5 B.C. Organizations Supporting Career Changers
- Vivian Chong
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 20
You're not lost, but it's okay if you feel that way. Pivoting can be overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what support is out there or where to even start. To help, here's a roundup of local free or low-cost options for mid-career professionals rethinking their next move. Whether you're looking to build new skills, get job search help, or just talk things through with someone, these B.C. resources offer accessible support for your career change journey.
Thrive is a non-profit that provides support, tools, and community to help people build meaningful careers, professional networks, and adult friendships. It offers free career coaching supervised by trainees (yes, free) with three sessions included and the option to extend for $40 per additional session. It also runs social events and peer learning groups to support skill-building and networking during career transitions.
WorkBC offers government-funded career coaching, job search help, and access to training programs. Its Career Transition Tool lets you explore career options based on your current role, though it's better suited for lateral movers seeking adjacent roles or new work environments. Radical changers looking for a better fit with their values or interests may find it less helpful, but it's still a great starting point for exploring.
College Career Advising
Many post-secondary schools in B.C. offer free career advising for both students and alumni. Local schools like UBC, Emily Carr, and Douglas College provide services such as one-on-one appointments, resume and cover letter support, interview preparation, job boards, and industry connections. It's a valuable (and often underused) resource, especially if you're going back to school for your career pivot.
The YWCA offers employment services for self-identifying women transitioning to new careers. Programs include tailored support for newcomers, single mothers, women of different age groups, and more — helping with building skills, confidence, and experience to find work and training. Its free career services are available at various WorkBC Centres operated by YWCA around Metro Vancouver.
Libraries are so much more than just books and free internet. Career Cruising is a Canadian career-planning resource offered through many public libraries in B.C., including Vancouver and Burnaby. It includes detailed information on more than 500 occupations, with expected salaries, required education and credentials, interviews with professionals, and skills/interests assessments. You'll typically need a library card, but check with your local library on how to access the program. If you're a student, your post-secondary school will likely provide access either through the library or career advising services.
If you're still figuring things out on your own, the planning worksheets in our next post might be a helpful place to start.
Comments