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By Liam Verster

Furthering or Changing Career Paths

Skills training grant offered for job seekers

Aug 9, 2023 | 4:00 PM

North Okanagan residents looking to further their career goals, or change jobs entirely, are being encouraged to take advantage of a grant program.

WorkBC Employment Services in Vernon is encouraging people to access the new StrongerBC Future Skills Grant, which covers up to $3,500 in training for short-term courses.

Any British Columbian aged 19 or older can qualify for the grant, regardless of financial need, and a representative of WorkBC in Vernon said it will be especially beneficial for North Okanagan residents receiving Employment Insurance or income supports.

“These dollars will go such a long way for those who have had an interest in exploring a new career or advancing their skills to help get back in the job market,” Kim Lauritsen, employment services manager for WorkBC Employment Services in Vernon, said.

“This is a practical way for many in our community to move into higher paying jobs that fit their future.”

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There are over 400 training programs at public post-secondary institutions in the province, including over 30 at Okanagan College.

The programs offered locally range from basic accounting to graphic design essentials to medical office assistant.

A full list of programs, as well as further details on the grant program, can be found here.

Anyone interested in accessing the grant is advised to contact WorkBC Employment Services in Vernon at 250-545-2215.

WorkBC noted a total of $39 million will be distributed to British Columbians through the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant, adding this will help bolster the workforce and prepare the economy as over 800,000 new jobs will need workers with post-secondary education over the next decade.