A shortage of administrative workers in the New Westminster, Newton and Cloverdale areas has led to a government-funded partnership with the AWARE Society, worth nearly $368,000.

The TECH 45+ project will provide relevant work skills and experience to at least 36 workers, targeting people aged 45 years and older who need their computer expertise upgraded.

The participants will receive nine weeks of employability and occupational skills training including Sprott Shaw computer certification, five weeks of on-the-job work experience with local employers and a minimum of two weeks of followup job-search support.

Other courses offered during the project will include money skills, first aid and customer service. The first session began on Feb. 16, 2015, in New Westminster. Two other sessions are scheduled to begin, one in May in Newton, and another in August in Cloverdale. The project will wrap up in December 2015.

Project-Based Labour Market Training helps groups of people with on- or off-the-job employment training and is a component of Community and Employer Partnerships (CEP), which were introduced in April 2012 as part of the Employment Program of BC.

To date, nearly 560 job seekers have benefited from work experience and nearly 140 projects have been funded throughout the province.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation Michelle Stilwell −

“Computer skills are essential in today’s job market. This Community and Employer Partnership will help these individuals get the training they need to help them secure a good job in office administration.”

Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Stephanie Cadieux −

“Businesses and organizations require office personnel with current and relevant computer training. This partnership will certainly benefit both employers and workers looking to upgrade their skills.”

Megan Brown, executive director, AWARE Society −

“AWARE’s Tech 45+ offers critical skills training that can help older workers access new employment opportunities. The program combines new technical skills with those developed through past work experience to help people remain competitive in today's labour market. For some participants, it is a stepping stone to further education and ongoing learning.”

Joanne, Tech 45+ project participant −

“I have a much better understanding and working knowledge of Word and Excel. Tech 45+ has benefited me with insight into resumes, cover letters and how to sell yourself. It is a wonderful idea.”

Jeff Anthony, campus director, Sprott Shaw College, New Westminster −

“The AWARE participants each possess a great attitude and work ethic. Each one is committed to the course and each other. They have built a great rapport with their instructor and staff and they feel grateful for being here.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2015-16, the ministry has committed to investing $331 million in employment and labour market programs under the Employment Program of BC.
• The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Province of British Columbia as well as the Government of Canada through the Labour Market Development Agreement.
• Funding supports 84 WorkBC Employment Services Centres throughout the province and the four components of the Community and Employer Partnerships fund:
  • Job Creation Partnerships
  • Labour Market Partnerships
  • Project-Based Labour Market Training
  • Research and Innovation
• The Community and Employer Partnerships program is featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint that helps align training and education with in-demand jobs and provides more support to people who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market or who face unique challenges.

Who is eligible?

• Businesses
• Non-profit organizations
• Municipalities, agencies or territorial governments
• Bands/tribal councils
• Public health and educational institutions

Learn More:

For more information on Job Creation Partnerships and Community and Employer Partnerships: www.workbc.ca/CEP

To find a local WorkBC Employment Services Centre: www.workbccentres.ca

To learn more about the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation: www.gov.bc.ca/sdsi

To learn more about AWARE Society: www.awaresociety.bc.ca

Media Contacts:

Maryann Anderson
Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation
250 387-6490