Since October 2018, Shannon Polches has been working at the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) as the Economic Development Officer. Shannon’s work is fundamental to the success of Indigenous Peoples and communities in New Brunswick. She works hard to create well established relationships between Indigenous communities, the government and industries. Shannon believes this is a crucial step in growing our economy.
Can you describe your position at JEDI?
The main goal of my position is to develop strategic alliances between Indigenous communities, government, and industry to advance Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick and assist in the coordination of strategic proposals. My role includes but is not limited to:
Coordination of the EDO network meetings and planned capacity development
Promote, assess, manage and monitor the JADF program
Capacity development for Indigenous entrepreneurs
My ultimate goal is to have communities, government, and industry working better together.
Creating those working relationships, no matter how small, are crucial to sustainability for the future. Each and every Indigenous community in New Brunswick should have a role in the province’s economy.
How did you land your position at JEDI?
A kick-ass interview? Toot-toot
I was actually travelling at the time, PEI, I believe. I was scrolling through social media looking for employment opportunities. I had just finished up a work contract with another organization and was eager to enter back into the workforce. I stumbled upon the JEDI post, and saw that they had an opening that suited me. I literally applied on the deadline right at 4pm! It was a little rough putting together my resume from my phone, but I also managed to get a pretty good cover letter done as well, the rest is history.
What is your favorite thing about working at JEDI?
The work culture, hands down, best in town!
Tell me about your story.
I grew up on the Rez, St. Mary’s First Nation! I have two sisters and two brothers, I am the oldest, and wisest, of the bunch. In our adult years, my sisters gave me two beautiful nieces and one handsome nephew, who I treasure. I have a son and daughter of my own, Jaedis and Vann, who I raise with my husband, Tanner.
What is your work and education background?
I feel I have a pretty broad work experience history, some of my previous jobs include:
Newspaper sales
Call center- inbound tech support
Waitress
Bank Teller
Financial advisor
Cashier
Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy Coordinator
ISETP Coordinator
Bartender
Probably a few more I’m forgetting
I graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 2017 with concentrations in First Nations Business and Human Resources.
I also hold a certificate from CCNB, mobile application development (A JEDI program!).
What makes you unique?
These types of questions are always the most challenging to compose. I am unique in so many ways, just like everyone else has their own uniqueness. Bottom line is I always try and treat people fairly, I’m kind to people and I help when I can.
“It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”