We are living through a period of economic uncertainty, and nowhere is that felt more acutely than among employment service providers and career development professionals. Provincially, the ripple effects of federal funding shortfalls are being felt in programs and staffing. Federally, Employment and Social Development Canada’s 2025–2026 Service Strategy outlines broad priorities, but fails to address looming threats like U.S. tariffs or the real pressures on community-based providers. So, what do we do while we wait for more clarity?
 

This week, I joined attendees from across the country for CERIC’s Resilience Roundtable: Elevating the Value of Career Development. Together, we explored their new messaging framework, Meet the Moment: Essential Value of Career Development in Uncertain Times, and brainstormed ways to amplify our voice to those who need to hear it most—policymakers, funders, and employers.

What stood out was the strong alignment with ASPECT’s messaging, focusing on the collective economic benefits of employment services. You—our members and workforce development colleagues—are already doing the work. You’re on the front lines, watching local economies shift in real time. You know the employers. You know the job seekers. You know how to provide critical training. You’re the glue keeping communities resilient when industries scale back or layoffs happen. Your value is not hypothetical; it’s proven daily in your relationships, expertise, and impact.
 

CERIC has given us a powerful tool to unify our voice and sharpen our advocacy. I encourage you to download the Meet the Moment messaging guide and use it in conversations, funding proposals, local partnerships, and discussions with elected officials.
 

Together, we can amplify our voices and highlight the essential work happening across our sector.
 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC