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Continuing Education: A Conduit to a New Career

The average Canadian will work in approximately three different career fields and eight jobs in their lifetime, according to Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. Depending on what they studied in post-secondary, that could entail two fields and six jobs they have not received training for.

So what is the key to unlocking access to these alternative employment opportunities that are awaiting you? Some would argue it is continuing education.

Whether you are currently in a successful position but want to develop your skills further, or in an industry where recent layoffs have made your job security questionable, or new to the job market—as a fresh-faced graduate or perhaps a newcomer to Canada—retraining can put you on course toward a new career.

Through education and career experience, you attain an arsenal of transferable skills (e.g. communication, time management) that can help make any career transition smoother. But these transferable, “soft” skills may not be enough considering the current demand for specific, “hard” skills in a crowded job market.

With many Canadians switching fields throughout their careers, there is understandably a perceived skills gap between what job seekers bring to the table from previous experience and the current demands of the given industry.

Perhaps for this reason, an increasing number of people looking to make a career change are returning to the classroom to help bridge the gap to a new career path. Both universities and colleges have options for continuing education that provide the necessary skills for entering a specific field.

The choice between university and college depends on what you are looking to get out of the experience: if you’re not looking to move up, but rather make the change into a new field, those who have done it would recommend enrolling in a college program as the way to go.

“Some may see it as taking a step backwards, but I think that it’s absolutely a step forward. You’re just learning new things that you can apply to everything, whether it be your next job or an interview,” says Meaghan Green, communication and events coordinator of varsity sports for Algonquin College’s Students’ Association, a position she was able to obtain with the knowledge and skills she gained from continuing education.

After completing a university degree, Green was unsatisfied with the job prospects in her chosen field. She decided to continue her education in a college classroom—a path that a growing number of post-grads and job-seekers are choosing. Driven by the current job market and the desire to acquire advanced skills that will lead to employment, Canadian colleges have seen a rise in enrolment among students who already have degrees. The percentage of college students who are university graduates increased by 10 percent in 2009-2010, according to the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario’s 2010–2011 Annual Report.

Those who go back to school are finding that the time spent retraining in a hands-on environment helps to connect them to the workforce. They leave well aware of the skills they possess and have a better understanding of the job market, according to Green.

Of course, there are benefits and risks that go along with the decision to go back to school. Career Options spoke with continuing education experts Carolyn Young, director of Continuing Studies at Western University, and Angelo Di Giorgio, career coach at Humber College and principal and managing director of careerdynamics.ca, as well as a group of continuing studies students attending various colleges throughout Ontario.

In discussing the pros and cons, everyone seemed to agree there are three main benefits as well as three areas of risk when it comes to retraining.

Benefits

Networking: Classmates are a great base for networking. Your coordinators, professors and fellow students may end up becoming leads for job opportunities, your colleagues or even your boss.

Perspective: “Retraining gives you a new outlook. It offers a fresh start and allows you to experience other interest areas that you haven’t explored yet, because of time constraints or work commitments,” says Di Giorgio.

Experience: CO spoke to Algonquin College students Rose Hack and Aimee Savard, who both emphasized that the co-ops and internships available within college programs were what attracted them, because many of their previous job interviews stressed work experience. Both of them landed summer jobs in their fields of study before completing their diploma, thanks to the connections they made through their placements.

Risks

Time: If your circumstances don’t offer you the luxury of free time, taking on a full course load may not be possible. Night or online classes may also be challenging to work into a schedule.

Money: If you don’t have the means to pay for the program up front, taking on an additional tuition loan can be a burden. Adding to your student debt must be carefully considered—will your continuing education studies lead to a job that will help you pay it off?

Energy: Going back to school means readjusting your routine, and sometimes taking on more commitments. Make sure that you have the energy to handle the extra work and time you’ll have to put in.

However, in the end, it seems the biggest risk is standing still.

Accessing all the advantages that come with getting back into the classroom is enough motivation to do more with your education and skill sets, says Young. “One of the things we notice about all of our students is they know that learning doesn’t stop at graduation anymore.”

If you are considering making the move toward retraining, there are four steps you should take:

Step One: Self-assess
Start by considering who you are, where you are in life, your interests and aptitudes. Look at your current role, your strengths and your values. Consider what you would like to do more of and what transferable skills you can carry forward.

Step Two: Identify gaps
Recognizing the gaps in your resumé can give you an idea of the training that would make you a well-rounded candidate in the current market. Understanding which skills you lack can be a challenge, but it will be rewarding when you use that knowledge to fit into a role tailored for you.

Step Three: Do some legwork
Go further than reading job descriptions or program outlines. Fully research the job options that are available, and talk to people in the industry by conducting information interviews. Find out which skills employers are looking for and ask which educational programs they recommend.

Step Four: Get assistance
If you’re currently employed, evaluate your employer’s options for educational assistance funding for professional development. Alternatively, look into government grants or accelerated programs available for those with pre-existing education or qualifications.

Retraining is great as long as you’ve done your homework. You can research and recognize the demand for a job, but if it’s not the right job for you, making the switch may not be to your advantage.

“Education is never lost, but if you are interested in landing a meaningful job, based on your fit, do your research and make sure that you are attending the right program,” says Di Giorgio.

Although going back to school does not guarantee employment, if your new skills are aligned with what the market needs and you are able to effectively communicate that to a potential employer, then employment is likely to happen sooner rather than later.

“Retraining can work—and I’m a proponent of lifelong learning—but at the same time there’s got to be a return on educational investment,” says Di Giorgio.

That return comes in the form of job satisfaction, he says: “Your rewards are limitless. The sense of fulfillment is there. If you align your personality, your interests, your skills and abilities and marry that with the labour market demand, the rewards are there.”

Transferable Skills Checklist

Some skills are relevant to all careers, and it’s important to mention these areas of strength when interviewing for a position. Try to relate your experience back to a group project, a previous exercise or time in your career when you applied these skills, to demonstrate to the interviewer your awareness of your own capabilities.for more info, check out avant career

Top 5 Travel Agencies in Antigua and barbuda

1. Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association

It is with great pleasure that the Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association welcomes you to the beautiful islands of Antigua and Barbuda.

There is so much to discover on the twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda. With 365 of the best white sandy beaches in the Caribbean there is always that ideal spot to relax and unwind and enjoy the sparkling clear blue waters. There are also a host of historic treasures to explore and learn about the fascinating past of these islands.

This website will help you find the perfect home away from home with accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from highly luxurious and exclusive all inclusive resorts and Caribbean Hotels to small boutique hotels, intimate inns and private villas.

 

 2. Carib-World Travel

Carib-World Travel was formed in 1973 on the island of Montserrat. We relocated to Antigua in 1996 due to volcanic activity and have become one of the leading travel agencies in Antigua. Our offices are located in Mahogany Place at the corner of Woods Centre and Mahogany Drive.

3. Bo Tours

Established in 1995 Bo Tours Antigua Ltd is a highly respected Destination Management Company offering services to overseas tour operators and wholesalers. With a staff of nine and based close to Jolly Harbour near the village of Bolans, Bo Tours has 16 years of experience in providing comprehensive services for overseas visitors and tour operators.

4. Antigua Caribbean Boat Tours & Charter

Antigua Caribbean Boat Tours and Charter is a vibrant, exciting, and innovative sea tour company based at the renowned Jolly Harbour Marina in Antigua, West Indies ...

We offer a varied selection of high quality tours as well as private charters. Our boats are 36ft multi-hull power catamarans which are manned with friendly, experienced and professional crews.

5. National Tours & Services

National Tours & Services is a leading Destination Management Company in Antigua with over 20 years experience in the business.  We specialize in ground handling services to include airport meet/greet, hotel representation, and VIP transfers.  We are the only on-island ground handler with representatives at the airport from the first incoming flight until the last flight. 

Pemex Global gurgaon : Architect Vs. Draftsman: What's the Difference?

What Do Architects Do?

Architects design and build structures for others to live, work, eat, shop and worship in. These structures can include homes, schools, office buildings, rooms and complexes that are for indoor, outdoor, public or private use. In addition to being in charge of the overall aesthetics, architects must also make sure these structures are safe, functional and economical. Additionally, architects are often involved in every phase of construction projects, from initial planning to project completion.

Architects use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) tools and software, as well as building information modeling (BIM), to create construction drawings. They must be sure that these drawings follow ordinances such as zoning laws, building codes and fire regulations. Architects must also make sure these structures are handicapped-accessible.

Architect Education Requirements

Architects need at least a bachelor's degree in architecture. Most earn a 5-year bachelor's degree. This degree is designed for students with no prior architectural training. Course topics in an architecture program might include CADD, architectural history, construction methods, math and technology. Architecture students are also expected to gain work experience via internships.

Additionally, all architects in the U.S. must be licensed. Eligibility for licensure includes earning a professional degree in architecture, completing an internship and passing the Architect Registration Examination. Licenses must also be periodically renewed by completing some form of continuing education, such as classes, conferences or workshops.

What Do Draftsmen Do?

Draftsmen, also called drafters, perform some of the same tasks as architects and often work with architects. Draftsmen, like architects, prepare CADD drawings. However, drafting can be applied to many other areas besides construction and architecture. Drafting can be used to create drawings of circuitry or mechanical designs. A draftsman's CADD drawings include technical details and specifications such as materials, dimensions and procedures. In addition to using CADD, draftsmen also use calculators, tables and technical handbooks.

The type of work a draftsman does depends on his or her area of expertise. For example, architectural drafters produce drawings for new construction projects. They may specialize in residential or commercial buildings or in the type of material used, such as steel, timber or reinforced concrete. Civil drafters prepare drawings for use in major civil engineering projects, such as highway and bridge construction, sewage systems and flood-control projects. Common drafting fields include aeronautics, electronics and architecture.

Draftsman Education Requirements

Employers prefer draftsmen with college training. Because training varies considerably among these schools, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recommends that students check with employers to see which type of training they prefer prior to enrolling at any school. Certificates, diplomas or associate's degrees in drafting can be earned from technical institutes and community colleges. In some cases, drafting training can also be obtained in military service.

Salary Information

Architects tend to earn considerably more than draftsmen. In May 2014, architects, excluding landscape and naval, earned a median annual salary of $74,520, reported the BLS. Architects in the highest 10th percentile earned $121,910 or more per year.

Draftsmen salaries vary depending on specialty. According to BLS data, architectural drafters earned a median annual wage of $49,970 in May 2014. By contrast, electrical and electronics drafters earned a median income of $58,790 in the same period.

PEMEX Gurgaon : Career Info for a Degree in School Counseling

Career Info

A school counselor works with teachers, administrators and parents to help children succeed academically, as well as develop emotionally and socially. They meet with students individually, in small groups and in classroom settings to help students overcome learning and behavioral problems, cope with family difficulties, assess their personal interests and review their academic strengths.

School counselors provide teachers and parents with information on special education services and healthy parent-child communication. With high school students, they might conduct workshops on the college application process, drug and alcohol abuse prevention, resume writing and job interview techniques.

Education Requirements

A master's degree in school counseling or guidance is generally required to be certified in this profession. Students typically complete 48-60 credits in such courses as child abuse prevention, psychology and educational assessment in counseling, grief counseling, student assistance programs and counseling strategies for education.

Internships and clinical practicums with school guidance departments give students the practical experience needed for certification. Some states also mandate passing scores on the Praxis II, which measures knowledge and skills required of school counselors, or another certification exam. Prospective counselors should check with their state education department for requirements.

Advanced Education

Experienced counselors who enjoy research and teaching might want to become counselor educators at colleges and universities. This career path requires obtaining a Ph.D. in Counselor Education. A doctoral program typically includes training in recent developments in counseling theory, educational research, advanced educational psychology and qualitative methods.

A doctoral candidate commonly completes an original work of research, or dissertation, in a specialized area of study. The dissertation is written under the guidance of a faculty advisor and usually takes 1-2 years to complete.

Pemex India Gurgaon : Career Info for a Degree in General Special Education

Career Options

Special education teachers in preschools, elementary schools, middle schools and high schools work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach a wide range of subjects.

Preschool Special Education Teacher

Preschool special education teachers teach preschool subjects to students with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. They may also be tasked with identifying students with disabilities who would benefit from a special education setting.

Elementary School Special Education Teacher

Elementary school special education teachers work with students who face developmental, physical and emotional challenges. Special education teachers who work with primary school students may have the added responsibility of identifying possible special-needs students.

Middle School Special Education Teacher

Middle school special education teachers teach preschool subjects to students with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, including academic and life skills. Some teachers may specialize and work with students who have hearing and vision impairments.

High School Special Education Teacher

Special education teachers who work in secondary school environments focus less on identifying students who require individualized attention and more on preparing students for a smooth transition into the adult world. Some teachers continue working with a student until he or she turns 21.

What is a Degree in General Special Education?

While there are degree programs at undergraduate and graduate levels, general special education teachers often need to undertake additional training and educational hours than other teachers. Students in these programs take courses in subjects such as literacy, behavioral disabilities and individualized program development. Some bachelor's degree programs require an additional year of graduate-level education.

The coursework in a general special education program typically covers human development, educational assessment and behavioral issues. Students learn about various emotional, physical and behavioral disabilities and how to teach children with these special needs. Extensive time is spent practice teaching in real classrooms under the supervision of experienced teachers.

Certification Information

Every state requires general special education teachers to earn certification or licensure. Requirements typically include a bachelor's or master's degree from an approved teacher education program, completion of a particular set of education courses and participation in a certain number of hours of practice teaching time. Additionally, aspiring special education teachers must pass an examination. In some states, teachers must first receive a general teaching license and then continue training to earn licensure as a special education teacher.

Career Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all special education teachers are likely to see job opportunities increase by six percent between 2012 and 2022 (www.bls.gov). This growth is not expected to be the same across age levels, however; special education student enrollment is projected to be higher in elementary and middle schools, making anticipated job growth more pronounced for teachers of these age groups. As of May 2013, elementary school special education teachers made an average annual salary of $56,690, while those teaching middle school earned a yearly average of $59,540. High school special education teachers at that time averaged $60,410 per year, reported the BLS.

Pemex gurgaon : Career Info for a Degree in Educational Administration

Career Options

Educational administration students learn how to design curriculum, meet the educational needs of various populations and evaluate staff. They also develop educational management and communication skills. Graduates of these programs might enter careers as instructional coordinators, principals or assistant principals.

Instructional Coordinator

Instructional coordinators help design curricula, train and evaluate teachers, choose educational materials and see that school programs are meeting district, state and federal standards. They often work primarily in one educational field, such as special-needs education, math, music or science. Instructional coordinators design tests and oversee teacher and curriculum evaluation processes, then research new developments or techniques in educational theory to develop solutions to problems.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that improvements to curricula and teacher performance could cause demand for instructional coordinators to rise in coming years. Job growth was expected to be 13% from 2012-2022. The median salary for instructional coordinators in May 2013 was $60,610 .

Principal

Principals are educational administrators for elementary or secondary schools. They make decisions, set long-term goals and create mission statements for schools. Principals also evaluate, hire and fire teachers and other employees, and they must meet school district initiatives and standards. Much of their job involves interacting with parents and students to gather input and address concerns.

According to the BLS, a 6% job growth was predicted for all education administrators in elementary and secondary schools, including principals and assistant principals, from 2012-2022 due in part to diminished state and local budgets. The median annual salary for elementary and secondary school education administrators was $88,380 in May 2013.

Assistant Principal

Assistant principals interact directly with more school staff and students than do principals. They coordinate maintenance workers, food service personnel and bus drivers to ensure smooth operations within the school. They hold students responsible for their behavior and educational efforts by administering disciplinary actions and providing counseling services. Some assistant principals are promoted quickly to positions as full principals, but others remain in their current positions throughout their careers.