The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is accepting applications for the next intake of its
Community Ambassador in Tourism and Hospitality Industry (CATHI) program, a fully
funded employment training program that helps participants gain the skills, confidence,
and experience needed to enter the workforce.
“People say they feel better and are better off when they have a job, so we’re removing
barriers to skills training,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and
Poverty Reduction.
“In partnership with the Government of Canada, we’re investing
$296,644 to deliver hands-on training and work experience for people facing barriers to
employment, including in tourism and hospitality. Through training programs like the
College of New Caledonia’s, people in the Prince George area will get jobs-ready skills,
industry-recognized credentials, and direct connections to local employers and jobs.”
Running from September 14 to December 4, 2026, the 12-week program offers 16 available
seats and combines classroom instruction, industry-recognized certifications, employability
skills, and work experience to prepare participants for careers in tourism, hospitality, retail,
customer service, and other service industries. Training is fully funded by the Government
of Canada through the bilateral Canada–British Columbia Workforce Development
Agreement, which supports skills training and employment programs for people in British
Columbia.
“Talent and ambition exist in every community, and it is important that we create
opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential,” said Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs
and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for
Northern Ontario. “Through the Community Ambassadors in Tourism and Hospitality
program, we are helping people in British Colombia gain valuable skills, workplace
experience, and connections to good jobs in tourism and industry. Together, we are
opening doors and building a stronger future for communities across northern British
Columbia.”
For graduate Chris White, the program provided the skills and confidence to advance in his
career.
Jennifer Cameron, Continuing Education Coordinator at CNC, said the program is designed
to remove barriers to employment while helping participants build lasting careers.
"The CATHI program is about creating opportunities for people who are ready to take the
next step toward meaningful employment. Students leave with practical skills, industry
recognized certifications, and real workplace experience that employers value. Success
stories like Chris's show the lasting impact this program can have, and we encourage
anyone who is eligible to apply while spaces are still available."
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be unemployed, precariously employed, or experiencing multiple barriers to
employment.
- Be legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Be living in British Columbia at the time of training.
- Not be participating in another provincially or federally funded labour market
program during the training.
Applications for the September 2026 intake are now open. With only 16 seats available,
interested individuals are encouraged to apply early.
For more information or to apply, visit the CNC Skilled Training for Employment webpage.
Check out the press release