Chamber News

As Fredericton stands as the Knowledge Capital of Atlantic Canada, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is actively engaged with support for all post-secondary students and the evolving regulations concerning international students. At the 2024 Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM & Convention, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce presented its original policy resolution at the National Policy Resolution Conference. The resolution entitled “Experiential Learning as Educational and Cost of Living Supports for International Students” was passed on October 18th. It presents that the “incorporation of experiential learning applied in addition to an international student’s 24 working hours can address the primary education needs, while simultaneously providing paid hours to sustain themselves and further career development.” The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce has advocated extensively concerning the positive impact of international students within our community. When Minister Marc Miller announced that international students will be limited to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week starting in September 2024, he stated that the cap will ensure international students can focus on their studies, and guard against the attraction of applicants whose primary intent was to work instead of those focused on education. The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce agrees that Canada should, and in most cases has, offered a high-quality education, and that education should be the focus of students. Economic pressures, however, also pull focus away from education including issues of affordability for all students, especially international students. Recent announcements have made clear that all stakeholders of post-secondary education in our country must work together to strengthen and elevate supports offered to students. Our post-secondary institutions have developed sustainable programs of supports for all students, both domestic and international, such as work placement for successful education and career development. The incorporation of experiential learning applied in addition to an international student’s 24 working hours can address the primary education needs, while simultaneously providing paid hours to sustain themselves and further career development. The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce’s policy resolution calls that the Government of Canada create a waiver available to students pre- and post-entry in which up to 16 hours a week of paid employment for international students (off-campus during the school term) beyond the 24-hour restrictions can be considered for educational programing as an independent study credit: experiential learning. This waiver will also require alignment with the Provinces and Territories to assure the necessary permits pre- and post-entry for international students to participate in this form of educational experiential learning paid employment. Finally, we call that the government present this restriction waiver opportunity to universities and colleges (Educational Institutions) as preparation to develop and offer experiential learning up to 16 hours per week as part of an independent learning course credit or course project. The benefits of supporting the educational experience of students to the business community are obvious. As students gain practical experience through experiential learning opportunities, the businesses equally benefit by training their workforce of the future, creating connections and identifying future talents. Ultimately, the support and expansion of experiential learning opportunities will strengthen the high-quality education offered to students within our communities, like Fredericton, creating a better future for all post-secondary students in Canada. Statements of Support “St. Thomas University has prioritized experiential learning opportunities for our students because it complements what they learn in class with practical, real-world experience. We have a very successful program and there is more we want to do, and for that we need partners. This policy resolution is important because it is a manageable, achievable approach that builds on existing successes. It highlights the need for the Government of Canada to work with and support the efforts of sustainable post-secondary education institutions — we have to work collaboratively to continually better the world-class education offered in Canada,” -Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi, President and Vice-Chancellor of St. Thomas University “At NBCC, we believe experiential learning is incredibly important for all learners, but for international students it brings added benefits, helping them connect with their new community and build professional networks right here in New Brunswick. Experiential learning opportunities make their transition into the province’s workforce smoother after graduation and we believe that it’s a key ingredient in the high number of NBCC international graduates who chose to stay and work in New Brunswick. NBCC is committed to fostering an environment where experiential learning thrives, setting our students up for successful careers and helping them feel at home.”                                           -Mary Butler, NBCC President and CEO   “The UNB Student Union (UNBSU) supports the experiential learning initiative championed by the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, recognizing it as a vital opportunity for our international students to gain top-tier education, hands-on career development, and invaluable networking connections. Together with the Chamber of Commerce – we are committed to fostering an environment that prepares students for both academic success and meaningful career pathways.”        –Drashtant Varma,                                        President, UNB Student Union   “Experiential learning is an educational strategy. It is a bridge to the future for students, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s job market. This policy resolution aligns with the Atlantic Chamber’s drive to enhance economic vitality in our region. We are eager to collaborate with educational institutions and other stakeholders to expand experiential learning opportunities.        –Rhonda Tulk-Lane,                                        CEO, Atlantic Chamber of Commerce   ### The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, a nationally accredited organization with more than 1,000 members is an active business organization engaged in policy development and advocacy that affects the competitiveness of our members and the Canadian business environment. The Chamber’s vision is ‘Stronger Community Through Business Prosperity.’   Contact: Morgan Peters, CEO, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce – (506) 451-9742; ceo@frederictonchamber.ca

My monthly commentaries took a short break during the New Brunswick election period, and yet when I looked, I was surprised to see that my last commentary was all the way back in August. I ended my last piece with, “this last year we have been speaking about and advocating for action, and as we move into the winter and a new year, we will make the logical progression to identifying impact”. So, now that we find ourselves quickly moving into winter, I thought a fall catch-up was in order. The Fall (NB) Election  During the provincial election, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce with our partners UNB and Ignite presented the Leaders Interview Series. We set out to help provide information vital to New Brunswick voters through an open and civil engagement, and I hope we achieved exactly that as we hosted a series of one-on-one interviews with MLA David Coon (leader of the Green Party of New Brunswick), then Premier Blaine Higgs (leader of the Conservative Party of New Brunswick), and then MLA, now Premier, Susan Holt (leader of the New Brunswick Liberal Party). The answers and policy positions provided by Premier Holt in both our Leaders Interview Series and the Urban Chambers of Commerce Candidate Questionnaire reflected an encouraging alignment with our advocacy over this past year, especially concerning Housing, Health Care and Education. We presented some of the most pressing issues and reiterated our readiness as a committed partner for growth, alignment of resources, and elevation of strengths to achieve competitive livability and business prosperity. In housing, we continue to urge action stemming from our May 7th letter of the urban chambers of commerce of Fredericton, Greater Moncton and the Saint John Region, to address the critical issue of housing in our province. New Brunswick has fallen behind in attracting investment in this crucial sector. The intent of our call for action has been and remains to embrace a clear growth agenda to achieve a competitive livability aligning with our neighbouring provinces. Health care is an urgent concern affecting the lives of New Brunswickers and one that is hindering future growth. Rather than simply restore a previous standard, we must modernize to provide a truly world-class system. Fredericton will require that the necessary resources be provided, but it will also require effective implementation of evidence-based policies. This is only achievable through consistent communication between the local health authorities and health care professionals. Health care and the future of our livable community is a collective effort, and we must align community actions in retention, recruitment, and system reforms. Our knowledge economy is a leading yet chronically unrecognized industry in Fredericton and education has been identified as an area of urgent need and simultaneously a resource holding vast potential to address almost every issue area for our province. Paired with immigration, our workforce of the future will come from our younger generations attending the schools across New Brunswick, and then attending post-secondary education and training at institutions such as UNB, STU and NBCC and the numerous private colleges available in our community. Public Safety  The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce has consistently advocated for mental health supports and community safety priorities. In recent weeks, the need to be proactive and vigilant has been clear and the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Fredericton Inc. (DFI) and Business Fredericton North (BFN) presented Public Safety Priorities to all levels of government. It is especially important to emphasize that Fredericton has a vibrant and engaged community, nowhere more obvious than the business community. We are working with all levels of government, police, and our numerous engaged social service organizations to continually improve the safety and security of businesses and citizens alike. On November 13th, the chamber hosted our annual Parliamentary Breakfast with MP Jenica Atwin. The Member of Parliament addressed recent issues in our community and committed to continued support. I also asked MP Atwin concerning ongoing federal reforms to assist municipalities, police services and our justice system in upholding public safety. We’ve renewed our call from 2022 concerning the urgent need for provincial support and coordination with municipal governments to enact individualized urban mental health strategies tailored to each of our communities.  The effects of the persistent and increasing mental health crisis manifesting in our urban centres have been identified by the obvious effects of addiction, crime, and homelessness. While municipal governments have been forced to assume a leadership role on mental health and related issues, it has become increasingly clear that a coordinated effort led by the provincial government, working with the municipal governments and professionals on the ground, is required. Policy Resolution: A Fredericton Solution to a National Issue  As Fredericton stands as the knowledge capital of Atlantic Canada, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is actively engaged with support for all post-secondary students and the evolving regulations concerning international students. At the 2024 Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM & Convention, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce passed its original policy resolution at the National Policy Resolution Conference, entitled “Experiential Learning as Educational and Cost of Living Supports for International Students”. When Minister Marc Miller announced that international students will be limited to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week starting in September 2024, he stated that the cap will ensure international students can focus on their studies, and guard against the attraction of applicants whose primary intent was to work instead of those focused on education. The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce agrees that Canada should, and in most cases has, offered a high-quality education, and that education should be the focus of students. Economic pressures, however, also pull focus away from education including issues of affordability for all students, especially international students. The incorporation of experiential learning applied in addition to an international student’s 24 working hours can address the primary education needs, while simultaneously providing paid hours to sustain themselves and further career development. Fredericton’s Health Care Summit: Clear and Present Needs of a Growing Capital City  On November 12th, The Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, in

Interview with Can you tell me a bit about how your business began?  Edward Jones was founded in 1922 in St. Louis, Missouri. The company expanded into Canada in the early 1990s, opening its first Canadian branch office in Nepean, Ontario, and has since grown to more than 870 financial advisors serving clients across the country. I joined the firm two years ago, initially serving local clients from a temporary office in the region. Now, I’m thrilled to be opening the first Edward Jones branch in Fredericton, New Brunswick, which is also the first woman-led branch for Edward Jones in New Brunswick. This expansion is part of Edward Jones’ strong presence across North America, with more than 15,000 branch locations in the United States and Canada. Tell me about your business? What does your business do?  What products and/or services do you offer? Edward Jones is a financial services firm that focuses on serving individual investors and business owners. We offer a wide range of financial products and services, including investment advice, retirement planning, and personalized financial solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. Our approach is based on building deep, personal, and trusting relationships with our clients, helping them define not just their financial goals, but their life goals as well. We’re committed to providing comprehensive planning and advice, particularly to underserved Canadians who need tailored financial guidance.   Tell me a bit about your clientele, who are the people who use, buy or take advantage of your products and services? Our clientele consists primarily of individual investors and families in the local community. We partner with people who value clear and straightforward guidance as they work towards their long-term financial goals. Our clients come from all walks of life, but they share a common desire to partner with a trusted advisor who can help them navigate their financial journey, whether they’re saving for retirement, planning for education expenses, or managing their investments.   How many staff do you employ? Full time or part time? Currently, our Fredericton office consists of myself as the financial advisor and my Branch Office Administrator. We’re a small but dedicated team focused on providing personalized service to our clients. As we grow and establish ourselves in the community, we have plans to add two more advisors to meet the growing demand for personalized financial advice in Fredericton. Is your business involved in any community activities or organizations? We partner with organizations that connect to our purpose and connect us to our legacy of leading with generosity and improving the communities we are a part of. This is our fourth year partnering with the Terry Fox Foundation. We’re proud to have raised more than $965,000 since our partnership began in 2021. I am a fervent supporter of and serve on the board of local non-profit organization, Women in Transition House which supports women and children fleeing dangerous situations. I am also a member and regular attendee of the 100 women who care organization that raises funds throughout the year for various local initiatives and other non-profit organizations.   Can you tell me about one of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had while working for the business? I find joy every day in connecting with and helping my clients on a human level. In my role as an advisor for Edward Jones, we partner with people as they navigate the ebbs and flows of life and work. EJ recognizes that we too are human, and very much emphasizes the importance of family, allowing us lean into a more work life balance by affording us autonomy in our practice.   What are you most proud of in your business? We’ve experienced tremendous growth in our first 2 years here in the capital, I’m proud of our success already and it’s only just the beginning – it makes me excited to think of where we will be in the next 5-10 years! What sets you apart from your competition? We are looking for talented teams interested in exploring what a 102-year old private partnership, managing $2.1T in assets can offer, in terms of client experience and career transition programs. Our multi-FA offices and teaming strategies provide advisors with flexibility in managing their practices while also offering aspiring advisors a supporting environment for growth. This collaboration fosters inspiration, support, and peer-to-peer learning. By sharing best practices and branch support costs, our approach ensures an optimal experience for clients. We believe this model is essential for advisors to connect with diverse communities where they live and work, reflecting the varied backgrounds across Canada. Our plan is to expand our branch office network in other Canadian markets where we see growth.   What is next for your business? Any exciting projects you want to tell us about? Edward Jones’ expansion into Fredericton means the firm is now looking to hire additional experienced advisors to join my team, in meeting the growing demand for comprehensive financial advice and guidance in the region.   How do you feel about the economy and opportunities in NB? As a newcomer to New Brunswick (now here 17 years from Ireland), I can firmly say that the province is full of opportunities from a business perspective. We have a robust, educated population, a vibrant and growing arts/culture scene, many industries leading companies domiciled here, and being considered the start-up capital of Canada is a nod to the largely untapped potential of our province. It’s exciting!   What is one thing you wish more people knew about your business? Edward Jones understands money’s a thing, but it’s not everything. We deliver comprehensive planning and advice – it’s personalized and based on what is most important to the individual client. We believe in developing long-term trusting client relationships, not transactional ones. We don’t sell products. We don’t have account size limits. Our approach involves taking a wellness approach to wealth, focusing on all life pillars: Family, Health, Purpose, and Finances. Through this human-centric approach we seek to understand