As more of our communities are offering vocational training services, we are learning about the importance of the RAC process. Part of our reflection on this process is how we can share resources across the network. As people begin to be trained in the RAC process for different trades, we will be better able to identify the human resources we can share in the 2025-2026 school year.
In the meantime, here are some material resources we can consult right now.
What is RAC?
The recognition of acquired competencies (RAC) in vocational training is a process that makes it possible to assess and gain official recognition of competencies acquired through life and work experience based on a study program. (Source)
Basically, it’s a process that can officially recognize what you already know and can do related to a field of study (let’s say carpentry.) The process can identify what you still need to learn and can, at times, bring you directly to a diploma much more quickly.
It focuses on three principles (source):
- People have a right to recognition of competencies gained through experience (as long as they can prove it.)
- People shouldn’t have to relearn what they already know in a school setting. What’s important is the knowledge and skill, not where it was acquired.
- Once competencies have been recognized, people should not have to relearn them as a prerequisite to a diploma.
RAC presentations + resources
Here are some presentations and material resources that were provided to the network in the 2024-2025 school year.
Presentations made to the FNRAECs (First Nations Regional Adult Education Centres)
Here are two presentations – one in English and one in French, made to the centres supported by the FNAESC.
Presentations made to Indigenous organizations in February 2025
These presentations were made at the February 26, 2025 RAC Day hosted by the Ministry of Education and are shared with their permission.
Resources to modify and use
Here are some resources to post in your centre or give to your students.
Upcoming Professional Development
2025 Rendez-vous RAC VT
This year’s RAC rendez-vous will take place on October 2 and 3 in Quebec City. The theme is InteRACtions: Collaborating for Innovation.
All of the information, including workshop descriptions, speaker info, and hotel accommodations are on the registration site here.
Note – the workshops will be offered in French only.
