Media Contacts

Mike Allison

Communications Director
Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
mike.allison@gov.bc.ca

Backgrounders

What people are saying about training for workers in the Nechako region

Patty Hajdu, federal Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (Canada) –

“Through our partnership with British Columbia, we are helping workers gain the training and skills to succeed in today’s evolving economy. Investments under the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Tariff Response will create stronger pathways to in-demand careers in construction, transportation and resource industries for people in northern British Columbia, while also helping employers find the skilled workers needed to grow and strengthen their communities.”

Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth –

“With more than $88 billion in major projects moving ahead, and new opportunities arising across British Columbia through our Look West strategy, the demand for skilled workers has never been greater. Investments in practical, job-ready training are helping people seize these opportunities by gaining the skills employers need today, while creating pathways to good-paying careers that will support communities and drive B.C.’s economy for years to come.”

Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills –

“People in the Nechako region are ready to work, and now they'll have training closer to home to help them get there. We're backing workers with real, hands-on skills so they're first in line for the trucking, machine operating, and building jobs coming to their own backyard. This government is committed to making sure that all British Columbians have the opportunity for good work, close to home, and open to anyone willing to learn.”

Kevin Moutray, mayor of Vanderhoof –

“We appreciate the significant investment being made in our region and the strong collaboration among all three levels of government to make it happen. The District of Vanderhoof’s enhanced heavy equipment operator training, with one intake completed in June and another beginning in August, is a clear example of this support. These initiatives are helping build local skills and create meaningful opportunities for our community.”

Erin Eisert, training participant, Prince George –

“I was not getting enough work hours as a parts runner for a logging company. This training will help me get out there and make a living.”

Bruce McKay, vice-president academic, College of New Caledonia – 

“The College of New Caledonia is pleased to see such strong interest in the Drive program. This fully funded, in-person program reflects the importance of making education and skills training accessible in the communities we serve. With demand strong enough to add another cohort, more participants will have the opportunity to gain industry-recognized certifications, build confidence, and prepare for employment in a field that supports regional workforce needs.” 

Kevin Black, assistant secretary treasurer, School District 91 -- 

“Nechako Lakes School District is pleased to support the College of New Caledonia’s Class 2/3 driver training program. Reliable student transportation is essential to the success of our schools and communities, particularly in rural and northern regions, where recruiting qualified bus drivers can be challenging. Through our partnership with the College of New Caledonia, we have been proud to provide students with opportunities to participate in ride-a-longs and gain valuable real-world experience.” 

Details about types of training

Heavy equipment and machinery training 

  • Recruitment focused on workers from Fort Fraser, Fort St. James, Fraser Lake, Vanderhoof (Nechako region). 
  • Session 1 started June 15, 2026. 
  • Session 2 will begin Aug. 10, 2026. 
    • delivered in partnership with the District of Vanderhoof
    • as many as 20 participants 
    • two cohorts of the enhanced combination construction heavy equipment course and individual construction machine certification
    • hands-on equipment training and industry-recognized certifications 

 Truck driving and transit training 

  • Recruitment focused on workers in Vanderhoof, Fort St. James and Fraser Lake. 
  • As many as 16 participants will receive occupational skills training, industry certifications and licensing support.
  • Participants connected directly with four local employers at a networking event held at the College of New Caledonia’s Vanderhoof campus in June 2026.
  • Two participants secured employment before completing the program, including one as a sanitation pump truck driver.
  • Training will begin Monday, July 20, 2026.
    • delivered in partnership with College of New Caledonia
    • helps people get licences and certifications for in-demand jobs, such as truck driving and transit operator 

 Safety skills training 

  • Recruitment focused on workers from Fort Fraser, Fort St. James, Fraser Lake and Vanderhoof 
  • Training will begin Monday, July 20, 2026. 
    • delivered in partnership with the Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce Society
    • provides industry-recognized safety certifications commonly required by employers in construction, transportation and resource industries