February 23, 2012

Retraining For A Second Career

With today’s job market, things often look pretty bleak. Lay offs are commonplace and finding a new job can sometimes be more than a challenge when it comes to meeting the monthly bills. Retraining in a new field is often a next-step options for many people.

If your job has been downsized or even removed altogether, taking a decrease in pay isn’t a realistic option. Some businesses offer retraining in-house, or cover expenses for training programs elsewhere. But if not, you may find yourself looking for training on your own. Where do you start?

In Canada, Employment Insurance only goes so far. But if you qualify, at least you have an income while you are looking for work. While on EI, there are many free programs that offer help on finding work or finding retraining relevant to needs in the current job market. Availing yourself of these free programs is highly recommended.

In Ontario, the Second Career initiative is an option for those that qualify for EI. The Ontario Ministry  of Training, Colleges and Universities will pay for training that you need to get a better job. This program will help pay for tuition, travel, living expenses, books and even help support your dependants while taking courses. To find out if you qualify, you need to visit a Employment Ontario assessment center.

Retraining for a new career is something that many people are considering. Finding out how to do it is fairly easy. You must then decide, or get help on how to decide, what field you want to train in. Many of the free programs offered by Employment Ontario will help you find the career you want with jobs that are available in today’s job market.