Eligibility criteria include permanent residency within the previous five years; certification in a profession, trade, or skilled occupation from their home country; or a minimum of three years work experience in a profession, trade, or high-skill occupation prior to coming to Canada. Individuals between the ages of 19 to 30 need only a minimum of one year of work experience in a profession, trade, or high-skill occupation prior to coming to Canada. Eligible applicants must have an intermediate to advanced level of English language proficiency, and must be unemployed and not receiving Employment Insurance or BC Employment Assistance, or must be working in a job that is not in their field.
Stream 2 program focuses on individuals needing assistance with upgrading credentials for a regulated BC occupation; services include individual career coaching and help with building an action plan, financial support for upgrading skills (including language training), and help with preparing for exams. Stream 3 program focuses on individuals needing assistance with upgrading for an unregulated BC occupation; services include individual career coaching, help building an action plan, and financial support for upgrading (including language training). Serves Fraser Valley (Abbotsford, Agassiz, Boston Bar, Chilliwack, Deroche, Dewdney, Harrison Hot Springs, Hope, Kent, Mission, North Bend, Spuzzum, and Yale); in-person and remote services offered. Hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday. Funded by Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Competitiveness.