WCB, Connect Employment Services Agency Form Partnership

WCB offers on-the-job training to persons with disabilities as part of community outreach efforts

The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) and Connect Employment Services Agency (Connect) signed a partnership agreement on April 18 which will see the WCB offer paid on-the-job training for persons with intellectual disabilities.

WCB President and CEO Doug Sexsmith, CUPE Local 1063 President Dave Cutler and Connect Executive Director Krista Bissett signed the partnership agreement at the Royal Canadian Mint during the Connect awards event “Sweet Success”. According to Sexsmith, the agreement is an example of the WCB’s commitment to support its diversity program by enhancing partnerships within the community.

“The WCB is committed to being a valued member of the community and we, as an organization, are happy to collaboratively build a community that incorporates the inclusion of people with disabilities,” Sexsmith said.

Currently, the WCB already provides paid on-the-job training for Connect clients, which Bissett describes as a “win-win situation” for everybody involved.

“The placement helps our clients build new skills, competencies and self-confidence while being exposed to employer expectations and employee responsibilities,” Bissett said.

The Manitoba WCB is a mutual injury and disability insurance agency governed by a Board of Directors representative of employers, workers and the public interest and funded by employer premiums. The WCB insures approximately 70% of the workers in Manitoba, employed by over 24,000 registered employers.

Connect Employment Services is a non-profit employment agency offering support for adults with intellectual disabilities. Connect clients work in a variety of industries and jobs in integrated community settings.