Summary

• Sixteen more people in Quesnel will gain practical training and support to prepare for careers in transportation, including workers affected by tariffs and other employment challenges
• More than $343,000, provided through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, are supporting commercial driver training, industry certifications and licensing
• The project will help address workforce needs in the transportation sector, while creating pathways to employment for participants

_______

More people in Quesnel will be able to train for careers in transportation and gain the skills needed to move into in-demand jobs as commercial drivers through an expanded workforce training program.

“People say they feel better and are better off when they have a job, so we’re removing barriers to skills training,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “That’s why in partnership with the Government of Canada, we’re investing $343,248 in Quesnel to deliver hands-on training and work experience for people facing barriers to employment, including in transportation.”

Through the Community and Employer Partnerships program, the Province is providing the funding to the College of New Caledonia to expand its DRIVE Program, the college's commercial driver training program. Funded by the Government of Canada under the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, the project will support as many as 16 participants through employability skills training, occupational skills training, industry certifications and licensing supports.

“Every Canadian deserves the fair chance to succeed, and that starts with the right support in the right places,” said Patty Hajdu, federal Minister of Jobs and Families. “Through our partnership with British Columbia, we are helping people in Quesnel access the training, skills and supports they need to pursue rewarding careers in the transportation sector. When people can build on their strengths and reach their full potential, our communities and our economy are stronger. Together, we are building a Canada where no one is left behind.”

The fully funded program helps remove barriers to training by providing local access to industry-recognized commercial driver training and certifications in Quesnel, giving participants an opportunity to prepare for careers in the transportation sector without leaving their community.

Building pathways to transportation careers

The expanded DRIVE Program will provide two intakes of participants with essential and employability skills training, occupational skills training, short-term certifications and ICBC testing. Participants will receive the training and supports needed to prepare for careers as transport truck drivers, bus drivers and other transit operators.

“The College of New Caledonia pleased to see such strong interest in the DRIVE Program,” said Pamela McInroy, director, community and continuing education, College of New Caledonia. “This fully funded, in-person program reflects the importance of making education and skills training accessible in the communities we serve. We are proud that participants in the recent Quesnel cohort successfully completed the program, gaining industry-recognized certifications, building confidence and preparing for employment in a field that supports regional workforce needs.”

Supporting workforce needs

Commercial drivers play a vital role in keeping people, goods and services moving throughout British Columbia. By helping participants gain industry-recognized skills, certifications and connections to employers, the program will help address workforce shortages in the transportation sector, while creating pathways to meaningful employment.

“The program was amazing,” said Lynn Ferguson, a DRIVE program participant. “I enjoyed every moment. I most-enjoyed my instructors. They had so much patience with me and didn't go without many giggles along the way. The benefit for me is a whole new job search, focusing on being a school bus driver. I know someone with a dump truck that I'm now learning to drive. I would definitely recommend this to someone who wants a career change.”

The program supports the Province’s Look West strategy by strengthening B.C.’s workforce and helping people connect to good jobs in sectors facing labour shortages, such as transportation.

Quotes:

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. We are making sure that British Columbians are equipped for these in-demand jobs. The DRIVE Program will help people gain the skills, experience and confidence needed to pursue rewarding careers.”

Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post Secondary and Future Skills –

“Building a skilled workforce is essential to delivering the major projects that will drive a strong and sustainable B.C. We’re thrilled to support programs like the College of New Caledonia’s DRIVE program, which provides people with the skills training they need for well-paying, local jobs. This investment is part of our government’s work to expand high-demand training and ensure people can access the skills and education they need to build a fulfilling life.”

Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit –

“Commercial drivers play a vital role in keeping people, goods and services moving safely and efficiently throughout British Columbia. Programs like DRIVE help participants gain the training, certifications and practical experience needed to build careers in transportation while helping employers meet workforce needs in northern communities.”

Quick Facts:

• Participants in the second intake began training on July 20, 2026.
• The expanded program runs through November 2026.

Learn More:

• To learn more about Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada, visit:
  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/look-west-strategy
• For more information about the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, visit:
  https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/training-agreements/lmda.html
• Learn more about the College of New Caledonia online: https://cnc.bc.ca/