I arrived in Canada to take a Project Management Post Degree Diploma. I had a Bachelors in Systems Engineering and worked as a systems supervisor and technician in my home country (Venezuela). After completing the project management program at Douglas College, I obtained employment, however it was not my goal employment, so my job search continued and I struggled to land a job in my field.

Auspiciously, I saw several ads on Career Paths at different Skytrain stations. I was intrigued and started to research about the program. I then sent in my application and was happy to be accepted into the program.

Career Paths made me realize the importance of networking and why I was not successfully landing a job in my field. I didn't know anyone within the BC tech industry and the program staff helped me develop connections for informational interviews and with employers.

I learned how to courageously reach out for informational interviews, which helped me define my career path more clearly.

I also gained a different perspective about job titles. I realized I was only applying to a certain type of position. I had several qualifications that matched other additional titles. Through this experience, I realized I was capable of being hired for a consulting role with more responsibility than I initially had in mind.

This realization blended well with revising my resume. Career Paths helped me to tailor my resume to the position I was applying for, highlighting the requirements in the job description, and matching it with my experience.

At Career Paths, I was also able to access the Skills Enhancement funding. This enabled me to complete the Quality Assurance and Software Testing course at BCIT, and Microsoft Azure exam preparation through Udemy. Taking these courses not only helped in my professional development, but also demonstrated my growth mindset to potential employers, letting them know that I was willing to learn new things and improve my professional skills.

I currently work as an Implementation Consultant at IFS Canada, a global enterprise software provider and an employer partner of ISSofBC. This was made possible by the dedicated service of the Career Paths team: Shaunah Majcher, Employer Relations Specialist and Katiba Raoof Case Manger.
 

My advice for newcomer immigrants:

• Take advantage of the tools you have available through ISSofBC. You get help from professionals who want to help you land a position you have experience with.

• Attend as many workshops as you can, this will help you expand your network, and keep networking even after you get a position.

• Be proactive. You are getting the right help, but ultimately you need to do the work to get the job you want.

• Keep trying! The process can take time but keep trying. Finding the right position should be your ultimate goal.