In January 2024, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara indicated they wanted to see more training options for health care workers in Steinbach and other communities across the province. April 8 event connects nurses with employers This month, the Manitoba government is hosting a provincewide hiring forum to help nurses and health care aids connect directly with employers and enter the workforce more quickly. Asagwara says a new initiative is intended to reduce barriers for qualified professionals looking to begin or return to work in the province’s health-care system. “We know there are qualified nurses in Manitoba who want to contribute their skills but face barriers to entering the workforce,” Asagwara says. The Make it in Manitoba: Nurse and Health-Care Aide Hiring Forum will take place April 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg. “This forum will help remove those barriers, support nurses to transition into practice and strengthen care for patients across the province.” Related Stories: Manitoba health minister inspired by Steinbach's health-care workers Younger generation encouraged to consider career in health care Southern Health expands services and addresses staffing challenges Project completions and staffing remain top priorities for Southern Health–Santé Sud On-site interviews, networking offered The one-day event will bring together health-care employers from across the province, including representatives from rural and northern communities, with the goal of matching job seekers to current vacancies. Attendees will have opportunities to meet with employers, take part in on-site interviews for available nursing positions and learn more about high-demand clinical areas. “This is about making it easier for nurses and health-care aides who are ready to work to connect directly with employers who need them,” says Asagwara. The forum also highlights training and support programs aimed at helping nurses transition into practice or advance their careers. Employers attending the forum will focus on filling high-need positions while also promoting long-term retention through structured onboarding and mentorship opportunities. The province says the event is part of its broader effort to recruit and retain health-care workers by creating clearer pathways into the system and supporting professionals at different stages of their careers.