Portrait
Name
Penny Polchies
Company
APCFNC
Location
Wolastoqey, NB
Description
Penny Polchies is a proud member of the Wolastoqey – Maliseet Nation. With over 20 years of experience in the socio-economic sector, she has tirelessly advocated for sustainability and sovereign programs that support Indigenous economic self-sustainability.
During her tenure as an Economic Policy Analyst with the APCFNC, Penny worked collaboratively with the Atlantic Chiefs and Indigenous Economic Development Officers to develop an Atlantic Economic Development Strategy. Her efforts included networking and engagements focused on building capacity development initiatives for frontline workers. Meanwhile, she and the network of EDOs obtained their professional and technical certification in economic development from the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO).
Penny’s role as the Director of Economic Development with the Joint Economic Development Initiative saw her advocate for economic development initiatives at the community level. She was instrumental in achieving certification in Career Counselling, successfully graduating the largest number of NB Indigenous employment training officers with the Canadian Career Practitioners Association.
In her role with JEDI, Penny developed a Cultural Awareness Tool to foster dialogue among industry, government, and the private sector regarding the TRC and its Call to Action. She also worked with CANDO as CEDI Program Officer, building relationships between municipalities in Canada and Indigenous communities. These projects underscored the importance of communities working together to create stronger economic partnerships.
Penny has been a significant influence in the Atlantic Region on economic and labor market initiatives. She serves on various boards of directors related to economic and energy initiatives. Additionally, Penny is a former council member of her community in St. Mary’s First Nation, where she served four terms, passionately supporting community initiatives.
Penny Polchies brings extensive experience and a deep understanding to her role with Workforce Warriors. Her contributions continue to pave the way for sustainable economic development and foster a collaborative spirit among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.