Burnaby: B.C. Premier David Eby on Tuesday unveiled his government’s new StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan.
According to the government, it will help thousands of people get the skills they need to succeed in the changing economy and help close the skills gap many businesses are facing.
“The action plan is focused on five pillars — making post-secondary education more affordable, accessible and relevant to British Columbians; helping people reskill to find in-demand jobs so more employers facing current and future skills shortages can find the people they need; breaking down barriers so everyone can find a job where they can thrive; addressing Indigenous Peoples’ workforce priorities; and ensuring people new to B.C. find a career in the field in which they are trained,” the B.C. government said in its press release.
In a statement, the province said the $480-million action plan is highlighted by a future skills grant of up to $3,500.
This grant will cover the cost of training for in-demand jobs and it will begin in September.
The government said the grant will make it easier for people to select from more than 400 eligible training opportunities at post-secondary institutions throughout B.C. for the most in-demand jobs in areas such as construction, tech, housing and clean energy.
“Our economy is growing and innovating quickly. Work is transforming, and we have more job openings than skilled people. That’s why we are taking action to make sure people are ready to seize new opportunities and build a good life here in B.C., and businesses are able to find the people who drive our economy forward and deliver the services we all rely on,” ” said Premier David Eby.