Success Stories
Jay Julian
Marine Engineering Management Technology“I spent 5 years in university after high school studying sociology and was very close to graduating; however, I was experiencing hardship in my personal life and was struggling. But I had the idea of being successful in my mind. I just wanted to be successful and provide for my family.
I had experience with lobster and snow crab fishing, had a taste of working on big ships and enjoyed being out on the water. But fishing is seasonal work and I needed more to be able to provide for my son. I needed something that was more consistent, that paid more and where there was room to advance.
After 13 years of being out of school, I started in the Marine Mechanical 1-year certificate program at NSCC, and later transferred into the Marine Engineering Technology program. After graduating from that program, I continued for another 1.5 years for the Marine Engineering Management Technology advanced diploma program, which really challenged me. I had to focus and keep my goal in mind. I graduated in May 2023.
My classmates played a role in making me feel accepted. They were really good to me and when I was able to help someone, I would. We all knew how difficult the work was and were willing to help one another. NSCC also has tutoring support available, which helped me through the classes that required physics and math.
Within 5 years I hope to be working on a ship and hopefully have my third- or second-class ticket by then. I don't want to bounce around from company to company, ship to ship. I'm older now. I want to have my regular routine and just continually get better at my job and provide for my family. I want to be one of those engineers who is not only reliable and really knows their stuff, but also want to be a positive person who is willing to teach and pass on knowledge to up-and-coming engineers.
Although the program was challenging, I believe the key to success is staying positive and putting in the effort. It’s all about hard work and determination.”
Lindsay Marie Bernard
Massage TherapyLindsay Marie Bernard, a 43-year-old single mother of four, has built a remarkable life for herself and her family. With a major in psychology, Lin made the bold decision to resign from her position with Mi’kmaw Family & Children’s Services and move her family to Halifax to be closer to Eastern College, where she graduated as a Massage Therapist in February 2019. Her journey didn’t stop there; she returned to Waycobah and invested in her dream by constructing a dome beside her home. This dome became the foundation of her massage therapy practice, where she began seeing clients shortly after its completion.
Lin’s reputation grew quickly, attracting contracts from resorts, hotels, and Native organizations for retreats. Her ability to provide direct billing with medical insurance companies like Blue Cross, Manulife, Sunlife, and several others, made her services even more accessible. But Lin didn’t stop at traditional massage therapy. In May 2025, she traveled to Toronto to earn certification in Japanese Head Spa techniques, blending traditional Japanese methods with European approaches. This certification was a game-changer, opening new doors and expanding her client base. Later that year, in October 2025, Lin pursued additional training in TMJ Mastery, learning specialized techniques to treat muscles and joints both externally and intra-orally.
To accommodate her growing expertise, Lin renovated a bedroom in her home into a dedicated space for head spa treatments. Her commitment to continuous learning and innovation led to a significant increase in clients and income.
At the present time, Lindsay is working on opening a health and wellness business expanding more modalities of self-care and healing. She has a great passion for helping others to care for themselves and see healing. This new business will focus on the Medicine Wheel as a guide to healing, improving not only one element of the wheel, but holistically, physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally.
Lindsay feels that our indigenous people have been through so much trauma and now is the time to do our very best to provide services to help our people heal and lead the next generation into being their best selves and break intergenerational cycles. Lin’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence, inspiring both her children and her community
Michelle Michael
Mi'kma'w Hair SalonMi’kma’w Hair Salon is a proud locally owned business that began its journey in October 2022. Owner and stylist Michelle Pierro has been passionate about hair and beauty since graduating from CBBC Career College in June 2019, where she earned her diploma with honors.
Michelle is a married mother of 4 beautiful children who aspires to set a great example to her family and friends, in a positive manner. Michelle demonstrates leadership, strength, guidance and responsibility in her work and in life.
After graduation, Michelle continued to grow her skills and experience under the mentorship of Lisa Nearing, a well-known and respected local hair stylist in Whycocomagh. With Lisa’s guidance and support, Michelle built her confidence and expertise, eventually deciding to start her own business in 2021.
What began as a small setup in her basement bathroom has transformed into a fully equipped in-home salon as of February 2024. Mi’kma’w Hair Salon now offers a full range of professional hair services, from root touch-ups and foils to modern cuts, styling and the latest spa treatments.
In May 2025, Michelle completed a specialized training in the Japanese Head Spa, a luxurious and relaxing scalp treatment focused on the wellness and hair health. Since introducing this new service, her salon has seen a steady increase, gaining an average of three new clients each month.
Through hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning, Mi’kma’w Hair Salon continues to grow as a trusted and welcoming space for clients to relax, refresh, and leave feeling their best. Soon, Michelle’s dream is to expand into a dedicated building outside her home, creating an even more accessible and comfortable space for her clients and community.
Brittany Halliday
Travel Advisor“Thanks to the support of the METS funding organization, I was able to reignite my passion for tourism and make a meaningful career change and get certified as a travel advisor.
After being away from the industry for over eight years, I was eager to return but needed the right opportunity and support to make it happen. METS provided the resources and encouragement I needed to take that important step. Their assistance played a key role in helping me transition back into a field I truly care about, and I’m now pursuing a fulfilling career in tourism once again.”
Stephanie Doucet
Indigenous Employment Manager“When I was initially hired, I came blind to an occupation I had very little knowledge on, but a passion for helping others. My back ground is health and working with community who struggle with addiction, employment is a piece to their wellness journey and success. This was an identified gap. Then this position came available and I applied for it , became the successful candidate and accepted the position. Some of my main objectives were to help my former clients in their wellness program was to support them with work experience , resumes, job readiness training. I also worked hard at learning to write successful proposals for more funding to employ, training more community members.
I also need to upgrade myself in this field too, so I applied to NSCDA program on being certified as a CCDP but with National recognition, it finally wrapped up last month ( October ) and I am now a Nationally Certified Career Development Practitioner.
The passion and drive I have for my community and team makes me want to keep on pushing myself to level up. Which in turn will motivate others to do that same.”
Simon Prosper
Prosper Construction“In June of 2023 I passed my Red Seal exam in carpentry. The journey to this achievement started in 2010 when I welcomed my first daughter Addison. That year, the Pictou Landing First Nation METS program provided me the resources to sign up with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Program. Between working fishing seasonally and carpentry in the off season, I decided to enroll in my second block for carpentry. This was greatly supported by the PLFN METS program. They helped me in any capacity they could by; funding of tools, books, stipend, and accommodations.
In 2021 and 2023 I became a husband and welcomed daughters Chiles and Rhea. My family continued to fuel my desire to work towards having a stable career. Since passing my exam in June, I started my own construction company named Prosper Construction, where I am employing and mentoring three community members.”
Kyle Duff
Armour Transportation“Since out of high school I’ve been bouncing back and forth between careers, starting with Electrical, carpentry and commercial fishing. After fishing and getting nowhere in life it was time for a change, I messaged our METS representative in Pictou Landing First Nation and requested to be put in the Commercial safety college tractor trailer internship program. It was a last minute decision on my part but METS didn’t let me down. Provided me funding for school, travel and a fresh pair of boots for starting my job at Armour Transportation.
Since September 2023 I’ve been hauling groceries and as of April 2024 I’ve been promoted up the line doing dedicated Canadian spring water deliveries. Amazing career, highly recommend, amazing METS program.”
Adrian Dorey
Gaming Programmer Diploma (NSCC)Adrian Dorey, a client of METS, demonstrated strong determination and a commitment to personal growth by choosing to upgrade his skill set through further education. Recognizing the importance of technology and innovation in today’s workforce, Adrian made the decision to return to school and enrolled at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC).
Through dedication and hard work, Adrian successfully completed the Gaming Programmer program, gaining valuable technical skills and hands-on experience in programming and digital development. His commitment to learning and professional advancement paid off upon graduation.
Today, Adrian is proudly employed full-time with our IT Department, where he continues to apply the skills he developed during his studies. His journey is a strong example of how investing in education and skills development can lead to meaningful employment and long-term career success.
Adrian’s story highlights the positive impact of training, perseverance, and support in helping clients reach their career goals.
Dallas Peter Paul & Kyle Tuplin
Heavy Equipment Operator TrainingDallas and Kyle successfully completed the Heavy Equipment Operator program at Commercial Safety College, demonstrating strong commitment, determination, and skill development throughout the training period. This comprehensive program provided hands-on experience and industry-recognized certification in operating heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
During the course, Dallas Peter Paul and Kyle Tuplin gained practical knowledge in equipment operation, workplace safety, hazard awareness, and regulatory compliance. Through consistent attendance, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn, they met all program requirements and demonstrated the competencies necessary to succeed in the construction and industrial workforce.
The successful completion of this training has enhanced Dallas Peter Paul and Kyle Tuplin’s employability and opened pathways to meaningful, sustainable employment within the heavy equipment and construction sectors. This achievement reflects not only personal dedication, but also the value of skills-based training in supporting workforce readiness and long-term career development.
Dallas Peter Paul and Kyle Tuplin are now well-positioned to pursue employment opportunities as Heavy Equipment Operators and contribute positively to the workforce and their community.
Dallas is gainfully employed with a company in Antigonish.
Sophia Gehue
Construction Truck OperatorAfter completing her bus driving course, Sophia Gehue set her sights on expanding her skills and exploring new opportunities within the transportation industry. With determination and a strong work ethic, she successfully earned her commercial driving credentials and gained valuable on-road experience as a bus driver.
Motivated to challenge herself further, Sophia pursued opportunities in the construction sector—an industry where skilled drivers are in high demand. Her training, professionalism, and commitment to safety quickly stood out. Through perseverance and confidence in her abilities, she transitioned into a truck driver position with a construction company.
Today, Sophia Gehue operates heavy trucks on active construction sites within Nova Scotia, contributing to major projects and playing a key role in keeping operations running smoothly. Her journey highlights not only her personal growth, but also the power of training, adaptability, and believing in one’s potential.
Her story serves as an inspiration to other Mi’kmaw women considering careers in transportation and construction, proving that with the right training and determination, new pathways and rewarding careers are possible.
Chelsey Marshall
IEO AssistantChelsey started her Social Services program in 2019 but had some issues with child care where they had to use public transportation. This proved difficult as she had to leave home at 6:00 AM with her child and then travel to all the other stops as well as hers to drop off her child and arrive to NSCC to start classes. This schedule was too difficult for her and her child as she is a single parent and felt she had no alternative other than to leave the program after the first semester.
Chelsey worked hard towards getting her license and went to driving school. She got her license and purchased a car which made everything much easier for her and her child. With the purchase of a car, Chelsey was able to return in 2020 and resume her classes. Having Mental Health issues did not lessen the difficulties she was facing . With the age restrictions at our local day care, her daughter was unable to attend until she was 18 months. This helped to lessen her difficulties somewhat.
She graduated with honours in the Social Services program. She worked with funding received through external funding from MEBO and MNFC as an educational assistant. When funding ended, she relied on EI to support herself and her daughter.
Fast forward, she now works a term position thanks to MEBO and METS.
Stephen Sylliboy (Ekkian)
Financial Assistant
”I first learned about the YESS/Youth Employment Program through the Eskasoni First Nation Facebook page and decided to apply as I was seeking employment. I was placed as an assistant in the Housing Department in Eskasoni. During my first year, my supervisor told me that I would be part of the CMHC Internship for one year, which was later extended for another year in March.
After completing my internship, I will transition into working as an assistant in the Financial Department for Eskasoni. I am grateful to the Band Administration for providing me with these opportunities.”
Nadine Francis
I.E.O. Assistant“I began my job search in 2024, seeking to enhance my resume. I turned to the Eskasoni Mi’kmaq Employment and Training Facebook page, where I discovered an email address for job inquiries. I reached out to inquire about any upcoming programs and submitted my resume. Soon after, I received a call from Mary Anne Paul, informing me that I had been selected as one of the successful candidates for the Eskasoni Youth Employment. During orientation, I was assigned the role of I.E.O. Assistant. This position taught me a great deal about its impact on the members of the Eskasoni community. When Mary Anne asked if I wanted to extend my position, I readily agreed, eager to continue supporting our community members alongside her.”
Cree Copage
Pharmacy AssistantCree was an IT Administrator before deciding she wanted to pursue the healthcare industry. With support and determination, she completed her Diploma as Pharmacy Assistant in 36 months!
Graduating August 2021, she is now a Pharmacy Assistant at our local guardian, helping serve her home community.
Cree received the Chief Noel Doucette Memorial Youth Achievement Award on Treaty Day 2022 from the NS Government.
Carrie Boultiler
Flight AttendantCarrie spent most of life in the beauty industry as a hair stylist before pursuing her dream job of becoming a flight attendant.
In 2021, Carrie completed her certificate at Atlantic Flight Attendant Academy. She was hired by WestJet - SWOOP airline, where she was persistent on learning French in order to work for a Canadian airline.
In October 2022 she landed her dream position with SUNWING airlines, allowing her to be close to home and travel more freely.
Dawnstarr Paul
Accounts Payable Finance ClerkDawnstarr graduated with honors from Maritime Business College with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing.
After she graduated, she was hired immediately by a company in the city. Unhappy with working remotely (from home) she reached out to Sipekne’katik First Nation’s office to assist with finding local work.
A position opened at the Sipekne’katik Band Council, she applied and landed the job as Accounts Payable Finance Clerk. Her future career goal is to become the Executive Finance Officer for the Sipekne’katik Band.
Teesa Syliboy
Counselling/Social ServiceTeesa started her first employment endeavor in the community as a home care worker. While creating a connection with community members providing much needed support. Teesa wanted to continue her education in healthcare. This brought her to the Counselling and Social Work Program at Maritime Business College.
This career path has led to a placement with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia. Teesa’s work experience with the Elizabeth Fry Society has partnered her with GAATE (Girls Action Against Trafficking and Exploitation), and the Eagles Nest Recovery House (NADACA).
Sharon Paul
Financial CoordinatorSharon has a strong work ethic and her determination for self-improvement has led her to become a Financial Coordinator.
Her powerful desire to work with the community drove her to the Sipekne’katik Social Department where she was assisted with one of the work experience programs offered by the band. From her experience, she gained skills and a desire to work in finance for the Sipekne’katik band.
Sharon applied for Finance Clerk and decided to further her career with the Payroll and Accounting Diploma with Eastern College. With confidence, she was able to pursue the Financial Coordinator position, where she currently resides.
Tyler Boyce
SherrifTyler reached out wanting to work in the corrections/RCMP field. Although his dream to become an RCMP officer fell through, he continued searching other avenues to find something similar. Then, along came an option in the Corrections field. He began the process with testing for a psych evaluation. Once he passed this evaluation, he proceeded to the next step which was an assessment to the Sheriff's Office. As you can realize, Tyler passed both the evaluation and assessment. In October, he was contacted and notified that he got the position as Sheriff. He started his training which will be for eight weeks and then will officially start as a Sheriff.
“A client who was involved in a horrific motorcycle accident some time ago and suffered a traumatic head injury has now received a heavy equipment operator certificate from the Commercial Safety College. Allowing him to expand his part-time landscaping and snow removal company and enabling him to acquire larger contracts for his growing business.”
“Two clients who participated in the Metal Fabrication and Training Program offered by NSCC successfully completed their training. Metal Fabrication is the process of turning raw steel into components for the manufacturing and transportation industries, as well as major infrastructure projects. Their new employment at East Coast Metal Fabrication will now ensure everything they do is built to last for generations, so they can take pride in their contribution for years to come.”
“A number of clients have completed various fishing programs, including a Fishing Master IV program and a Small Vessels Operating Program, allowing for them to either receive their Captains tickets or giving them the training they need to pursue the hours required to obtain their Captains tickets.”
“Another client who has successfully graduated from a two year Culinary Arts Program offered at the Marconi Campus has received current full-time employment with Kiju’s (Membertou) as a Culinary Chef. After working at Kiju's for a summer employment placement they have agreed to hire him on allowing him to work towards his apprenticeship.”
“I have a client, Logan Dill-Minard who just graduated in May 2025 from the Electrical Construction and Industrial Certificate Course from NSCC. He is interviewing with us here at the Band office tomorrow actually for employment.
“I had a client last year named Delaney McKenzie, who took the two-year paralegal Course from Eastern College and graduated, and now works as a paralegal at Kimbal Brogan law.”
