Clay’s Journey to Employment with WorkBC Maple Ridge
July 23, 2025
Clay, a youth immigrant, came to WorkBC Maple Ridge after experiencing ongoing employment challenges. Despite working as a server and mover while in school, Clay struggled to secure stable employment after graduation. Without certifications, job search experience, or access to a vehicle, Clay faced multiple barriers—particularly the need for transit-accessible or hybrid work due to caregiving responsibilities at home. Clay also lacked knowledge related to writing an effective resume or cover letter making job search feel even more overwhelming and discouraging.
Referred by a friend who had found success through WorkBC, Clay connected with Career Coach Jessie at WorkBC Maple Ridge. Through supportive, one-on-one meetings, Jessie helped Clay identify key barriers and introduced them to two youth employment programs: Q+ and the Intercultural Youth Employment Services (IYES) offered by PICS. Clay enrolled in IYES—a fully paid, 10-week program that includes four weeks of employment skills training (with certifications such as First Aid and Serving It Right), followed by six weeks of paid work experience.
WorkBC Maple Ridge provided ongoing supports throughout Clay’s journey, including:
- Job search coaching (resume and cover letter development, mock interviews, and interview resources)
- Access to paid certification training through IYES
- Transportation assistance including bus tickets for program participation and for the first weeks of employment
- Regular check-ins to ensure Clay felt supported and confident
Thanks to the connections made during the IYES program, Clay secured a full-time hybrid position as an Administrative Assistant with a local contractor, starting July 10th and earning $17.85 per hour.
Clay shares:
“I was able to get a job through WorkBC’s help, and I cannot be more thankful. Shoutout to Jessie for being incredibly amazing and kind throughout the whole process. Really glad I came to WorkBC for job search support because doing it on my own felt overwhelming—I felt helpless and disheartened, with no clear direction. I highly recommend this program to young people, especially those looking for a job or with little to no work experience.”
