For people living on the Sunshine Coast and looking for work, there is good news on the horizon.
The provincial government has announced an increase in the tuition cap for unemployed British Columbians accessing skills training through the Employment Program of BC. That means individuals receiving services through the Open Door Group WorkBC Employment Services Centre may now be eligible for up to a maximum of $7,500 in tuition funding for skills training.
This change in the tuition cap will give people in the community who are looking for work a better opportunity to develop and upgrade their skills.
According to WorkBC, within the next decade, job growth in the Sunshine Coast region is expected to be driven by increased employment in the utilities industry as well as in health care and social assistance.
"One of the challenges has been fostering sustainable local labour market opportunities for the people who call or want to call the Sunshine Coast home," said Belinda Shelton, the site coordinator for the Sechelt WorkBC Centre. "These can include non-traditional sectors, such as eco-tourism, which the Coast is really becoming known for. Fortunately, the Sunshine Coast has a number of local training options, and Capilano University even offers programs designed around tourism and outdoor recreation. This could be a great opportunity for some job seekers."
Eligibility requirements for the tuition funding include being unemployed or under-employed, currently receiving or eligible to receive EI, or started maternity or paternity within the last five years.
The Employment Program of BC, launched in April 2012, is designed to offer a full suite of employment programs to all unemployed British Columbians, including specialized populations, while ensuring quick and easy access through a single door.
If you're unemployed and looking for work, visit the Open Door Group WorkBC Employment Services Centre at 5600 Highway 101 in Sechelt or Unit 25 - 900 Gibsons Way in Gibsons, or see www.secheltesc.ca.
For more information about Open Door Group, see www.opendoorgroup.org.
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