Upskill winds down

The Development West Coast (DWC) led project was launched in July 2020, supported by the Ministry of Social Development, delivered by local HR firm Productive People, and funded by the Provincial Growth Fund through to August 2024. During that time, Upskill worked with over 370 businesses, offering targeted training and recruitment support to help bolster the region’s workforce and economy.

As the project draws to a close, Upskill Manager Tania Jones stated, "We’re proud to reflect on the impact it has made across the West Coast region."

Over the course of the project, Upskill supported 918 individuals into full-time positions, with 588 receiving industry-recognised training. The initiative's impact spanned various sectors, including construction, hospitality, tourism, agriculture, and healthcare, benefiting communities across the region.

DWC chief executive, Heath Milne, celebrated the initiative’s achievements, noting that Upskill had far exceeded the project’s initial targets and made a lasting contribution to the region.

“Upskill has been instrumental in filling immediate employment needs while also equipping the workforce with the skills needed for long-term success,” he said.