A new eight-week pre-apprenticeship training program is helping improve access to important trades training so that First Nations individuals can take advantage of skilled employment opportunities, including in the LNG industry.
The pilot program was developed by Aboriginal Skills 3G: BC with the help of a $75,000 grant from FortisBC.
Linden Pinay, executive director of the Aboriginal Skills Group said that after completing the program, students will be prepared to complete further skills training and apprenticeships, or move directly into entry-level jobs.
The program includes a classroom component where students will complete Essential Skills 3G – a foundations program designed by Aboriginal Skills 3G: BC – workplace safety and first-aid training, trade fundamentals and entry-level carpentry work. Outside the classroom, students receive hands-on training by FortisBC at the company’s Surrey Operations Centre.
FortisBC is currently completing an expansion of its Tilbury LNG facility.
FortisBC broke ground on the expansion in October 2014. The project includes construction of a new LNG storage tank and additional liquefaction equipment. The company expects the expanded facility to be operational by late 2016.
Image. FortisBC