A jobs training organization which has just opened an office in Terrace is changing its name.
The BC Aboriginal Mine Training Association is now the Aboriginal Mentoring and Training Association (AMTA) to better reflect its broadening mandate.
“We remain committed to empowering First Nations to create economic health for themselves and their communities through skills training, education and career opportunities,” said Laurie Sterritt, the association’s chief executive officer.
“What’s changed is that we’ll be working with a broader group of resource-sector partners and companies, with more potential job opportunities for AMTA candidates.”
Founded four years ago, the association, with offices in southern B.C., began by making connections with the mining industry to train and place aboriginal people.
“More than 200 employers have hired AMTA candidates because they are trained, certified to recognized industry standards and are ready to work,” said Sterritt.
“Our roots will always be in exploration and mining, but we’ve created a business solution other industries want to adopt; a solution that benefits many First Nation communities and our provincial and national economies.”
The association also has a satellite office in New Aiyansh in the Nass Valley.
Other association offices are located in Vancouver, Merritt, Williams Lake, Cranbrook in the Kootneays and Kamloops.
