EMBERS BladeRunners Career Exploration Program
In early December we celebrated the graduation of the latest EMBERS BladeRunners cohort at the Invergarry Adult Education Centre!
About the BladeRunners Program
BladeRunners is a career exploration program giving those between the ages of 15-29 the opportunity to start the framework for their career goals. This latest cohort focused on giving newcomers to Canada the tools they need to successfully apply to jobs and build their Canadian work experience.
Each day of the program has a different focus to provide a well-rounded approach to career development. The final day concentrated on money management and financial wellness. Topics included how to interact with your bank, understanding the differences between debit and credit cards and developing strategies for budgeting.
Other subjects covered include job search tips, resume writing, interview skills, health and nutrition in addition to completing the WHMIS certification.
Career Development Support
Extra support can make all the difference in someone’s career development, especially being new to the Canadian workplace culture. As one EMBERS BladeRunners participant describes:
“I wanted to learn how to get more job opportunities and before BladeRunners I used to apply for a couple of jobs everywhere [and] never heard back from them. I knew there was something wrong I was doing so I wanted to figure out what it is and find somebody with experience to show me the way that I could do it.”
The program focuses on empowering individuals on their career journey.
When asked about what aspects of the program were most beneficial as a newcomer to Canada, one participant recalls, “Money management, which is very important for newcomers to Canada, and also the interview skills, business English.”
Many participants also appreciated the resume and interview skills workshop as it provided them with useful materials that can be used straight away in their job search. As an EMBERS BladeRunners program graduate, they are also provided with job search support after the program’s end date.
Congratulations to this cohort of students! We are inspired by your enthusiasm and we wish you the best of luck on your career journey.