Meet The Team
At NIEFS, we believe in the power of building strong, positive and productive connections and we hope this page helps you get to know some of the talented and passionate people behind the great work we do.
Many thanks to our participating team members for sharing their photos and short bios and for giving us insight into your expertise, interests, and what inspires you.
Shannon Baikie, Executive Director, MA, CCDP
Hello North Vancouver Island and beyond! My name is Shannon Baikie and I am the Executive Director here at North Island Employment Foundations Society otherwise known and NIEFS. After 15 years working in the technology start-up space in senior VP Human Resource positions in Victoria, I moved back to my hometown of Campbell River in 2008 to be with my husband and raise my newborn son.
I had no idea what I was going to do career wise given there were very limited opportunities in senior human resource positions so I began to consider my options after parental leave. Fortunately, I saw a posting for a Career Advisor with NIEFS and in my heart felt it was a right fit so I applied and got the job.
Fast forward 16 years, with a Master’s in Community Economic Development and a Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP), I’ve pretty well done it all at NIEFS and now have the absolute privilege to lead an amazing team of professionals every day! The Career Development sector is growing quickly and is recognized nationally through rigorous certification demonstrating the skill and competence of those in the field. If you haven’t connected with a Career Development professional you are missing out. No matter what age or stage you are at in your career we can help in your journey!
Chelsey Collins, Youth Employment Specialist
I’m Chelsey, a Youth Employment Specialist at Foundry Campbell River. I work with young people ages fifteen to twenty-five, supporting them as they navigate their paths in education and employment.
With more than a decade of experience working with youth through the school district and non-profits, I’m passionate about making young people feel at ease and comfortable, even in situations that can (sometimes) feel a little awkward. I like to bring humor into our conversations, helping to break the ice and help to make those moments easier.
As a mom, small business owner and long-time Campbell River resident, I’m proud to call this community home. I’m grateful every day for the energy and optimism I get from working with the youth in our community.
Julie Mills, Specialized Employment Counsellor, Disability Services Team, CCDP
As a CCDP with a background in mental health, I bring unique skills, knowledge and experience to my role as a Specialized Employment Counsellor at North Island Employment Foundations Society.
With a deep appreciation and respect for the challenges service participants might face in their daily lives, I am able to provide a safe space for them to explore career options, gain tools to build employability skills and get the support needed to achieve sustainable work.
As an employment counsellor I am trained to help with disability disclosure, to provide information on employee rights in the workplace and to providing access to specialized assessments that can aid in finding a career or training pathway.
I am entering my third year at NIEFS and the role continues to grow and change daily as we strive to support our clients. Our crew is open and welcoming and we hope you connect with us soon.
Rachel Gildersleeve, Employment Counsellor
Hello! I’m Rachel, an Employment Counsellor at NIEFS in Port Hardy.
This role has been a new career change for me, and it couldn’t have been a better fit.
Prior to me joining the WorkBC family I’ve worked as an Administrator in Municipal Government, Wind Energy and the Oil Industry.
Born and raised on the North Island, I have spent a large part of my life living in the remote community of Port Hardy. I have been involved in various volunteer organizations, church and school events. I’ve always had a deep passion for helping out others and my community and I am proud to call it my home.
I am grateful to work for such a wonderful organization, and the chance to be able to do real helpful work in my community.
Serena Gill, Employer Services Coordinator
Hi! If we haven’t met before, I look forward to meeting you! That’s my jam…meeting people and making connections! I love hearing stories, learning history of our community and finding out how I can help move things forward. I might not remember statistics and numbers, but I will always remember a face, a name, or a voice!
As a born Campbell Riverite, my roots have brought me back home to support the growth of our unique community. I have absolute gratitude for my daily role at NIEFS/WorkBC where I am able to provide a platform for employers to share knowledge and network with each other so we can all contribute to our region’s economic development and community improvements!
Come talk to me about your business idea, the struggles your business might be facing, the knowledge you would like to share with other businesses, or jobs you might be trying to fill!
Dianne Hawkins, Skills Bridge Program Coordinator
With extensive corporate business experience working and advocating on behalf of local businesses, and possessing a background in Adult Education, I find the role as Project Coordinator inspiring and life giving. Creating opportunities for international professionals, connecting clients with professionals in their field, making connections and building collaboration is what I love! It has been encouraging to see the welcome response from the Campbell River and N.I. region business communities in making room for newcomers to the region.
It is an honor and privilege to work with immigrants and help them acquire the necessary credentials they need to secure work in their chosen profession in Canada. To date, NIEFS has helped over 60 clients gain much needed financial assistance to pursue credential recognition etc. Much thanks goes out to the NIEFS board for committing to extending this project beyond the initial funding provided.
I enjoy the role of helping others, providing resources and assisting with navigating challenges. Working with the team at NIEFS and seeing the contributions we make in the lives of others is very rewarding. The Skills Bridge project is a “win-win” for our community, our businesses and the individuals who now call Canada home.