#Federal Skilled Worker Program for software engineers

[abhishekdigi-blog]

Apply for a Canada PR Visa as an Engineer

Canada is an attractive destination for engineers due to its strong economy, diverse job market, and high quality of life. Whether you specialize in civil, software, mechanical, or electrical engineering, opportunities abound for skilled professionals.

To apply for a Canada PR visa, you must meet several requirements:

Education: A recognized engineering degree, verified through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

Work Experience: At least one year of relevant full-time experience in your field.

Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in an approved English or French language test is required.

Immigration Pathways

There are multiple pathways for engineers to obtain permanent residency in Canada:

Express Entry System: This is a popular option for skilled workers. You can apply through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), where candidates are ranked based on factors like age, education, experience, and language skills using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). High-ranking candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces, like Ontario and British Columbia, actively seek engineers to meet local labor market demands. If nominated, you get extra CRS points, increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Engineers with job offers from employers in Atlantic provinces like Nova Scotia or Newfoundland can apply for PR through this program.

Benefits of Moving to Canada as an Engineer

Canada offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a high standard of living. By obtaining a Canada PR visa, you can enjoy healthcare, education, and social benefits, as well as the opportunity to eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.

[mariacallous]

At least dozens of workers for the Technology Transformation Services, housed within the US General Services Administration, were fired Wednesday afternoon, sources tell WIRED.

The sudden cuts seemingly targeted probationary and short-term staffers, including workers supplied by the Presidential Innovation Fellowship program, which brings skilled technologists from the private sector to work in government for a few years at a time. Around 50 of the 70 members of the US Digital Corps, an early-career, two-year government fellowship, were terminated as well, sources say. Sources also tell WIRED that TTS management met with workers individually prior to the terminations, giving them one last chance to take the deferred resignation offered in the “Fork in the Road” email from late last month.

One TTS staffer called the meetings “coercive for sure.”

It’s unclear how many people are being let go, but multiple sources tell WIRED that list could be upwards of 70 if not more. Prior, there were around 650 TTS employees. Fired staffers are expected to receive a formal termination email later Wednesday evening.

“From the beginning of this administration, GSA‘s leadership has been committed to supporting the administration's initiatives to rightsize the federal workforce. GSA has taken immediate action to fully implement all current executive orders and is committed to taking action to implement any new executive orders,” a GSA spokesperson tells WIRED. “Like all agencies, GSA has been working to meet OPM [Office of Personnel Management] memo requirements as it relates to probationary periods. GSA has been and remains committed to ensuring a respectful and dignified process for our agency personnel during this transformation.”

Terminated employees’ last day is expected to be March 7, sources say.

Similar firings took place at the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau on Tuesday evening. Dozens of staffers, primarily probationary ones with fewer than two years of service, received termination emails. Due to what appeared to be a failed mail merge, fired workers were addressed as [EmployeeFirstName][EmployeeLastName], [Job Title], [Division].

When Thomas Shedd, a former Tesla software engineer, joined TTS, he told staff to expect workforce cuts. “We should expect that GSA will be operating with a significantly smaller budget and significantly reduced staff in future,” Shedd told TTS staffers in an all-hands meeting last week in audio obtained by WIRED.

GSA’s vision for the TTS, under new leadership, is an agency that runs like a “startup software company,” WIRED reported last week, focusing on AI, automating different internal processes, and centralizing data from across the federal government.

GSA was one of the first agencies Musk associates took over once President Donald Trump returned to power. Nicole Hollander, who aided Musk in his Twitter acquisition, has joined the upper levels of GSA, along with a slew of other young technologists associated with Musk companies.

The reductions in head count come as Shedd and TTS leadership are hoping to launch “GSAi,” a custom generative AI chatbot, within the next few weeks. WIRED recently reported that the goal of this initiative is to increase productivity among staff and to analyze massive amounts of data. The agency is also planning to sell more than 500 federal buildings to cut overall costs, while pushing for employees to return to in-person office work.

On Wednesday evening, a federal judge allowed the Trump administration to continue with its plans to reduce the size of the federal workforce.

[willcodehtmlforfood]

The quickest way to second-guess a decision to major in English is this: have an extended family full of Salvadoran immigrants and pragmatic midwesterners. The ability to recite Chaucer in the original Middle English was unlikely to land me a job that would pay off my student loans and help me save for retirement, they suggested when I was a college freshman still figuring out my future. I stuck with English, but when my B.A. eventually spat me out into the thick of the Great Recession, I worried that they’d been right.

After all, computer-science degrees, and certainly not English, have long been sold to college students as among the safest paths toward 21st-century job security. Coding jobs are plentiful across industries, and the pay is good—even after the tech layoffs of the past year. The average starting salary for someone with a computer-science degree is significantly higher than that of a mid-career English graduate, according to the Federal Reserve; at Google, an entry-level software engineer reportedly makes $184,000, and that doesn’t include the free meals, massages, and other perks. Perhaps nothing has defined higher education over the past two decades more than the rise of computer science and STEM. Since 2016, enrollment in undergraduate computer-science programs has increased nearly 49 percent. Meanwhile, humanities enrollments across the United States have withered at a clip—in some cases, shrinking entire departments to nonexistence.

But that was before the age of generative AI. ChatGPT and other chatbots can do more than compose full essays in an instant; they can also write lines of code in any number of programming languages. You can’t just type make me a video game into ChatGPT and get something that’s playable on the other end, but many programmers have now developed rudimentary smartphone apps coded by AI. In the ultimate irony, software engineers helped create AI, and now they are the American workers who think it will have the biggest impact on their livelihoods, according to a new survey from Pew Research Center. So much for learning to code.

ChatGPT cannot yet write a better essay than a human author can, nor can it code better than a garden-variety developer, but something has changed even in the 10 months since its introduction. Coders are now using AI as a sort of souped-up Clippy to accelerate the more routine parts of their job, such as debugging lines of code. In one study, software developers with access to GitHub’s Copilot chatbot were able to finish a coding task 56 percent faster than those who did it solo. In 10 years, or maybe five, coding bots may be able to do so much more.

People will still get jobs, though they may not be as lucrative, says Matt Welsh, a former Harvard computer-science professor and entrepreneur. He hypothesizes that automation will lower the barrier to entry into the field: More people might get more jobs in software, guiding the machines toward ever-faster production. This development could make highly skilled developers even more essential in the tech ecosystem. But Welsh also says that an expanded talent pool “may change the economics of the situation,” possibly leading to lower pay and diminished job security.

If mid-career developers have to fret about what automation might soon do to their job, students are in the especially tough spot of anticipating the long-term implications before they even start their career. “The question of what it will look like for a student to go through an undergraduate program in computer science, graduate with that degree, and go on into the industry … That is something I do worry about,” Timothy Richards, a computer-science professor at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, told me. Not only do teachers like Richards have to wrestle with just how worthwhile learning to code is anymore, but even teaching students to code has become a tougher task. ChatGPT and other chatbots can handle some of the basic tasks in any introductory class, such as finding problems with blocks of code. Some students might habitually use ChatGPT to cheat on their assignments, eventually collecting their diploma without having learned how to do the work themselves.

Richards has already started to tweak his approach. He now tells his introductory-programming students to use AI the way a math student would use a calculator, asking that they disclose the exact prompts they fed into the machine, and explain their reasoning. Instead of taking assignments home, Richards’s students now do the bulk of their work in the classroom, under his supervision. “I don’t think we can really teach students in the way that we’ve been teaching them for a long time, at least not in computer science,” he said.

Fiddling with the computer-science curriculum still might not be enough to maintain coding’s spot at the top of the higher-education hierarchy. “Prompt engineering,” which entails feeding phrases to large language models to make their responses more human-sounding, has already surfaced as a lucrative job option—and one perhaps better suited to English majors than computer-science grads. “Machines can’t be creative; at best, they’re very elaborate derivatives,” says Ben Royce, an AI lecturer at Columbia University. Chatbots don’t know what to do with a novel coding problem. They sputter and choke. They make stuff up. As AI becomes more sophisticated and better able to code, programmers may be tasked with leaning into the parts of their job that draw on conceptual ingenuity as opposed to sheer technical know-how. Those who are able to think more entrepreneurially—the tinkerers and the question-askers—will be the ones who tend to be almost immune to automation in the workforce.

The potential decline of “learn to code” doesn’t mean that the technologists are doomed to become the authors of their own obsolescence, nor that the English majors were right all along (I wish). Rather, the turmoil presented by AI could signal that exactly what students decide to major in is less important than an ability to think conceptually about the various problems that technology could help us solve. The next great Silicon Valley juggernaut might be seeded by a humanities grad with no coding expertise or a computer-science grad with lots of it. After all, the discipline has always been about more than just learning the ropes of Python and C++. Identifying patterns and piecing them together is its essence.

In that way, the answer to the question of what happens next in higher education may lie in what the machines can’t do. Royce pointed me toward Moravec’s paradox, the observation that AI shines at high-level reasoning and the kinds of skills that are generally considered to reflect cognitive aptitude (think: playing chess), but fumbles with the basic ones. The curiosity-driven instincts that have always been at the root of how humans create things are not just sticking around in an AI world; they are now more important than ever. Thankfully, students have plenty of ways to get there.

[sonalisethi]

Choosing the Right Top Course Canada Recommends for International Students

Canada continues to be one of the most sought-after study destinations in the world — known for its high-quality education, post-study work opportunities, and student-friendly immigration policies. For international students, one of the most important steps before applying is choosing the right course one that aligns with your career goals and meets Canada’s current and future workforce demands.

If you're wondering what top courses Canada recommends for international students, this guide will walk you through the most popular and high-potential programs, along with why they’re so valued by Canadian institutions and employers alike.

Why Choosing the Right Course Matters in Canada

Canada’s education system offers a wide range of academic and career-oriented programs, but not all lead to the same post-graduation opportunities. With the right program, you can:

Increase your chances of landing a job after graduation

Qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility

Gain relevant experience for Permanent Residency (PR)

Align your education with in-demand sectors and skills

Platforms like MSM Unify help students identify these opportunities by matching their profiles with recommended courses and career pathways across Canadian institutions.

Top Courses Canada Recommends for International Students

1. Computer Science and Information Technology

With Canada becoming a global tech hub, especially in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, computer science and IT are at the top of the list. These courses cover software development, AI, cybersecurity, and data science — all areas with high employer demand.

Why it’s recommended:

Rapid job growth in the tech sector

High salaries and strong career progression

Tech professionals are eligible under Canada’s Express Entry and PNP systems

2. Business and Management

Canada offers globally recognized business degrees, including MBAs and bachelor’s programs in areas such as finance, marketing, human resource management, and international business.

Why it’s recommended:

Business graduates are versatile and can work in nearly any industry

Opportunities in startups, multinational corporations, and public sectors

Many institutions offer co-op or internship options as part of the curriculum

3. Engineering

Engineering continues to be a high-demand field in Canada. Top specializations include civil, mechanical, electrical, software, and environmental engineering.

Why it’s recommended:

Engineering is a skilled profession under the Federal Skilled Worker Program

Strong job market due to infrastructure development and innovation in clean technology

Licensure and accreditation from Canadian engineering bodies improve job mobility

4. Health and Life Sciences

Healthcare professionals are in short supply across Canada. Programs in nursing, biotechnology, public health, and pharmacy are not only in demand but also provide direct routes to permanent residency.

Why it’s recommended:

Healthcare workers are critical in Canada’s long-term labor planning

High employability in both urban and rural regions

Competitive salaries and opportunities for permanent residency sponsorship

5. Hospitality and Tourism Management

Canada’s tourism industry is growing, and cities like Vancouver, Banff, and Toronto are major destinations. Courses in hospitality, hotel management, and culinary arts are both popular and practical.

Why it’s recommended:

Excellent part-time and post-study employment opportunities

Ideal for students who enjoy customer service, travel, and event planning

Strong industry links and internship programs through Canadian colleges

6. Media, Animation, and Graphic Design

Creative industries in Canada are thriving — especially in animation, film production, gaming, and digital marketing. Schools in British Columbia and Ontario offer cutting-edge programs.

Why it’s recommended:

Opportunities in Canada’s booming entertainment and digital media sectors

Project-based learning and industry-aligned curriculum

Access to co-ops and studios for hands-on training

How MSM Unify Can Help You Choose the Right Course

Choosing a course isn’t just about trends — it’s about what fits you. This is where MSM Unify steps in. As a global student platform, MSM Unify helps international students:

Explore thousands of programs across Canadian universities and colleges

Compare tuition, admission criteria, and job prospects

Find institutions offering co-op, internships, and post-graduate pathways

Access career forecasting tools based on your interests and skills

Their personalized dashboard helps streamline your decision-making, ensuring that you’re not only eligible for your chosen program but that it also aligns with Canada’s labor market needs.

Final Thoughts: Set the Foundation for a Successful Future

When you study in Canada, you’re not just getting a degree — you’re preparing for a global career. Choosing the right course is the foundation of that journey. Whether you’re drawn to technology, healthcare, business, or the arts, Canada offers high-quality programs that are respected worldwide.

By using proven tools and support from platforms like MSM Unify, you can confidently select a course that sets you on the path to success — academically, professionally, and personally. Your future starts with the right choice, and Canada is ready to welcome you there. Also read: Proven Strategies That Overseas Education Consultants Use for Success

[tiicoverseas]

Top 10 In-Demand Canada Jobs for 2025 — Fast-Track Your Work Visa with TIIC

If you are considering a move to Canada for work in 2025, selecting the right occupation can be the difference between a swift visa approval and prolonged delays. Canada’s labour market is evolving, and immigration policies increasingly favour applicants with skills that align with the country’s economic needs.

At TIIC — Overseas Settlement Solutions, a leading Canada Work Visa Consultant in Chandigarh, we specialise in helping professionals navigate the Canadian work visa process efficiently. As experienced Canada Work Permit Agent Chandigarh, we reveal the top 10 in-demand jobs in Canada for 2025, along with expert insights on how to leverage these opportunities for faster visa processing and long-term settlement.

Why Your Job Choice Matters for Canadian Immigration

Canada’s immigration system prioritises candidates who fill critical labour shortages. By targeting high-demand occupations, you can benefit from:

Expedited work permit processing through programs like the Global Talent Stream

Higher chances of LMIA approval, making it easier for employers to hire you

Direct pathways to permanent residency via Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Recent changes in Canadian immigration policy further emphasise the importance of strategic career selection:

New restrictions on family open work permits (effective January 2025)

Stricter rules on work permit revocations

Choosing the right occupation is no longer just about job prospects — it’s about maximising your chances of successful immigration.

Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in Canada for 2025

1. Software Developers & IT Specialists

Why in demand? Canada’s tech sector continues to expand, with major hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal seeking skilled professionals. Visa advantage: Eligible for the Global Talent Stream, which processes work permits in as little as two weeks. Salary range: 90,000–150,000

2. Healthcare Professionals (Nurses, Physicians, Caregivers)

Why in demand? Canada faces a severe shortage of healthcare workers, particularly in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. Visa advantage: Priority processing through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Salary range: 70,000–120,000

3. Skilled Trades Workers (Electricians, Welders, Plumbers)

Why in demand? Infrastructure projects and housing demands drive the need for skilled tradespeople. Visa advantage: LMIA-backed work permits and eligibility for the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Salary range: 60,000–100,000

4. Truck Drivers & Logistics Personnel

Why in demand? Canada’s supply chain relies heavily on qualified transport workers. Visa advantage: Some provinces offer accelerated PR pathways for truck drivers. Salary range: 55,000–85,000

5. Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)

Why in demand? Large-scale infrastructure developments require engineering expertise. Visa advantage: Many positions qualify for LMIA-exempt work permits. Salary range: 80,000–130,000

6. Financial & Accounting Professionals

Why in demand? Businesses need experts in financial planning, auditing, and taxation. Visa advantage: Strong eligibility for Express Entry and PNPs. Salary range: 70,000–110,000

7. Teachers & Educational Instructors

Why in demand? Shortages exist in STEM, French-language, and special education roles. Visa advantage: Provincial certification can lead to faster work permit approval. Salary range: 60,000–95,000

8. Hospitality & Food Service Managers

Why in demand? Canada’s tourism industry is rebounding, creating management opportunities. Visa advantage: LMIA-supported positions available for qualified candidates. Salary range: 50,000–80,000

9. Agricultural & Farm Workers

Why in demand? Canada’s agri-food sector depends on foreign labour for farming and food processing. Visa advantage: The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) offers streamlined permits. Salary range: 40,000–65,000

10. Sales & Marketing Specialists

Why in demand? Companies seek professionals to drive business growth in competitive markets. Visa advantage: Express Entry candidates with job offers gain additional CRS points. Salary range: 60,000–90,000

How TIIC Helps You Secure a Canadian Work Visa Faster

As one of the most trusted Canada Work Visa Consultants in Chandigarh, we provide end-to-end support:

Occupation-Specific Guidance: We match your skills with high-demand Canadian jobs.

LMIA & Work Permit Assistance: Minimise delays with precise documentation.

Employer Connections: Access to our network of Canadian recruiters.

PR Pathway Planning: Ensure your work visa leads to permanent residency.

Our clients from Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh have successfully secured Canadian work permits through our proven strategies.

Avoid These Common Work Visa Mistakes

Applying for oversaturated roles with high competition.

Submitting incomplete LMIA applications, leading to rejections.

Missing provincial nomination opportunities that could fast-track PR.

Our expertise ensures you avoid these pitfalls.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Canadian Work Visa

The Canadian job market is waiting, but timing is critical. Let TIIC, the leading Work Permit Consultants in Chandigarh, streamline your journey.

📞 Contact us today for a consultation. 📝 Assess your eligibility with our experts.

To see success stories from clients like you , visit our Google My Business profile

Final Thoughts

Canada’s 2025 labour market offers exceptional opportunities for skilled professionals. By selecting an in-demand occupation and partnering with experienced immigration consultants, you can secure your work visa efficiently and build a prosperous future in Canada.

Your Canadian dream starts with the right strategy — let’s make it happen.

[famouschopshopinfluencer]

Study in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

Canada is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students, offering world-class education, a multicultural environment, and excellent post-study work opportunities. With top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, and a high standard of living, Canada attracts thousands of students every year. If you're considering studying abroad, this guide will provide you with essential information to make an informed decision.

Why Study in Canada?

1. High-Quality Education

Canada is home to some of the world’s best universities, including the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia. Canadian degrees are globally recognized, ensuring excellent career prospects.

2. Affordable Tuition Fees & Living Costs

Compared to the US, UK, and Australia, Canada offers relatively lower tuition fees and living expenses. Many institutions also provide scholarships and financial aid to international students.

3. Work While Studying

International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. This helps students gain work experience and manage their expenses.

4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

After completing their studies, students can apply for a PGWP, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years. This is a great pathway to permanent residency.

5. Safe & Multicultural Environment

Canada is known for its welcoming and diverse society. With low crime rates and a high quality of life, students can enjoy a safe and inclusive environment.

Top Universities in Canada

UniversityQS World Ranking 2024Popular ProgramsUniversity of Toronto21Medicine, Engineering, BusinessMcGill University30Law, Arts, ScienceUniversity of British Columbia34Computer Science, Environmental StudiesUniversity of Alberta111Nursing, PharmacyMcMaster University140Health Sciences, Social Sciences

Popular Courses in Canada

Computer Science & IT

Business Administration (MBA)

Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Software)

Health Sciences & Medicine

Environmental Science

Cost of Studying in Canada

Tuition Fees

Undergraduate Programs: CAD 15,000 – CAD 35,000 per year

Postgraduate Programs: CAD 20,000 – CAD 50,000 per year

Living Expenses

Accommodation: CAD 800 – CAD 1,500 per month

Food & Transportation: CAD 300 – CAD 600 per month

Health Insurance: CAD 600 – CAD 1,000 per year

How to Apply for a Canadian Student Visa

Choose a Program & University – Select a course and institution that fits your career goals.

Check Eligibility & Requirements – Ensure you meet academic and language proficiency criteria (IELTS/TOEFL).

Apply to the University – Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, SOP, LORs).

Receive an Acceptance Letter – Once accepted, you’ll get an offer letter from the university.

Apply for a Study Permit – Submit your visa application with proof of funds, medical exams, and biometrics.

Travel to Canada – After visa approval, plan your travel and accommodation.

Scholarships for International Students

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – For PhD students (CAD 50,000 per year).

University-Specific Scholarships – Many institutions offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Government Scholarships – Such as the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships.

Life as a Student in Canada

Part-Time Jobs: Students can work in retail, hospitality, or on-campus jobs.

Internships & Co-op Programs: Many universities offer work-integrated learning opportunities.

Cultural Diversity: Experience festivals, cuisines, and traditions from around the world.

Permanent Residency (PR) Pathways

Canada offers multiple immigration pathways for students, including:

Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Why Choose StudyLead Consultants?

At StudyLead Consultants, we provide end-to-end support for students aspiring to study in Canada. Our services include:

✔ University & Course Selection ✔ Admission Guidance ✔ Visa & Documentation Assistance ✔ Scholarship Support ✔ Post-Arrival Services

With a 5-star rating and a proven track record, we ensure a smooth and hassle-free study abroad journey.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada opens doors to global opportunities, quality education, and a vibrant lifestyle. With the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve your academic and career goals in one of the world’s best education hubs.

Ready to begin your Canadian study journey? Contact StudyLead Consultants today for expert assistance!

[adelitawilliam]

Sorting Employees: Who Gets Overtime And Who Doesn’t?

Sorting out which employees are entitled to overtime pay and which are not can be complex, but it is crucial for compliance with labor laws and avoiding potential penalties. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding who gets overtime and who doesn’t, structured in an easy-to-follow format. Additionally, consulting with experts offering payroll services in  Oklahoma City OK can further streamline this process and ensure accuracy.

1.Understand the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the federal guidelines for overtime eligibility. According to the FLSA, non-exempt employees must receive overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, at a rate of at least one and a half times their regular pay rate.

2. Identify Non-Exempt Employees

Non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay. To determine if an employee is non-exempt, consider the following criteria:

Hourly Workers: Typically, employees who are paid by the hour are non-exempt.

Salaried Workers Below the Threshold: As of 2024, employees earning less than $35,568 annually ($684 per week) are generally non-exempt, regardless of their job duties.

Job Duties: Employees whose primary duties involve manual labor, clerical work, or other non-exempt tasks are usually classified as non-exempt.

3. Identify Exempt Employees

Exempt employees are not entitled to overtime pay. To qualify as exempt, employees must generally meet specific salary and job duties tests:

Salary Basis Test: The employee must be paid on a salary basis, not hourly.

Salary Level Test: The employee must earn at least $35,568 annually ($684 per week).

Duties Test: The employee’s primary job duties must fall into one of the following categories:

Executive Exemption: Duties include managing the enterprise or a department, directing the work of at least two other employees, and having the authority to hire or fire other employees.

Administrative Exemption: Duties include performing office or non-manual work directly related to management or general business operations, with the employee exercising discretion and independent judgment on significant matters.

Professional Exemption: Duties include work that requires advanced knowledge in a field of science or learning, typically acquired through prolonged, specialized intellectual instruction.

Computer Employee Exemption: Applies to computer systems analysts, programmers, software engineers, or other similarly skilled workers in the computer field.

Outside Sales Exemption: Duties include making sales or obtaining orders or contracts away from the employer’s place of business.

4. Special Cases and Considerations

Highly Compensated Employees: Employees earning more than $107,432 annually may be classified as exempt if they perform at least one of the duties of an exempt executive, administrative, or professional employee.

Blue-Collar Workers: Workers performing manual labor or skilled trade tasks are non-exempt, regardless of their salary.

Police, Firefighters, Paramedics: Generally considered non-exempt due to the nature of their work.

5. Use Payroll Software and Consult Resources

Utilizing payroll software can help automate the classification process and ensure compliance with FLSA regulations. These systems can be programmed to apply the correct rules based on employee data. Consulting with experts offering payroll services can also provide valuable insights and ensure accurate classification.

6. Regularly Review Employee Classifications

Job roles and responsibilities can change over time, so it’s essential to review and update employee classifications regularly. Ensure that any changes in job duties or salary are reflected in their exemption status.

7. Communicate Clearly with Employees

Ensure that employees understand their classification and how it affects their pay. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that employees are aware of their rights and entitlements.

Summary

Sorting employees into those who get overtime and those who don’t involves understanding the FLSA guidelines, identifying non-exempt and exempt employees based on salary and job duties, and staying updated on changes in regulations. Utilizing payroll software and consulting with experts offering payroll services can further streamline this process, ensuring compliance and fair compensation practices.

[canadaopps]

Breaking News: Canada announces First-Ever Express Entry invitations for skilled newcomers with STEM experience

Breaking News: Canada announces First-Ever Express Entry invitations for skilled newcomers with STEM experience

OVERVIEW Canada's Express Entry system has been specifically tailored to create an efficient and streamlined pathway for individuals with expertise in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), recognizing the tremendous value and transformative potential these professionals bring to the country. By prioritizing the invitation of skilled newcomers with STEM experience, Canada aims to meet the increasing demand for talent and fill crucial positions that contribute to economic growth and technological advancement. The country is currently facing worker shortages in key sectors, and immigration plays a vital role in addressing these labor gaps. To address this issue, Minister Fraser recently announced changes to the Express Entry system through category-based selection. These changes are designed to address labor needs that align with specific economic goals and also strengthen Francophone immigration by inviting candidates with relevant work experience or language ability to apply for permanent residence. Today, Minister François-Philippe Champagne, on behalf of Minister Sean Fraser, announced that the first round of category-based selection focusing on STEM candidates, including data scientists, software developers, mathematicians, statisticians, actuaries, and electrical and electronics engineers, will open during the week of July 5. This initiative aims to support Canada's science and technology sector by attracting skilled talent that businesses require to drive innovation and achieve their growth potential. This announcement marks a significant milestone in Canada's commitment to attracting top global talent and solidifying its position as a leader in research, development, and innovation. Category-based selection, along with general invitation rounds, will continue throughout the year to support Canada's commitment to welcoming in-demand professionals across the country. Further details regarding these selection rounds will be announced in the coming weeks. Furthermore, this announcement aligns with the Government of Canada's ongoing efforts to recruit and retain exceptional candidates to address STEM workforce challenges. It also builds upon the recent launch of the Tech Talent Attraction Strategy, reinforcing Canada's reputation as the ideal location worldwide to initiate and scale technology companies. Quick facts: - Express Entry is Canada's primary application management system for individuals seeking permanent immigration through programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program. - In June 2022, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act was amended to allow for the selection of immigrants based on specific attributes that support economic priorities, including work experience and French language proficiency. - On May 31, 2023, Minister Fraser introduced category-based selection, a new process aimed at welcoming skilled newcomers with work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents. - The categories for selection were determined through extensive consultations with provincial and territorial partners, stakeholders, and the public, as well as a comprehensive review of labor market needs. A complete list of eligible jobs for these categories is available on the official website. - Immigration accounts for nearly 100% of Canada's labor force growth, playing a crucial role in addressing labor shortages in key sectors. - Under the Canada-Québec Accord, Quebec sets its own immigration levels. From 2018 to 2022, admissions under the Federal High-Skilled program accounted for 34% to 40% of overall French-speaking admissions outside Quebec. For more information please visit Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

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[worrywrite]

Unsolicited opinion: Student Loan Forgiveness is necessary to maintain the current profitability of high education.

As it stands, a college education in the United States is not a favorable option to achieve a higher salary position. Degree holding adults are highly saturated in the work force, with the current trend of employment taking the leftover degree holding adults to trade programs (electrical, plumbing, construction, HVAC, etc.). This is only going to get worse over the next 10-20 years as we see minimal numbers leaving the general workforce and a significant number more entering it. This gets worse because 1) social security benefits are being stripped back (we just had an increase in the age required to gain them) and older workers are being disincentivised from leaving the workforce and 2) we're going to see more large scale employers cut back on tech and writing positions as they attempt to slim the workforce with AI to increase profits.

High school age students are already seeing that a college education is not what it was worth to the previous generation (not that their high schools, advisors, peers are going to tell them that). What they're seeing is older siblings and young aunts/uncles struggle to work and find employment in the field of their choice. And worse, inflation is making it (and will continue to make it) even harder to pay of their college educations. They likely have parents still paying off their degrees which they also likely do not use in their work.

The governments wholesale rejection of the concept of assisting college students is a dangerous compaction of this trend. They aren't just saying that they don't want to give students (ones that have already shown they are in need, because they already had to qualify for federal financial assistance) a handout. That's they're surface level argument. But what they're getting at is that they don't want to support individuals that can't get into the workforce with their degrees. If you got one of a handful of degrees that are now useless in the US (including things like software engineering; because coding, tech support, and software design are much cheaper to outsource) no one is going to help you offset the cost of that useless degree unless you do something like join the military or the police force.

As potential students realize that they're going to be even less capable of dealing with student debt than previous generations they will be less likely to actually seek out degrees. Not only does this impact the number of skilled workers in the country, it also reduces the income of teachers, creates saturation on trade employment, and increases dependency on outsourced labor.

Increasing the availability of higher education won't always be a good investment, of course. But this offset in the debt burden of the middle class (because that is, primarily, the demographic shouldering the greatest portion of this debt) and gives them a greater employment mobility and buying power. They will be more likely to find work that will be satisfying to them and give them the opportunity to spend more money in the long term. Not to mention that, in many of the states where these repayments will be given they are taxable income. But, unlike student loan debt, taxes don't accrue interest and the state government will more than likely be able to help set up functional payment plans if the taxes for a refund can't be paid in the calendar year they were granted. So the states can actually increase their tax revenue from this money they wouldn't have seen any of anyways as the businesses that own student debt are pretty much all based out of other states.

It also isn't a long term solution. If we expect another wholesale loan payoff, we'd be doing the equivalent of tossing giant ice cubes in the ocean to offset climate change. But if we are going to lessen the burden of student loan debt over future generations of students, we need to offset the existing burden first. It isn't equitable to anyone if only the upcoming generation of students have an easier time paying off their debt, and it's less likely to happen if older generations are stuck working longer than they need to in order to pay off their debt.

[jechristine]

And then this piece of shit—

President-elect Donald J. Trump appeared to weigh in on Saturday on a heated debate among his supporters over the role of skilled immigrant workers in the U.S. economy, saying he had used the visas many times and backed the program.

“I have many H-1B visas on my properties,” he told The New York Post. “I’ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It’s a great program.”

But his comments — which were enthusiastically embraced by the technology industry as an endorsement — may muddy the waters because Mr. Trump appears to have only sparingly used the H-1B visa program, which allows skilled workers like software engineers to work in the United States for up to three years and can be extended to six years.

Instead, he has been a frequent and longtime user of the similarly named, but starkly different, H-2B visa program, which is for unskilled workers like gardeners and housekeepers, as well as the H-2A program, which is for agricultural workers. Those visas allow a worker to remain in the country for 10 months. Federal data show Mr. Trump’s companies have received approval to employ over 1,000 workers through the two H-2 programs in the past 20 years.

From NYTimes

Of course this deeply unserious psycho just lies because whatever. This is the most wretched timeline. This clown car is heading back to DC in a matter of weeks😵‍💫

Steve Bannon and Elon Musk at war with each other over H-1 visas is *chefs kiss*

[nasa]

Women in Exploration: From Human Computers to All-Woman Spacewalks

Since the 19th century, women have been making strides in areas like coding, computing, programming and space travel, despite the challenges they have faced. Sally Ride joined NASA in 1983 and five years later she became the first female American astronaut. Ride's accomplishments paved the way for the dozens of other women who became astronauts, and the hundreds of thousands more who pursued careers in science and technology. Just last week, we celebrated our very first #AllWomanSpacewalk with astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir.

Here are just a couple of examples of pioneers who brought us to where we are today:

The Conquest of the Sound Barrier

Pearl Young was hired in 1922 by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), NASA’s predecessor organization, to work at its Langley site in support in instrumentation, as one of the first women hired by the new agency. Women were also involved with the NACA at the Muroc site in California (now Armstrong Flight Research Center) to support flight research on advanced, high-speed aircraft. These women worked on the X-1 project, which became the first airplane to fly faster than the speed of sound. 

Young was the first woman hired as a technical employee and the second female physicist working for the federal government.

The Human Computers of Langley

The NACA hired five women in 1935 to form its first “computer pool”, because they were hardworking, “meticulous” and inexpensive. After the United States entered World War II, the NACA began actively recruiting similar types to meet the workload. These women did all the mathematical calculations – by hand – that desktop and mainframe computers do today.

Computers played a role in major projects ranging from World War II aircraft testing to transonic and supersonic flight research and the early space program. Women working as computers at Langley found that the job offered both challenges and opportunities. With limited options for promotion, computers had to prove that women could successfully do the work and then seek out their own opportunities for advancement.

Revolutionizing X-ray Astronomy

Marjorie Townsend was blazing trails from a very young age. She started college at age 15 and became the first woman to earn an engineering degree from the George Washington University when she graduated in 1951. At NASA, she became the first female spacecraft project manager, overseeing the development and 1970 launch of the UHURU satellite. The first satellite dedicated to x-ray astronomy, UHURU detected, surveyed and mapped celestial X-ray sources and gamma-ray emissions.

Women of Apollo

NASA’s mission to land a human on the Moon for the very first time took hundreds of thousands workers. These are some of the stories of the women who made our recent #Apollo50th anniversary possible:

• Margaret Hamilton led a NASA team of software engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and helped develop the flight software for NASA’s Apollo missions. She also coined the term “software engineering.” Her team’s groundbreaking work was perfect; there were no software glitches or bugs during the crewed Apollo missions. 

• JoAnn Morgan was the only woman working in Mission Control when the Apollo 11 mission launched. She later accomplished many NASA “firsts” for women:  NASA winner of a Sloan Fellowship, division chief, senior executive at the Kennedy Space Center and director of Safety and Mission Assurance at the agency.

• Judy Sullivan, was the first female engineer in the agency’s Spacecraft Operations organization, was the lead engineer for health and safety for Apollo 11, and the only woman helping Neil Armstrong suit up for flight.

Hidden Figures

Author Margot Lee Shetterly’s book – and subsequent movie – Hidden Figures, highlighted African-American women who provided instrumental support to the Apollo program, all behind the scenes.

• An alumna of the Langley computing pool, Mary Jackson was hired as the agency’s first African-American female engineer in 1958. She specialized in boundary layer effects on aerospace vehicles at supersonic speeds. 

• An extraordinarily gifted student, Katherine Johnson skipped several grades and attended high school at age 13 on the campus of a historically black college. Johnson calculated trajectories, launch windows and emergency backup return paths for many flights, including Apollo 11.

• Christine Darden served as a “computress” for eight years until she approached her supervisor to ask why men, with the same educational background as her (a master of science in applied mathematics), were being hired as engineers. Impressed by her skills, her supervisor transferred her to the engineering section, where she was one of few female aerospace engineers at NASA Langley during that time.

Lovelace’s Woman in Space Program

Geraldyn “Jerrie” Cobb was the among dozens of women recruited in 1960 by Dr. William Randolph "Randy" Lovelace II to undergo the same physical testing regimen used to help select NASA’s first astronauts as part of his privately funded Woman in Space Program.

Ultimately, thirteen women passed the same physical examinations that the Lovelace Foundation had developed for NASA’s astronaut selection process. They were: Jerrie Cobb, Myrtle "K" Cagle, Jan Dietrich, Marion Dietrich, Wally Funk, Jean Hixson, Irene Leverton, Sarah Gorelick, Jane B. Hart, Rhea Hurrle, Jerri Sloan, Gene Nora Stumbough, and Bernice Trimble Steadman. Though they were never officially affiliated with NASA, the media gave these women the unofficial nicknames “Fellow Lady Astronaut Trainees” and the “Mercury Thirteen.”

The First Woman on the Moon

The early space program inspired a generation of scientists and engineers. Now, as we embark on our Artemis program to return humanity to the lunar surface by 2024, we have the opportunity to inspire a whole new generation. The prospect of sending the first woman to the Moon is an opportunity to influence the next age of women explorers and achievers.

This material was adapted from a paper written by Shanessa Jackson (Stellar Solutions, Inc.), Dr. Patricia Knezek (NASA), Mrs. Denise Silimon-Hill (Stellar Solutions), and Ms. Alexandra Cross (Stellar Solutions) and submitted to the 2019 International Astronautical Congress (IAC). For more information about IAC and how you can get involved, click here.

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com

[mariacallous]

Mass layoffs and weak leadership are taking a severe toll on the US government’s cyber defense agency, undermining its ability to protect America from foreign adversaries bent on crippling infrastructure and ransomware gangs that are bleeding small businesses dry.

Inside the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, vital support staff are gone, international partnerships have been strained, and workers are afraid to discuss threats to democracy that they’re now prohibited from countering. Employees are even more overworked than usual, and new assignments from the administration are interfering with important tasks. Meanwhile, CISA’s temporary leader is doing everything she can to appease President Donald Trump, infuriating employees who say she’s out of touch and refusing to protect them.

“You've got a lot of people who … are looking over their shoulder as opposed to looking at the enemy right now,” says one CISA employee.

As the Trump administration’s war on the federal bureaucracy throws key agencies into chaos, CISA’s turmoil could have underappreciated consequences for national security and economic prospects. The agency, part of the Department of Homeland Security, has steadily built a reputation as a nonpartisan source of funding, guidance, and even direct defensive support for cities, businesses, and nonprofits reeling from cyberattacks. That mission is now under threat, according to interviews with seven CISA employees and another person familiar with the matter, all of whom requested anonymity to avoid reprisals.

“Our enemies are not slowing their continuous assaults on our systems,” says Suzanne Spaulding, who led CISA’s predecessor during the Obama administration. “We need all hands on deck and focused, not traumatized and distracted.”

Talent Exodus

CISA’s mission has grown significantly since its creation in 2018. Established mainly to defend government networks, the agency increasingly embraced new roles supporting private companies and state governments, advocating for secure software, and cooperating with foreign partners. This helped CISA raise its profile and gain credibility. But now, following several rounds of layoffs and new restrictions from the Trump administration, the agency is struggling to sustain its momentum.

The extent of the cuts at CISA is still unclear—employees are only learning about the loss of colleagues through word of mouth—but multiple employees estimate that, between the layoffs and the Office of Personnel Management’s deferred-resignation program, CISA has lost between 300 and 400 staffers—roughly 10 percent of its 3,200-person workforce. Many of those people were hired through DHS’s Cybersecurity Talent Management System (CTMS), a program designed to recruit experts by competing with private-sector salaries. As a result, they were classified as probationary employees for three years, making them vulnerable to layoffs. These layoffs at CISA also hit longtime government workers who had become probationary by transferring into CTMS roles.

Key employees who have left include Kelly Shaw, who oversaw one of CISA’s marquee programs, a voluntary threat-detection service for critical infrastructure operators; David Carroll, who led the Mission Engineering Division, the agency’s technological backbone; and Carroll’s technical director, Duncan McCaskill. “We've had a very large brain drain,” an employee says.

The departures have strained a workforce that was already stretched thin. “We were running into [a] critical skills shortage previously,” says a second employee. “Most people are and have been doing the work of two or more full-time [staffers].”

The CISA team that helps critical infrastructure operators respond to hacks has been understaffed for years. The agency added support positions for that team after a Government Accountability Office audit, but “most of those people got terminated,” a third employee says.

CISA’s flagship programs have been mostly unscathed so far. That includes the threat-hunting branch, which analyzes threats, searches government networks for intruders, and responds to breaches. But some of the laid-off staffers provided crucial “backend” support for threat hunters and other analysts. “There's enhancements that could be made to the tools that they're using,” the first employee says. But with fewer people developing those improvements, “we're going to start having antiquated systems.”

In a statement, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin says CISA remains “committed to the safety and security of the nation’s critical infrastructure” and touted “the critical skills that CISA experts bring to the fight every day.”

National Security Council spokesperson James Hewitt says the reporting in this story is “nonsense,” adding that “there have been no widespread layoffs at CISA and its mission remains fully intact.”

“We continue to strengthen cybersecurity partnerships, advance AI and open-source security, and protect election integrity,” Hewitt says. “Under President Trump’s leadership, our administration will make significant strides in enhancing national cybersecurity.”

Partnership Problems

CISA’s external partnerships—the cornerstone of its effort to understand and counter evolving threats—have been especially hard-hit.

International travel has been frozen, two employees say, with trips—and even online communications with foreign partners—requiring high-level approvals. That has hampered CISA’s collaboration with other cyber agencies, including those of “Five Eyes” allies Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, staffers say.

CISA employees can’t even communicate with people at other federal agencies the way they used to. Previously routine conversations between CISA staffers and high-level officials elsewhere now need special permissions, slowing down important work. “I can’t reach out to a CISO about an emergency situation without approval,” a fourth employee says.

Meanwhile, companies have expressed fears about sharing information with CISA and even using the agency’s free attack-monitoring services due to DOGE’s ransacking of agency computers, according to two employees. “There is advanced concern about all of our services that collect sensitive data,” the third employee says. “Partners [are] asking questions about what DOGE can get access to and expressing concern that their sensitive information is in their hands.”

“The wrecking of preestablished relationships will be something that will have long-lasting effects,” the fourth employee says.

CISA’s Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative, a high-profile hub of government-industry cooperation, is also struggling. The JCDC currently works with more than 300 private companies to exchange threat information, draft defensive playbooks, discuss geopolitical challenges, and publish advisories. The unit wants to add hundreds more partners, but it has “had difficulty scaling this,” the first employee says, and recent layoffs have only made things worse. Contractors might be able to help, but the JCDC’s “vendor support contracts run out in less than a year,” the employee says, and as processes across the government have been frozen or paused in recent weeks, CISA doesn’t know if it can pursue new agreements. The JCDC doesn't have enough federal workers to pick up the slack, the fourth CISA employee says.

With fewer staffers to manage its relationships, the JCDC confronts a perilous question: How should it focus its resources without jeopardizing important visibility into the threat landscape? Emphasizing ties with major companies might be more economical, but that would risk overlooking mid-sized firms whose technology is quietly essential to vital US industries.

“CISA continuously evaluates how it works with partners,” McLaughlin says, “and has taken decisive action to maximize impact while being good stewards of taxpayer dollars and aligning with Administration priorities and our authorities.”

Gutting Security Advocacy

Other parts of CISA’s mission have also begun to atrophy.

During the Biden administration, CISA vowed to help the tech industry understand and mitigate the risks of open-source software, which is often poorly maintained and has repeatedly been exploited by hackers. But since Trump took office, CISA has lost the three technical luminaries who oversaw that work: Jack Cable, Aeva Black, and Tim Pepper. Open-source security remains a major challenge, but CISA’s efforts to address that challenge are now rudderless.

The new administration has also frozen CISA’s work on artificial intelligence. The agency had been researching ways to use AI for vulnerability detection and networking monitoring, as well as partnering with the private sector to study AI risks. “About 50 percent of [CISA’s] AI expert headcount has been let go,” says a person familiar with the matter, which is “severely limiting” CISA’s ability to help the US Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute test AI models before deployment.

The administration also pushed out CISA’s chief AI officer, Lisa Einstein, and closed down her office, the person familiar with the matter says. Einstein’s team oversaw CISA’s use of AI and worked with private companies and foreign governments on AI security.

A large team of DHS and CISA AI staffers was set to accompany Vice President JD Vance to Paris in February for an AI summit, but those experts “were all pulled back” from attending, according to a person familiar with the matter.

‘Nefarious’ Retribution

CISA staffers are still reeling from the agency’s suspension of its election security program and the layoffs of most people who worked on that mission. The election security initiative, through which CISA provided free services and guidance to state and local officials and worked with tech companies to track online misinformation, became a target of right-wing conspiracy theories in 2020, which marked it for death after Trump’s return to the White House.

The program—on hold pending CISA’s review of a recently completed internal assessment—was a tiny part of CISA’s budget and operations, but the campaign against it has alarmed agency employees. “This is definitely in the freak-out zone,” says the first employee, who adds that CISA staffers across the political spectrum support the agency’s efforts to track online misinformation campaigns. “All of us recognize that this is a common deception tactic of the enemy.”

The election security purge rippled across the agency, because some of the laid-off staffers had moved from elections to other assignments or were simultaneously working on both missions. Geoff Hale, who led the elections team between 2018 and 2024, was serving as the chief of partnerships at the JCDC when he was placed on administrative leave, setting off a scramble to replace him.

The removal of Hale and his colleagues “was the start to a decline in morale” at CISA, according to the second employee. Now, staffers are afraid to discuss certain topics in public forums: “No one's going to talk about election security right now,” the first employee says.

“The fact that there’s retribution from the president … is kind of frightening,” this employee adds. “A very nefarious place to be.”

Abandoned and Demoralized

The layoffs, operational changes, and other disruptions at CISA have severely depleted morale and undermined the agency’s effectiveness. “Even simple tasks feel hard to accomplish because you don't know if your teammates won't be here tomorrow,” says the fourth employee.

The biggest source of stress and frustration is acting CISA director Bridget Bean, a former Trump appointee who, employees say, appears eager to please the president even if it means not defending her agency. Bean “just takes whatever comes down and implements [it] without thought of how it will affect [CISA’s] mission,” the fifth employee says. Employees describe her as a poor leader and ineffective communicator who has zealously enacted Trump’s agenda. In town-hall meetings with employees, Bean has said CISA must carefully review its its authorities and urged staffers to “assume noble intent” when dealing with Trump officials. While discussing Elon Musk’s mass-buyout program, she allegedly said, “I like to say ‘Fork in the Road’ because it's kind of fun,.” according to the fourth employee. She was so eager to comply with Musk’s “What did you do last week?” email that she instructed staffers to respond to it before DHS had finalized its department-wide approach. DHS later told staff not to respond, and Bean had to walk back her directive.

“Bean feels like she's against the workforce just to please the current administration,” the second employee says. The fourth employee describes her as “not authentic, tone-deaf, spineless, [and] devoid of leadership.”

McLaughlin, the DHS spokesperson, says CISA ��is not interested in ad hominem attacks against its leadership,” which she says “has doubled down on openness and transparency with the workforce.”

The return-to-office mandate has also caused problems. With all employees on-site, there isn’t enough room in CISA’s offices for the contractors who support the agency’s staff. That has made it “very difficult” to collaborate on projects and hold technical discussions, according to the first employee. “There wasn’t much thought about [RTO’s] impact to operations,” says the fourth employee. According to a fifth employee, “executing some of our sensitive operations is now harder.” (“CISA has worked tirelessly to make the return to office as smooth as possible from space to technology,” McLaughlin says.)

Employees are dealing with other stressors, too. They have no idea who’s reading their Musk-mandated performance reports, how they’re being evaluated, or whether AI is analyzing them for future layoffs. And there’s a lot of new paperwork. “The amount of extra shit we have to do to comply with the ‘efficiency measures’ … [takes] a lot of time away from doing our job,” says the fifth employee.

Bracing for More

When Trump signed the bill creating CISA in November 2018, he said the agency’s workforce would be “on the front lines of our cyber defense” and “make us, I think, much more effective.” Six and a half years later, many CISA employees see Trump as the biggest thing holding them back.

“This administration has declared psychological warfare on this workforce,” the fourth employee says.

With CISA drawing up plans for even larger cuts, staffers know the chaos is far from over.

“A lot of people are scared,” says the first employee. “We’re waiting for that other shoe to drop. We don't know what's coming.”

Entire wings of CISA—like National Risk Management Center and the Stakeholder Engagement Division—could be on the chopping block. Even in offices that survive, some of the government’s most talented cyber experts—people who chose public service over huge sums of money and craved the lifestyle of CISA’s now-eliminated remote-work environment—are starting to see their employment calculus differently. Some of them will likely leave for stabler jobs, further jeopardizing CISA’s mission. “What is the organization going to be capable of doing in the future?” the first employee asks.

If Trump’s confrontational foreign-policy strategy escalates tensions with Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea, it’s likely those nations could step up their use of cyberattacks to exact revenge. In that environment, warns Nitin Natarajan, CISA’s deputy director during the Biden administration, weakening the agency could prove very dangerous.

“Cuts to CISA’s cyber mission,” Natarajan says, “will only negatively impact our ability to not only protect federal government networks, but those around the nation that Americans depend on every day.”

[ryelawfirm]

The Importance of Economic Immigration for The Canadian Economy.

 For foreign nationals who wish to become a permanent resident of Canada, one of the most common immigration categories is economic immigration. Trends on economic immigration demonstrate that 75% of Canada’s population growth comes from immigration, mostly in the economic category. Economic immigration categories are organized into five different classes based on a number of factors for applicants who have specific skills and experience.

 The five classes are identified as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, and Canadian Experience Class. These programs allow individuals who have specific occupational knowledge and experience that meet the needs of the Canadian labor market to contribute to the economy. Statistics demonstrate that about 6 in 10 immigrants are selected for their positive economic impact.

 In 2015, the federal government introduced the Express Entry system, an application management system for key economic immigration programs. This system includes the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Express Entry is a merit-based points immigration system which utilizes a comprehensive ranking system to select candidates. This system assigns each immigration candidate a score, then ranks each candidate’s score against one another. This process ensures only the highest scoring candidates with meaningful skills are selected to become permanent Canadian residents.

 Since its introduction, the Express Entry system has attracted almost 230,000 high-skilled foreign workers and former international students who want to live in Canada permanently and who’s in-demand skills are needed by employers. These high-skilled foreign workers can help build businesses and grow the Canadian economy.

 Express Entry utilizes Canadian’s immigration program by seeking out workers who have the skills and abilities that are needed in Canada. The top five occupations of candidates invited to become permanent residents under Express Entry are:

1.      Software engineers and designers.

2.      Information systems analysts.

3.      Computer programmers.

4.      Financial auditors and accountants.

5.      Advertising, marketing and public relations professional.

In addition to Canada’s Express Entry program, other immigration programs have been developed that focus on achieving the objectives of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. These objectives include permitting Canada to pursue the maximum social, cultural and economic benefits of immigration, and supporting provincial and territorial economic growth.

 The Business Immigration Program was designed to promote economic development and employment by attracting people with capital, business acumen and entrepreneurial skills. Mainly, The Business Immigration Program is designed to encourage and facilitate successful business people who are seeking new opportunities and challenges, while promoting the growth of Canada’s economy. The Business Immigration Program includes 3 classes of foreign nationals: entrepreneurs, investors, and self-employed persons.

Foreign nationals who wish to immigrate under this program must meet specific eligibility requirements under one of the classes. There are several avenues to apply under this program, including the Provincial Nominee Entrepreneur programs, the Federal Start-Up Visa program, and investor programs. These programs contribute to Canada being number one in the world at attracting entrepreneurs and highly educated people.

Immigration has demonstrated to be beneficial to the Canadian economy in other ways as well. The 2018 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration brings key analysis and data on immigrant contributions to the Canadian economy and labor market. In particular, the report cited that with Canada’s ageing population and low fertility rate, immigration helps to ensure that Canada’s population and labor force continue to grow. The relatively young average age of immigrants can help to mitigate some of the challenges of an ageing demographic and can help to lessen the decline of Canada’s worker-to-retiree ratio.

Immigration also helps to meet specific regional labor market needs, especially through Provincial Nominee programs. These programs can be utilized to fill gaps that exist in the labor market, and immigrants can help satisfy these needs, which in turn, stimulates economic growth

The 2018 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration revealed further economic advantages of Immigration. When immigrants come to Canada, they become part of the consumer market and pay taxes, contributing to the economy, and increasing productivity of the region. This report demonstrates that Canada’s economy has benefited from solid gains in the size of the labor pool, largely due to immigration.

[careerxlsstudyabroad]

After US, Indian techies find greener pastures in Canada

~CXL~

According to a report by the Economist Canada’s Toronto created more IT jobs in the technology sector than Silicon Valley, Seattle, New York and Washington DC combined.

Indian techies have started looking for greener pastures in Canada after regulations for the US H-1B visa and Green Card have become more stringent. Interestingly, these techies don't mind taking a pay cut.

This is in part due to the Canadian government’s Global Skill Strategy (GSS) programme launched in 2017. The objective of the programme is to attract highly skilled workers from across the world and Indian techies have been among the biggest beneficiaries.

According to reports based on the data released by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), at the end of December 2018, India got close to 9,500 work permits of the total 17,132 approved under GSS, followed by China at 1,420.

The areas that have seen highest employment in this category include computer analysts and consultants, software engineers and those in data processing space, the reports added.

Trump administration started to tighten regulations around H-1B visa given to skilled workers since 2017. Indian techies had been among the major beneficiaries of this visa for decades. However, in the last two years, thousands of techies have had to return home due to visa restrictions.

The US government's clampdown coincided with the Canadian government's skilled visa programme to attract workers. In addition, Canada also expanded its existing immigration programme such as Federal Skilled Worker, Provincial Nominee Program and Canada Experience Class to attract more immigrants.

Read More at https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/after-us-indian-techies-find-greener-pastures-in-canada-4348661.html

[aquariusvirgosagittarius-blog]

Canada’s goal of 1 million new permanent residents

Among Canada's financial immigration programs, the three Express Entry-oversaw programs — the Federal Skilled Worker Class, Federal Skilled Trades Class and Canadian Experience Class — have the most elevated focus of 2019 at 81,400 new affirmations.

Presented in 2015, Canada's Express Entry framework is custom fitted to support immigration competitors who are youthful, exceedingly taught, capable in English or French and have talented work involvement. These are viewed as the elements for making progress in Canada and amplifying a newcomer's commitment to the Canadian economy.

Government figures for January to October 2018 show programming architects and originators, data frameworks examiners and experts, and PC software engineers and intelligent media designers driving the rundown of experts welcomed to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry in 2018.

2173 Software Engineers and designers3,9187% 2171 Information systems analysts and consultants3,5236% 2174 Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers2,3014% 1111 Financial auditor and accountants1,5813% 1241 Administrative assistants1,4553% 1123 Professional Occupations in Advertising, Marketing, and Public Relations1,3752% 1112 Financial and Investment Analysts1,2832% 4011 University professors and lecturers1,2652% 1122 Professional occupations in business management consulting1,2232% 0124 Advertising, marketing and public relations managers1,1382%

More Info:

https://immigrationlawyer-toronto.ca/

[ns6353416]

Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer

Why should you Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer? Pathways for Canada Permanent Resident as a Tech Engineer Skilled Worker

Canada is booming in the Tech sector which is an attraction to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer. There are ample opportunities to grow in Canada for a bright career. If you want to know more about the opportunities to immigrate to Canada as a Tech Engineer, read the blog or consult with the Best Immigration Consultants in South Delhi. 

Canada is demanding Tech people to meet the demand of the industry. After the Covid situation, Canada's economy is trying to get back on the same track as before, so Canada needs more skilled workers who can fill the labour gaps in the industry. There are many jobs in demand in Canada for Skilled Tech Engineers.

Canada is the highest paying country for IT domain people, who are skilled and experienced. In Canada, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are the main IT-focused cities which attract skilled immigrants. So, if you are Tech skilled and trained person, Canada is the best option for you to immigrate. Even you can also apply for Canada PR for Consult Today with AtoZee Visas, the Best Immigration Consultants in South Delhi. 

The pathways to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer for Canada Permanent Residents is listed below.

Express Entry Program

Express Entry is the most subtle way to enter Canada with Permanent Resident Status. Canada immigration for Tech Engineers or any Skilled Engineers can be done with three streams of Canada PR that are mentioned below.

Federal Skilled Workers Program

Federal Skilled Trades Program

Canadian Experience Class

These streams are the bone system of Immigration to Canada as a Tech Engineer Skilled Worker. Canada PR for IT Professionals is a simple process and there are numerous ways to get it. 

The Federal Skilled Workers Program is the best option for candidates who don't have previous experience and Canadian Experience Class is the one for applicants with previous Canadian Experience. The Best Immigration Consultants in South Delhi will provide you with deep knowledge and the best route you can choose to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer or from any stream. 

Additionally, Canada Immigration Engineer requirements can be met by inviting candidates based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Also, nowadays Canada is facing a labour shortage and needs to fill the labour gaps. So. Canada is inviting those who are technically skilled and have a good CRS score.

Provincial  Nominee Program

It is a province-specific program through which you are eligible to get Permanent Residence in Canada. Sometimes, Province issues the invitations to technically skilled candidates. PNP for software engineers is the best way to immigrate. Also, there are some PNP programs for Tech Immigration Canada for each province which are explained below:

Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream

It is the best option for candidates if they don't have a job offer letter from any Canadian employer. In this stream, Firstly province issues you the letter of Invitation, after 45 days after the submission of your Notification of Interest. Your profile will be picked up from the pool if your CRS score is above the Cut-off. 

British Columbia PNP Tech Pathway

There are 27 prioritized tech occupations in British Columbia which are one of the best options for immigrants looking to immigrate to British Columbia as Tech Engineer Skilled Workers. You must be eligible for British Columbia’s Skills Immigration streams. To know about immigrating to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer with specific provincial streams, these are explained below.

Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) is a provincial nomination program that enables skilled Tech Engineer foreign workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates to apply for permanent residence in Alberta. The AINP is designed to attract individuals with the skills, experience, and potential to contribute to Alberta's economy and society and to enhance the province's diversity and competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Quebec Tech Immigration Program

The Quebec Tech Immigration Program is designed to attract skilled workers from the technology sector to Quebec. The program, launched in 2021, offers a fast-track immigration process for eligible candidates, providing them with a pathway to permanent residency in Quebec. With its thriving tech industry and rich cultural heritage, Quebec is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. If you're a skilled tech worker looking for new opportunities in Canada, the Quebec Tech Immigration Program could be the perfect fit for you and the Best Immigration Consultants in South Delhi can help you to move to Quebec.!

These are PNP programs for Tech Immigration Canada, these are the provincial pathways to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer and these are explained in detail above.

So, in conclusion, if you want to Immigrate to Canada as a Skilled Tech Engineer, this is the right time to take the next step with the Best Immigration Consultants in South Delhi. They will guide you throughout the process of migration.