Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend the BC Prior Learning Action Network (BCPLAN) Symposium in Richmond. Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) can be a powerful economic driver, helping individuals move through post-secondary education, achieve credential recognition, and access career pathways without starting from scratch.

The symposium featured a full day of PLAR practices, lived experiences, and innovative approaches to certification.

One standout example came from the Architectural Institute of BC, the regulatory body for architects. They’ve introduced a new pathway to becoming an architect that does not require a post-secondary degree. It’s a novel and exciting application of PLAR, particularly beneficial for internationally trained professionals and those with extensive industry experience. This model offers a promising route forward without the need to spend years in school. I’ll be watching with interest to see if other regulatory bodies follow suit.


Kudos to ASPECT member Raj Brar of PICS, who shared her personal journey of using PLAR to build her career in Canada after immigrating. She spoke about how many newcomers are unaware of PLAR and how it helped open doors for her in her new country.

A good symposium can reignite inspiration in our work, and the BCPLAN event certainly did that for me. I’m looking forward to the Western Canada Career Development Association (formerly the BC Career Development Association) Symposium today, which I’m sure will be just as energizing.

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC