EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION PROJECT – PHASE I

Project Recommendations

1. In developing a labour market information program, the CSCSC should consider sources of experienced middle managers from "blue-collar" sectors, as well as ways to give younger people in post-secondary programs sufficient work experience so they can fast-track into management.
2. There is a role for the CSCSC to review the scope, depth and currency of industry programs with a view to recognizing the better programs and encouraging consolidation. This will increase the perceived value of individual designations and make it simpler for employees to choose a training program. Some leadership is desirable, to avoid having employees spending valuable hours on certifications that will become obsolete, or employers paying for less-effective training.
3. The CSCSC could contribute to a more-professional overall image of the sector by recognizing those with the most-pedagogically-sound practices, and by encouraging associations to implement the suggested improvements.
4. The CSCSC should support and facilitate partnerships between industry associations and post-secondary institutions, as these will improve the level of instruction and "raise the bar" in terms of academic and work skills required.
5. If the CSCSC is to proceed with occupational standards, a good deal of education of opinion leaders in the sector will be required, and any standards must be developed by a team with substantial industry experience and unassailable credentials.