Find Employment: Building careers and strengthening workforce
ISANS employment services are vital in supporting newcomers’ growth and success in the Canadian workforce. Through personalized career counselling, job-readiness workshops, and networking opportunities, ISANS helps immigrants reach their professional goals and make meaningful contributions to Nova Scotia’s economy.
One of the standout programs, the Work-based Trades Practical Assessment (WTPA), offers a comprehensive pathway for tradespeople. Participants undergo a complete skills assessment, receive certified safety training, including First Aid/CPR, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), and fire safety, and complete a paid 12-week on-the-job practical assessment with Nova Scotian employers. This hands-on experience allows clients to demonstrate their competencies, identify skill gaps, and gain valuable exposure to Canadian trade practices.
Throughout the process, participants benefit from structured study groups, access to a trades question bank, and English in the workplace support, helping them start or advance their apprenticeship journey. In August 2024, with the support of the WTPA coordinator, David Asare secured a trade placement as a level 1 apprentice automotive service technician at Coffill’s Auto Repair in Canning, Nova Scotia. He is now preparing to take the level 1 exam, marking a significant milestone in his professional development.
ISANS also supports internationally educated professionals through programs like the Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) Orientation Program. This initiative provides mentorship, training, and guidance to help internationally educated nurses navigate the licensing process while offering valuable networking opportunities and career advice.
Elizabeth Obeng Nkrumah, a registered nurse with Nova Scotia Health, is a shining example of the program’s impact. With the support of the IEN program, Elizabeth successfully integrated into Nova Scotia’s healthcare system, where she now contributes to healthcare delivery and community support. Beyond her clinical role, she actively mentors other internationally educated nurses and advocates for culturally responsive healthcare. She helps her peers overcome the challenges of integrating into the Canadian healthcare system, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Nova Scotia Health, as the province’s primary health authority, provides comprehensive health services across hospitals, health centres, and community programs, supported by a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, researchers, learners, and volunteers. The integration of internationally educated professionals like Elizabeth strengthens the healthcare system and enriches the communities they serve.
In 2024, ISANS’s employment and bridging programs successfully connected over a thousand newcomers with potential employers in Nova Scotia, including 133 refugees and 165 Ukrainian nationals. Remarkably, 70% of employed clients secured jobs in their field or a related area, demonstrating newcomers' positive growth and integration as they work toward achieving their dreams and building new lives in Nova Scotia.
David Asare’s success as automotive service technician in Canning
“The WTPA program helped me start my career as a mechanic in Nova Scotia, where I could apply the skills and experience I earned back home. ISANS supported me every step of the way, from connecting me with an employer to providing safety shoes, tools, and everything I needed to begin working. I am deeply grateful for the support that helped me settle in and provide for my family.”
Empowering change: Elizabeth’s journey to healthcare leadership in NS
"ISANS truly helped me navigate my path to licensing. The program was incredibly accommodating, offering support at every turn. That level of support truly makes a difference. It's not an easy road to get your license, but it is achievable. I have done it, and many others have too. Don't give up. There are countless opportunities, and once you earn your license, the rewards are well worth the effort.”
“Dexter Construction Company and the Municipal Group of Companies work with ISANS to continue to build the capacity necessary in supporting immigrants and refugees through our partnership. Since 2011, Dexter Construction Company has hired over 100 clients from ISANS, and through programs such as Bridge to Construction and Engineers, through work-based competency programs. Dexter Construction has come to rely on ISANS to provide labour-ready individuals to join the construction sector during a period of acute labour shortages and an aging demographic across the industry. We look forward to working further to expand these programs and hire more clients for ISANS.”
Ryan Kidney
Director of Human Resources
Dexter Construction Company
"Nova Scotia Health is honored to collaborate with ISANS in support of the One Person, One Record initiative, the largest healthcare transformation in Nova Scotia's history. Through this partnership, we are committed to facilitating the integration of internationally educated healthcare & IT professionals into the workforce, ensuring they contribute their expertise to enhance patient care and improve the healthcare system. This alignment with the province’s health transformation efforts is a key step toward building a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable healthcare sector. Thank you ISANS!"
Jenn Williams
Recruitment Consultant
Provincial Planning at Nova Scotia Health
“ISANS has been instrumental in providing support to our employees for the past several years. It has been a good resource for anyone who is starting a new life in Canada. They are continuously evolving, especially with the current changes in immigration and they offer support to people even before they arrive in the country. Collaborating with them is a rewarding experience. Their commitment and passion to work truly shows in how they deal with everyone --- their employees, clients and partners.”
Ron Garcia
International Recruitment Manager
Shannex