Occupational Skills Training 

WorkBC’s Occupational Skills training offers eligible clients the opportunity to enroll in post-secondary programs across diverse industries. The process for skills training starts by working with an Employment Consultant, where you can identify your strengths and areas for support to create a plan for long-term employment.

If you are successful in the application process, WorkBC has a range of services designed to ensure a successful pathway to sustainable employment once your program has been completed. This can include counselling, living supports, ongoing employment coaching, childcare, and transportation. By addressing these areas and offering customized and inclusive support, WorkBC aids individuals in transitioning to meaningful and lasting careers, helping them succeed in their chosen fields.

Some of the eligibility requirements for Skills Training include:

• You are residing in the Parksville/Qualicum Beach area
• You are legally permitted to work in Canada
• You are unemployed or under-employed
• You are actively collaborating with an Employment Consultant
• You have not commenced your training program

If you have questions, please contact our office for more information about Occupational Skills Training: 250.248.3205.

How the WorkBC Wage Subsidy Program may help you land your next job

Sometimes, when we are looking for work, we find ourselves in a dilemma: we can’t get a job because we lack experience, and we can’t gain experience without a job.  If this sounds familiar, the WorkBC Wage Subsidy program might be a solution for you.

The Wage Subsidy program can help job seekers connect with employers who are willing to hire them and provide on-the-job training, supervision, and coaching. Eligible employers receive a reimbursement for a portion of the wages they pay. This financial incentive helps offset the cost of training while an individual builds their skills.

You may be eligible for the program if you are unemployed (or working very few hours each week).  It is not necessary to be receiving Employment Insurance or Income Assistance to qualify; all unemployed residents of British Columbia can access services and support from an Employment Consultant. An Employment Consultant will assess your skills and experience against the local job market and skills requirements, and review your recent job search activities to determine if the Wage Subsidy program is a good fit for you.

Some scenarios where the Wage Subsidy program could be suitable are:

• You have some relevant work experience, but it is outdated or from a different region or industry.
• Your previous occupation is no longer in demand, requiring a career change.
• You recently completed a related educational program but lack practical experience.
• You are returning to the workforce following an injury/health situation which has impacted your ability to work

The above is not a complete list of examples and each person’s situation is considered on a case-by-case basis.

Generally speaking, employers’ eligible for the program include businesses and non-profits that operate in BC, demonstrate appropriate insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage is in place, and are committed to providing fulsome on the job training with supervision. (Government bodies and agencies, such as BC Ferries, Island Health, RCMP, Municipalities, etc. are not eligible for the funding.)  Our staff is also available to support our local employers with each step of the wage subsidy application and claim submission process.

If you would like more information and are already working with an Employment Consultant, please ask about the Wage Subsidy program during your next appointment. If you are not yet connected with WorkBC, call 250.248.3205 to inquire about registering for services.

 

“Whatever you do, always give 100%. Unless you’re donating blood.” – Quote from Actor Bill Murray.

We’ve got a JAM Update packed with information about available employment opportunities, FREE electrical and carpentry training for Youth in the fall and much more. Click here for information you will find useful!

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

We look forward to helping you achieve your employment goals in 2024!

Click here for your first JAM of 2024 and learn about many FREE opportunities available to youth for training and certifications. You won’t want to miss this and more!