Special Projects

Circular Workforce Development Plan and Training Project

The Port Alberni Workforce Development and Training Project is bringing together community-based organizations, employers, training providers, and others to create a workforce development plan that supports the community and individuals impacted (directly or indirectly) by mill closures in transitioning to meaningful employment in emerging circular economy sectors, through community engagement, targeted skills training and job placements.

Client

Employment and Social Development Canada

Project Duration

July 2025 – March 2027

Funders

The Port Alberni Circular Workforce Development Plan and Training Project is funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Canada Retraining and Opportunities Initiative.

Key Outcomes
  • Community Engagement – Develop a Workforce Development Plan informed by community input and a Labour Market Study to identify priorities, reflect local needs, and ensure alignment with evolving regional priorities.
  • Skills Training and Job Placement – Facilitate workforce upskilling in partnership with accredited providers through 48 subsidized training spots, 15 job placement opportunities, and free webinars, informed by the skills gap assessment to meet the training needs of displaced forestry workers and equip them for the emerging circular economy.
  • Economic Diversification – Expand employment opportunities by supporting economic diversification in emerging circular economy sectors, including Green Building & Deconstruction, Maritime Industry and Environmental Remediation & Restoration, and Regenerative Tourism.
Key Publications

Port Alberni Circular Economy Labour Market Study

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