Older Workers Program celebrates 20th anniversary

Yukon University marked the 20th anniversary of the Older Workers Program with a special celebration at Ayamdigut campus on November 5, 2026.

Graduates from across the program’s history joined instructors, workplace hosts, community partners, and students from the current cohort to mark the milestone and reflect on how the program has helped Yukoners start new careers, retrain, and get back to work. One of the evening’s highlights came from Annie Bernard, a member of the program’s very first graduating class. At 80 years old, she’s still finding purpose and passion working as a school Elder at FH Collins. Her heartfelt speech lit up the room.

“If I can, you can too. I’m 80 and still working.”

- Annie Bernard, first Older Workers Program graduating class

For years, Scott worked in heavy concrete construction, work that was hard on his body and impossible to keep up forever. In 2018, he graduated from the program and made the switch to a new career. The City hired him as a Facility Operator, and he’s been there ever since.

“People talk about life-changing events. For me, this program was one of them.”

- Scott Holmes, Older Workers Program graduate

The program, delivered in partnership with the Government of Yukon and Government of Canada, is designed for learners aged 50 to 70 looking for a new path. The free program offers 13 weeks of group learning and support, a stipend for students, and support to find work, take further training, and improve wellbeing.