The Recognition of Acquired Competencies (RAC) is a program provided to offer recognition of prior learning and competencies as a regular service in knowledge, competencies and skills as well as works to bridge any gaps in education or training that may exist. Upon completion, students receive an official diploma from the Ministry of Education in Quebec.
After centre hours, experienced educators Bonnie McLachlin and Heidi Hall serve as RAC counsellors, along with a team of content experts, providing invaluable guidance and support to students throughout the entire recognition of acquired competencies process. From the initial stages of assessment to program completion, they serve as key resource persons, ensuring that each student receives the necessary support to succeed. Given the diverse backgrounds of RAC students—including those who have relocated to Québec from other provinces or countries—individualized learning pathways are designed to align with their specific knowledge and skills.
The duration of the RAC process is tailored to each student’s prior work experience and professional competencies. Once an assessment is completed, content experts develop a customized program and placement schedule that accommodates the student’s individual needs and pace. There are no fixed deadlines, allowing students the flexibility to progress at a rate that suits their personal and professional commitments. This approach ensures that each student receives a structured yet adaptable learning experience that supports their success.
The RAC service is incredibly accessible to individuals in need of having their competencies officially recognized. It gives adults a way to enter the workforce in their field of vocational or technical expertise in an efficient and well-structured way. Due to this, the RAC process at the WQSB has had many successful graduates over the years.
Yifan Liu, a recent RAC graduate, went through the program to obtain her DEP in Accounting so that she could secure a teaching license. Her motivation for completing the RAC process stemmed from her role as a vocational teacher, where she realized she wanted to make teaching in the vocational education sector her lifelong career. “Throughout the process, my counsellor was incredibly supportive, always maintaining a positive and professional attitude. They were quick to respond to any questions I had and provided clear guidance every step of the way. Their dedication made the experience even more seamless.” With her content expert’s support and guidance, Ms. Liu succeeded in her goal and currently teaches in the Commerce program at the Western Québec Career Centre.
The ability to go through the RAC program remotely is especially beneficial for adults living in more rural areas of Québec. RAC graduate Elysee Manzi was grateful to be able to complete his studies in the Institutional and Home Care Assistance program (Personal Support Worker or PSW) with RAC content expert Ms. Hall remotely from the Western Québec Continuing Education Centre in Val-d’Or, while simultaneously doing his placement at the Val-d’Or Hospital. “The way they provided materials and online sessions made learning so much more accessible. The modules were clear, practical, and covered all the essential skills needed for the job.” After graduation, Mr. Manzi felt confident and well-prepared to enter the workforce and is currently working at Amos Hospital in the Northwestern town of Amos.
RAC counsellors and our content experts are committed to the success of all their students. Lisa Lepack is a mature student who is currently a few weeks into the RAC program. Before RAC, it had been several decades since Ms. Lepack had last been a student. Going back to school after a long pause can be intimidating for many, but she has found the RAC experience to be nothing short of rewarding thus far. “I encourage anyone, at any age, to go through this process,” shares Ms. Lepack, who works in health care, specialized in working with individuals with dementia at a retirement residence. Furthermore, the recognition the program has given Ms. Lepack exceeds her expectations. She feels she can now expand her horizons and eventually work at other facilities, sharing her passion of caring for those who need it the most.
If you are interested in learning more about RAC services offered, steps in the RAC process, specific information for individuals who have immigrated to Québec and more, please visit CERAC FP. You can also contact the Pontiac Continuing Education Centre directly to find out more.
Special thank you to Jennifer Dubeau, Director of Education for Adult Education and Vocational Training Services, vocational training consultant Andrée Fortin, PCEC centre director Debra Stephens and RAC counsellors Heidi Hall and Bonnie McLachlin for providing information and testimonials. Also, a special thank you to Yifan Liu, Elysee Manzi and Lisa Lepack for their enthusiasm in sharing their experience in the recognition of acquired competencies program.