The JLP: the Heart is the Horsepower

October 27, 2026

The Joint Learning Program is small but mighty: a mere 25 employees spread across the country power the JLP machine. While all Regional Field Coordinators (RFCs) are public-service employees, the National Staff is made up of roughly equal numbers of public-service employees and employees of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC). Despite different employers, JLP employees share a common ground of a commitment to the Program and its principles.

When asked about their journey to the JLP and their reasons for working there, some common themes arose: a deep belief in the effectiveness of labour-management relations, an equally profound commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and a genuine joy in their work, their team and the tangible results of the JLP.

Many employees wrote of how closely their own values of diversity and inclusion aligned with the six Ps of the JLP. Whether representing the union or the employer, JLP employees value inclusion for the benefit of all.

I place a high value on human relationships, and the JLP shares these principles

I believe we have a responsibility to leave people feeling heard, respected and valued. The JLP gives me the opportunity to do that every day.

Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. One of the things I was fortunate to learn early on as a union activist is that there is strength in numbers and together, we are stronger.

The inherent value of labour-management relations, along with a strong conviction that working together is not only possible but essential, was also a common theme.

The JLP makes a difference in the workplace by demonstrating that employees and managers can communicate openly and collaborate.

I firmly believe that healthy working relationships are based on respect, active listening, and mutual understanding. The JLP offers practical tools to promote these values, and I have seen on several occasions the real impact of its initiatives in the workplace.

I also deeply appreciate the joint nature of the JLP, as it is a rare example of co-management and co-development in practice. It shows what's possible when employers and unions work together as equals in decision-making.

But the one theme that shines through in every employee’s answer is the admiration and respect they have for their co-workers. If there is any one thing that makes working for the JLP special, it is the people.

Everyone brings their own strengths and expertise, but we work together with a shared purpose and a genuine commitment to supporting one another. I’m incredibly grateful for the knowledge, encouragement, and partnership I receive from my national teammates.

Beyond their expertise, JLP members are deeply committed to their mission and work tirelessly to support organizations and employees across the country.

I feel like I’m part of an environment where values aren’t just stated—they’re actually put into practice every day.

Working in an environment where I can anchor my union values and keep them alive is very important to me.

United by a common goal of a healthier public service, JLP employees have a special opportunity to make a tangible difference and see the results of their work. Though no workplace is perfect, JLP employees strive to embody the principles of respect, inclusion and collaboration in everything they do. In the words of one last employee,

If we can help people build trust, work better together, and improve their workplace experience, those changes ripple outward. That's what drew me to the JLP and why the work continues to be so rewarding for me. It's been a dream job in many ways because I can see the direct impact of the work we're doing. I'm surrounded by great colleagues who share the same values and the same commitment to creating positive experiences for everyone who interacts with the program.