Developed with the construction of the National Transcontinental Railway in 1913, Hearst was officially incorporated in 1922, with many of the town’s settlers originating from Quebec. Forestry is the town’s current primary industry, with mills and tree planting work available throughout the area. Tembec, a manufacturer of forest products and Columbia Forest Products, a manufacturer of hardwood plywood and veneer, are two of the largest employers in the area. Like many rural and remote towns across the country, the recent recession hit the community hard – and employers are still having a hard time finding employees with the right skills and qualifications for the jobs that are available.
Economic developers are looking to other opportunities to help build the community back up again – with the potential development of a graphite mine in the next few years, as well as talks of rehabilitating the local airport and developing their tourism industry. The city has been proactive at preparing the community as well as garnering interest from youth and local employers through their event - Destination Hearst - where employers, students and jobseekers can meet and learn about employment opportunities in Hearst. In addition, Collège Boréal, Hearst University, La Boîte à lettres and the town’s employment services work closely together with employers to create opportunities and initiatives that are relevant to the community’s needs.
