The B.C. government is trying to address a looming skills shortage in the Caribou region with $1.6 million in funding to train logging truck drivers and heavy equipment operators.
Premier Christy Clark Friday announced the funding for skills training programs at Thompson Rivers University during a visit at the Williams Lake campus.
“Having access to training programs like the ones offered at Thompson Rivers University is the first step toward helping meet the continued demand for skilled workers in priority industries like mining and forestry,” Clark said.
Programs for forestry include entry level logging truck driver and heavy equipment operator training. The training is done on site in active logging areas.
Heavy equipment operator training for mining, road building and the construction sector is also being offered.
A total of 80 students will be enrolled in the new programs, with truck driver classes beginning in May.
Billions of dollars worth of industrial development is expected in northern B.C. over the next five years, including new mines going into production. Over the next decade, more than one million job openings are expected in B.C.
“There are a multitude of opportunities for men and women in the trades in B.C., and with investments made in the BC Jobs Plan, the prospects for exciting and lucrative careers in the trades will only continue to grow,” said Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation.
