Career Advice in BC: Medical Laboratory Assistant vs Pharmacy Technician, or Should I Pivot?

Hey everyone,

I’m trying to figure out my career path here in BC and could use some advice. Right now, I’m considering two options:

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA)
• Pharmacy Technician

From what I understand, both are healthcare-related roles with relatively quick training programs, but I’m not sure about their long-term demand, pay, and growth opportunities here in BC.

At the same time, I’ve been thinking about finishing my Pre-Calculus 11. If I do that, I’d have more flexibility to pursue other post-secondary programs and possibly aim for a career that’s more in demand.

So I’m torn between:

1. Going straight into an MLA or Pharmacy Tech program.
2. Finishing Pre-Calc 11 and aiming for a different career path that has stronger job security and growth in BC.

For those of you in healthcare (or job hunting in BC right now), which of the two—MLA or Pharmacy Tech—has better job prospects here?

And if I were to take the longer route and finish my math, what careers are actually in demand in BC right now (whether in healthcare or tech?)

Any personal experience, stats, or advice would be hugely appreciated!

Thanks in advance 🙏