Students at private career colleges across Ontario were dismayed to hear of delays in the Second Career program this fall. Many students, like London resident Martin Fisher, have experienced the benefits of the program and hope it will continue to help others. In his own words, Fisher expresses the difference Second Career made in his life in a letter included below.

Martin Fisher, an Everest College student

To Whom It May Concern.

     This is a letter to express my appreciation for the opportunity that was presented to me through the Second Career program. If not for this funding, I would be sitting at home on an indefinite recall list waiting to go back to work to an automotive sector plant that dropped from 2,000 employees to 700 in less than one year. I am also appreciative of the fact that because of this funding, I am able to retrain for a career where the need in the community is great and where I know I will be fulfilled because of the work I am doing.

     I am presently attending Everest College, where I have received nothing less than excellence in the help I have needed. This started from the original contact with Darlene Martin, an Admissions Representative, who I first spoke to when in the process of choosing from several colleges and courses to attend. I was impressed with how she represented this school. I was directed to come in and “shadow” a class where I met the teacher I was to have with the course I had chosen. Again, I was impressed and am still impressed with Megan Phillips, the Addictions and Community Service Worker instructor. The day goes by quickly in Megan’s class. Even though I have been out of school for almost 40 years, with the help that I am receiving, I am achieving above average grades.

     I wouldn’t be here though, without the groundwork being laid through the London Employment Help Centre, the agency in London that helped me through the application process. Even though I was required to do the “leg work”, these people, namely Linda Pollard, helped me to put everything together to present my application to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. It was another positive experience.

     Upon hearing that Second Career funding may be in jeopardy, I count my blessings that I have made it through. It would be a shame to see such a great initiative by our government fall.

     Respectfully Yours,

     Martin Fisher

Did Second Career make a difference in your life? Do you know a student with a story to share? E-mail kristas@oacc.on.ca to submit a story or write a comment below.

A private career college located in Mississauga is on the market. The school offers five registered diploma programs, including personal support worker, accounting, esthetics, early childhood assistant and medical office assistant. If you’re interested, please e-mail hangxue_cn@yahoo.com for more information.

The Blue Mountain Resort, Photo by Qinn

The event will be held at the beautiful Village Blue Mountain Conference Centre in Collingwood on April 21, 22 and 23.

The details of this year’s conference are still under construction – and that’s where YOU come in. What would bring you to this year’s OACC Conference?

Administrative Assistant April Chato prepared a variety of questions to assist you in giving feedback. Please consider and respond – by sending an e-mail (aprilchato@oacc.on.ca) or providing a comment below.

1. What kind of workshop topics would you like to see at the conference?

2. Is there a specific topic that you would like the key note speaker to focus on?

3. Do you have the contact information of a key note speaker you would like to recommend?

4. What government or ministry issues would you like addressed at the conference?

5. Please provide the names (with contact information) of two suppliers that you would like to see as exhibitors and/or sponsors at the conference.

And, now for the fun part…

6. Given the opportunity to participate in a group activity Friday after the formal conference conclusion, what would interest you? (Golf, Scandinavian spa, historical tours, scenic caving, the possibilities are endless and we’re open to suggestions…)