B.C. programs offer trades training to Indigenous communities

TERRACE, B.C. – A batch of new training programs are helping hundreds in Indigenous communities enter trades careers.

Six new two-year programs are assisting 475 people in Indigenous communities across the province with obtaining the skills to begin working in the trades.

“For years, Indigenous leaders have been calling for skills training opportunities closer to home to support their community’s needs and self-determination,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “Our government is responding to this Call to Action by working in partnership with Indigenous communities, the Industry Training Authority and employers. These new programs will create pathways for Indigenous workers to take advantage of the tens of thousands of in-demand jobs forecasted in the trades over the next decade.”

The programs, with support from the Industry Training Authority (ITA), are designed to address community priorities and opportunities with courses ranging from exploratory and introductory trades to specific construction and electrical training.

“ITA’s committed to building strong partnerships with industry, training providers and Indigenous communities to create innovative programs that enable Indigenous people to gain exposure to the skilled trades and find meaningful careers,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, ITA. “These new programs will ensure more individuals have opportunities to access training and become apprentices while giving them the tools to be successful.”

Programs include Kitselas First Nation’s Kitselas Community-Led Apprenticeship Development. Over two years, an estimated 48 people will receive introductory trades training that will help them obtain trades apprenticeships.

“Investments from industries, such as LNG, mean it’s busy right now in northwest B.C., with tremendous opportunities to secure long-lasting careers in the skilled trades,” said Judy Gerow, Chief Councillor, Kitselas First Nation. “Making sure our members, and members of neighbouring Nations, have access to those opportunities is critical. The community-led program is one way we can do that. A successful career in the trades translates into economic security for families in our communities.”

ITA is contributing $7.5 million to fund the new programs, with money from the Canada-BC Workforce Development Agreement (WDA).

B.C.’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act passed unanimously in November 2019, establishing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as the framework for reconciliation in B.C.

Skills training that improves employment opportunities responds to UNDRIP Article 21.1, asserting the rights of Indigenous peoples to improve their economic and social conditions, including through education and employment. It also responds to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 7, to eliminate educational and employment gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians.