Tobique First Nation is the largest rural Maliseet community in NB. It is located in the northwestern part of the province, and rural communities with agriculture and forestry being the majority of employers in this region. While there is a decline in population in the surrounding communities, the majority is more of an older generation. On contrast, Tobique First Nation population is growing fast, and is a young based population.

Tobique First Nation Youth is comprised of nearly a third of the population of TFN consisting of individuals between the ages of 15-30. This growing segment of the population is in need of some skill development and direction. The program fosters a sense of purpose and self worth. The program intends to use this as a stepping stone on a path to employment in many different aspects in the wood manufacturing sector. These opportunities are assembly, to construction and added value products.[These opportunities exist within our community, but outside our community in rural and urban settings.]

Tobique First Nation has two employment counselors that provide assistance. They counsel and provide information to worker clients on all aspects of employment search and career planning. They also provide counseling and information to employer clients regarding human resource and employment issues. Duties include interviewing clients and to obtain employment history, educational background and career goals. Identify barriers to employment and assist clients with such matters as job readiness skills, job search strategies, writing resumes and preparing for job interviews. Advise employers on human resource and other employment related issues. Administer and interpret tests designed to determine the interests, aptitudes and abilities of clients. Assess need for assistance such as rehabilitation, financial aid or further vocational training and refer client to the appropriate services. provide established workers with information on maintaining a job or moving within the organization, dealing with job dissatisfaction or making a mid-career change.

Our employment counselors have the skills and knowledge to deliver effective employment services. They work with individuals, and sometimes with groups, in making wise career decisions by support and coaching the client with the career development process. They help their clients as an informed partner during the process to find the right type of job and overcome barriers. As informed partners the counselors collect and assess information about education, previous employment, experience, skills, interests, and personal information. The employment counselor encourages success while encouraging clients to become self sufficient. Employment counselors have excellent interpersonal skill. They have a thorough understanding of the world of work and up-to-date information about trends that affect the employment outlook.