The B.C. Government is investing funds to support training for Central Interior workers to prepare for upcoming projects in the North.
“People say they feel better and are better off when they have a job, so we’re removing barriers to skills training,” said Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction Sheila Malcomson. “Our governments are investing in people to help them prepare for and find good jobs that support them and their families.”
Through the Community Workforce Response Grant and Employer Partnerships, the Province, with funding from the federal government, is investing more than $1 million for across the Nechako Valley.
The programs respond to ongoing labour shortages identified by local employers, especially for major projects, addressing workforce needs necessary to grow the industries and sectors targeted in the province’s Look West strategy.
“We appreciate the significant investment being made in our region and the strong collaboration among all three levels of government to make it happen,” said Vanderhoof Mayor Kevin Moutray. “The District of Vanderhoof’s enhanced heavy equipment operator training, with one intake completed in June and another beginning in August, is clear example of this support. These initiatives are helping build local skills and create meaningful opportunities for our community.”
According to the province, training is being offered in heavy equipment and machinery training, truck driving and transit training, and safety skills training.
Heavy equipment and machinery training
A session featuring hands-on equipment training and industry recognized certifications started on June 15th, with another set to begin on August 10, and is being delivered in partnership with the district of Vanderhoof.
As many as 20 participants in will take part in two cohorts of the enhanced combination construction heavy equipment course and individual construction machine certification.
Truck driving and transit training
As many as 16 participants will receive occupational skills training, industry certifications and licensing support through the College of New Caledonia’s DRIVE program.
The program is an 18-week, fully funded Class 2 and Class 3 driver training-program, which is set to start on Monday, July 20.
Safety skills training
The safety skills training will start on Monday, July 20, and will be delivered in partnership with the Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce Society, providing industry-recognized safety certifications commonly required by employers in construction.
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