Introduction to Sector Councils

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The Alliance of Sector Councils
The Alliance of Sector Councils (TASC) is a national coordinating body of 29 sector councils representing a wide range of industries in Canada . Its role is to analyze and address sector-wide human resources issues in order to have the Canadian labour market meet the needs and expectations of the changing labour market and remain internationally competitive. TASC receives funding from the federal government and is based in Ottawa . Its website address is www.conferenceboard.ca.

What is a sectoral response?
A sectoral response is a cooperative effort involving individuals, company owners, corporate leaders, labour, government and educators. The aim is to explore common concerns related to human resources development and to identify current and future human resources requirements.

What do sector councils do?
Sector councils work towards

  • improving the quality of the Canadian labour force
  • assisting firms in becoming more flexible in meeting changing competitive demands
  • bringing together different perspectives.

By doing this, sector councils address a number of key issues, including meeting international quality standards, looking at how individuals are hired and how careers are managed. The councils are active in areas such as apprenticeship, occupational certification, occupational standards and training projects.

How does this relate to me?
If you are interested in getting and keeping a job in your field in Canada there are a number of reasons why you might benefit from learning more about sector councils.

There is great value in keeping informed about what is going on in your chosen field and in feeling connected. You will be able to identify opportunities and you will sound very knowledgeable in your cover letters and personal interviews. TASC has an online newsletter called INSIGHTS. The TASC website also provides links to on-line newsletters published by sector councils which provide more specific information on changes in technology, current issues and “who’s who.” (This means who are prominent figures in the field.)

Both the websites and the publications include a wealth of terminology that you will find useful as you prepare your resume, cover letter or portfolio. Remember that a potential employer relies a lot on your ability to express what you have done in the past or are doing now. Using up-to-the-minute, accurate terminology will be important.

You may learn about new approaches to recruitment and hiring that will help you tailor your job search approach.

You may learn about ways in which your background and experience may contribute to Canada ‘s ability to meet emerging global demands. This can be an important “selling point” for you.

Good luck! 

Spend a little time getting to know what the issues are in your sector. It will be informative and potentially very useful as you take the next steps towards your future.