B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative

Overview of the B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative program:

The BC Youth in Manufacturing Initiative is a workforce development program delivered by Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) and funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia through the Workforce Development Agreement. The initiative aims to inspire and prepare youth (aged 16–21) for meaningful careers in the manufacturing sector by placing them into work experience opportunities and providing skills training, mentorship, and career development. The program is tailored to support high school students, recent graduates, and young adults not currently in school or employment. It promotes the manufacturing sector as a viable and rewarding career path while addressing critical labour shortages in BC’s industrial and advanced manufacturing sectors. Participants benefit from up to 16 weeks of paid employment with manufacturing employers, while also receiving employability skills training, safety certifications, job coaching, and access to a broad network of manufacturers. The program also includes pre-employment support, job matching based on interests and capabilities, and post-placement career guidance. Employers benefit by accessing wage subsidies and a pool of pre-screened, motivated youth, helping them build their future workforce while supporting community employment goals. The program is open to employers across British Columbia, and special consideration is given to applicants from underrepresented groups such as Indigenous youth, women in trades, newcomers, and visible minorities.

Benefits of the B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative program:

• For Youth (Ages 1621):
• Up to 16 weeks of paid employment in the manufacturing sector
• Pre-employment skills training and career readiness workshops
• Safety and industry certifications (e.g., WHMIS, First Aid)
• One-on-one coaching and mentorship
• Career planning support
• Valuable work experience and professional references
• For Employers:
• Access to wage subsidies to support hiring costs
• Recruitment of motivated, trained youth
• Support in onboarding and training
• Contribution to community workforce development
• Help addressing industry labour shortages

Eligibility criteria of the B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative program:

• For Youth Applicants:
• Must be aged 1621
• Must reside in British Columbia
• Open to high school students, recent graduates, or unemployed youth
• No prior manufacturing experience required
• Youth from underrepresented groups (e.g., Indigenous, women in trades, visible minorities, newcomers) are encouraged to apply
• For Employers:
• Must be a manufacturing business located in BC
• Willing to offer a safe, supportive work environment
• Must provide meaningful, skill-building job placements
• Able to participate in program reporting and supervision
• Open to hosting placements for up to 16 weeks