At Grand River Employment and Training, we’re passionate about helping community members of Six Nations achieve their career goals. Whether you're a new job seeker or looking to make a career switch, our dedicated team of coaches is here to guide you every step of the way. To give you a closer look at what we do, we sat down with Tricia Bingham, an Employment and Training Coach at GREAT, to learn more about her role and how she helps job seekers on their career journeys.

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to become an Employment and Training Coach at GREAT?

I have been working as an Employment Counsellor for going on 7 years now, previously with Employment Ontario Service Providers in the Grey/Bruce Region. Having relocated to the area, I was excited to learn of an opportunity with GREAT that aligned with my past experience, and I have been with GREAT since January.

What are the main services and programs GREAT offers to support job seekers, and which ones are most popular?

GREAT offers many programs and services that can assist job seekers in all aspects of their career journey. Whether the individual is seeking pre-employment services such as résumé development or job search/interview assistance, or perhaps they are having trouble finding employment and want to participate in a paid training or work placement, some clients come in requesting funding support for training to start a new job or upgrade to retain the job they currently have. There are many ways in which GREAT can assist both employers and job seekers in the community.

How does GREAT tailor its coaching to meet the needs of both new job seekers and those looking to switch careers?

For new job seekers, I focus on identifying the unique skills and interests of an individual, their personality and circumstantial needs, and their goals both short-term and long-term. From there, I identify any barriers that may be affecting the job seeker’s success. After determining those factors, I try to match those traits with employment that relates to their specific situation. 

Can you share a success story of someone who found a job through GREAT’s programs?

I worked with a client who came into GREAT seeking financial assistance to attend training towards a career in Mental Health & Addictions. The client was extremely passionate about working in this field and ended up enrolling in the Introduction to Mental Health and Addictions Support Worker program with the OSTTC in partnership with Fanshawe College. Upon completing this program, the client found work right away in the field as a Withdrawal Management Support Worker and continues to help those facing addiction.

How does GREAT work with local employers, and what impact has it had on the Six Nations community?

GREAT supports local employers by assisting with staffing needs and training costs. Subsidy employment programs provide employers with the ability to hire and cover the cost to expand. By providing clients who are seeking employment and using knowledge of job matching and placement, this also minimizes the cost and time that would be invested in recruiting and retaining qualified job candidates. The impact GREAT has had on the community is beneficial to both employers and job seekers as it promotes employment in the Six Nations community both by supporting the continued operation of businesses and promoting employment opportunities for community members.

What advice would you give to job seekers, and what skills or industries do you see growing in the near future?

My advice would be to follow your goals and come see us at GREAT to help you turn your dream job into a reality because the possibilities are endless. The industries that forecast growth and demand over the next several years are jobs within the skilled trades sector.

Ready to take the next step in your career?

Whether you’re just starting out or making a career switch, the team at GREAT is here to support you. With a wide range of services and programs tailored to your needs, your path to success starts with us. Come visit us and let’s work together to make your career goals a reality!

For more information contact our team today.