Finding the right career path and securing meaningful employment can be challenging, and these challenges can be amplified for individuals living with disabilities. The Government of Alberta recognizes these unique hurdles and offers a robust suite of programs and services designed to empower persons with disabilities to achieve their career aspirations. This guide serves as your essential toolkit to navigate these resources and unlock your full potential in the Alberta workforce.
Disability Related Employment Supports (DRES)
The Disability Related Employment Supports (DRES) program is a cornerstone of Alberta’s commitment to inclusive employment. DRES provides crucial financial assistance to Albertans with disabilities, directly addressing barriers that may hinder their access to education and employment opportunities. This funding is versatile and tailored to individual needs, encompassing three key support areas:
Job Search Supports
Actively seeking employment can be intensive, and DRES job search supports are designed to provide short-term assistance during this critical phase. These supports are adaptable and can include services such as:
- Sign language interpreters: Ensuring individuals with hearing impairments can fully participate in job interviews and networking events.
- Assistive technology: Providing access to necessary tools and software to facilitate effective job searching.
- Job coaching: Offering personalized guidance and strategies to navigate the job market successfully.
- Resume and cover letter writing assistance: Crafting compelling application materials that highlight skills and experience.
- Interview skills training: Building confidence and competence in interview settings.
Workplace Supports
Transitioning into a new workplace and maintaining employment requires a supportive environment. DRES workplace supports offer initial short-term assistance to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure long-term success. These supports are designed to:
- Enable full workplace participation: Removing barriers that might prevent individuals from fully engaging in their roles.
- Support job retention: Providing resources to help individuals maintain employment at or above minimum wage.
- Examples of workplace supports include:
- Job coaches: Providing on-site support and mentorship to ensure successful integration and performance.
- Worksite modifications: Adapting the physical workspace to accommodate specific needs, such as ergonomic adjustments or specialized equipment.
- Assistive technology: Providing tools and software to enhance productivity and accessibility in the workplace.
- Communication aids: Facilitating effective communication with colleagues and clients.
Educational Supports
Education and training are vital pathways to career advancement. DRES educational supports empower eligible students with disabilities to participate fully in educational and training programs. These supports are designed to create an inclusive learning environment and can include:
- Sign language interpreters: Facilitating access to lectures, discussions, and educational materials for students with hearing impairments.
- Tutors and note-takers: Providing academic assistance and ensuring access to comprehensive learning materials.
- Assistive technology: Offering specialized software and hardware to support learning, such as screen readers, voice recognition software, and alternative input devices.
- Adaptive learning materials: Providing course materials in accessible formats.
Learn more about DRES programs
Internships for Persons with Disabilities
Gaining practical experience is invaluable for career development. The Government of Alberta offers one-year internships specifically designed for persons with disabilities. These internships provide a unique opportunity to:
- Learn and grow: Develop new skills and expand knowledge in a supportive government environment.
- Gain valuable experience: Acquire hands-on experience in various fields within the public sector.
- Explore career options: Discover different career paths and identify areas of interest.
Internship opportunities are available in diverse areas such as:
- Finance: Gaining experience in government financial operations.
- Administrative support: Developing essential administrative and organizational skills.
- Research: Contributing to government research initiatives and policy development.
Learn more about the internship program
Training and Employment Services
Beyond DRES and internships, a broader range of employment and training services are available to Albertans. These services cater to individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or receiving Employment Insurance (EI) and other income supports. Importantly, these programs also prioritize support for under-represented groups, including:
- Newcomers to Canada: Assisting with integration into the Canadian workforce.
- Women: Addressing gender-specific barriers to employment.
- Indigenous people: Providing culturally relevant support and opportunities.
These comprehensive training programs are designed to enhance skills, increase employability, and connect individuals with suitable job opportunities.
Learn more about the training programs
Foundational Learning Assistance
For Albertans seeking to build a strong foundation for future education and employment, the Foundational Learning Assistance program offers crucial support. This program is designed for low-income Albertans who are unemployed or working part-time (less than 20 hours per week). It provides opportunities to:
- Increase knowledge: Enhance foundational skills in areas such as literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy.
- Develop essential skills: Build skills necessary for further education, training, and sustainable employment.
- Participate in full-time or part-time programs of study: Offering flexibility to accommodate individual circumstances.
Alberta Supports
Accessing these valuable career tools and support services is made easy through Alberta Supports. Employment services are readily available through multiple channels:
- Online: Access information and resources from the comfort of your home.
- Telephone: Speak directly with a support representative for personalized assistance.
- In-person: Visit over 50 Alberta Supports and Alberta Works Centres located across the province for face-to-face support.
Alberta Supports provides a wide array of employment-related assistance, including:
- Job postings: Access to a wide range of job opportunities across Alberta.
job postings - Job training information: Guidance on available training programs and resources.
- Employment counselling: Personalized career advice and support from experienced professionals.
- Workshops: Skill-building workshops focusing on resume writing, interview techniques, and job search strategies.
- Fee-payer (section 25) assessment: Specific assessment services for individuals receiving Employment Insurance.
By leveraging these “My Career Tools Government Of Alberta,” individuals with disabilities can confidently navigate their career journeys, access essential support, and achieve their professional goals in Alberta. The Government of Alberta is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible workforce, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute their skills and talents.
