Construction underway on the Kamloops cancer centre. (Image Credit: Mike O'Reilly/Contributed)

By Elora McCormack

Cancer centre training

Partnerships at BC Cancer centre in Kamloops supports Indigenous training, employment

Sep 20, 2026 | 3:23 PM

KAMLOOPS — With constriction on the new BC Cancer centre in Kamloops underway, the medical facility is opening up training and employment opportunities for Indigenous people through a new partnership.

Interior Health said it has partnered with BC Cancer, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS), Thompson Rivers University (TRU) School of Trades and Technology, EllisDon and the Enhanced Inclusion and Development Agreement (EIDA) Committee to deliver trades training, workforce development, and direct pathways to employment for Indigenous students.

“In the program, TteS students participate in hands-on construction designed to build foundational skills in carpentry, safety, site preparation, and equipment operation. The training is delivered close to home and supported by mentorship, cultural guidance from Elders, and wrap-around services that help participants succeed academically and personally,” said Interior Health.

“By embedding Secwépemc values and providing culturally grounded supports, the program strengthens identity while preparing students for long-term careers in the trades.”

IH said TteS and the School of Trades at TRU are working to highlight ways Indigenous students can benefit from infrastructure investments in their own region.

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“This partnership approach aligns workforce needs with skilled Indigenous talent, building capacity within Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, advancing reconciliation through economic participation, and creating sustainable employment outcomes to help the BC Cancer Centre leave a legacy of Indigenous training, employment, and community growth,” said IH.

The health authority said its Capital Planning and Projects team and the BC Cancer Redevelopment teams have partnered with Indigenous Nations to ensure health-care investments create community benefits.

“One way this commitment is advanced is through the Enhanced Inclusion and Development Agreement (EIDA), which may be used on eligible provincial capital projects, such as the new BC Cancer Centre in Kamloops,” said IH

“These agreements encourage outcomes such as increasing Indigenous employment in construction, creating apprenticeship opportunities, growing a skilled workforce, and supporting Indigenous businesses and cultural inclusion throughout the project.”

The Kamloops cancer centre is expected to be open in the fall of 2028, with upgrades to the existing oncology clinic and pharmacy at Royal Inland Hospital set to be complete by 2029.

by Elora McCormack

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Partnerships at BC Cancer centre in Kamloops supports Indigenous training, employment

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