For Caroline Roy, who first moved to town in 1998, it took 10 years.
When the New Brunswick-native arrived in town, she didn’t know a word of English, so her brother, who was already living in Jasper, set her up with a job bussing tables at the Amethyst Lodge. Once her English improved, she moved up to being a server and later, she became a morning supervisor.
After three years with the Amethyst, Roy needed a new challenge, so she started working seasonal jobs. She worked at Marmot Basin, Maligne Lake Tours, the Activity Centre and eventually Whistlers Campground.
“I applied for a job for four years prior to that to get a position with Parks Canada,” she says about finally being accepted for a position at the campground in 2001.
Then, six years ago, she applied for an administrative assistant position with the agency and she was chosen, giving her her first full-time, indeterminate position with Parks.
“That’s how I got my foot in the door,” she says, noting that she stayed in that position for three years before transitioning into her current one as the internet content and new media officer.
Although it’s a far stretch from her background, which includes a degree in sports management, she says she couldn’t be happier to have been given the opportunities she has in Jasper.
“I don’t have background in internet content and new media. It’s way off, but it’s great. Parks Canada gave me the opportunity to learn those skills and I’m thankful for that.”
Roy’s story isn’t an uncommon one. Many of the community’s long-term residents moved to Jasper with the intention of staying for one season, but instead fell in love with the community and the park.
She says making a life in Jasper and finding your place in a full-time, meaningful position can take time, but if you keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities, you’ll find them.
“There’s lots of opportunity here in Jasper. Sometimes you just have to look for it.”
If she had to give one piece of advice, she says it helps to have open dialogue with your manager, sharing your thoughts on your future, both with the company and in Jasper. “If you show you really want to learn and grow into this community, that’s a quality in and of itself.”
