By Sheldon Spackman

Federal minister highlights Red Deer job skills program for youth

Apr 12, 2018 | 6:52 PM

Canada’s Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour highlighted a local project on Thursday that aims to give Red Deer youth the tools they need to find and keep good jobs.

The Honourable Patty Hajdu highlighted the government’s Career Focus program which supports projects that help post-secondary graduates transition to the labour market through paid internships and helps to provide them with the information and experience they need to make informed career decisions, find a job and/or pursue advanced studies.

As a result, the Career Assistance Network has been able to support over 10 participants over the past year in overcoming employment barriers and developing the job skills training and hands-on work experience needed to move into the labour market.

With more than $90,000 in federal funding received through the Career Focus program, officials say paid work experiences for participants were based on their field of study, including the industrial or agricultural sectors or office environments.

In addition, the Government of Canada has approved a subsequent agreement which began April 2 in the amount of $105,000 that will assist an additional 10 youth.

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“We know that our communities are healthier and stronger when everyone can fully participate,” said The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, workforce Development and Labour in a press release. “Supporting youth as they move into the workforce is a key way we can grow our economy and strengthen the middle class.”

“Through continued support from the federal government, Career Assistance Network has been able to match 80 post-secondary students with employers over the past eight years, added Shaune Fandrey, Director, Career Assistance Network. “On average, over 80 per cent of Career Focus matches result in long-term, ongoing employment. Many of employers have requested an additional placement due to their overwhelmingly successful experience.”