Northern British Columbians looking to increase their skills or get new skills can find their path forward at CNC via the StrongerBC future skills grant program.
The grant will help learners access eligible short-term skills training to further their careers, upgrade their skills, and enhance their productivity… giving them access to well-paid, high opportunity occupations.
CNC has posted future skills grant information and eligible courses at cnc.bc.ca/futureskills along with sign up information. Registration is now open for courses starting in the fall of 2023, with dates finalized for all the courses.
"Every action in the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan is designed to build a better future for people and a stronger economy for B.C.," said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. "The new future skills grant will reduce financial barriers for people to acquire the skills and find the opportunities they need to thrive, and employers will be able to access the talent they need to sustain and grow their businesses."
Learners can choose offerings in 22 courses and program at CNC in the fall. The future skills grant will pay for tuition costs up to $3,500 per person.
“Learning across a lifetime is an opportunity and a responsibility, which is something we’ve built into the fabric of our college,” said Dr. Chad Thompson, CNC’s vice president: academic. “The array of programs and courses will give nearly anyone who’s interested access to key skills to advance in their careers.”
CNC’s initial program offerings will include the following areas:
- business and management including project management, book-keeping, management skills, and digital marketing;
- computer literacy focusing on computer and internet essentials as well as Microsoft applications commonly used in workplaces;
- Indigenous cultural competency in health care; and
- educational programming for instructors focusing on adult learners and navigating hybrid learning environments.
CNC will offer the courses in person and on-line. The courses range from seven to 239 hours in length. Individuals may qualify for the program if they:
- are a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Protected Person;
- are residing in British Columbia;
- are 19 years of age and older, OR have graduated from grade 12 or equivalent; and
- have not exceeded their StrongerBC future skills grant $3,500 lifetime maximum.
For more information on the Future Ready Action Plan, visit the StrongerBC website.