The Gitxsan Development Corporation and the Industry Training Authority have signed a memorandum of understanding supporting trades education and apprenticeship for First Nations.
“This MOU will allow GDC to support numerous Gitxsan community members in their trades training paths towards Red Seal accreditation,” said Rick Connors, President and CEO, Gitxsan Development Corporation, in a news release. “Over the past quarter, GDC has sponsored carpentry and heavy equipment operators at our Commercial Complex in South Hazelton and looks forward to continuing to support these and other trades training from our new training facility. We are working with training providers to innovate training programs to meet the accreditation standards while ensuring trainees are prepared for jobsites. Workforce ready is our goal.”
Through the MOU, Gitxsan Development Corporation will become the sponsor of apprentices working on local projects, ensuring employment for their communities, and creating an appropriate cultural approach to an apprenticeship pathway and experience.
The Gitxsan group of companies has a history of engaging with a number of industry and First Nation partners throughout northern British Columbia to create training and career opportunities for Indigenous peoples and community members in their respective regions.
This MOU enables GDC to strengthen employment opportunities in trades professions and support community members in obtaining certification and Red Seal endorsement in their respective trades careers. By partnering with ITA, this MOU expands on GDC’s priorities of creating rewarding employment opportunities and experiences and reflects its values in fostering partnerships and relationships.
“Fostering First Nations, employer, business, and industry collaboration through this partnership will strongly support increased apprenticeships and trades success for Indigenous people of the region,” said Michael Cameron, Director of Indigenous Initiatives with ITA. “Increasing community-based training and employment raises the profile of trades professions as a high-opportunity career not only Indigenous people but for all British Columbians.”