Building a future in Canada’s engineering workforce: Ismael’s story

Ismael’s journey toward becoming a professional engineer in Canada began long before he arrived in Nova Scotia. While working in the mining industry in Africa, he collaborated closely with Canadian engineers, experiences that left a lasting impression and shaped his long‑term career goals.

“Working alongside Canadian colleagues showed me a different professional standard and approach to engineering,” Ismael says. “Over time, that interest grew into a clear ambition to build my career in Canada.”

With a young family, Ismael was looking not only for professional opportunities but also for a place where they could settle and feel supported. Nova Scotia stood out for its welcoming community and quality of life.

“Coming to Nova Scotia felt like the right decision for my family,” he explains. “The warmth of the community played a huge role in our decision to settle in Halifax.”

Ismael connected with ISANS during the immigration process. Later, as he began working toward professional licensure with Engineers Nova Scotia, he learned about the ISANS Engineering Bridging Program. At first, the registration process felt overwhelming.

“The requirements can be difficult to understand when you are new to the system,” he says. “I actually tried to register on my own without going through the Engineering Bridging Program, and I lost almost a year.”

Realizing he needed structured guidance, Ismael enrolled in the ISANS Engineering Bridging Program. That decision proved to be a turning point.

“Without the training I received through ISANS, registering as a professional engineer would not have been possible,” Ismael says. “The program helped me understand the registration process, the expectations, and how to approach the writing requirements with confidence.”

The program also created valuable employment connections. Through job opportunities organized by the ISANS support team, Ismael was introduced to employers and eventually secured his current position.

“ISANS did not just support me with licensure,” he says. “They connected me with job opportunities at a critical time, which helped me work in my field and provide stability for my family as we settled in Canada.”

Today, Ismael works in a role that requires both technical expertise and strong collaboration skills. Drawing on years of experience working with culturally diverse and multidisciplinary teams, he integrated seamlessly into his workplace.

“My role goes beyond engineering knowledge,” he explains. “My people skills and experience managing cross‑functional teams have been just as important in working effectively with colleagues, contractors, and municipal partners.”

Completing his P.Eng (Professional Engineer) registration while securing significant employment has had a profound impact on both his professional and personal life.

“Becoming a professional engineer has been a goal of mine for many years,” Ismael says. “ISANS made it possible for me to achieve that goal while continuing to grow and contribute to my field.”

Ismael’s story reflects what is possible when internationally trained professionals receive timely, newcomer‑focused support. Through ISANS, he not only achieved professional recognition but also found a sense of belonging and purpose.

Today, Ismael contributes his skills, leadership, and experience to Nova Scotia’s engineering workforce, demonstrating how supporting newcomers to belong and grow strengthens communities and builds a more resilient future for all.