Ontario Construction News staff writer
Kenjgewin Teg is providing members of Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN) with specialized training in heavy equipment operation to prepare for careers in road construction, mining, forestry and public utilities.
The new program, which began earlier this year, is a collaboration between Kenjgewin Teg, Whitefish River First Nation, Cambrian College, and Transport Training Centres of Canada Inc. The initiative is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to operate various heavy machinery, including backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, graders, and front-end loaders. Training, which lasts between two and nine weeks depending on the course, emphasizes safety and practical, hands-on experience.
Beverley Roy, President of Kenjgewin Teg, explained the importance of offering such programs locally.
โBy bringing training directly to the community, we make it more accessible, especially considering the transportation challenges many students face,โ Roy said.
The program provides certification as heavy equipment operators, enabling graduates to pursue job opportunities in high-demand fields such as construction, forestry, and mining.
โThis initiative is helping to address the growing need for skilled workers in our region,โ Nahwegahbow said Chief Rodney Nahwegahbow of Whitefish River First Nation. โFirst Nations communities are stepping up and partnering with institutions like Kenjgewin Teg to deliver meaningful training programs.โ
The program currently has six students enrolled and plans for future expansion. Through this initiative, Kenjgewin Teg and its partners aim to create long-term economic opportunities and address labour shortages in the region.
โBy providing training in sectors like heavy equipment operation, weโre giving our community the tools they need to succeed in the workforce,โ said Stuart Wilson, WRFN economic development officer.