With the changing landscape of the workforce in British Columbia, there is a growing need to support individuals in finding meaningful employment opportunities. Recognizing this challenge, the DeNovo program is set to start in Kelowna on June 12th, offering a free and subsidized comprehensive solution to help individuals transition into new career paths.

The DeNovo Program, named after the Latin for “renew”, focuses on equipping participants with the essential skills required in today's dynamic job market. The program was created to assist workers impacted by mill closures in BC but is open to anyone looking to make a career change and uses a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses the nine essential skills defined by Service Canada from an employer's perspective.

“Sometimes all that’s keeping people from pursuing a new career is the time and support to get that one needed certificate or credential. Or maybe they just need to talk through their interests and options to sort out a new direction to take,” says Kristin Burns, a facilitator at Canadian Vocational Training Centre. Not only is the program offering free short-term training to people in the Okanagan, they’re also providing financial support for attendees, including completion bonuses, transportation subsidies, and funding based on student’s individual needs. Burns adds, “We’re just giving people that chance to get their feet under them.”

Students completing the program will walk away with computer skills and up to 5 short-term occupational certificates. Some examples of student’s choice directions are real estate, office administration, skilled labour, security, Early Childhood Education, BC Corrections, and special driver license designations. Burns adds, “Students come out of the program with not only the important skills needed for today’s workplace but also the confidence needed for their job search from start to finish.”

Eligible students must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person legally entitled to work in Canada, not in school full-time and able to attend classes from 9:00 to 2:30 during the week, including a 2-week practicum at the end of the program.

People impacted by changes in the forestry sector are especially welcome to apply, as well as anyone facing industry changes and lay-offs. Visit https://vocationaltrainingcentre.com/denovo-program/ for more information or call (236) 420-6828. Funding is provided through the Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills under the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement.