First Nations in northeast British Columbia are benefitting from community-based cook and natural resource industry training that will provide new opportunities for a range of jobs.

British Columbia is investing $369,000 to support professional cook training for up to 10 members of Fort Nelson First Nation, as well as eight members of Saulteau and West Moberly First Nations.

“We’re proud to provide access to training which supports participants and removes barriers. This training is aligned with labour needs in the Northwest, which will benefit both industry and Indigenous communities,” said Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.

The program provides practical skills related to meal planning, knowledge of safety, sanitation and food storage, and credit toward the Professional Cook 1 apprenticeship program, as outlined by the Industry Training Authority of British Columbia.

Northern Lights College will deliver training for Fort Nelson First Nation participants in Fort St. John, and in Moberly Lake for participants from Saulteau and West Moberly First Nations.

The Province is also providing $175,000 to Doig River First Nation to train 40 members in occupational health and safety and land reclamation, which allows members to access employment in a range of natural resource projects.

Participants will receive training and certification in fire suppression, chainsaw operation, wildlife danger trees and occupational health and safety. The program will be delivered in the Doig River community in partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia.

“Skills training can give students the tools they need to thrive, while being part of a strong, sustainable, and innovative economy that creates good-paying jobs,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “Targeted education and training for Indigenous participants provides a clearly defined path to succeed in a strong, sustainable and innovative economy.”

The programs are funded through the Indigenous Skills Training Development Fund, and are designed to provide the education and transferrable skills that fit the needs of the community. They will provide new opportunities for jobs, careers and further education.

Quick Facts:

• The Indigenous Skills Training Development Fund is providing up to $30 million over three years to support community-driven skills training and education, as identified by Indigenous communities.
• Over the past two years, more than 2,700 Indigenous people have accessed training through projects supported by B.C.’s Indigenous Skills Training Development Fund.
• Of the people trained in 2015-16, a total of 52% have found employment and at least 21% have gone on to further training or education.
• Ensuring that Indigenous people have equitable access to jobs, training and education is one part of the Province’s effort to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Learn More:

Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation: www.gov.bc.ca/irr

Fort Nelson First Nation: www.fortnelsonfirstnation.org

Saulteau First Nations: www.saulteau.com

West Moberly First Nation: www.westmo.org

Northern Lights College: www.nlc.bc.ca

University of Northern British Columbia.: www.unbc.ca