NHL legend Theo Fleury adds pizzazz to Burns Lake Job Fair
Published 1:07 pm Wednesday, October 7, 2026
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The Burns Lake Job Fair brought employers, organizations, job seekers and a surprise appearance by former NHL star Theo Fleury together at The Gathering Place on Oct. 6 and 7.
On the first day, the hockey legend turned author and motivational speaker addressed the crowd offering words of encouragement.
“Sometimes, we just need an opportunity,” he said.
“I was drafted in the eighth round, 166th overall, and everybody told me I was too small, that I wasn’t going to make it … But I took that opportunity and turned it into something pretty amazing, and I see this kind of job fair as an opportunity for you.”
The event featured roughly 44 businesses and organizations, offering attendees the opportunity to explore available jobs, learn about potential career paths, and connect with employers and organizations with the aim of helping build the region’s workforce for the years ahead.
“There’s a lot happening in this region right now,” said Chief Wesley Sam of Ts’il Kaz Koh First Nation during opening remarks, pointing to projects such as K’uul Power, the Klo Wind Project, and the North Coast Transmission Line coming to the region.
The projects have the potential to create jobs and careers in trades, construction, transportation, environmental monitoring, administration and specialized technical fields, he said.
“But, this is also about much more than that … Our communities need healthcare professionals. We need first responders, educators, skilled tradespeople, administrators, and all of the people who make the communities strong,” Sam said.
With many experienced workers in the region near retirement, “we have [an] opportunity … and responsibility to begin preparing the next generation, now,” said Sam.
“… building a successful career does not necessarily mean leaving home. There should be opportunities for our young people to build careers, raise their families, and create good lives right here in our region. That is why we’re here today,” Sam said.
The two-day event was live-streamed on Oct. 6, offering those unable to attend in person a chance to learn about each participating business and organization. Door prizes, food, and refreshments were also provided.
Fleury stuck around for a few hours, chatting with community members and signing autographs.