Led by a dramatic gain in shipments to China and other key markets targeted in Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan, British Columbia's export totals jumped over 10 per cent this April compared to the same month in 2011.

More British Columbians benefited from jobs in April, as B.C.'s unemployment rate dropped to 6.2 per cent from seven per cent in March, and gained 19,700 jobs - 16,700 of which are full time positions.

Thirty people in Northern British Columbia have begun a five-week training program to learn the skills necessary to work as log or chip truck drivers and heavy equipment operators (HEO) in the forestry industry.

The Wood Innovation and Design Centre (WIDC) in Prince George is one step closer to construction today with the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to design and construct the building.

Through effective collaboration and the strong commitment of all parties involved, the recovery of Burns Lake is well underway.

Over the next few weeks, staff from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation will begin to consult and work directly with a team of community leaders and tourism stakeholders from Burns Lake on tourism planning to strengthen economic opportunities for the area.

The value of British Columbia's softwood lumber exports to China jumped 60 per cent in 2011, surpassing the $1-billion mark for the first time. Since 2003, lumber exports to China have risen by more than 1,500 per cent.