Everyone has role to play in shaping future career choices of youth

By Mike Hill GUEST COLUMNIST

NOVA SCOTIA IS hosting the Canadian Skills Competition this week, which gives us all cause for both celebration and reflection.

At this national skills showdown, young people from across the country have demonstrated their creativity, unique talents, and honed skills. Their ability is over-shadowed only by their energy and compassion. If the attributes of these fine young champions are any indication of the potential of our youth, then our future economic prosperity is sound and as a nation we are indeed blessed. Let us celebrate the talents of our nation.s youth.

But we now should reflect on the role everyone must play in preparing Canada's youth for future career choices. Yes, that's "choices," plural. The youth of today, or "Millenials" as they are called, will be contemplating several careers throughout their lives. Further, say good-bye to the industrial economy and say hello to the "knowledge economy."

Today's youth have a tremendous ability to access information; they demand diversity in the mode of messaging; they expect enrichment beyond the enjoyment of the job; they expect employers to demonstrate an active concern for the both the environment and the community they serve.

What's more, they may seem less "desperate" to gain employment compared to previous generations. Perhaps part of this confidence lies in the fact that opportunities for employment exist across all sectors.

Which brings me to our collective role: it is critical to consider how we can all contribute specifically to the success of our young people. As advocates for lifelong learning we must ensure that post-secondary education is experienced and achieved. As a start, Nova Scotia Community College must be recognized as a critical choice for post-secondary education in this province.

When you consider that these college graduates are working in 40 of the top 50 fastest-growing occupations, this is a significant chunk of Nova Scotia.s economy. We also know that by the year 2010, there will be 50,000 unfilled jobs which require a skilled trade or college diploma.

For the past two years, the community college has created and delivered an interactive workshop titled Parents As Career Coach. It is so important for parents to realize they are at their highest level of influence during a student's high school years. Parents therefore must provide leadership as both learning facilitators in the home and career counsellors for their children.

But they can't do that until they understand the bigger picture of the changing workforce in Canada, and the educational and career options available to their children.

While tradition is something of great value when it comes to families, it can often be too easy to encourage a child to follow in the same footsteps taken by previous generations. In today's economy, following that tradition may not always lead to meaningful employment. Our youth must be encouraged to test drive all post-secondary education options. This includes program shadowing, research, and everything else that will assist them to make an informed decision on their academic path and career pursuits.

As employers, we need to embrace the change that is the "Millennial" workforce. Employers need to modify their recruitment strategy by creating positions that offer more balance and enrichment. We need to consider job-sharing options and provide more flexible hours and conditions.

We must provide a global perspective, through cultural enhancement and diversity in the workplace. And finally, employers must provide lots and lots of support and encouragement. We can.t expect employee loyalty to be automatic; it must be earned, through ongoing deeds and a social conscience.

The sooner employers realize the rules of engagement have changed, the sooner they will succeed in growing their corporate team.

Mike Hill is associate vice-president, learner development and pathways, Nova Scotia Community College.