The governments of British Columbia and Canada are providing more than $6 million to fund 15 labour market training projects across B.C., targeting people who face significant obstacles to finding work.
The funding will support nearly $5 million for 14 new projects and more than $1.4 million to expand one existing program. As many as 329 participants will receive a mix of classroom training, hands-on work experience and follow-up support.
Michelle Williams, a social and community service worker training participant with the AWARE Society, described the program’s impact on her own life.
“This opportunity feels like a turning point as I transition careers after a long period of unemployment. This program is opening doors to new employment in social and community services, allowing me to support both myself and others. Although returning to school after 20 years and learning new tools has been challenging, my confidence is growing, and I believe I can succeed with time and effort.”
Who the programs serve
Participants include youth, Indigenous people, immigrants, displaced forestry workers, survivors of violence and people receiving income assistance. Projects are delivered by community organizations, employers and industry partners across the province.
Training prepares participants for work in construction, trades, social services, education support, health administration, transportation and facility maintenance.
Cesar Avila, a medical administrative assistant training participant with the Latincouver Cultural and Business Society in Vancouver, said the program is bridging his existing experience with Canadian workplace requirements.
“The program is giving me the practical skills I need to combine my past professional experience with the requirements of the Canadian workplace. It’s an opportunity that strengthens my confidence, supports my family’s stability and helps me move toward a future where I can contribute in a meaningful way.”
How the projects are structured
The projects fall under B.C.’s Community and Employer Partnership program, which funds employment and skills training delivered in collaboration with non-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations, municipalities, educational institutions and businesses.
Each project combines classroom instruction, on-the-job experience and follow-up support. Eligible organizations can apply for funding through the program.
Sheila Malcolmson, B.C. Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, said the investment is aimed at connecting people with stable work.
“We want people to have the support they need to find in-demand jobs and build stronger futures for themselves and their families. So we are funding more training to help people gain the practical skills and work experience they need to move toward good-paying jobs, while supporting local communities.”
Projects span the province
The 15 funded projects are spread across B.C., from Vancouver and Burnaby to Terrace, Dawson Creek, Fort St. James and Vanderhoof. Programs cover a range of trades and sectors, including plumbing, electrical work, facility maintenance, transportation and social services.
One expanded project, the Purpose Project in Abbotsford, will use its additional funding to serve survivors of violence and abuse, preparing 40 to 60 participants for careers in construction.
Ravi Kahlon, B.C. Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, tied the initiative to the province’s Look West Strategy, an economic plan focused on workforce development.
“Look West is grounded in the principle that a stronger B.C. economy has to work for everyone. These 15 training projects put that into practice. By investing in skills for construction, trades, health and social services, matched to what employers actually need, we’re helping people across the province connect to good-paying jobs and building stronger local economies in the process.”
Federal Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu said the investment responds to pressures on key economic sectors.
“Canada’s workforce is strongest when employers and training partners work together. As external pressures continue to affect key sectors, these investments will help empower workers in Canada with the skills they need to adapt.”
Program history and funding source
The Community and Employer Partnership program has helped more than 8,130 people in B.C. gain employment experience through more than 726 projects since 2012. The current round of funding is provided by the federal government through Employment Insurance contributions made by workers and employers under the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement.
