Private Security for 2010 Recruiting in Saskatchewan
Vancouver-based security company coming to Saskatchewan to recruit for 2010 Olympics
By Heather Polischuk, Leader-Post, August 14, 2009
REGINA — In what it's hailing as a great opportunity for Saskatchewan's aboriginal population, a Vancouver-based security company is coming to the province to recruit for the 2010 Winter Olympics.
"It's a great opportunity to help contribute to the success of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic (Winter) Games, so that once in a lifetime opportunity is definitely a key thing to highlight," Derek Gagne, workforce division manager with Contemporary Security Canada, said during a phone interview from Vancouver. "I think the other is Contemporary Security Canada is going to be offering a really extensive training program where the folks who work for us will gain really valuable skills as well as experience that they can use towards future job opportunities."
CSC, contracted to provide security screening for the games, is looking to hire 5,000 security staff from across the country, including 1,500 to 2,000 people of aboriginal background. To do that, CSC is sending recruiters across the country, including to Regina's Gathering Place beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday. The search continues the following two days in Saskatoon.
"Ideally we want it to be diverse and reflective of our diverse population, so looking at French speakers, women, First Nations," Gagne said. "It's about creating a diverse workforce that's reflective of Canadian society."
While anyone is welcome to apply, Gagne said aboriginal groups have shown great interest in the recruitment campaign and he expects hundreds to turn up in Saskatchewan — the first stop for CSC.
"There are folks who have expressed a keen interest and we will travel where the keen interest is," he said.
The File Hills Qu'Appelle Tribal Council is among groups that have been in contact with CSC to facilitate Saskatchewan recruitment.
"It's certainly exciting that any company would come specifically to target First Nations and Métis individuals for employment," the council's tribal vice-chairman, Myke Agecoutay, said. "The organizers are ready to train certain individuals in different fields, so those are skills that these First Nations people can carry on to something different once the Olympic Games are over . . . so it's a win-win situation for everyone."
CSC is looking to fill five positions, including screeners, x-ray operators, team communication operators and two management positions, none of which require any past security experience as paid training and licensing are provided. Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada, commit to full-time work during peak periods in February, successfully complete training and be willing to go through a criminal record check. CSC is looking for people with good customer service and interpersonal skills and who can work well in a team environment.
Information about the positions and qualifications — as well as the online application CSC recommends be submitted prior to interview — is available at www.hireme2010.com.