09/14/2026
Our future workforce is sitting in Brooks Secondary and Oceanview Education Centre classrooms today.
According to recent analysis from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Business Data Lab, young people are finding it harder to gain that critical first foothold in the labour market, even as education remains an important pathway to success.
Employers, educators, and communities all have a role to play in creating opportunities that turn education into experience.
Did you know that resources like Canada Summer Jobs, Youth Employment and Skills Strategy programs, apprenticeships, and Youth in Trades initiatives help young Canadians build skills, explore careers, and connect with meaningful employment opportunities.
Here are a few resources for employers wishing to support youth employment opportunities:
πΉ Canada Summer Jobs (ages 15-30)
Find paid summer employment opportunities with employers across Canada through the federal Canada Summer Jobs program. The program helps youth gain valuable work experience and develop skills for future careers.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs.html
πΉ Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS)
A federal initiative connecting youth with employment programs, skills training, mentorship, work placements, and supports for those facing barriers to employment.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/youth-employment-strategy.html
πΉ SkilledTradesBC: Youth Work in Trades
Allows high school students to start an apprenticeship while earning graduation credits and paid work experience in a recognized trade. Students can earn apprenticeship hours and may be eligible for scholarships.
https://skilledtradesbc.ca/youth%20work-in-trades-program
πΉ Work BC Powell River is a great resource for the Wage Subsidy Program as well. https://www.workbc.ca/employers-industry/wage-subsidy
Let's continue creating pathways that help the next generation learn, grow, and succeed.
You can read the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Analysis here:https://powellriverchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/BDL_2026_Blog_YouthWorkforce_EN.pdf