Newfoundland and Labrador Jobs Forum Builds Partnership to Shape Future Workforce

Press Release

June 11, 2025

Industry partners, educators, labour representatives, community leaders and various levels of government engaged in the inaugural meeting of the Newfoundland and Labrador Jobs Forum to discuss the evolving labour market and identify shared priorities to support the province’s economic growth.

The event, hosted by the Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Jobs, Immigration and Growth, brought together a diverse group representing key private sector industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, clean energy, technology, fisheries, mining and more.

Participants heard updates on workforce development initiatives already underway, including targeted investments in artificial intelligence training, clean energy skills development, youth apprenticeships and immigration pathways designed to bring global talent to the province.

The recent signing of the Churchill Falls Memorandum of Understanding was highlighted as a major opportunity for job creation, long-term energy development and strengthened partnerships with Indigenous governments.

While public sector workforce needs remain a priority, today’s discussions allowed for deeper engagement with private sector leaders to better understand their unique challenges and opportunities.

Feedback and insights from today’s forum will help shape a Commitment Charter to be developed in the coming weeks. This charter will outline shared goals and provide a collaborative framework to ensure Newfoundland and Labrador’s workforce remains responsive, resilient and ready for the future.

Quotes

“Newfoundland and Labrador is entering a period of real opportunity and transformation – from clean energy development to advancements in technology and innovation. But to fully seize these opportunities, we need to align across sectors throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Today’s forum showed the power of collaboration, and I’m confident that by working together – governments, industry, labour, educators, and communities – we can build a workforce that is ready to meet the future head-on.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“This forum is a vital opportunity to bring together voices from across the private sector to better understand the unique labour challenges and opportunities they face. By hearing directly from industry leaders, we can tailor our workforce strategies to meet real needs and support sustainable growth. Our government remains committed to building strong partnerships that ensure Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy thrives with good jobs and vibrant communities.”
Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Jobs, Immigration and Growth

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