b'TALENT RETENTIONESS acknowledges that, creating afocus on performing their job dutiescommitment to retaining Indigenous culturally understanding workplace isand, by the same token, obtain fulfil- talent is evident right from the hiring essential to retaining Indigenous associ- ment and growth in everything they do,process, setting the stage for a journey ates, Bain shares. They annually observeBain summarizes. that spans the entire employee lifecycle. September 30 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour residentialBOUCHIER (PAR GOLD)The foundation of Bouchiers approach school survivors and their families, andWeaving Indigenous empowermentlies in their online orientation, which to remember those who did not survive.into the fabricOn this day, ESS sends an orange shirtbegins with a powerful narrative of to all associates after they complete anBouchier, an Alberta-based generalownership. This narrative underscores Indigenous Awareness Training module.contractor, represents 80 First Nationsthe deep connection Indigenous team The module explores key conceptsand nine traditional territories acrossmembers have to the land and how such as the history of treaties, residen- Canada, boasting an impressive 43 per- their Indigenous roots are integral to tial schools and reserves, says Bain. Itcent Indigenous team composition. TheirBouchiers vision, mission and success. ensures that all associates have a deep understanding of Indigenous history and its implications.To support team-level conversations, ESSs diversity, inclusion and action councils (DIACs) collaborate with their director of equity, diversity and inclusion. They create toolkits for in-unit managers and provide speaking notes and bulletin board materials. These toolkits also include specific information about National Truth and Reconciliation Day, equipping leaders to support individuals affected by the trauma of the residential school system. Leaders receive content for Inclusion Moments, which kickstart team meetings in September with inter-active discussions about the history ofInuit-owned and highly experienced residential schools and personal recon-ciliation commitments. in delivering on multiple frontsIndigenous associates at ESS are encour-Access Roads & Reclamation & aged to aspire to leadership positionsAirstrips Remediationwithin the company. To support their ambitions, the company has intro-Bulk SamplingSite Construction & duced the Career Pathways program,Developmentan initiative that offers Indigenous asso-Dams, Dikes & ciates a clear roadmap for advancingRetention Site Excavation & their careers within the organization.Structures EarthworksIt outlines the courses and on-the-job training required for career progression, Exploration SupportSite Feasibility categorized into three tracks: Move Up Mobile Crushing &Study Supportfor those seeking promotions, MoveScreeningAcross for those interested in different roles or sectors, and Master My Craft for those already in their desired roles but looking to strengthen their skills.ESSs commitment to attracting and retaining Indigenous talent is deeply ingrained in their culture. They embrace diversity as a source of strength and productivity, actively fostering authentic and compassionate daily interactions.Building Beyond BoundariesWe do so by providing a workplace thatNunaGroup.comis physically and emotionally safe for all of our associates, where they can Aboriginal BUSINESS REPORT 61'