Image Credit: CFJC Today

By Ashley Legassic

NEW TRAINING

Twenty-five workers affected by Interior forestry crisis eligible for construction, paving training

Jan 28, 2020 | 11:45 AM

KAMLOOPS — The province has announced that up to 25 workers affected by the forestry crisis in B.C. will receive training and work experience in asphalt paving and heavy construction.

The province made the announcement in a news release, stating more than $450,000 in provincial government funding is going toward the initiative.

“We know that heavy equipment operators and similar construction occupations will be in great demand over the next 10 years,” said Shane Simpson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction in the release. “The provincial government is working with industry and unions to hire trainees and provide training for new career path opportunities that will allow British Columbians to support themselves and their families.”

The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 115 — in partnership with Emil Anderson Construction, Dawson Blacktop and Dawson Group — will be giving training programs for people from the Clearwater, Merritt, South Cariboo and Kamloops areas.

Training will include classroom instruction in computer and communications skills, technical training in asphalt paving and heavy equipment operations, on-the-job work experience and follow-up support and mentoring to help participants find jobs.

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“Our priority is supporting workers and their families when it comes to the challenges facing British Columbia’s forestry sector,” said Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Training and employment opportunities like this help impacted workers expand their skills and open up more job options for them, enabling them to support themselves and their families.”

The project is recruiting for Feb. 18 and April 6 start dates in Kamloops and 100 Mile House. There are spaces for 25 participants in both projects, and anyone interested in applying or attending an information session can contact their local WorkBC centre or email IUOEtraining@iuoe115.ca.