Building Resilient Careers NB: A New Initiative to Support Job Seekers in New Brunswick

 New Brunswick’s workforce is facing a challenge—and an opportunity.

With the recent announcement of 25% U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports, industries in New Brunswick that rely on trade—such as manufacturing, fisheries, and export-driven businesses—are bracing for impact. The economic uncertainty that follows will undoubtedly affect workers across the province, with potential job losses, industry shifts, and financial insecurity.

As we navigate these changes, one question becomes clear: How do we ensure that every worker in New Brunswick has the support they need to transition successfully into new opportunities?

At Acorn Avenue Career Consulting, we are taking action by launching Resilient Careers NB—a workforce support initiative designed to help job seekers affected by these economic shifts. This program will provide career transition services and personalized coaching to help New Brunswickers build long-term career resilience.

Why I Created Resilient Careers NB

As a career development strategist, I’ve worked closely with job seekers at all stages of their careers—from those entering the workforce for the first time to professionals navigating unexpected changes. I know firsthand how uncertainty, job loss, and industry shifts can impact confidence, mental well-being, and long-term career prospects.

When news of the tariffs broke, I immediately thought about the workers, families, and communities that would be affected. I knew that many job seekers would be turning to existing government services for support—but also that some would need more personalized, hands-on guidance to help them confidently take their next steps.

That’s why I created Resilient Careers NB: to ensure that no one has to face career uncertainty alone. My goal is to provide job seekers with real strategies, encouragement, and personalized career transition support—so that they don’t just find another job, but build a career that aligns with their strengths and aspirations.

The Challenge: What’s Happening in New Brunswick?

The new tariffs imposed by the United States have the potential to disrupt New Brunswick’s key industries, particularly those that depend on exports. As businesses grapple with these changes, workers may face layoffs, hiring freezes, or the need to shift into entirely new industries.

The government has recognized this challenge and is taking steps to provide relief through economic development initiatives, funding programs, and workforce support efforts. However, as the demand for career services increases, many job seekers will require additional, more personalized support to navigate their next steps.

That’s where Resilient Careers NB comes in.

Introducing Resilient Careers NB: A New Approach to Career Resilience

Resilient Careers NB is designed to complement existing government employment services by providing hands-on, tailored career transition support for those affected by job loss or economic shifts. We focus on helping job seekers not only find jobs but also build sustainable, fulfilling careers that align with their skills and aspirations.

Our program includes:

Career Transition Support, such as:

• Personalized resume and cover letter assistance
• LinkedIn profile optimization and networking strategies
• Interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching
• Targeted job search strategies for today’s labour market

Workforce Upskill Planning & Career Pivoting

• Identifying transferable skills and emerging job opportunities
• Providing guidance on in-demand training and certifications
• Preparing workers for remote work, tech-driven roles, and growing industries

Career Resilience & Confidence Building

• Overcoming job loss stress and career uncertainty
• Group coaching sessions for motivation and support
• Strategies to build confidence, adaptability, and long-term career success

WorkingNB: A Strong Foundation, A Complementary Approach

WorkingNB and its partners have long been a cornerstone of support for job seekers in New Brunswick, providing essential resources such as access to job training, job search assistance, and employer connections. Their efforts have been instrumental in helping individuals navigate career transitions and secure meaningful employment.

Resilient Careers NB seeks to build upon this strong foundation by offering personalized, hands-on support to job seekers who need deeper career guidance to achieve long-term success. Our approach complements existing employment services by providing:

✔ One-on-one coaching for job seekers requiring in-depth career exploration, resume optimization, and interview preparation.
✔ Group coaching and self-paced tools to expand access to career development while maintaining individualized support.
✔ A hybrid approach (virtual and in-person services) to ensure accessibility for all job seekers, regardless of location or circumstances.
✔ Guidance beyond employment placement, including career confidence-building, professional networking strategies, and long-term career growth planning.
✔ Specialized support for career transitions, such as pivoting to new industries, upskilling, and navigating workforce re-entry after time away.

This initiative is designed to work in partnership with existing programs like WorkingNB, ensuring that no job seeker is left behind. By providing additional layers of coaching, skill development, and confidence-building, Resilient Careers NB helps individuals not just find jobs—but build resilient, fulfilling careers that align with their strengths and aspirations.

What I Hope to Accomplish

At the heart of Resilient Careers NB is the belief that career resilience isn’t just about job placement—it’s about empowerment. My hope is that this initiative will:

• Help job seekers navigate uncertainty with confidence and a clear sense of direction.

• Reduce career anxiety and job search overwhelm by providing structured, supportive coaching.

• Create sustainable, long-term career success by equipping individuals with the skills and tools they need to thrive.

By working together—with job seekers, employers, government partners, and local organizations—I believe we can strengthen New Brunswick’s workforce, support workers through these challenges, and build a stronger, more adaptable labor market for the future.

How You Can Get Involved

If you or someone you know has been impacted by these industry shifts, we’re here to help.

Job Seekers: Looking for career support? Join our mailing list for updates on services, workshops, and job search resources.

Employers & Partners: Want to support displaced workers or collaborate on workforce development? Let’s talk!

Groups & Organizations: Interested in partnering to help launch Resilient Careers NB? We’d love to connect.

Contact Us Today:
Jessica McKenna
Founder, Acorn Avenue Career Consulting

Final Thoughts: A More Resilient Workforce for New Brunswick

Economic shifts can feel overwhelming, but they also bring opportunities. With the right support, job seekers in New Brunswick can rebuild, reimagine, and reclaim their careers with confidence.

Through Resilient Careers NB, we’re ensuring that no one has to navigate career uncertainty alone. We’re here to help New Brunswickers take their next step forward—stronger, more prepared, and ready for the future.

Let’s build career resilience together.

Learn more here: resilientcareersnb.ca