THE British Columbia Aboriginal Mine Training Association (BC AMTA) and Northwest Community College (NWCC) partner to deliver Pathways to Success (P2S), an entry-level job skills training program, to candidates from Gitanyow, B.C.
“This training will improve employment opportunities for the members of the Gitanyow and all communities in the Northwest over the coming years. Employment training skills are key in positioning BC AMTA candidates to take full advantage of our region’s economic opportunities as they arise,” says Tony Harris, Regional Manager, Northwestern B.C., BC AMTA.
BC AMTA’s Pathways to Success program provides training in career, educational and lifestyle skills to prepare candidates for entry-level mining jobs. Candidates enrolled in this program learn a wide range of skills, including resume development, workplace communication and personal banking.
“The program utilizes an innovative model, including digital, classroom and field instruction to prepare candidates for employment in the exploration and mining industries,” says Danielle Smyth, Project Administrator, School of Exploration & Mining, Northwest Community College.
With 16 candidates enrolled, this is the first time that P2S has been offered in Gitanyow.
“We have so much appreciation for the role of Gitanyow’s Community Coordinator, Arvida Marsden. She has played a key role in building continuity, confidence and encouraging participation from local candidates,” says Harris.
Four candidates from Gitanyow’s P2S program will be selected for an upcoming camp cook program. Plans are also underway to offer a mineral processing operator program.
“Both of these programs will be delivered in partnership with BC AMTA, NWCC, the Gitanyow community and local industry partners,” says Smyth.
The future looks bright for local candidates.
“BC AMTA, NWCC and the community of Gitanyow have a healthy relationship. Our job is to work together to support a creative educational atmosphere for our candidates,” says Harris.
BCAMTA also has an office in Terrace.
