GANDER, NL – April 2025
As Newfoundland and Labrador’s tech sector continues to grow, techNL is working to ensure that innovation and opportunity extend from classrooms to communities—reaching every corner of the province. A recent visit to Gander highlighted just how much potential exists in Central Newfoundland, and how regional engagement is key to building a more connected tech ecosystem.
From April 1–3, techNL met with students, job seekers, and local member companies to strengthen relationships and spotlight the role Central Newfoundland can play in the province’s tech future.
A highlight of the visit was a networking event held at the Gander International Airport’s historic international lounge, hosted by techNL’s Local Talent Lead, AbdulKabir Sulaiman, in partnership with techNL member company TownSuite Municipal Software. The event brought together students, job seekers, and tech professionals for informal discussions about careers in the sector. The setting—a landmark of global connection—was fitting for a conversation about local opportunities in a globally connected industry. The event also garnered attention from CBC, who covered the story as part of their regional innovation reporting.
“It was great to meet people interested in working in tech here in our own community,” said a TownSuite representative. “We also appreciated the opportunity to share the exciting work we do across Canada.”
During the same visit, techNL’s High School Tech Immersion Program Coordinator, Samael Rahman, delivered seven presentations to nearly 200 students at Gander Collegiate and Clarenville High. The sessions introduced students to local tech companies and career paths—many for the first time.
The team also visited techNL member Landmark Surveys & Engineering Limited, where discussions centred on increasing regional collaboration. Landmark’s work in mining ROVs and drone technologies underscored the innovation already taking place in the region.
“There’s something special about seeing people realize that they belong in tech—that it’s not just for big cities or people somewhere else,” said AbdulKabir Sulaiman, Local Talent Lead at techNL. “That’s why we go. We show up, we listen, and we help people see what’s possible—in their own communities.”
To learn more or connect with us, reach out at talent@technl.ca