In one of the newest programs offered at Maritime Business College, students are given the training to assist the disabled. Human Services Support Workers aim to develop their clients' life skills and help them care for themselves. Students are taught how to work with the physical, mental and/or intellectual challenges of their clients.
The program has industry leaders as instructors, such as Brian Evans, who has more than 15 years' experience. "I became a part of the HSSW program since it began being offered in March 2014," says Evans. "This is an excellent program for students wanting to work in a wide range of settings with diverse clients."
Evans explains the education is very direct and hands-on, which is important in preparing graduates for entering the workforce. "We go beyond simply learning about different disorders and disabilities. Graduates are trained in how to develop behaviour plans, provide emotional support and advocate for their clients," says Evans. "We teach students to be open-minded and nonjudgemental, and recognize that everyone has strengths that make them unique and capable of living a full and satisfying life."
Dave Maguire, Marketing Director for the college, explains the program puts students in line for a high-demand job. "Graduates are prepared for employment in government, community-based agencies, health care or educational facilities, with an opportunity to support pre-schoolers with autism to seniors dealing with the challenges of aging," he says. "This is not a job for paper-pushers."