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More British Columbians will have access to skills training

People who want to get into the workforce but are facing multiple barriers to employment will have greater opportunities as the B.C. government significantly expands skills training for employment programs.

As part of the StrongerBC’s Future Ready Plan, British Columbia is investing $44.5 million over three years to boost the number of people supported to nearly 7,500 people in communities around the province. Launched in 2019, skills training for employment programs provides skills training and wraparound support for people to remove barriers to participating in programming and gaining employment.

“Education and skills training is a great equalizer that can help transform lives,” said Minister of Post-secondary Education and Future Skills Selina Robinson. “With the right supports, we can help people overcome their challenges to entering the workforce, and help them to thrive in a new, promising and meaningful job.”

Skills training can provide job skills, certificates to meet job or industry requirements, or essential workplace skills, including adult basic education and academic upgrading. Additional supports will be available to people to help them with social or financial barriers, which may include employment assistance, counselling, mentoring, job placements, Indigenous cultural supports, child care, transportation, disability supports, work experience, wage subsidies, equipment, employer connections and other tailored individual supports.

“British Columbians want to get into the workforce, so we’re removing barriers to skills training,” said Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction Sheila Malcolmson. “This investment will help more people prepare for and find good jobs that support them and their families.”

Expanding skills training for employment programs for individuals facing multiple barriers supports the StrongerBC Future Ready plan to make post-secondary education and skills training more affordable and accessible. It also responds to the biggest challenge heard from businesses; the need for skilled, trained and talented people. Budget 2023 invests $480 million over three years to support Future Ready’s work to break down barriers to post-secondary training so more people can get the training they need for in-demand careers, and employers can access the talent they need.

Learn more: StrongerBC Economic Plan.