(Photo: Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification Michelle Rempel announces $1.5 million dollars for training for Aboriginal peoples in Northern Alberta on June 25, 2015. Bradley Karp / AFTERNOON REPORTER)
The Federal government is helping to fund mobile heavy equipment operation simulators for Keyano College.
Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification Michelle Rempel announced the $1.5 million investment at Keyano College today to support the training of Aboriginal people throughout Northern Alberta.
The simulators will tour the Aboriginal communities of Wood Buffalo and offer residents an opportunity to get the training they need to become heavy equipment operators in the oilsands.
“Our Government’s support will allow for students in remote communities to access the training they need to fully participate in Canada’s growing economy,” said Minister Rempel. “This investment demonstrates our commitment to working with industry and other local partners to ensure that Aboriginal students acquire the experience necessary to secure quality jobs and build more prosperous communities.”
The project is also being supported by a $1 million dollar commitment from Syncrude through a previous donation it made to the Keyano College Foundation.
“Syncrude is pleased to support this project with Keyano College, which is a key partner for us in helping meet our commitment to recruit new employees from the Wood Buffalo Region, particularly those from Aboriginal communities,” said Mark Ward, CEO, Syncrude Canada.
It’s anticipated that over four years the project will train 145 Aboriginal peoples for high demand Heavy Equipment Operator careers.
