PRESS RELEASE

Aboriginal Skills, Employment and Training program more accessible for Nisga’a Citizens in the northwest

Gitlaxt’aamiks, BC, November 1, 2013 – Skills, employment and training services will now be more accessible for Nisga’a citizens in the northwest as Nisga’a Lisims Government entered into an agreement with Employment & Social Development Canada (“ESDC”) earlier this week for the delivery of ESDC’s Aboriginal Skills, Employment and Training program.

The Nisga’a Employment, Skills & Training (“NEST”) department officially opened its doors to Nisga’a citizens today to provide employment advisory services including job coaching, resume writing, active job search skills and positive engagement with employers. 

With offices in Terrace and New Aiyansh, Nisga’a Employment Skills and Training was created as a result of priorities identified in the Nisga’a Sustainable Employment Plan.  NEST will use an integrated approach to link Nisga’a citizens’ training needs to labour market demands in the region.

“In general ASETS agreement holders design and deliver employment programs and services best suited to the unique needs of their clients,” explained NLG NEST Manager Gary Patsey.  “The services were previously provided by Tricorp based in Prince Rupert, making accessibility of services challenging for Nass Valley residents.”

NEST services will be provided to Nisga’a citizens residing in the Nass Valley, Terrace, Thornhill, Kitimat, Prince Rupert, Port Edward and their outlying areas.  

For further information about NEST, contact NEST Manager Gary Patsey at 1 866 633 0888, or check out the program information on our website at www.nisgaanation.ca/employment-resources.