The British Columbia government will invest nearly $2 million over two years to train unemployed and underemployed youth for jobs in the province’s growing biomanufacturing sector.
The funding, provided in partnership with the federal government, will create the CASTL Elevate BC program targeting youth aged 15 to 30 who face barriers to employment, according to the province. The program prioritizes participants receiving income assistance.
“We want all youth to have the support they need, especially amid global inflation, increased cost of living and uncertainty from tariffs,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “So we’re funding technical skills training to give more young people the experience they need to join the growing workforce in the biomanufacturing industry.”
Training combines online and hands-on experience
The 10-week program includes six weeks of online learning and in-person lab sessions at the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL) Vancouver facility. Participants then complete four-week placements at bioscience employers throughout B.C., according to the organization.
The training prepares graduates for roles including production technician, lab technician and process-development technician, the province said.
“This investment strengthens Canada’s capacity to develop industry-ready talent for biomanufacturing and supports youth in building meaningful, future-focused careers,” said Penny Walsh McGuire, CEO of CASTL.
Seven cohorts planned through 2027
The first cohort began Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, with up to seven cohorts running from September 2025 to March 2027, according to the province.
The program operates through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement. CASTL research shows strong demand for skilled workers in Canada’s biomanufacturing sector, with most employers planning to hire within three years, the province said.
“British Columbia is home to Canada’s top life-sciences sector, and with the U.S. stepping back from investing in this sector, we have a unique opportunity to attract talent and invest in training our youth,” said Ravi Kahlon, B.C. Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.
The program partners with Life Sciences British Columbia to provide industry connections and real-world work experience for participants.
