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Western Quebec Career Centre offers Quebecers free expert vocational training for in-demand careers

Sophie Demers

 

 The Western Quebec Career Centre (WQCC) offers a variety of vocational training programs for in-demand careers with free tuition for Quebec Residents and those born in Quebec. Funded by Services Quebec, programs offered to English and bilingual students lead directly into the workforce, and give them extra advantages for competitive employment.
Some of the programs offered include the drafting program that uses software to create and design drawings for residential and commercial buildings. Health care programs such as institutional and home care or licensed practical nursing, and trades like welding are in high demand. There are commerce programs that offer individualized instruction to suit student learning style.
The WQCC has state-of-the-art quality equipment for the welding and automotive programs, which enables students to learn and engage with expert level equipment.
The WQCC is also an accredited Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) testing centre which allows students in the welding program to get CWB certified for free. The career centre also offers health and safety in construction certification courses, first-aid training, Microsoft training and soon they will offer conversational French language training in the evenings for free.
All programs offer work which provides students with work experience and can lead to employment opportunities. All programs are tailored to focus on employment after graduation. Programs are between 16 to 18 months long, and students may be eligible for funding through Emploi Quebec or loans and bursaries.
Programs have partnerships with local employers, including the federal government, health care institutions, automobile mechanics and welding businesses. Students hoping to find employment with the government may also participate in the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) through their Secretarial Studies and Accounting programs.
Students graduate with a Diploma of vocational studies (DVS) from the Ministry of Education.
With expert teachers, caring staff, supportive student services, and partnerships with local employers, the WQCC is an appealing option for anyone looking to change careers or get vocational training to achieve their career goals.

Photos: The Western Quebec Career Centre (WQCC) offered the Bulletin a tour of its facilities recently to help the public learn about the vocational training programs for in-demand careers with free tuition for Quebec residents and those born in Quebec. Photos: Sophie Demers