The first step after high school can feel uncertain. After years of structured education, choosing between further education, job searching, or entering the workforce can be daunting, even amid the excitement of young adulthood.
For Logan, joining the START Program was part of figuring out what came next.
At 18, Logan was looking for employment after graduation and wanted to gain experience that would help broaden their skillset. They were ready to move toward work, but like many young people entering the workforce, they needed guidance on where to start and confidence that they had something to offer.
Through START, Logan built skills in a work-adjacent environment, earned certifications, and received financial support. For someone beginning their employment journey, each of these supports made a meaningful difference.
“Gaining new certificates and broadening my skillset for jobs, as now I have more options to choose when applying for jobs that may not require experience but prior training,” Logan shared.
START also helped Logan feel more prepared for workplace expectations.
“The value was great as now I feel confident in applying for jobs as well as getting myself out there now. It has prepared me for what they expect from an employee and the skills I’ve learned throughout the weeks.”
Logan’s advice to future participants is to stay engaged, ask questions, and take part fully.
“Always try to know what will be coming next and always ask questions and do not be afraid to say something from experience or from your opinion to keep conversations and topics more in depth and learn more throughout it.”
They also spoke warmly about the START facilitators:
“Henrik and Maya are lovely teachers and it was phenomenal to be around them every day as well as the people in the cohort.”
Logan’s story is one many youths can relate to. In a competitive labour market, START shows how the right support can help young people take their strongest first step after high school, build confidence, and develop the skills to advocate for themselves as they begin their careers.