Robert Gissing has a passion for learning, and his curiosity has led him on a fascinating educational journey. "I’ve been a Software Quality Analyst for 14 years. Finding myself laid off with a wife and two teenagers to support posed a challenge."
After going from interview to interview, Robert discovered that new trends in Quality Software Development were emerging and he didn’t have the skills employers wanted. He needed to re-train, and that meant going back to school. But how could he afford it?
Conestoga College had served him well in the past. Since the early 80’s Robert has been taking courses at Conestoga. "I’m always looking on the Conestoga College website, and it was while searching the website that I discovered 'The Second Career Strategy'."
Second Career is a new program offered by the Ontario Provincial Government, and administered by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. This program funds recently laid off workers, E.I. and Reachback claimants, foreign trained and other qualified workers, to obtain training that provides the skill set for employment in an occupation listed in Skill Level B of the Statistics Canada National Occupation Classification (NOC) Skills Matrix (2006).
"I knew exactly what I needed. Conestoga College had the perfect program, but the September deadline was approaching fast. I needed help to put it all together. The Conestoga Career Centre advised me and put me in touch with Career Development Services. Everyone worked together and wanted to help me succeed. My application was approved, and I started my program this past September. Conestoga College has become very flexible with multiple start dates, and one and two year programs. My software development CPA program is 45 weeks with a paid co-op placement of 12 weeks. Without the Second Career Strategy funding support for this program, I would not have been able to do it. Now I’m committed to helping other people get into the Second Career Strategy program. If you meet the requirements, it can change your life. My family is behind me. They know that while I’m studying, we all have to cut back, but in the long run, it will all be worth it!"
Sarah Bongers