Using local resources to retrain employees

There are many stories about how individuals have been affected by the economy but, people losing jobs because a company closes its doors is nothing new.
Sylvie Parisien experienced that first hand five-and-a-half years ago with the company she had been with for 29 years.
Parisien quickly found out that, to find a new job, she needed to retool her entire skill set.
"I realized that I was outdated because I had been doing the same thing for 29 years and the skills I used there didn't necessarily apply elsewhere. I also realized that I had never applied for a job and had not made a resume since I was 17." 
As a first step, Parisien wanted to gain new skills and for that she enrolled at the Eastern Ontario Education and Training Centre (EOETC).
"I went to the EOETC and took courses at night to upgrade my competencies. I took computer courses such as Microsoft Word and Excel."
For most of her career, Parisien had been a bookkeeper but now she was searching for what was next. That's when she realized that she was now in competition with younger, more qualified people.
In 2007, Parisien heard about DFL from a former participant. The training that she decided to do at DFL was as an office clerk; it was something she had never done before but she quickly found out how much work it would be.
"I had no idea how much work an administrative assistant could be loaded with. They made me work as if I was in a paid job."
After her 12 weeks at DFL, the staff recommended Parisien for a nine-month project on creating a website for the Artists of Eastern Ontario.
Parisien started to network and meet contacts while there. The project led to a job with the Prescott Russell Services to Children and Adults. There, she furthered her experience and in September of 2009 had an opportunity to work where it  all started: the EOETC had a position open as a Course Assistant.
She attributes where she is today to the team at DFL.
"Everyone has a role on the team which makes them work so well together. Everyone was so happy for my success."
Now long after walking in and out, Parisien recommends DFL to anyone who is having trouble finding work.
"I recommend this place to everyone; it is a great place to see if you are cut out for office work. When I see discouraged people, I tell them to check it out because it will give them the tools needed to find a job." 
By using local resources (EOETC and DFL), Parisien retrained herself to re-enter the workforce. She believes that anyone can do it.
"Here in our region there are lots of learning opportunities and it is our responsibility to go out and see what we can do to improve our skills and abilities."