The Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, under the Aboriginal Community-Based Training Partnerships (ACBTP) program, has approved $1 million in funding for the Building Capacity and Community through Construction Trades program (BCCCT) in the Secwépemc territory. The Government of Canada’s Canada-British Columbia Job Fund is also contributing to the program.
TRU is providing instruction and certification, with most of the training to take place in the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) and Neskonlith Indian Band.
The BCCCT program launches today, April 16, and will be delivered over the next three years. It includes the Construction Craft Worker Level 1 apprenticeship, the Carpentry Red Seal Exam preparatory course and a carpentry and joinery foundation program.
The BCCCT program gives students the chance to develop carpentry and construction skills training and participate in applied work experience in community and industry. They get multiple work site safety tickets, essential skills and employment preparation courses and can enter training intakes that are relevant to their experience and skill level.
“Delivering skills training in local communities in the Secwépemc territory makes education more accessible for Indigenous learners,” said Melanie Mark, Minister for Advanced Education, Skills and Training.
“Education opens the door to opportunities for people, families and communities. Investing in education and training for Indigenous learners is aligned with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s [TRC] calls to action that our government is committed to supporting.”
The chief of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc said the training will be hands on, tied to its industry partners and beneficial for its people.
“We are eager to collaborate with TRU and Neskonlith Indian Band in bringing trades training to our communities. It will create employment opportunities for our members and assist us with infrastructure upgrades,” said TteS Kúkpi7 (Chief) Fred Seymour.
“Neskonlith Indian Band is very excited to partner with TteS and TRU as we move forward through this new journey together,” Kúkpi7 (Chief) Judy Wilson said.
“It is our goal to fill gaps in the construction sector by providing trades, knowledge, skills and experience that can guide participants into a career in housing, commercial building or entrepreneurship. We want a viable workforce that will enhance our communities and economy,” she added.
“TRU Trades and Technology has a long history of serving students and employers. We look forward to our continued partnerships with TteS and Neskonlith communities to equip students with in-demand, job-ready skills and certifications,” said Dr. Alan Shaver, TRU president and vice-chancellor.
Baldev Pooni, dean of Trades and Technology, said, “This initiative will result in rewarding careers for graduates, which will also build capacity in and build more sustainable communities.”
To learn more about the program or to book an appointment to discuss construction trades training, contact:
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc
Terri Mindel | 250-314-1560 | terri.mindel@kib.ca
Neskonlith Indian Band
Neskonlith Education Centre | 250-679-2963 | necreceptionist@neskonlith.ca
Thompson Rivers University – School of Trades and Technology
Heather Hamilton | 250-371- 5658 | hhamilton@tru.ca
