JABC TECHWORKS SHOWS STUDENTS THE EXCITEMENT AND REWARDS OF CAREERS IN TECHNOLOGY
Technology is transforming the business landscape at a rapid pace — it impacts every industry and job field. This means the demand for innovative, highly skilled employees who can create and use new technologies is growing.
Yet both tech and traditional industry leaders report B.C. high school students are not prepared
for these future careers. Currently, there are not enough qualified candidates in this province to meet employer demand.
To help make B.C.’s youth more aware of technology-related career options and the knowledge and skills required to secure these jobs, JABC hosted the second annual
JABC TechWorks on January 16, 2018. Collaborating with industry and community partners, it was held at TELUS World of Science and attended by 400 local grade 9 and 10 students.
The full day program included a morning plenary in the Omnimax Theatre with engaging speakers and an afternoon of breakout sessions hosted by representatives from B.C.’s growing tech industry. Session topics included Women in Technology, Visual Effects & Animation and more.
Grade 9 and 10 participants were surveyed before and after the program to gauge changes in their attitude and awareness of career paths related to technology. Post program results show:
• 91% more students said they are likely to consider working in the tech sector someday.
• 80% more students cited they are now aware of employment opportunities in the technology sector.
• 54% more students said they are now familiar with the earning potential offered by careers in technology.
• 47% more students said they now possessed an understanding of the educational pathway and training required to attain a job in technology.