PORTLAND, Maine — The City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity is teaming up with the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce to relaunch Portland Professional Connections (PPC), a program billed as a fast-track for highly skilled workers, including foreign-trained professionals, to break into the Greater Portland job market through personal networking.
City officials and chamber leaders say PPC is built around a simple reality: many jobs are filled through relationships, not job boards. The program aims to “close opportunity gaps” by connecting participants directly with established business and civic leaders who can open doors.
“At its heart, Portland Professional Connections is about more than networking; it’s about creating those genuine relationships that open doors,” said Melissa Hue, Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity. “When people are understood, valued, and supported in sharing their skills, everyone benefits – individuals, employers, and our entire community.”
Through PPC, participants known as “Connectees” are matched with “Connectors” — experienced professionals recruited through the chamber and its network. The pairings are structured around a series of informal conversations about career goals and navigating Portland’s employment landscape. Each Connector is expected to introduce their Connectee to at least three additional contacts.
“At the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, we are committed to building a thriving, inclusive business community,” said Quincy Hentzel, President & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. “Partnering on this initiative allows us to tap into the incredible talents of foreign-trained professionals, connect them with local leaders, and strengthen our workforce. By opening doors to meaningful relationships and opportunities, we are not only helping individuals succeed, we are fueling economic growth for our entire region.”
Beyond the one-on-one meetings, PPC includes quarterly “Power Hour” networking sessions, career development workshops, and skills training intended to help participants strengthen communication skills and sharpen career direction. The city also said Connectees may have access to resources and potential financial assistance for additional training.
To participate as a Connectee, applicants must have valid U.S. work authorization, advanced training or degree credentials, and English proficiency. The program is also open to “rising talent” participants who are looking to build soft skills, cultural fluency, and workplace confidence.
For applicants who need extra support, including people returning to the workforce after several years, those still improving their English proficiency, or those seeking to build confidence and professional skills, the city said it will offer tailored professional development workshops throughout the year.
More information and applications are available at https://www.portlandmaine.gov/Professional-Workshops and https://www.portlandofopportunity.com/portlandprofessionalconnections.
