Long Truong, a University of New Brunswick graduate, attended a job fair at Fredericton Inn on Oct. 25 where he hoped to find a job in hospitality.
“It’s really hard to find the appropriate job,” said Truong. “It’s not easy.”
He doesn’t have a problem working entry-level jobs, especially when they have the potential for advancement.
The fair, hosted by Ignite Fredericton, an economic development agency, focused on hospitality, accommodation and food services.
The job fair hosted chains including McDonald’s, Tim Hortons, Dairy Queen and Montana’s along with local Fredericton businesses like Crabbe Mountain, King’s Landing and Graystone Brewing.
Angela Whitlock, the co-owner of Crabbe Mountain Inn, attended the job fair to secure more staff. She said that regardless of a future profession, working in hospitality is a great experience for anyone.
“It teaches you how to deal with difficult customers,” said Whitlock. “How to think about someone else’s experience, how to put yourself in someone else’s shoes.”
Whitlock said they had to depend on family throughout the pandemic. She said students can find a lot of different jobs at Crabbe Mountain, from outdoor activities like hiking or canoeing to hospitality services like serving.
Crabbe Mountain offers live music every weekend.
“If there are student musicians, we’re all about supporting local,” said Whitlock.
She said their live music scene is relaxed but interactive, comparing it to a kitchen party.
Nick Magee, a Tim Hortons human resources employee, worked for the chain for 15 years.
He said Tim Hortons is flexible and offers benefits that can be helpful to students.
They offer “Tim’s Points” for weekend shifts, free meals after six months of work and scholarships for high school and university students. He started working at the company when he was 15.
His movement in the company is an example of Tim Hortons promoting from within.
“You definitely can advance within the company,” said Magee. “If you have the skills and if you want to do it.”
Amanda Stairs is the assistant director of visitor experience at King’s Landing, a living history museum outside Fredericton. Stairs said they normally keep student hires on until they graduate and find a position in their field of study.
She said the museum offers a unique experience for employees that helps them open up.
“It’s not just history, it’s a fun place to dress up and pretend you are someone else,” said Stairs.
