A Program Built with Youth in Mind
When Cory Redekop first became involved in the Reboot Plus program, one thing caught his attention right away.
“The structure and design stood out. The program delivered real value to the youth, yet was easy to implement, easy for professionals and businesses to participate, and designed to be replicated in other communities. Often these types of programs are cumbersome to be involved with, and the ask of participants is quite a heavy lift. That’s not Reboot Plus. I think it was built right from the start.”
Over time, Cory’s perspective grew even stronger.
“I didn’t anticipate how valuable the experience would be for the businesses and professionals who participated. I heard feedback from local business owners and professionals who really enjoyed being able to be part of the program and got personal and professional value from participating in the informational interviews.”
Why Real-World Connection Matters
Cory believes that one of the most impactful parts of Reboot Plus is the chance for youth to meet real professionals.
“Today, you cannot place enough emphasis on real world, authentic professional connections. Youth unemployment is at a generational high, and a lot of businesses and sectors are curtailing their entry level opportunities. There is a real risk that youth will miss out on critical information, context and insights about various career options.”
He explains how the program helps fill that gap.
“The informational interview aspect of Reboot Plus gives this to youth participants directly, and creates a formal, structured way for them to find out about different career options and what career paths they may or may not want to pursue. This is invaluable.”
Cory also sees how these interviews connect directly to workforce development.
“Workforce development works best when it is practical and connected to the real economy. We can talk about labour market needs in broad terms, but for a young person those concepts only become meaningful when they can sit down with someone working in a field and ask real questions.”
He was also surprised by the wide range of interests’ youth brought to the program.
“I expected a lot of interest in traditional businesses or fields, but when the youth shared what sectors they were seeking connections to, they were incredibly diverse, from animal welfare and zoology to movie costume design and makeup, and it showed just how varied our business community really is.”
What Employers Gain from One Hour with Youth
Reboot Plus is not only helpful for youth. Employers also benefit from taking part. Cory shared,
“Having the opportunity to talk to someone just starting in your field, or who has just expressed interest in your vocation, reminded local employers of why they go into that line of work in the first place.”
Many employers found the experience energizing.
“For many, it was reinvigorating for them. Business can be isolating. You have your head down, working on a project or building a business, and you can lose connection with the broader community and economy.”
Before offering his final message, Cory explained that the experience often gives employers a fresh perspective on their own work.
His advice to any business owner who wonders if it is worth their time is clear. “If you think about all the things that can take up your time as a business owner or professional, Reboot Plus will be one of the more worthwhile ways you can spend an hour. It will get you thinking about your business and career in a different way and will allow you to contribute back and help someone who may be just starting out in your field like you were once.”
How Reboot Plus Strengthens Communities
Cory sees youth career development as a key part of building strong communities.
“Workforce development, particularly among youth, is a two-way street. Yes, it helps the individual students, but it also supports the businesses and employers in our community by boosting the local talent pool. By fostering better connections to employment, it also supports healthy communities. Youth who are on meaningful career paths are more likely to contribute to their communities in other positive ways.”
He believes communities must invest early.
“Workforce challenges remain a top concern for Langley businesses. Programs like Reboot Plus, which prevent youth from spinning their wheels and help them get ready to enter the workforce, are critical. We do not have the luxury of hoping we connect youth with the right opportunities. We need to ensure young people know about different trades, roles and sectors that make up our business community, and get the skills and direction to be able to enter those fields.”
Cory also believes that helping youth find meaningful paths benefits everyone.
“There’s little value in just filling jobs that then become vacant again when people leave. I think the real value is connecting youth to fields and occupations they are suited for and passionate about, because that fosters deeper ties to the workforce. This serves both the youth and the business community better in the long run.”
He sees a clear role for business organizations in this work.
“I think Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade are natural partners for career development. We are tied into the local business community like few other organizations, and can provide real-life, on the ground info and access for youth looking to develop their career trajectories. I would welcome more opportunities to be involved in programs like Reboot Plus for our Chamber.”
Messages for Youth and Community Leaders
Cory has a simple message for youth who feel unsure about their future.
“Broaden your horizons. Be open to more things. Most people I know and that you will meet have very circuitous career paths because they focused on transferrable skills, were open to opportunities, and said yes.”
For community leaders, he believes career development must be treated as essential.
“Youth career development should be treated as core economic infrastructure. If we want strong businesses, a strong workforce, and healthy communities in the future, we have to invest in helping young people see a future for themselves now.”
He also still believes that education and business are deeply connected.
“Business and community issues are not separate and are increasingly interwoven. These things need to be addressed from both sides. Businesses want to be part of the solution.”
Reboot Plus continues to show that when youth, employers, and communities connect, everyone benefits.
Cory is the CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, responsible for overseeing the organization and its work supporting his members and community. Cory is passionate about the role of Chambers of Commerce, and has spent 15 years working in all facets of the Chamber sector, bringing experience in events, administration, policy and advocacy, finance and governance.
You can read earlier perspectives of the program through the following blog posts:
A Chamber CEO’s Perspective on Reboot Plus Program
Helping Youth Find a Meaningful Career Path in Langley
The Reboot Plus project is funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Centre.
Le projet Reboot Plus est financé par le Centre des Compétences futures du gouvernement du Canada.