From Connections to Careers: How Professional Networks Empower Newcomers

Written by Celia Huang at Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) with input from Claudia Valcarcel at ACCES Employment, Carlos E. Paz-Soldan at Hispanotech, & Jaime Gonzalez and Liliana Nakamura at the Latin Project Management Network (LPMN)

Strong networks are essential to unlocking career success for newcomers in the Canadian workforce. Through partnerships like those within the Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs), collaborations are transforming how internationally trained professionals navigate their career paths. A recent precedent of this is “The Art of Networking with TRIEC-PINs” event, hosted by the Engineering Connections Program at ACCES Employment, which focused on empowering participants with the tools and strategies necessary for professional growth. This event is a good example of how TRIEC-PINs collaborate with service provider organizations to help newcomers in the PINs network.

“The Art of Networking” wasn’t just another event but an opportunity for internationally trained engineering professionals to connect, exchange knowledge, build meaningful relationships and enhance their professional networks. Attendees left with the confidence and resources needed to advance their careers, gaining valuable insights on job opportunities, mentorship, and community engagement.

In July 2024, TRIEC PINs, alongside two PINs Associations—Hispanotech and the Latin Project Management Network (LPMN)—delivered presentations and participated in discussions at an engaging “The Art of Networking” event for a new cohort of internationally trained engineers. The event highlighted a wide array of resources and networking opportunities designed to help these professionals thrive in Canada’s competitive labour market.

Participants found the event to be a valuable opportunity to explore the wide-ranging resources offered by PINs Associations. These networks not only serve as platforms for professional development and leadership growth but also play a crucial role in creating a supportive community. The event emphasized that networking should be an ongoing practice, extending beyond immediate professional circles, to build meaningful connections that foster career advancement and lasting professional relationships.

Key takeaways from the event:

• Networking as a Lifelong Skill: Building a network should be a regular part of your professional life, not just when job hunting.
• Strength in Community: Lean on your peers for feedback on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and job opportunities, as well as emotional support.
• Add Value First: Always think about how you can support others—strong networks are built on reciprocal relationships.
• Long-Term Relationships Matter: Networking isn’t about quick exchanges; it’s about creating lasting, meaningful connections.

Newcomers often face obstacles like language barriers, lack of confidence, and the challenge of adapting international experience to the Canadian context. PINs Associations such as Hispanotech and LPMN work to bridge these gaps by hosting professional development events in English, providing guidance on Canadian certifications, and encouraging participants to expand their networks beyond their immediate communities. Hispanotech’s Mentorship Program, which runs for 3 months every year and is open to newcomers of every background. The program was created in 2015, leveraging content and processes adapter TRIEC’s Mentorship Partnership.

One successful initiative is Happy Friday, a monthly gathering organized and hosted by LPMN, in partnership with Hispanotech, and ALPFA Canada. This informal event, driven by the LPMN team, offers professionals from all backgrounds the chance to connect, share experiences, and build networks in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. While Happy Friday attracts project management professionals, it’s open to everyone, regardless of profession or cultural background, creating a truly inclusive environment.

For many newcomers, these events are career-defining. From securing job offers through referrals to achieving professional certifications, participants find themselves better equipped to succeed. These efforts have resulted in interactive workshops, employer engagement events, and a host of initiatives that help newcomers flourish in the Canadian workforce. Newcomers also benefit from the extensive network of relationships that PINs have with employers, professional associations such as Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) and Project Managment Insititute (PMI), and community organizations such as ACCES Employment

Success in a new country requires more than qualifications—it demands a strong, supportive network. By fostering collaboration and community, PINs Associations and partners like ACCES Employment provide newcomers with the resources and connections they need to excel. Through these ongoing efforts, professionals are finding more than just jobs—they’re building thriving careers.

Discover a PINs Association that aligns with your goals and expand your network, by visiting the PINs directory.