Employment Career Profiles

SLDA's Employment Connections & Development Office will be creating 'profiles' on individuals in the area, who have decided to make a home here in the Labrador Straits area & Start a Career here. These profiles will showcase the different careers & success stories in the region, and the positive reasons to make the area your permanent home. They will be added to the SLDA Facebook Page, and SLDA's website, and be about individuals working in various types of careers in the area. -be individuals who may be a local resident, a returning resident, or newcomer. If you, or someone you know, may be interested in partaking, kindly contact SLDA's Employment Connections & Development Office at: connect.slda@outlook.com or (709) 931-2055

Introduction
Russell was born in and grew up in Forteau, and actually attended a one-room school there.

Contact Information:
Email:slda@mylabrador.ca
Phone: 709-931-2010

Russell's Career
Russell dedicated 30 years to education, serving as a teacher, school principal, and superintendent in Newfoundland and Labrador. For 14 years, he worked as both a principal and teacher in various regions, including Lower North Shore Quebec, Northern British Columbia, Northern Ontario, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. In the last six years of his career, he worked for the Southern Labrador Development Association, as Executive Director.

Russell began his studies at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador (MUN), initially pursuing Pre-Medicine for two years before shifting his focus to Education. He achieved his degrees in Bachelor of Science (BSC), Bachelor of Education (B.Ed), and Master of Education (M.Ed).

While Russell enjoyed teaching, he found himself growing weary of traveling North. With a long-standing interest in community development, he believed that working with the Southern Labrador Development Association (SLDA) would be a perfect fit, especially as the organization faced challenges and required support to advance its mission of social and economic development. Interestingly, Russell was one of the founders of the Development Association in the mid-1960s.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Russell expresses that he never truly departed from the Labrador Straits, as it has always been a part of his identity. He served as the superintendent of schools in St. Anthony from 1973 to 1980, but returned to the Straits in 1981, to become the principal of Mountain Field, driven by his longing for teaching and direct engagement with students in the Labrador Straits. He describes this connection as being like a magnet, which often attracts many individuals back to the area.

Russ' Advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"For those contemplating residence in the Labrador Straits, I would highlight the values of freedom, simplicity of life, friendly and caring people. To anyone working and living anywhere, my motto is no matter what you do or where you go always try to make a difference."

Introduction
Originally from Heart's Content, Wanita relocated to Red Bay in 1979, as this was her husband's home. She is a proud mother of two and grandmother to three, currently living in Red Bay with her husband, Robert. Wanita loves riding her ski-doo, enjoying boil-ups, traveling, spending time in Red Bay, and visiting her children and grandchildren. She is also passionate about giving back to the community through volunteering and enjoys socializing with others.

Wanita's Career
Since relocating to Red Bay, Wanita has taken on various job roles. From 1986 to 2006, she worked at the fish plant, and she earned her Adult Basic Education Certification. She started training for a heavy equipment course, successfully earning her certificate in 2006, then operating heavy machinery as a seasonal dump truck driver in Labrador City from 2006 to 2010 . Through her wealth of work experience, she has acquired valuable knowledge and practical training in various fields.

From 2011-2018 Wanita worked various rotational and seasonal jobs. She worked as a Scale Operator on the Trans Labrador Highway, she became a Teamster at Muskrat Falls, took on labor work with the Department of Transportation and Works in L'Anse au Loup, and joined a paving company in St. John's, where she operated both a dump truck and a loader.

Finally, in 2018, Wanita began her role with Parks Canada as a Heritage Presenter, continuing to work seasonally in this capacity ever since. At Parks Canada, Wanita engages with tourists, sharing insights about the site and the history of the Basque people, including their arrival and contributions. She conducts tours on Sattle Island, provides site explanations, and presents information to bus tours, all while receiving valuable on-the-job training. A friend recommended that Wanita apply for a job at Parks Canada, noting that she would be a great fit since she enjoys promoting Red Bay and engaging with people.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Wanita truly loves her work, as a Heritage Presenter, because it's a refreshing change; previously, she was accustomed to working 12-hour shifts on a rotational basis, often away from home. With this position, she benefits from better hours and can return home every night. Wanita enjoys making people laugh and strives to create a fun experience for tourists.

Wanita originally decided to relocate to the Labrador Straits area because her husband is from this region, and she appreciates the beauty of the area. She considers Red Bay home, and is truly proud to be apart of the area. Currently, Wanita is the mayor of Red Bay, where she oversees town meetings and collaborates with the council to manage budgets and infrastructure, ensuring everything operates smoothly. In total, Wanita has served approximately 12 years in the mayoral position.

Wanita states that the area is peaceful and it's a calm environment, colleagues feel like family, creating a quiet space where you can share and celebrate your home. She truly loves living in Red Bay, as it holds a special place in her heart and is home to her.

Wanita's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:

Wanita explains that she enjoys living in the Labrador Straits area, as there's no 'Hustle and Bustle'. She states that "the area is calm, making it's easy to get to know people and connect with others. Individuals are friendly in the area and there's a strong sense of community, where everyone knows their neighbours."

Introduction
Anna grew up in Leading Tickles in central Newfoundland and relocated after her graduation. She has lived in four different towns across the province, most recently in Forteau. Her international experience includes three years in Russia and eight years in Tanzania. She has been married to her husband, Kevin, for six years and has two adult stepchildren, a son-in-law, and two grandsons. Anna cherishes family time, reading, writing, ice skating, trail walking, and the sound of the ocean in her free time.

Anna's Career
Anna works as a clergy member, specifically as a pastor with the Pentecostal Assemblies of NL (PAONL). In her role, she manages the administration of the local church, which includes tasks such as filing, maintaining financial records, organizing church events, and overseeing weekly worship services. Additionally, she officiates special ceremonies, including weddings and funerals, while also providing pastoral care to church members, adherents, and any community individuals who reach out to her.

Anna studied theology for four years at Eastern Pentecostal Bible College in Peterborough, ON, earning a Bachelor of Theology with a Pastoral Major, in order to apply for credentials with the PAONL. After two years of dedicated work, she was ordained with them. Anna's career began in 2001, where she served as a local pastor for six years, and did mission work in Russia as an ESL teacher for three years and in Tanzania as a child sponsorship administrator and advocate for eight years.

For the past five and a half years, Anna has been living and working in her current position. Initially, she aspired to be a math teacher due to her love for school, learning, education, and children. She studied at MUN for a year but she states that, "in my heart I knew that God had planned this current career path for me and was calling me to follow his plan. When I obeyed, he eventually also granted my desire for teaching children. God really cares about our giftings and desires, even though his timeline may be different!"

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Anna shares that "God also led me to Labrador and to Forteau." She had long sensed that upon returning from Africa, she would probably end up in Labrador, as her husband had wanted to come to Labrador since he was a boy. In June 2019, just a year after their marriage, they visited the area and the church before accepting a one-year invitation. Now, they are in their sixth year of ministry in the Straits. Anna discovered many relatives in Forteau and learned about her family's history, as her great-grandmother, Stella Critch, had roots here, and her aunt lived the last days of her young life here. Therefore, Anna states that "it seems I have come full circle. "

Since arriving in Forteau, Anna has enjoyed delving into her heritage and appreciates the peace and tranquility of the area. She explains that "The beauty that I see as I drive in over Forteau hill or overlook L'Anse Amour and the mountains over County Cat pond is as majestic as anywhere that I have traveled. And the people with whom I work and volunteer have taught me the importance of loving the land and having a sense of belonging."

Annas advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"I would encourage young people to see challenges and obstacles as opportunities, have faith in God who has plans for your life, see the best in people and give second chances, take time to enjoy nature, take pride in your town and be involved, and remember there is strength in unity!"

Introduction
April James-Earle serves as a Maintenance and Engineering Projects Supervisor with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. Originally from L'Anse Au Loup, Labrador, she relocated to Corner Brook on the West Coast of Newfoundland, in 2015 to pursue her college education. After spending six years away, April chose to return to her hometown.

An outdoor enthusiast, April fully embraces the stunning natural offerings of Labrador, whether it's snowshoeing, hiking, berry picking, or enjoying boil-ups. She also has a passion for gardening and knitting, and cherishes moments spent with her friends, family, and her dog, Molly.

Contact Information
Maintenance and Engineering Projects Supervisor (MEPS)
apriljames@gov.nl.ca

April's Career
April James-Earle is a Maintenance and Engineering Projects Supervisor at the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, currently working within the Roads Operations Division.
She completed three years of post-secondary education at the College of the North Atlantic in Corner Brook, where she earned a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology.

After gaining two years of experience as a Civil Engineering Technologist, April qualified to take the "AETTNL Professional Ethics Exam." She successfully achieved the designation of Professional Technologist (PTech) and became a certified member of the Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists of Newfoundland and Labrador (AETTNL).

April has always aspired to build a career in the engineering and technology sector. Following her graduation in Civil Engineering Technology, she worked on various heavy civil projects across the province. In 2021, she joined the Department of Transportation. April appreciates the versatility her career offers, as being a Civil Engineering Technologist opens many employment opportunities. This journey has allowed her to explore new places and connect with a diverse range of people along the way.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
April always envisioned returning home to Labrador, and when a job opportunity presented itself in 2021, she realized she had to seize it.

April states that "It's something about being surrounded by family, friends and simplicity of the Labrador Straits that you cannot beat."

April's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"The little communities scattered along the Labrador coast have so much to offer. If it be the tranquility of the great outdoors, or the overwhelming feeling of security from the close-knit communities. It's important for young people to get involved in the ongoing development within Labrador."

Introduction
Elaine was born and raised in the Philippines; she cherishes being a homebody and values spending quality time with her family.

Contact Information
Town Manager/Clerk at the town of L'Anse au Clair, NL
Email address: townoflanseauclair@hotmail.com
Phone: 709-931-2481

Elaines Career
Elaine dedicated 23 years of her career as an executive assistant at an engineering firm while living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where she lived with her family. In this role, she organized meetings, managed schedules, and supported CEOs and executives with their administrative requirements. She handled sensitive and confidential information, processed monthly expense reports, and maintained electronic and paper filing systems. Additionally, she reviewed work orders and contracts, and managed collections for major projects, until her move to Canada in December 2021.

She also acquired experience at an organization in Toronto, Ontario, that aids seniors with the transition from their homes to retirement residences. She worked there as a full-time administrative assistant for four months. In March 2023, due to the increasing cost of living in Ontario, she and her family decided to move to Newfoundland and Labrador. She currently is employed as the town manager and clerk in L'Anse au Clair, Labrador.

Elaine earned her bachelor's degree in computer science while living in the Philippines and completed a diploma in the Office Administration—Executive Program at Centennial College in Toronto, Ontario, in May 2023. She believes that her extensive experience in office administration, along with her recent diploma obtained in Canada, played a significant role in her securing the position of Town Manager/Clerk in L'Anse au Clair. With her background and recent education, she possesses both the soft and hard skills necessary for her current role.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Elaine expresses her fondness for working in an office setting. Both her past and current jobs have been in this area. She takes pleasure in collaborating with others, particularly in her present role, where she has the opportunity to support the local community in every possible way.

Elaine also states that "In my own experience, even only a few months here, I found Newfoundlanders & Labradorians incredibly hospitable and helpful, especially to new immigrants like our family. In addition, compared to other Canadian provinces, it is among the safest and has a comparatively cheaper cost of living. Here, work and life may coexist in harmony. As new immigrants, this is the kind of life we want."

Elaines advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"For the youth who are looking for a career that offers a work-life balance, then you are in the right place. However, to be successful and to live a life comfortably, you need to finish your studies. Get a diploma and hone your skills."

Introduction
Tyler works at Woodward Motors Ltd., in L'Anse au Clair. He was born & raised in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. His hobbies encompass a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including moose hunting, fishing, and camping.

Tyler's Career
Tyler is a Certified Journeyman Technician currently employed with the Woodward's Auto Group of Companies. His responsibilities primarily involve addressing engine-related issues, as well as, conducting electrical diagnostics and repairs.

Tyler completed the Automotive Service Technician program at the College of the North Atlantic in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Following the two-year program, he relocated to Labrador City, where he began his career at Carol Auto, serving for seven years. Through a combination of practical experience and ongoing training, he advanced to the position of Senior Technician with Ford Canada.

Tyler was drawn to this field due to his profound interest in vehicle mechanics and problem-solving, this sparked an interest in resolving engine & electrical concerns.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
In 2014, Tyler moved to the Labrador Straits region from Labrador West, seeking a more affordable cost of living and a change of scenery. He also aspired to raise his children in a more tranquil environment. Tyler appreciates the small-town lifestyle and the freedoms it offers, stating, "Living in a small town allows you to know nearly everyone in your community and the surrounding areas."

Tyler's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"Working at a dealership level, you get to build relationships with customers and earn their trust. With the new advancement in technology it is an exciting learning curve every day and I enjoy the challenge. I enjoy the small town living and the freedom that comes along with it. Living in a small town, you get to know pretty much everyone in your community and other surrounding communities."

Introduction:
Kaitlyn is from L'Anse Au Loup and completed her high school education at Labrador Straits Academy in 2016. Ever since junior high, when she began thinking about her future career, she has been certain about her aspiration to become a hairstylist and open her own salon in her hometown. After spending a few years in St. John's, her desire to pursue this dream only grew stronger. She loves Labrador and all of the fun things to do here. Kaitlyn enjoys kayaking, hiking, having boil ups and spending time with family and friends.

Contact information:
Phone Number: (709) 927-7614
Email: daviskaitlyn@hotmail.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kaitlynshairstyling

Kaitlyn's Career:
Kaitlyn has been in the hairstyling business since 2016. As soon as she graduated high school, she headed to St. Johns where she did a Cosmetology course at Keyin College. She then came home to do her work term with Glenda Buckle, a hairstylist in Forteau. In the fall, she headed back into St. John's to gain some experience in the hairstylist industry and worked at Magic-Cuts, a salon in Mount Pearl. After working there for over two years she decided to move back to her hometown in Labrador and start up her own business. Kaitlyn opened her salon in L'Anse Au Loup in 2019 and shares that she has built so many lifelong friendships along the way.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits:
Having a business back home is something that Kaitlyn always wanted. To start up her business, Kaitlyn learned about the provincial Self-Employment Assistance program, where they directed her to NLOWE (a provincial program for women entrepreneurs). With help from this start-up program, she was able to begin her business by learning the responsibilities and requirements for owning your own business. Over the past five years since she opened her salon, there has been a lot of learning, growing and relationships made. Kaitlyn says that she loves the personal friendships that she has with so many of her clients. She shares, "It's cool to have some of my teachers who taught me since I was five years old are now my clients".

Kaitlyn's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"If you are like me and love the Labrador coast, you know you want it to always be a big part of your life. I thought that moving home and starting a business might not be as successful as living away, but the support I have received in the last 5 years is amazing. Other businesses in the area are so supportive and we work together, and all hair stylists help each other out. A disadvantage I have is not being able to access my hair agencies right away but with help from other businesses we make it work."

Introduction:
Nerissa is originally from L'Anse au Clair and moved to L'Anse au Loup in 2001. She is married to Warrick Belben and has one daughter, Danica. In her spare time, Nerissa loves to read, listen to music, spend time at her cabin and visit with her grandson.

Contact information:
Phone Number: 709-927-5311
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/DotsBakeryandCoffeeShop

Nerissa's Career:
Nerissa is employed by NLSchools, serving as both a Grade 6 teacher and an Instructional Resource Teacher (IRT) at Labrador Straits Academy, in L'Anse au Loup. From a young age, she aspired to become a teacher, driven by her passion for working with children, leaving little room for consideration of alternative career paths. In 1993, she enrolled at Memorial University of Newfoundland, attending campuses in Corner Brook and St. John's, where she earned a Bachelor of Education with a focus on Primary Education. Subsequently, in 1998, she completed her Master's degree in Education, specializing in Teaching and Learning, through distance education.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
The Labrador Straits was always home to Nerissa and she never considered relocating. She is proud to live here and be a part of the community. In 2007, she and her husband decided to embark on a new business venture, and bought Dot's Bakery & Coffee Shop. Nerissa states that "Owning your own business takes a lot of time and dedication but the hard work pays off when you see your business grow, the people you get to meet and relationships you form with the community and travelers."

Nerissa's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"The Labrador Straits is a great place to live and work. The area is so beautiful and we have so much in our own backyards that we just have to get out and explore. The sense of community and being a big family is a feeling you don't get in the cities."

Rianna's Career
Rianna has been a nurse, for nearly 2 years. She started as a LPN, working casual in Forteau,
and completed her degree through Western Memorial School of Nursing. Rianna completed an additional 9 months of training through Labrador Grenfell Health, , in order to be qualified to work at the clinic.
The role of a regional nurse is quite extensive, you work with a broad scope, which allows you to work more independently in rural areas. The scope of practice includes suturing, following specific guidelines to
provide treatment and education, and working closely with physicians to provide the best possible care to their communities.
Rianna completed her LPN diploma at the College of North Atlantic, in Corner Brook. Following that, she completed a bridging semester which allowed her to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, in 3 years, through Memorial University in Corner Brook. Since then, she has continued her education by completing the Regional Nurse Mentorship Program with Labrador Grenfell Health which took her to various practice areas such as Charlottetown, Goose Bay, St. Anthony, Roddickton and Natuashish. Rianna has completed courses such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Neonatal Resuscitation and plans to continue to complete more this fall.
Rianna didn't always know that she wanted to be a Nurse. She knew that she wanted to be able to work in rural areas, and give back to communities such as the Labrador Straits. Growing up in a small town, Rianna enjoyed the lifestyle and knew she wanted to continue doing the same. She adds that it has been challenging, but yet so rewarding working as a regional nurse.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Rianna has spent most of her life living in a small community, and she welcomes a new adventure living in Labrador. She hopes to have a long, happy career serving the people of the South Coast.

Rianna's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"Working rural provides you with the opportunity to get to know your patients, provides a sense of community, and knowing you have support behind you in times of need. From the sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails to the kind people that surround these communities, you will feel at home in no time. If you're up for an adventure, Labrador straits should be at the top of your list."- Rianna Gill

Chantelle's Career
Chantelle is a Early Childhood Educator, and provides childcare for children from infancy to school age. She plans activities to help develop their intellectual, physical, emotional and social growth while ensuring their security and well-being. Chantelle adds that " Helping children find a sense of belonging, while shaping a young mind and fostering their love for learning through play during their growth and development journey makes this profession deeply fulfilling."
In 2015, Chantelle graduated from the CNA Early Childhood Education Diploma program (Level 2 ECE). In 2024, she graduated from the CNA Early Childhood Administration Leadership Advanced Diploma Program (Level 3 ECE). Chantelle is continuing on to do her Bachelors in Early Childhood Education this Fall (Level 4 ECE)
After working in Centre Base childcare for two years, Chantelle went on maternity leave with her first born child. She wanted to be able to stay home with her child, and also still be able to help provide for her family. Therefore, Chantelle decided to open her own childcare program on the South Coast of Labrador. She is fully licensed through FCCC and offers the $10 a day childcare through the Operational Grant Program. She adds that the process was lengthy, being in Labrador, but she had great guidance with FCCC.
Chantelle became the first Licensed Home Childcare in all of Labrador.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
After spending her maternity leave in her husband's hometown of L'Anse Au Loup, Chantelle states that "it wasn't hard to fall in love with the safe little town, friendly folks and ocean views. It was the perfect place to start and raise a family. With no licenced childcare centres or family homes and a background in ECE, it was the perfect business opportunity."

Chantelle's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"The Labrador Coast has endless opportunities. The scenery along the coast is second to none with pristine nature just waiting to be explored. If you're a lover of the great outdoors there's no other place to be. The close knit communities offer a slower pace and a sense of security. If working in a small town is something you've always aspired to do, the Labrador Coast has so much potential and many business opportunities to be explored. I would love to see more day homes offering the $10 a day childcare for families. It's a very rewarding career, in more ways the one!" -Chantelle Fowler

Ian's Career
Ian is a business owner, as he owns Blue Spade Greenhouse, which is located in Capstan Island. It is a 4-season Garden Centre, with Spring & Summer being the most popular seasons, specializing in hanging baskets. It has been open for 11 years, and he was 19 years old when he started. Ian was actually a Youth Ventures participant for 1 year.
For the business, he learned as he went. He worked at a garden centre in the Humber Valley area, where he built valuable relationships with other greenhouse owners & suppliers. It had always been an interest of his, as his mother has also always had an interest in gardening and she is now employed at his business. It all started with his grandparents, as they always had a lot of beautiful flowers.
Ian is a teacher by trade, and is currently working as a Program Specialist for Reading for the following areas: all schools in Labrador, the Northern Peninsula, Deer lake, Corner Brook & White Bay. In his role, he supports educators with reading instruction and assessment. To become a teacher, Ian went to MUN in 2012, and completed a Bachelor of Education in Primary & Elementary. He also just recently completed a Master's Degree in Reading Development and Instruction. Ian has always had an interest in this type of career and he now has two very busy careers.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Ian is originally from L'Anse au Loup, so he wanted to start a business in the area. While Ian travels a lot for work, the Labrador Straits is home to him. He explained that he wanted to start a business here because "it's home", and "it is a service that a lot of people would miss if it wasn't here in the area."
Ian explained that it was originally just going to be a hobby. SLDA owned the building, and the previous owners had retired. Therefore, the building was vacant for about 2 years, and they were looking for someone to lease it. Ian decided to use this as an opportunity to turn his hobby into a business. The Process: it was in the month of March when he started and he had nothing on hand at the time (no supplies, etc). Therefore it was a rough start and took a lot of hard work. When they first started, they planted all of the flowers from seeds themselves, and they 'ground & mixed' their own soil in the first year.

Ian's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"It is really rewarding. You get to build strong relationships with community members (customers), who have known you your whole life." an enjoys hearing stories and helping them.

Brittany's Career
Brittany is a Pharmacist and have been practicing for 10 years. As a pharmacist, she is responsible for dispensing prescribed medications and providing proper education regarding these medications. She also administers vaccines and prescribes for many minor aliments.

She attended Memorial University School of Pharmacy in St. John's, NL, for post- secondary education, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. Since graduating, she has completed additional training in order to administer injections, prescribe for minor ailments, provide OAT, and provide fitting for medical compression stockings.

Before choosing her undergrad, she knew that she had an interest in healthcare and working with the public. After exploring some other options, Brittany settled on a degree in pharmacy as it allowed her to do both.

Living & Working in the Labrador Straits
Brittany originally decided to move to the Labrador Straits area, for a job opportunity with Big Land Pharmasave.

Brittany explains that "working as a pharmacist in a rural area can be challenging at times, but also very rewarding. With a smaller population, it allows you to get to know your patients quite well and become an important part of their healthcare team. Living in this area is so different than how I spent most my life, but I have loved getting to explore the beautiful land and take part in many new outdoor adventures."

Brittany's advice for individuals aspiring to live and work in the Labrador Straits:
"If working in a rural area is something you aspire to do, then I believe the Labrador Straits is a great place for that. The land is beautiful with so much to explore and the people will make you feel welcomed and right at home."