Get Your Companion Guide

Bridging the Diversity Disconnect: Research-Informed Strategies for Workforce Inclusion

A bar broken into three pieces, with a blue gradient ranging from dark to light, left to right.

ASPECT, in collaboration with Free Rein Associates Training Ltd. and Life Strategies Ltd., is pleased to share the final outputs of the Bridging the Diversity Disconnect workshop series. This learning series was grounded in the Diversity Disconnect research project, which examined the employment experiences of Indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities—particularly in rural and remote communities.

Drawing from this research and enriched by lived experiences, the series offered practical strategies, tools, and conversations to support employers, Career Development Professionals (CDPs), and community leaders in hiring and retaining a more inclusive workforce.

In total 6 workshops were held:

Workforce Realities in Rural Communities: Understanding the Gaps (April 1, 2025)

This session explored the disconnect between rural employers and skilled job seekers, particularly from underrepresented groups. It offered practical strategies to implement the findings of the research.

The Curious Case of Inclusivity: Building Stronger Training for Everyone (April 8, 2025)

Panelists examined how unconscious bias and structural barriers shaped learning environments. Attendees gained tools to foster more inclusive, respectful training spaces that supported all learners.

The Future of DEI: What It Means for Your Workforce (April 15, 2025)

As DEI expectations shifted, this session unpacked how inclusive practices affected workforce development, engagement, and growth. Participants learned ways to integrate DEI into their organizations with purpose and adaptability.

Strengthening Indigenous Employment Outcomes in Rural Communities (April 29, 2025)

This session addressed the systemic challenges Indigenous individuals face in the workforce, especially in rural areas. Attendees explored community-driven strategies for hiring, retention, and creating inclusive, Indigenous-led employment opportunities.

Addressing Workforce Inclusion in Francophone Communities (May 13, 2025)

In this French-language session, participants examined how to apply the Diversity Disconnect findings within Francophone contexts. The discussion focused on adapting inclusive employment practices to support Indigenous and disabled individuals in Francophone workplaces.

Making Lasting Change: Aligning Policies with Workforce Realities (May 27, 2025)

This session highlighted how long-term, policy-aligned approaches can strengthen workforce development and inclusion. Participants learned how to advocate for system-level change that meets the needs of underrepresented job seekers and local employers alike.

As a companion toolkit of resources, this website shares recordings, key takeaways, and reflections to guide employers, CDPs, and community leaders as they make steps toward workforce success for underrepresented groups.

Firstly, we want to recognize that this work has taken place on land that has been cared for by Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial. This initiative has been shaped by contributors and participants from a diversity of nations, whose perspectives and lived experiences add depth and strength to our collective efforts. To further ground our work in respect and recognition, please view the Indigenous welcome below. It offers an opportunity to reflect, deepen our understanding, and engage with the spirit of reconciliation in a meaningful way.

Begin by exploring a summary of the foundational research below, then, pick from the relevant application sessions.

Getting Started

Many rural communities face ongoing workforce challenges—employers struggle to find and retain workers, while skilled job seekers remain underemployed. Indigenous individuals, people with disabilities, and other underrepresented job seekers bring valuable skills and fresh perspectives to workplaces, yet persistent barriers—such as misconceptions, accessibility challenges, discrimination and hiring practices—limit opportunities.

For an overview of the research context/methodology and results:

Hear Dr. Roberta Borgen, lead researcher, discuss how the 20 “success factors” were identified and the implications for individuals, workplaces, and communities:

For an overview of the recommendations:

For more information, visit the project page:

Improving Employment Opportunities in Rural Communities

Next

Pick an application area that interests you from the following:

Inclusive Training Environments

A senior woman leads a training session for new staff.

Exploring how to make learning and training spaces welcoming for all.

Start Now

DEI in a Changing Landscape

Tackling how diversity, equity, and inclusion align with real-world business goals

Start Now

Indigenous Employment Strategies

A totem pole outside the BC Legislature

Offering community-led approaches to supporting Indigenous job seekers

Start Now

Francophone Workplace Inclusion

A French-language session focused on adapting DEI strategies to Francophone communities

Start Now

Policy Alignment for Systemic Change

The Canada Flag waves close to the camera with the clock tower of the Parliament building behind it.

Zooming out to focus on how long-term policies can create sustainable workforce improvements

Start Now