Work BC Powell River

09/03/2026

09/03/2026

Alan has worked as a rehabilitation assistant on Vancouver Island for about 26 years. He works in a busy, seniors-oriented physiotherapy clinic, and his job also involves making connections and arranging events for his clients in the local community. However, tinnitus has made his job more difficult.

His local hearing clinic referred him to WorkBC Assistive Technology Services for help funding the hearing aids he needs on the job. “I received a pair of AI-powered, Bluetooth enabled, rechargeable, behind the ear hearing aids. They were set to compensate for the frequencies I was missing,” he explains.

Alan has noticed a big difference at work. “I find conversations much less mentally fatiguing since getting my hearing aids. I no longer have to feel bad asking people two or three times to repeat themselves and meetings with my other team members are very easy to follow now as well,” he says. “As much of my job involves speaking directly to others who frequently have their own hearing impairments, the conversations flow much more naturally than they did previously. I am much more likely to be involved in meetings with co-workers and clients as I can hear ALL of the conversation.”

When asked if he’d recommend WorkBC Assistive Technology Services, Alan was clear. “Absolutely! Do it now, do not hesitate. You will not know what you are missing until you do,” he says. “Apart from personally thanking all of the people involved for their kindness and support through the process, I can’t think of anything else other than to say it’s true what they say… not all superheroes wear capes!”

Read more: https://www.neilsquire.ca/not-all-superheroes-wear-capes-workbc-assistive-technology-services-helps-alan-hear-his-clients/

09/03/2026

This September is Disability Employment Month in BC!

Learn more about how WorkBC Assistive Technology Services helps people with disabilities in BC gain and sustain employment: https://workbc-ats.ca

09/02/2026

“This isn't a detour from my path but a part of it." 🎓

When Kalea began her co-op search, she worried she wouldn't find a role connected to her psychology studies. Instead, she found something even more valuable: an opportunity to explore new possibilities, build transferable skills and grow professionally. 💡

Kalea's experience demonstrates the value of looking beyond obvious connections. She was able to apply her psychology-based skills in new ways while gaining real-world experience in content strategy, research, user experience, project management and digital engagement. 🧠

Read her latest blog on WorkBC.ca for valuable insights and seven practical tips for making the most of a co-op work term📰: https://www.workbc.ca/blog/kalea-my-co-op-experience

09/01/2026

🌟 Talent has no limits. Opportunity shouldn't either.

September is Disability Employment Month, a time to recognize the contributions of people with disabilities and highlight the value of inclusive, accessible workplaces. ♿🤝💼

https://www.workbc.ca/success-story/diverse-employment-journeys

09/01/2026

🌟 Talent has no limits. Opportunity shouldn't either.

September is Disability Employment Month, a time to recognize the contributions of people with disabilities and highlight the value of inclusive, accessible workplaces. ♿🤝💼

08/31/2026

Now is the time to explore available support for businesses facing tariff impacts.

The federal government has introduced a range of funding, financing, and export development programs to help businesses adapt, grow, and access new markets.

Programs currently available include:

✅ Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI)
Up to $3.45 billion in funding to help SMEs adapt to changing market conditions, improve competitiveness, and expand into new markets through grants and financing options.
https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/regional-tariff-response-initiative

✅ CanExport SME
Funding to support market research, trade shows, intellectual property protection, and business development in international markets outside the U.S.
https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/en/our-solutions/funding-financing-international-business/canexport-smes/applicants-guide-2026-27.html
Application deadline: August 31, 2026

✅ BDC Tariff Relief Loans
Flexible financing from $250,000 to $5 million for eligible businesses experiencing tariff-related pressures, including interest-only payment options for the first three years.
https://www.bdc.ca/en/special-support/tariffs

✅ Canada Strong Diversification Fund
A new $2 billion fund aimed at supporting investments in infrastructure and equipment that help businesses diversify and remain competitive.
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2026/08/support-for-canadian-workers-and-businesses-affected-by-us-tariffs.html

✅ Trade Accelerator Program & Export Support
Resources, training, trade missions, and expert guidance for businesses looking to explore and enter new global markets.
https://www.edc.ca/en/campaign/trade-accelerator-program.html

✅ Worker & Employer Support Measures
Extended Employment Insurance provisions for workers and businesses directly affected by tariffs.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2026/03/government-of-canada-extending-employment-insurance-temporary-measures-to-ensure-critical-income-support-continues-for-workers-impacted-by-tariffs.html

Before You Apply
Most programs are prioritizing businesses that can demonstrate direct tariff impacts, such as:
• Increased input costs
• Reduced revenue
• Supply chain disruptions

With funding programs becoming increasingly competitive, businesses affected by tariffs should start preparing their applications sooner rather than later.

08/27/2026

Did you know there are over 90 apprenticeship programs available in BC?

From electrical and plumbing to automotive, construction, and beyond, the range of trades careers available through apprenticeship is broader than many people realize. If you're exploring your options, the SkilledTradesBC program search tool is a great place to start. You can browse programs, find one that fits your interests, and learn what each path looks like.

Not sure where to begin? That's exactly what the search tool is for.

Explore BC trade programs at skilledtradesbc.ca