The Province of British Columbia, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is investing over $3 million in employment training programs to support people who face barriers entering the workforce — including Indigenous individuals, income assistance recipients, and others with complex challenges.
Seven new programs are being launched under the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, aiming to connect participants with in-demand careers in sectors like construction, education, hospitality, and heavy-equipment operation. These roles are essential in industries such as forestry, civil infrastructure, and excavation.
Delivered through the Community and Employer Partnerships (CEP) program, the training includes a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on work experience, and ongoing support to help participants build long-term career skills. The CEP initiative works closely with local employers, communities, and industry partners to ensure training meets real job market needs.
One such program, run by MOSAIC, is helping Spanish-speaking immigrants on income assistance train as building-service workers. A participant shared that the training — which includes certifications and job experience — is finally opening the door to meaningful employment after facing long-standing barriers.
The investment is part of a broader strategy to ease the pressure of rising living costs and economic uncertainty by helping more British Columbians access good-paying, stable jobs.
Funding for these programs comes from the federal government through Employment Insurance contributions under the Canada-B.C. Labour Market Development Agreement.
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