Q & A Halifax

Conversation with Nathan Laird and Wendy Luther

Fourteen years ago, the idea for the Connector Program was born in Halifax and has since spread across Canada and internationally. Today, Halifax Partnership still boasts one of the biggest programs in the country in terms of Connectees and jobs found and houses the National Connector Program. We were able to sit down with Nathan Laird, Connector Program Manager, and Wendy Luther, President, and CEO of Halifax Partnership, to talk about the impact the Connector Program has had, and is continuing to have in the community, as well as how the program fits so well within the mandate of the organization.

Interview by Alida Campbell.

Alida manages the National Connector Program and continues to be inspired by the stories of connection and growth that participants share across the country.

Alida:

Thanks to you both for sitting down with me today. The Connector Program has been a core part of the Halifax Partnership for 14 years now – how is the program continuing to add value to the organization?

Nathan:

We are helping to build the long-term success of our city one individual at a time. It is a key program in the Labour Market Development side of the organization. It helps to meet the targets of that business unit. We also are leveraged to help the Investment Attraction team draw new companies to the city. Our program is also used to support the start ups, scale ups and Halifax’s Innovation District by helping them find the talent they need to thrive. Smart business also uses our services by connecting us to businesses who have talent issues that we help to solve. Our program is a vital part of all activity at the Partnership, helping to grow our city, and ensure everyone in it can thrive.

Wendy:

At Halifax Partnership, our goal is to make Halifax more vibrant and prosperous for all, and the Connector Program is a huge part of living that purpose. It’s the most direct way that we can impact new graduates, newcomers to the city, and employers that are here. The program is especially critical now that talent is the biggest contributor and barrier to building success and growth within the city.

Alida:

It’s a great fit, and it’s so beneficial for the program and the participants that the organization can use it is so many ways. It really is adaptable to he needs of the community and the organization. Over the years, how have you seen the program impact your community?

Nathan:

We’ve seen anywhere from 40-50 participants per year becoming employed in their chosen field in the city. We are making a tangible difference in the participants lives, and their families’ lives. We are also helping the economy of the city because we are helping businesses acquire the talent they need to succeed, and to be able to hit their business and growth targets. They see Halifax as a viable city to build and grow their business, which is good for our community and economy.

Wendy:

The Connector Program materially changes people’s lives for the better, both Connectors and Connectees. Although it was originally created as an intentional networking program, the end result is that thousands of newcomers and new graduates are finding meaningful employment in our city so they can stay here. It shows the power of these individuals finding opportunities here, and that the trajectory of their lives, and their family’s lives, has changed for the better.

Alida:

So the impact can actually be quantified. It isn’t just a series of great stories – though those are very important, it’s also about the direct impact on jobs and the economy. Nathan, you’ve been in your role now for five years – what about the impact of the program on you?

Nathan:

Being a part of the program gives me a sense of fulfillment. In this role, you really see what you do has a huge impact on people’s lives, and the community and city as a whole. One day, someone will talk about how their grandparent came to Halifax around this time, and I’d like to think that I’d be a part of that story- that the things I do now, will have a lasting impact in that person’s life.

Alida:

That’s wonderful. Wendy, the last question goes to you. The program has been running now for 14 years, which is a testament to the importance of the program – but it must have evolved over the years. Can you give us a quick synopsis on how it has developed from the beginning?

Wendy:

At the time, Nova Scotia immigration rates were very low, and retention rates of newcomers and international students were not great. So, it was started to give a hand up to the incredible talent who found their way here, to help them stay here and give established professionals an opportunity to help in a way only they could, because they were from here. That purpose resonates with me because when I moved here 21 years ago, I received my first job through networks, and my career path would have been very different without them. This original purpose is still valid, but as the labour market changes and hunger for talent intensifies, employers are seeing the program in a different light. They help immigrants establish themselves, they also get a front row seat to great talent by getting to meet these new graduates and newcomers and bring them into their business.

Alida:

Thank you both so much for your time and insight. It’s so important to see where the program started and how far it has come over the years. Just like the people who use the program, it’s adaptable and resilient, evolving to fit the biggest need at the time – which right now is retention of talented individuals! I suppose that’s why it has such staying power, and why it can be so easily replicated across the country!