People aged 55 and older in Surrey are getting opportunities to build skills for new careers with training programs that break down barriers to employment for older workers.

“Up-to-date skills training in a supportive environment can open doors of opportunity for the members of our community who are 55 and older,” said Rachna Singh, MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers, on behalf of Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “When older workers bring their experiences and dedication into the workforce, it makes life better for everyone. I’m pleased to see these training opportunities available for people in Surrey.”

Singh announced the funding at Progressive Intercultural Services Society (PICS).

Seventeen skills-training programs throughout B.C. are receiving $5 million annually to deliver locally designed skills-training programs and supports to an estimated 733 British Columbians a year.

Service providers that have received funding for Surrey are:

• Progressive Intercultural Services Society: $728,322 over two years to help 120 people with the Intercultural Logistics and Transportation Operations for Older Workers program delivered in Surrey and Vancouver;
• Sources Community Resources Society: $825,178 over two years to help 99 people with the Empowered for Employment – Admin and Accounting Works program in Surrey; and
• S.U.C.C.E.S.S.: $1,034,421 over two years to help 130 people with the Digital Skills Upgrading for Job Seekers Aged 55+ program in Surrey.

“PICS is excited to be delivering this unique intercultural transportation training program to help meet demand for skilled workers in our area and improve the employability of our participants,” said Satbir Cheema, CEO, PICS. “Inclusivity is about ensuring everyone has the same opportunities. Our participants should be proud of the work they are putting into rebuilding their careers.”

Older workers can face barriers to employment, including a lack of technical skills, training opportunities and familiarity with current hiring practices.

Quotes:

David Young, CEO, Sources Community Resources Society —

“Skilled professionals in administration and accounting are in demand, and these jobs can be a great opportunity for people transitioning out of a previous career. Sources is pleased to offer programming that provides empowerment skills, as well as skills training in the field of administration and accounting work. These supports can make the difference for people 55 and older in finding a sustainable and rewarding job.”

Queenie Choo, CEO, S.U.C.C.E.S.S. —

“A supportive environment, coupled with skills training, can help bridge the technology skills gap for people 55 and older. At S.U.C.C.E.S.S., we’re pleased to help our participants gain the skills and experience they need to thrive in today’s technology-rich labour market.”

Quick Facts:

• Skills Training for Employment (STE) – Older Workers 55+ is one of five STE programs.
• STE programs are funded through the Canada-B.C. Workforce Development Agreement (WDA).
• Signed in 2018, the WDA provides $685 million over six years and flexibility to design and deliver locally driven, responsive and inclusive labour market programming for British Columbians.

Learn More:

Work BC – jobs, education and career information: www.workbc.ca

Skills training for employment programs: www.workbc.ca/skillstraining-employment