A major Maritime seafood company in which seven First Nations have a financial stake spoke to the Education and Economic Development Working Committees about the education and employment opportunities it offers Indigenous youth and adults across Mi’kma’ki (Nova Scotia).
Michelle MacEwan, Indigenous Employment Ambassador from Membertou, accompanied by other Clearwater staff, presented to the Education Committee about the Bedford-based seafood company’s Careers Set Sail Program, at its October 15th meeting in Millbrook, and later presented to the Economic Development Committee on November 26th, in Halifax.
The Careers Set Sail Program offers First Nations students, graduates and professionals educational work terms, and is available to those just starting their careers, those looking to change their career trajectory – and anyone in between.
Committee members heard that the program’s target is 125 placements over the course of five years, with placements typically lasting around four months. The program also helps provide training that would otherwise be difficult or time consuming to obtain for participants, for work that includes quality assurance and water vessel cooking.
The program offers work terms, rather than full-time work. However, those work terms can lead to opportunities and career growth for participants, sometimes with Clearwater itself. The Clearwater reps explained how the program works and how to apply to committee members.
The Clearwater reps noted that the program could provide support for First Nations students and professionals alongside the support provided through other avenues such as the Mi’kmaq Employment Training Secretariat (METS).
Clearwater’s versatile work terms can run the gamut of its operations, from tradespeople or quality assurance staff at work in its processing plants, and 35-days aboard clam boats, to HR, marketing or finance at its Bedford head office.
Education Committee members praised the versatility of the program, noting that it its’ good that Clearwater offers more than just entry-level positions, and is available to both graduates fresh out of high school or post-secondary, and people looking to change or upgrade their careers. Committee members encouraged Clearwater to reach out to local schools to promote what it offers.
Economic Development Committee members discussed the utility of the program in overcoming barriers. They also reflected on how the program can help make trades and new career paths more viable to participants, and how it has helped Mi’kmaq community members throughout the province get into a vocation, or achieve a successful career pivot.
Business Background
Since 2021, Clearwater has been 50% owned by the Mi’kmaq Coalition, a group of seven First Nations in Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland, that includes Membertou, Miawpukek, Paqtnkek, Pictou Landing, Potlotek, Sipekne’katik and We’koqkmaq.
The Mi’kmaq Coalition’s acquisition of Clearwater was one of the largest Canadian Indigenous investments in the seafood industry.
Clearwater employs around 1,900 people and owns its own fishing quotas, vessels and processing facilities, and delivers to wholesalers, retailers and food service distributors around the world.
