(Waterloo, ON – Sept. 26, 2012) At the October 1 council meeting, Council will consider a report to have Communitech take up residence at City Hall. In the proposal, Communitech will use space at City Hall beginning October 15 for its Tech Jobs Connex Centre. This centre has been launched to assist employees affected by the reorganization at Research In Motion (RIM). The Tech Jobs Connex Centre is an Employment Ontario project funded by the Ontario Government.

“RIM has employed some of the best and brightest people in the industry,” said Mayor Brenda Halloran. “This is a wonderful opportunity to get these people back to work so they can continue doing what they do best – creating, inventing and contributing to the local and global economy. We are happy to provide the space for Communitech to make this happen.”

Communitech is the regional hub for the commercialization of innovation, creating economic prosperity by removing barriers to the creation and growth of technology companies. Experts at the Tech Jobs Connex Centre will introduce displaced RIM employees to organizations in the community who can assist them with resumes and interview techniques. In addition, individuals can access a career coach, attend Tech Jobs+ recruitment events and participate in workshops designed to help them overcome any challenges they might be facing during their job search.

“There are almost 1,000 technology firms including over 400 technology startups in Waterloo Region who are looking for excellent candidates to join their teams,” said Karen Gallant, Senior Director, Talent Networks at Communitech. “Part of what we do is to connect talented professionals with these organizations.”

City Hall was the best choice for the Tech Jobs Connex Centre, according to Gallant, because of the space available and its convenient location. “Waterloo is a tight community,” said Gallant. “It’s great knowing we are working with key supporters of this community initiative.”

Former RIM employees are encouraged to contact Communitech directly. Alayne Hynes, Tech Jobs Connex Manager can be reached at alayne@communitech.ca.

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