Diverse Employment Journeys
British Columbia aims to become the most accessible province in Canada for people with disabilities. The Province delivers the largest network of employment services and supports, where job seekers and employers can get help to reach their own goals. WorkBC Centres - 102 throughout the province - are here to help people when and where they need it.
There are approximately 334,000 British Columbians, aged 15 to 64, who identify as having a disability. Forecasts indicate that between 2018 and 2028, there will be over 900,000 job openings in B.C. and people with disabilities are finding their path to employment.
Events
Take a look at some of the events WorkBC Centres held across the province during Disability Employment Month.
Success Stories
Read our inspiring stories below about people who connected with WorkBC on their employment journey.
WorkBC found Kristen the perfect fit
Kristen was a stay-at-home mom for many years. When her children were older, Kristen began seeking additional purpose, and more income. She turned to WorkBC Centre Merritt for help as she wasn’t sure what kind of work would be the right fit with her visual impairment, and her skills.
With one-on-one support from an employment counsellor, Kristen was able to identify the ideal work conditions to match her capabilities and interests.
After years of thinking she couldn’t find work, Kristen found confidence after connecting with her employment counsellor. WorkBC not only helped her update her resume and cover letter but also assisted her to promote herself to local employers. Before long she landed a job working with seniors in a supportive environment that accommodates her vision impairment.
What seemed impossible, was now a reality. “WorkBC did a good job finding a good fit for me,” she said. “Go to WorkBC because they have a wide range of services, not just job search.”
WorkBC saw Lucas' abilities
Lucas was fascinated with technology but never thought he could make a career in the field until he connected with WorkBC Centre Maple Ridge.
Lucas’ school district and WorkBC Centre Maple Ridge worked together to transition him out of high school and into the workforce.
WorkBC provided Lucas specialized supports to help overcome some developmental challenges. Staff got to know him and were able to determine a vocation matching his abilities and interests. With his fascination for technology and electronics, he completed the Basic Occupational Education Program for Electronics and General Assembly at Douglas College. WorkBC Centre Maple Ridge staff then helped connect him with employers that offered supportive employment opportunities.
Lucan earned his dream job and is an Electronic Assembler with Selcom Industries Hi-Tech Manufacturing.
Moving forward thanks to WorkBC
When Steven needed to find a new job, he did not know where to start. He had lost confidence that anyone would want to hire him.
Steven turned to WorkBC Centre Merritt for help.
WorkBC Centre Merritt worked with him to increase his confidence and his skills.
With support and encouragement from WorkBC, Steven earned his airbrake certificate and passed his Class 3 Driver’s License. Finally feeling confident with his new skills, he applied for work and was hired full time by Yellowhead Road and Bridge in Merritt.
Steven enjoys his job operating a snowplow and is proud to be keeping highways safe for other drivers. “I would not have been able to do it,” he said, “without everyone here at WorkBC.”