Kenjgewin Teg is training members of Whitefish River First Nation in heavy equipment operation to prep them for careers in road construction, mining, forestry, public utilities, and other industries.
The M’Chigeeng educational institute, which is based on Manitoulin Island, introduced the new training program earlier this year in co-operation with Whitefish River First Nation, Cambrian College, and Transport Training Centres of Canada Inc.
Over two to nine weeks, students gain practical skills operating various heavy machinery, including backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, graders, and front-end loaders. The organization said the program prioritizes safety and hands-on experience.
Six students are currently enrolled in the newly developed course.
“Bringing programs directly to our communities is one way to strengthen the work and presence of Kenjgewin Teg in areas where demand for training and programs exists,” said Beverley Roy, president of Kenjgewin Teg, in a news release.
“We know that student transportation continues to remain a real challenge that needs to be addressed.”
Stuart Wilson, Whitefish River's economic development officer, said the program plays an important part in the growth and development of the local economy.
“By providing training in high-demand fields like heavy equipment operations, we are equipping our community with the tools to succeed in the workforce,” Wilson said in the release.
“We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will create and look forward to further collaborations that will benefit our community's long-term prosperity.”
Whitefish River First Nation territory stretches along the shores of Georgian Bay and is home to 1,200 citizens, including 440 members living in the village of Birch Island. The community is a signatory to both the Bond Head Treaty of 1836 and the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850.
