The Role of Work Experience Programmes in Shaping Employment Outcomes for Indigenous Peoples in Canada

This study examines employment outcomes of Indigenous peoples in Canada using an expanded human capital framework that includes education, health and work experience, such as internships and cooperative programmes. Despite some improvements, Indigenous employment rates remain below those of non‐Indigenous Canadians, with disparities across First Nations, Métis and Inuit populations. Using data from the 2016 Aboriginal Peoples Survey, this research assesses the impact of work experience programmes on employment status and income. Results show participation in work experience programmes increases the likelihood of employment by 12 percent, while post‐secondary education and good health also improve employment prospects. Findings highlight the need to broaden human capital strategies to include work experience programmes. These results are of particular interest to policymakers in Canada and Australia seeking evidence‐based strategies to improve employment outcomes and reduce economic disparities among Indigenous populations. This study is the first to empirically assess the role of work experience in Indigenous employment outcomes in Canada and provides new evidence to support Indigenous workforce development through experiential learning and holistic human capital investment.