU TO OUR AUGUST PARTNERS:
SEPTEMBER 29, 2021 DARTMOUTH SPORTSPLEX 12:00PM - 5:00PM
TRUTH & RECONCILIATION DAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2021 The Chamber offices will be closed on this day to reflect on the experiences of and honour First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples.
SAVE THE DATE: Small Business Big Growth Summit FRIDAY, OCTOBER 22
REGISTER HERE:
REGISTER HERE
Visit halifaxchamber.com/ events for the lineup and to register!
“We understand the typical issues facing your business.”
unique
Sometimes the difference between a good relationship and a great one is subtle. But with lawyers who know your business—not just your industry—Cox & Palmer makes the difference crystal clear. That’s why Atlantic Canadian businesses have relied on us for more than 165 years.
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SEPTEMBER 2021
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Living in an endemic September brings new opportunities
@prezhfxchamber
Endemic. It has a much better ring to it than pandemic, doesn’t it?”
S
eptember is always a busy month at the Chamber and in the business community, and we’re happy to report this is once again the case in 2021. Endemic. It has a much better ring to it than pandemic, doesn’t it? First off, what is an endemic? It’s our next stage of COVID-19. It’s the loosening of restrictions, the world becoming vaccinated, and getting back to gatherings with the people we love. Endemic is a disease or condition found among particular people or in a certain area. For example, the seasonal flu. To keep the flu at bay, every year, we get our flu shots in the fall. As we move away from high hospitalization rates and shutdowns, it’s important that we recognize our role in this next chapter as we begin to live with covid19. Businesses and not for profits like us have had a long, tough year. Through layoffs, months with little to no revenue while trying to pay bills, and restrictions of foot traffic have caused massive amounts of stress. We’re in a steady pace now and if we want to see our businesses thrive, let’s patronize them. Have your weekly dinner out, find what you need in a locally owned retailer, and buy gifts for your family and friends abroad from the shops that make Halifax unique and vibrant. Another key solution to endemic living (besides vaccinations) is workplace rapid testing. Implementing regular testing in your workplace will help keep your staff, your customers, and your community safe. It will secure consumer confidence and get us back to business.
SMALL BUSINESS
PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO
You are even allowed to send tests home with staff to have them test before they every come to the workplace. Testing has kept us safe throughout the last 18 months and will continue to be an integral part of our recovery. Click here to sign your organization up for workplace rapid testing. Another important development in September this year is a new holiday, Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30. This day recognizes and commemorates the legacy of residential schools, which more than 150,000 First
Discover Halifax
Nations, Metis and Inuit children were forced to attend between the 1870s and 1997. This day is not just another day off — it gives us an opportunity to learn about our history and the injustices that still face Indigenous peoples. It is not enough to just take a day off. We need to reflect about what happened to these children and how we can ensure we can honour their memory. We felt it was important to provide a place where people can learn, understand and pay tribute to these children and their families. The Halifax Chamber in partnership with Sakatay Global will host a Blanket Exercise on September 29. The blanket exercise is an interactive educational program that teaches the history of indigenous peoples in Canada. Welcome back, Halifax. We’re in your corner. ■
IG GROWTH
the strategy summit for small business
FEATURING KEYNOTE: Ross Simmonds
Digital Marketing Strategist & Entrepreneur Build a strategy with other small business owners and industry experts. Walk away with a tangible plan to grow businesses here in Halifax.
October 22 HalifaxChamber.com/events
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS
NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members ANCHOR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LIMITED Nathaniel Loewen
Porters Lake, NS 902-266-2987 anchorpropertieshfx@outlook.com www.anchorproperties.ca REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Property Management
BALANCE TRAUMA INFORMED SAFETY CONSULTING We offer equitable access to psychoeducation and relational consultation about the impact of trauma and intersecting power imbalances in organizations. Our consultants have professional and lived experiences to meet your Reconciliation, diversity and inclusion priorities. ROI will show measurable psychologically safer experiences and environments for your workforce and clients. Prasanna Kariyawansa Halifax, NS 902-932-7154 balancetiscinc@gmail.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT – Org. Development
BOOM12 COMMUNICATIONS Scott Gillard
6218 Quinpool Rd. Halifax, NS 902-402-2962 scott@boom12.ca www.boom12.ca ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Internet Marketing
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CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION NOVA SCOTIA DIVISION Founded in 1908, The Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division (CMHA NS) provides advocacy, programs and resources that help to promote mental wellness, support recovery and resilience, and enable all Nova Scotians to flourish and thrive. All money raised for and donated to CMHA NS stays in the province in support of mental health programs and services for Nova Scotians. Erin Christie 3-644 Portland St., Suite 201 Dartmouth, NS 877-466-6606 erin.christie@novascotia.cmha.ca www.novascotia.cmha.ca HEALTH CARE – Health and Wellness
CITY MODELS & TALENT MANAGEMENT Cheryl Chafe
Sackville, NS 902-452-1047 info@citymodels.ca www.citymodels.ca ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – Marketing
DESJARDINS FINANCIAL SECURITY — NICK GIOVANNETTI Nick is passionate about helping entrepreneurs grow their wealth and preserve it. Being a financial planner for almost a decade, he specializes in personal pension plans for business owners as part of his mandate to stay on top of innovations in financial solutions. Nick also provides Life, Health and Group Insurance along with Investments.
SEPTEMBER 2021
Nick Giovannetti
Hammonds Plains, NS 902-210-1826 nick.giovannetti@dfsin.ca www.dfsin.ca FINANCE & INSURANCE – Financial Planner
DLL RENOVATIONS Evelyn LeBlanc
Halifax, NS 902-877-8911 evelyn-leblanc@hotmail.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – Electrical/Mechanical
HALIFAX SURF SCHOOL Halifax Surf School offers surfing lessons, surfing rentals and surfing retail. We offer daily lessons from May to October each season. We specialize in family surfing experiences and cater to all ages. Mark Moore 2293 East Petpeswick Rd. Musquodboit Harbour, NS 902-789-5483 info@halifaxsurfschool.com www.halifaxsurfschool.com SPORTS & RECREATION – Recreation/Sports/Fitness
HANIAS PROPERTIES Tracy Solylo
331 Lacewood Dr., Unit 109 Halifax, NS 902-443-3149 km.haniasprop@gmail.com www.haniasproperties.com REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Real Estate Residential
NEWSMAKERS HAPPY KIDS NUTRITION ACADEMY
MARCH OF DIMES CANADA
ROCARBON LABS
Happy Kids Nutrition Academy is Canada’s first privately owned international school established in 2021. We offer at-home training classes in health and nutrition for children. Students across Canada, the USA, and many countries around the world have enjoyed the benefits of HKNA’s comprehensive online programs. Erin Madden
Rebecca Bourbonnais
Eastern Passage, NS 902-401-8246 rbourbonnais@marchofdimes.ca www.marchofdimes.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Charitable Organizations
The team at ROCarbon Labs are on a mission to help cut the world’s carbon output in half by 2030. We work with commercial building owners to help them lower energy use, verify carbon savings and pinpoint ROI from renewable energy projects like solar. This September, we are launching the world's first Blockchain-backed energy verification system to prove exact carbon emission savings. April MacLeod
39 Brompton Rd. Dartmouth, NS 902-830-3290 erin@happykidsnutritionacademy.com www.happykidsnutritionacademy.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT – E-Learning
JO TO THE WEB SOLUTIONS Jo to the Web Solutions is a Halifaxbased web design company that specializes in helping your business thrive online with custom web design and e-commerce websites. Jo Hamilton
Halifax, NS 902-442-7572 jo@jototheweb.com www.jototheweb.com COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – Web Design
LION�S HEAD TAVERN Since 1971, the Lion’s Head Tavern has been a staple in the north end community. Although it looks very different today in a new building with an expanded menu, more beer tap selection, and 3 floors, you can still feel the essence is the same. We provide a comfortable environment that caters to a wide variety of people and events. Check us out for yourself at the corner of Robie St and Young St! Michael Hage
3085 Robie St. Halifax, NS 902-455-0181 michael@lionshead.ca www.lionshead.ca RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Restaurant
MCS SANITATION — HALIFAX MCS Sanitation is the leading supplier of Janitorial supplies and equipment across the Atlantic Provinces since 1991. We provide quality products and service along with the highest level of customer satisfaction in the industry. Atlantic Canadian Owned & Operated. Founded on Family ~ Built with Integrity! Where CLIENTS are treated like FRIENDS and our FRIENDS like FAMILY! Dave Henderson 100 Ilsley Ave., Unit N Dartmouth, NS 902-536-1978 halifax@mcs.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Sales
NOVA SCOTIA BOATBUILDERS ASSOCIATION The NSBA is eastern Canada’s only industry association for boatbuilders, those who repair and service boats, and related suppliers. We are a not-forprofit organization that both represents and supports our members. We help connect employers with jobseekers, manufacturers with markets, learners with training opportunities, companies with technical advice, and more. Jan Fullerton 21220 – 27 Parker St. Dartmouth, NS 902-423-2378 exec@nsboats.com www.nsboats.com NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Associations/Agencies
BUSINESS VOICE
Stillwater Lake, NS 902-449-2799 april@rocarbonlabs.com www.rocarbonlabs.com ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT – Energy Efficiency
SAYITFIRST INC. Mike Parkhill
Halifax, NS 905-867-8929 mikepark@sayitfirst.ca www.sayitfirst.ca EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT – Org. Development
UD PROMOTIONS O/A 3335649 NS LIMITED Dr. Zu Chen
Bedford, NS 902-989-1848 dr.acup@hotmail.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Consulting (General)
Are you a new member?
To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, please contact Mandi Bowser, Administrative Specialist at mandi@halifaxchamber.com or 902-468-7111 within the first six months of membership.
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NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax
CMHA NS ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Board of Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division announced the appointment of Karn Nichols as Executive Director. She will be welcomed on July 12, 2021. With a deep compassion for those struggling with mental health and addiction, Karn brings more than 25 years of leadership experience, in both the “for profit” and “for impact” sectors. She looks forward to collaborating with key partners around the province and across Canada to re-imagine mental health care for the future.
VIA RAIL’S OCEAN SERVICE TO RESUME VIA Rail Canada is resuming its Ocean services starting August 11th, following the hiatus due to COVID-19. The return will occur progressively beginning with one weekly round trip. Although VIA Rail will continue to deploy strict pandemic restrictions, they are excited to provide this service again. “To follow and respect guidelines and recommendations from public health authorities and provincial government, we could not provide our passengers the service and frequencies offered under normal circumstances,” said Cynthia Garneau, President & CEO. “Our objective has always been the safe resumption of the Ocean when conditions allowed it, and we could not be happier to be able to finally proceed with the gradual return to service in this region.”
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CENTRE NAMED TO HONOUR PRESIDENT EMERITA DR. SHEILA A. BROWN Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU)named its Centre for Applied Research in recognition of former President, Dr. Sheila A. Brown. Opened in 2018, the Centre is home to researchers breaking ground in areas of human health. “I can think of no more fitting gesture to recognize Dr. Brown’s significant support of MSVU than naming this key research centre in her honour,” said Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, CM, Interim President & Vice-Chancellor of MSVU. “She was an exemplary leader during her tenure as MSVU President and her dedication to the university has been unwavering since. We are deeply grateful for Dr. Brown’s continued commitment to the MSVU community.” Recently, Dr. Brown and her husband made a significant financial commitment to the university, cementing an everlasting relationship with the Mount.
SEPTEMBER 2021
KIDS’ HELP PHONE PEER-TO-PEER COMMUNITY Kids’ Help Phone hears daily from young people who often feel they are alone, as it relates to their issues. Now, a new virtual, moderated and supported community created by youth is finally here. The Peer-to-Peer Community is a bilingual, online mental health support forum available across Canada. Youth can anonymously share their personal experiences, offer inspiration and ask questions to connect, comfort and cheer each other on. Kids Help Phone collaborated with hundreds of youths, aged 16 to 26 across Canada, to co-create this platform. With input every step of the way, young people can now navigate support through the “community” with their peers.
NEWSMAKERS
NOVA SCOTIA’S COMMUNITY HAUL CELEBRATES ONE YEAR Nova Scotia’s Community Haul has been helping boost the local economy for one full year with its local subscription boxes, delivered all over Canada and locally every month. It has helped give back $275,000 to the local economy, raised over $30,00 for the IWK Foundation, supported over 70 local businesses (and counting), and helped support two social enterprises. Without its loyal subscribers, Community Haul could not have made this much of an impact, and the team can’t wait for what the future has in store for them and the Nova Scotian subscription box service. Visit communityhaul.ca for more info.
BUNNYPLACE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS Bunnyplace at Upper Clements
Cottages & RV Park celebrated their
20th anniversary. What was once a dream, of Margaret and Gary Mailman, is now a camp that provides people an opportunity to explore Southwest Nova Scotia year-round. In 2001, the first three cottages were constructed. Then two years later, they built four more. During that time, an
in-ground heated pool, a playground, goats, and free roaming bunnies were also added for the guest’s enjoyment. In 2011, the RV Park was set up. After Margaret and Gary retired in 2016, they sold it all (including the bunnies) to Nathalie and Martin-Henri Villeneuve who now have the pleasure of bringing this gem to higher levels.
FAMILY KNIFE JOINS CMA JUDGES The Family Knife is proud to congratulate Joel Kelly, President, on his selection as a judge for the Canadian Marketing Association’s 2021 Awards. Joel joins marketing and creative leaders from across the country to award and celebrate the country’s best marketing work in this prestigious annual event.
THE ARMOUR GROUP LIMITED EXPANDS WESTWAY PARK The Armour Group Ltd. is breaking ground on Westway IV for the next expansion phase of its Westway Park community in West Bedford. Responding to the strength of the Halifax market and the desirability of expanding the urban village in a suburban setting, construction of this six-storey building is expected to be complete by summer 2022. Tenants of the building can take in the view of the Bedford Basin, while enjoying modern, light-filled office spaces with Wi-fi throughout, augmented by shared spaces for collaboration, dining, fitness and outdoor activates.
I highly recommend this program to any business owners contemplating export. The instructors provided us with valuable insights and real life examples on the potential pitfalls associated with export. I believe this program saved us from many costly mistakes. - Lenita Hanson, Tony's Meats TAP Halifax Graduate
TAKE YOUR BUSINESS INTERNATIONAL WITH THE TRADE ACCELERATOR PROGRAM. Apply today. HalifaxChamber.com/TAP
BUSINESS VOICE
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NEWSMAKERS
CELEBRATING BLUENOSE 100TH ANNIVERSARY WITH SPECIAL EVENT
CAMPERS GET TO EXPERIENCE CAMP TIDNISH FROM HOME Easter Seals Nova Scotia re-introduced ‘Camp in a Box’ as a way to bring Camp Tidnish to our registered campers at home this summer. Camp Tidnish is a barrier-free and fully accessible summer camp for Nova Scotian children, youth, and adults with physical and/or cognitive disabilities. Unfortunately, with public health restrictions we are unable to open
Camp Tidnish. To say this was one of the hardest decisions we had to make is an understatement. However, we’re able to deliver a ‘Camp in a Box’ care package to campers, filled with many of their favourite Camp Tidnish summer activities such as scavenger hunts, trivia, crafts, and treats. Learn more about Camp Tidnish on our website.
ACCESSIBLE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR CLIENTS
INTENTIONAL OUTCOMES PROVIDES MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Access Acupuncture of Dartmouth is actively collaborating with North Halifax incontinence treatment Centre, SheSpot. Working together, they’re able to give a seamless multi-therapy approach to consenting clients, who require more than one treatment modality, despite being separate practices. More than just a referral arrangement, the clinics share and review their mutual client charts using the same management software platform. This makes it efficient as well as reassuring for clients. For the clinics, the platform generates new business through cross-pollination. The big win-win for everyone: enhanced client results.
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Intentional Outcomes Counselling clinic facilitates individual and couples work through a variety of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues and various traumas. Using current evidence-based treatment plans, the clinic effectively helps achieve desired results. It helps strengthen coping strategies and add to the toolbox. Combating mental health with an act of self-love is so important and focusing on wellness is how one continues to thrive. While the clinic still maintains sessions online, the team is examining a return to in-person sessions.
SEPTEMBER 2021
In celebration of the Bluenose 100th Anniversary, Smarter Space has begun working with Bluenose II Operations Director Anne Bailly and Captain Watson to create a memorable experience. Any interested enthusiast will have the opportunity to attend a 3D Virtual Tour of Bluenose II, allowing them to travel around the world to explore Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador from the comfort of their home. The virtual tour provides 360-degree views, videos, historic photos and aerial shots of picturesque Lunenburg and its harbourfront. The tour can be viewed any time at bluenose.novascotia. ca/virtual-tour. Dan MacIntosh and Colin Gillis, owners of Smarter Spaces, will be joining in to be part of this Canadian icon’s story.
A NEW WAY FOR YOUR TEAM TO CREATE IMPACT The Unity Values Foundation’s Wish List Program is set up to allow individuals and teams to create their own campaign to support and supply any charities with the items they need. The items ship directly to the charity, or teams can volunteer to pack the kits themselves as a team building activity. This is a tremendous opportunity to create an impact for your the community. The Unity Values Foundation has a mission to change the world based on the values of individual people. Visit the website to learn more!
NEWSMAKERS
LUNG ASSOCIATION YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
THE STRONGER THE COMMUNITY, THE STRONGER THE REBOUND.
Lung disease impacts people of all ages, while youth smoking and vaping continue to be issues that need to be addressed. We are pleased to have input from our Lung Association of Nova Scotia (LANS) Youth Advisory Council to help address lung health issues that impact youth. One of our first members of the LANS Youth Advisory Council (YAC), is our current council Chair Person, Lola Velden. Lola has suffered from asthma since she was a child, and she also attended Camp Treasure Chest, our summer camp for kids with lung disease. We are grateful to this amazing group of young individuals for their contributions to lung health in Nova Scotia. For more information, please visit www.ns.lung.ca
COUNTLESS JOURNEYS NEW PODCAST SEASON Countless Journeys is releasing a new season of its podcast focused on immigration in Canada. Pier 21 created Countless Journeys to highlight the museum’s unique content by connecting Canadians to personal stories of immigration. Drawn from the museum’s collections and interviews, these stories remind us that as a country shaped by immigration, we are all deeply impacted by it. Regardless of the time period, these stories contribute to the collective experience of what it means to be a Canadian. Season two will share stories of how immigrants from a wide background of countries and cultures contribute to this country daily. Discover Halifax
BUSINESS VOICE
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COVER STORY
Choosing a skilled trades caree Apprenticeship programs provide options for trade professionals By Judith Kays
A
s the Nova Scotia economy and population numbers continue to grow, the need for skilled tradespeople in the province is proving to be a real challenge. Even though Nova Scotia's skilled trade sector is one of the highest paid job opportunity sectors in Nova Scotia right now, there’s a significant shortage of apprentices and qualified trade professionals. Experts say that a combination of factors have produced this shortage of labour: retirements, lack of awareness about the trades, stigma about the kinds of jobs that exist and increased demand for new infrastructure. To solve the issue, industry leaders say there needs to be more education and awareness about choosing a skilled trades career, improved exploration of diverse populations as a workforce pool, and the understanding that everyone has a part to play.
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I believe that any secondary education is a plus, but people need to know there are a variety of options that lead to great opportunities.” — Gord Gamble,
President, Iron Dog
SEPTEMBER 2021
EDUCATION IS KEY There are over 70 trades registered with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA). At any given time, the NSAA has about 7,000 apprentices learning their trade, either at an educational institution like the Nova Scotia Community College, through a trade union-led program, and through on-thejob training. This post-secondary training teaches the skills and competencies necessary to become a certified tradesperson while learning and getting paid to work. When people think about trade jobs, they usually think about plumbers, carpenters and electricians. There are many more career options that include jobs in one of the four industry sectors that the NSAA oversees in construction, industrial/manufacturing, motive power, and service. A tradesperson could be a boat
eer
COVER STORY
importance of education. Gamble says he currently has a grade 11 high school student working with apprentices and red seal technicians. His company also offers financial and employment scholarships to apprentices through NSCC. “We recognize the role that education plays in exposing people to the trades and everyone benefits when we spend time mentoring and guiding students.” Organizations like the Construction Association of Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council, Skills Canada-Nova Scotia and Techsploration all have programs to introduce the trades as a future employment option. Gamble says there must be greater awareness of the fact that there is a
significant shortage of skilled tradespeople that isn’t matching up with the increased demand for apprentices and certified journeypersons. As well as educating youth, programs are targeting under-represented populations, including women, Indigenous peoples, African Nova Scotians, people with a disability and newcomers to Canada. It only makes sense to tap into a traditionally underutilized and capable workforce. DIVERSITY OPENS DOORS Along with a diversity of skills for the variety of trade career options, there is a need and great advantage to find a diverse workforce to fill those positions in the labour shortage.
I’m proud to tell people what I do, I’m helping to build this province and that’s a great feeling.” — Jessica Brison, Apprentice ‘A’ Construction Electrician Safety training is a critical component of working in the trades. NSCC
builder, hair stylist, project manager, cook, or motorcycle mechanic, to name just a few. Gord Gamble, president of Iron Dog, a mechanical systems service provider, says that the trades sector is still fighting certain stigmas and that needs to change. “There are many people that believe the best route to good employment is through a university degree,” he says. “I believe that any secondary education is a plus, but people need to know there are a variety of options that lead to great opportunities.” There are many examples of organizations delivering education and awareness so that people know and understand the benefits of choosing the trades as a career option. The NSAA has targeted initiatives to educate and engage youth and under-represented populations. Employers also understand the
Jessica Brison knows just how valuable it is having a trade skill and she’s proud of the work she does.
Contributed
COVER STORY In fact, the NSAA, other industry organizations and employers are finding avenues to attract people to the sector through specialized and unique programming directed at these under-represented groups. Marjorie Davison, the CEO of the NSAA says there is a commitment to improve diversity and inclusion in the apprenticeship system by raising awareness of, reducing barriers to, and enhancing support for apprenticeship opportunities for people from diverse communities. “We have a number of partners who are helping to promote careers in the skilled trades to not only youth, but to those who have traditionally been under-represented in the trades: women, African Nova Scotians, Aboriginal peoples, persons with a disability and newcomers to Canada,” she says. As the government of Nova Scotia prepares to launch several large infrastructure projects around the province, they also see the benefits of opening the doors to diversity and inclusion within the trade sector. They have implemented regulations that require 25% of trade hours be done by apprentices, and of that, at least 10% must be done by apprentices from under-represented groups. Davison says that the NSAA works with employers to develop programs to make requirements like this work. “The welcome mat should be out for everyone, and we know that takes effort,” she says. “We want to help employers provide fair, consistent, and safe work environments that are focused on awareness, compliance, enforcement and procurement
standards.” Davison says the NSAA understands the need to embrace diversity and encourage entry into a much wider range of trades to a larger workforce. “People need to see themselves in that job and while we’re making great strides, there’s still work to do.”
Explore your options and if you want to learn a trade, try it. I have learned so much just working alongside other tradespeople, and remember that hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible.” — Jessica Brison, Apprentice ‘A’ Construction Electrician Jessica Brison is an Apprentice ‘A’ construction electrician. She started her career as a tow truck driver and then switched gears when she had the opportunity to learn a new trade as an apprentice. While she’s one of very few females on any given job site, she knows she’s in the right place. “I know I can do the job as well as anyone else,” she says. “My boss and co-workers treat me the same as everyone and that’s what makes me accountable and an equal.”
NSCSC’s Mobile Construction Experience provides opportunities for youth to explore skilled trades through hands-on learning activities. 14
SEPTEMBER 2021
Now 28, Brison has accomplished a lot. She will get her Red Seal Journeyperson certification in less than a year, she’s just bought her first house, and most importantly, she loves going to work every day. When asked what advice she would give to someone considering becoming an apprentice, she says “Explore your options and if you want to learn a trade, try it. I have learned so much just working alongside other tradespeople, and remember that hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible.” Davison says the NSAA wants to provide a level of comfort for people who choose the trades as a career. “That means a commitment to and accountability for equity and inclusion, reducing any barriers to apprenticeship, and partnering with other organizations to drive change.” EVERYONE HAS A PART TO PLAY Brad Smith, chair of the board for the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and executive director of the Mainland Nova Scotia Building Trades Council says that it’s important for everyone to understand that Nova Scotia’s economic growth depends on finding and securing a skilled workforce. “Everyone has to be at the table in order to build the bridge, and they have to stay at the table to find ways to bridge the gaps,” he says. “Twenty years ago, there were two cranes in the city and workers were competing for too few jobs; today, there are over 30 cranes in the city and it’s the employers who are competing to get workers.”
NSCC
COVER STORY Smith says that the NSAA is dedicated to a horizontal approach of working side by side with government, employers, trade unions and organizations to create transformative change that will address and fix the labour shortage for apprentices and skilled tradespeople in the province. The NSAA also provides tuition grants to students, and funds bridging programs for employers to hire apprentices. “There are a number of opportunities for the exceptional workforce that’s out there,” Smith says. “We just need everyone to work together. People need to be more open to the variety of career paths in the trades; more students of all ages and all backgrounds, male and female, need to choose the trades; employers need to hire and mentor the apprentices; and government needs to support the various initiatives to make it all happen.” While the global COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on all industries, including the trades, the effects have been two-fold. There’s been increased interest from people investigating or switching to more stable employment through an apprenticeship program, but it hasn’t been quite enough to keep up with demand. TRADES IMPORTANT TO ECONOMY AND SOCIETY Trade professionals play a vital role in the development and future of both small communities and larger cities throughout Nova Scotia. Without welders, carpenters, hair stylists, bricklayers, manufacturers, and automotive service technicians, there would be no economy. As Nova Scotia welcomes many new infrastructure projects, trade professionals will be more and more in demand. Iron Dog’s Gord Gamble says that the number one impediment to growing his business is the shortage of skilled apprentices for hire. “Our company isn’t alone,” he says. “The economy cannot sustain the growth if we can’t attract and retain people to do the work that needs to be done.” This labour shortage has a very direct impact on the Nova Scotia economy. Industries that include construction, manufacturing and hospitality are having trouble finding workers, and that will affect how quickly the economy can fully recover.
The big lift shows a wide view of many workers working to replace a bridge segment in 2015 (Macdonald Bridge Big Lift Project).
NSCC
Twenty years ago, there were two cranes in the city and workers were competing for too few jobs; today, there are over 30 cranes in the city and it’s the employers who are competing to get workers.” — Brad Smith, Chair of the Board, NSAA Marjorie Davison says the NSAA’s business plan priorities include attracting skilled trades talent, supporting the journey to certification by focusing on the experience of both the apprentice and the employer, and fostering a culture of workplace learning so that young apprentices, female apprentices, and those from under-represented groups choose the trades as a viable career path. The NSAA’s Apprenticeship START program and funding encourages employers to register, employ apprentices and support them as they complete their apprenticeship program. Davison believes that as things
BUSINESS VOICE
get back to normal and with the strong efforts to attract people to the various programs and trades, there will soon be an upturn in the number of apprentices in Nova Scotia. “People want to feel pride in their work and being a tradesperson gives them that accomplished feeling, as well as the flexibility, stability and wages they deserve and require to build their lives and prosper in Nova Scotia.” When Jessica Brison tells people that she’s a construction electrician, she usually gets a few raised eyebrows. “I’m proud to tell people what I do,” she says. “I’m helping to build this province and that’s a great feeling.” ■ 15
PROFILE
Massage addict made Self-Care a routine Fostering commitment to healthy lifestyle and wellbeing By Mina Atia
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s the first membership-based service provider in Canada, Massage Addict made therapeutic treatments more economical for clients. Those who require ongoing treatment for pain management, stress and/or anxiety are offered a multitude of solutions. Massage Addict’s membership encourages clients to commit to a lifestyle of health and wellness. Upon signing up for a six- or 12-month membership plan, clients agree to visit as frequently as at least once a month — making it part of a self-care routine! Valuing client health and wellness along with creating comfortable and relaxed environments, Massage Addict focuses on exceptional customer service. It also values creating great places to work for its team of administrators and health care practitioners. “At Massage Addict Spring Garden, we have a culture built around shared success and fun,” says Sandra English, Franchise Owner, Massage Addict. “Shared success is a phrase that embodies the idea of supporting one another to help them be their best at work.” This team-building mindset encompasses each team member and the value they bring to the clinic, helping create a truly collegial culture. The trust Massage Addict team has for one another stems from the support they provide to every single team member. It creates an atmosphere of openness, kindness and fun. “One of the ways we do this in our clinic is by understanding that everyone has a role to play in providing great customer service to our client,” says English. “These roles have moments and processes that cross and intertwine and because we work so well as a team, everything runs incredibly smoothly, and we have very happy clients as a result.” This particular mindset also helps support healthcare practitioners by creating a business model that increases and stabilizes their income and client base.
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We really create an environment that enables our health care practitioners to do what they do best, which is provide high quality therapeutic treatments.” — Sandra English, Owner, Massage Addict Spring Garden
The membership commitment helps create predictable income for healthcare practitioners who otherwise would experience volatility and instability due to fluctuations in appointment volume. “What sets us apart, from other therapeutic-service providers, is the amount of flexibility that we offer to our health care practitioners in combination with exceptional business management and customer relationship support,” says English. “We really create an environment that enables our health care practitioners to do what they do best, which is provide high quality therapeutic treatments.” Massage Addict emphasizes flexibility when it comes to its health care practitioners. The brand understands
SEPTEMBER 2021
many choose these types of professions because of a desire or need to have flexibility in their professional life. “Our philosophy is to find the right schedule that works for the health care practitioners and their lifestyle. And as their life and priorities change, the schedule can change,” says English. “My personal philosophy around this is if I can make the schedule work within the business constraints that I have, I will do everything I can to give someone their preferred schedule.” “I have a team of 25, and many have told me that coming to work is the least stressful thing they do during their week and that the team is like their family!” Massage Addict has over 100Contributed Photos clinics across the country and 1,600 health care practitioners including Registered Massage Therapists, Doctors of Chiropractic, Licensed Acupuncturists and Certified Reflexologists, and it all started here in Nova Scotia. “Our franchise grew out of a desire to make wellness services more accessible to clients requiring regular therapeutic treatments,” says English. “My clinic, Massage Addict Spring Garden was one of the original three and has been open for over 11 years in the same location” The national health and wellness brand opened its first location in 2008 with the first group of clinics from HRM. Each clinic’s focus is on client wellness and being a premier provider of therapeutic services in massage therapy, acupuncture, reflexology and, most recently as of 2020, chiropractic care. “We are excited to be launching chiropractic care this fall and are actively looking for two additional chiropractors to join our team,” says English. With this new service launching at Massage Addict Spring Garden, the team continually looks for ways to excel in business operations and client management. “Our clinic, pre-pandemic, would do over 1,000 treatments a month, and
PROFILE
Our philosophy is to find the right schedule that works for the health care practitioners and their lifestyle. And as their life and priorities change, the schedule can change.” — Sandra English, Owner, Massage Addict Spring Garden
we are predicted to be at that level again by end of August,” says English. “At that significant volume, we are running a very tight operation due to our team’s constant focus on providing the best working experience for one another and our clients.” Massage Addict’s goal is to keep improving processes as they grow and expand. That way, when a new health
care practitioner joins the team, it is a smooth transition for them. “One of our proudest accomplishments is how strong the entire Massage Addict network came back from the original three-month lockdown,” says English. “At Massage Addict Spring Garden, my team was back and comfortable with the rhythm of the new normal within a few short weeks.”
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Massage Addict’s client base is open for both members and non-members. Non-members are welcome to book appointments at the clinic with no restrictions, while members receive the benefit of preferred member pricing on several services. It’s a joint commitment between members and practitioners to promote a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing. ■
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TRENDS
We all play a part Solving Nova Scotia’s housing crisis
CONTRIBUTED BY NOVA SCOTIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (NSAR)
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he last 18 months have not been easy for our province. Coronavirus has impacted our health, our communities, our businesses, and our budgets. REALTORS® understand the new reality we’re living in and are working hard to address the housing shortage in our province. REALTORS® work closely with our elected officials and partners to strengthen our housing markets. Our partnerships create programs like the Down Payment Assistance Program, helping over 635 families buy homes in our province in the last four years. Right now, housing levels are at historic lows. Without appropriate, income-accessible housing, our communities suffer.
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Housing is a spectrum — from community and social housing to new builds — the importance of having a place to call home will not disappear when the pandemic ends. Lack of housing impacts businesses. Recruitment and retention rely on the ability of employees to find income accessible, appropriate housing for their families. The bottom line is that lack of housing impacts your bottom line. REALTORS® believe that every Nova Scotian deserves a safe, affordable, appropriate place to live. That’s why in March 2021, after months of consultation with stakeholders across the province, REALTORS® submitted a proposal to Nova Scotia’s Affordable Housing Commission that addresses six themes to help with housing: • Collaboration — Calling on all levels of government to work together, as well as more closely with private sectors to increase opportunities, create innovative solutions and build better communities. • Municipalities — Encouraging the province and municipalities to share housing responsibilities and examine red tape and fees. • Whole communities — Ensuring all communities support a variety of income levels and mixed types of housing through variety of housing types, price-ranges, and services. SEPTEMBER 2021
• Aging population — Supporting our seniors to age-in-place, providing more housing solutions, and making more long term care spaces available for those that need it. • Trade shortages — Increasing skilled labour, heavy equipment operator, and Red Seal trade training programs through the Nova Scotia Community College and offering incentives for training and hiring in-demand tradespeople. • Innovative solutions — Highlighting solutions at taxation levels, as well as innovative community solutions. The Quality of Life in Nova Scotia is second to none, however, if we continue to ignore our housing crisis we risk losing the affordability and availability of housing in our communities — damaging Quality of Life that our province is known for. We know Nova Scotians are resilient, creative, and caring. From innovative community partnerships to reducing red tape, we can all Play a Part in addressing the housing shortage in our province. To learn more, visit www.nsrealtors.ca/ documents/affordablehousing.pdf
TRENDS
Help employees gain financial capability Why improving employee financial health is good for everyone
We need to provide employees with practical, easy-to-use eLearning modules that people can return to at any time.”
STEPHANIE HOLMES-WINTON CEO & FOUNDER, CACHEFLO
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or millions of Canadians, financial stress impacts their mental and physical health, and life at work. For businesses across Canada, it is estimated that $20.3 billion in productivity is lost due to employees thinking about personal financial matters at work, according to the Canadian Payroll Association’s 12th Annual Survey of Working Canadians. It’s unlikely that our local business community is immune. The pandemic has only caused increased financial strain on many business owners and their employees; there is no doubt it will impact the bottom line. A common approach to providing financial support for employees is to add an employee assistance program (EAP) to your benefits package. These can be great programs, but they are often only used by employees in severe situations. Worrying about money is a problem long before it evolves into a catastrophe. It’s essential to have resources for your team that can help during times of extreme upheaval. However, helping employees gain financial capability requires an approach that will lift all boats, not just the ones in the middle of a storm. For decades, various organizations, from financial institutions to non-profit
community groups, have tried to increase financial literacy among the general public. However, those efforts have fallen short. There are several reasons why it’s been so challenging to improve our finances. First, most financial literacy programs are collections of blog posts or one-time webinars or workshops. Most of the time, these programs measure their efficacy by testing the learner on the material they were exposed to and checking to see what they can remember. To be truly impactful, they need to measure if the learner made any changes to their behaviour and improved their financial metrics over time, which is difficult to measure. Second, financial information is much harder to retain compared to math and science. Part of this is because when you learn about math and science, you do so over several years of school, and you learn rules and formulas that you use repeatedly. You don’t just understand a principal. You practice applying that knowledge and, over time, you develop a capability. The approach to financial health has to use a similar process. Here is how the path to financial capability should look. Currently, most programs don’t go beyond Step 1. STEP 1: UNDERSTAND Financial literacy is the first phase of exploring one’s financial health. The basics are essential, but without real behaviour change, these efforts have a short shelf life.
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STEP 2: CONTEXT With scenario-based learning, an individual can compare financial concepts, assessment techniques or insights to their financial situation. This will help them understand their current status and weigh their options. STEP 3: APPLICATION The learner requires tools to apply the concepts, assessment techniques and insights to create desired behaviour changes to their financial situation. STEP 4: CAPABILITY With ongoing access to easy-to-reference eLearning and tools, the learner can have sustained and improved financial decision making. The outcome will be an increase in savings, reduction in debt, adequate retirement savings and healthy credit habits, which has to be measured to prove efficacy. Financial wellness efforts must go beyond blog posts and one-time live education events. We need to provide employees with practical, easy-to-use eLearning modules that people can return to at any time. They should be able to apply integrated tools to their specific financial situations. Only then will they be able to practice what they’ve learned continuously until new financial habits take hold. Find out more about building up financial capability in your workplace here: www.cacheflo.co/partner/ halifax-chamber-of-commerce
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