Training for a Fresh Start

In the words of the legendary Brazilian footballer Pelé, “success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”

Finding a job that leads to this kind of satisfaction and success can be challenging. It’s a long road to discovery that begins with being employed and gaining valuable experience to determine the right career path. For many people, the biggest hurdle is moving from unemployment to employment. But even currently employed individuals can have a hard time upgrading their skills or taking the necessary steps towards more secure, well-paid employment that aligns with their interests.

There are many factors that contribute to unemployment and precarious employment (i.e. workers who have unstable jobs, those who are poorly paid, or those in jobs that do not a match their skills). Situations of violence, abuse, addiction recovery, mental health challenges, housing instability, lack of work experience or technical skills, and incomplete education are all circumstances which create a difficult environment for an individual to thrive and reach their full potential in life.

To address some of these issues, the Government of British Columbia has made funding available to create the Skills Training for Employment (sometimes referred to as STE) program. The STE program is designed to meet the needs of vulnerable and under-represented groups by providing skills training and employment supports (e.g. counselling, child care, transportation, wage subsidies, etc.) to help participants find and maintain a job they desire. Skills Training for Employment programs are primarily focused on supporting:

• Impacted workers
• Young adults
• Young adults at risk
• Survivors of violence and/or abuse
• Individuals facing multiple barriers
• Older workers aged 55+

It’s important to understand that B.C.’s Labour Market Outlook is projected to have 861,000 job openings between 2019 and 2029, most of which will require post-secondary education or training. The labour market needs an additional 4,600 people every year during this period to account for gaps in employment that aren’t being met by traditional sources. The Skills Training for Employment program can help you become one of those people and prepare you for a future where career goals and dreams become a reality.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, please visit the Skills Training for Employment web page for a full list of programs to help with a transition to sustainable employment and a better future.