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BC – The week of March 21 – 25, 2016, has been declared the first ever Technology Skills Appreciation Week in B.C.
The proclamation was celebrated at an event at the B.C. Legislature. Technology Skills Appreciation Week in B.C. recognizes the valuable contribution of people working in technological skilled trades to the province’s economy and labour force. Since B.C.’s technology sector is growing faster than the overall economy, it is critical for the province to attract, retain and develop in-demand skills.
“Technology in B.C. is a key driver of our diverse, strong and growing economy and one of the sectors of our BC Jobs Plan,” says Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour. “With almost one million job openings in our province by 2024, we want to ensure British Columbians have the skills they need to be first in line for these opportunities, including in the tech sector. Technology Skills Appreciation Week is a great way to raise awareness of the many technologist and technician careers that are available and the skills needed to succeed.”
The Find Your Fit tour was also on hand at the Legislature today showcasing careers in demand throughout the province, including those in the tech sector. Find Your Fit connects participants with labour market information resources including WorkBC’s online tool, Blueprint Builder, which helps users map their career plan. Participants were able to learn about online resources to help them find work and even try some of the skills they will need for different careers.
“Technology Skills Appreciation Week provides a great opportunity to showcase the application of technology skills throughout the B.C. workforce,” says John Leech, of the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC. “Technology skills are critical to the safety, growth, development and sustainability of B.C.’s economy and the environment. We applaud the B.C. government for recognizing the contribution of the many workers who employ technology skills every day whether as a technologist, technician, tradesperson, forester, construction worker, engineer, biologist, or one of many other careers.”
The proclamation complements the #BCTECH Strategy by supporting employers need for talent in B.C.’s vibrant technology sector. The 10-year tech strategy includes a $100-million BC Tech Fund and initiatives to increase talent development and market access for tech companies to drive innovation and productivity throughout the province.
Quick Facts:
- The technology sector directly employs more than 86,000 people, and wages for those jobs are 60% higher than B.C.’s industrial average.
- In 2013, the technology sector added $13.9 billion to B.C.’s GDP.
- B.C.’s 9,000 technology companies combined generated $23.3 billion in revenue in 2013.
- New technology companies are emerging at increasing rates throughout the province. In 2013, there was an addition of more than 700 new technology companies in B.C., an increase of 8% over the prior year.
