The Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) is setting aside a budget of CAD$750,000 (US$562,000) in order to aid the population in the Shuswap and Revelstoke areas find jobs in the forestry industry.
Through this opportunity, up to 16 people will be trained and made ready for employment in the industry.
In a press release, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Kamloops-South Thompson and Minister of Transportation Todd Stone said, “This is a great opportunity for local people to gain new skills, which will help them find work in the forestry sector through hands-on experience.”
The finances will be provided for through a paid training opportunity jointly presented with Okanagan College. The training will include essential skills like forestry technology, machine work, risk management, tree falling, and other practical skills needed for the job.
“Forestry is an industry that brings great opportunities for people to build their careers through knowledge and hard work, and I’m excited to know the future is bright for the industry and for the participants in this project,” Member of the Legislative Assembly for Shuswap and Parliamentary Secretary for the BC Jobs Plan Greg Kyllo, said.
In 2015, the forest industry contributed CAD$5.5 billion (US$4.12 billion) to BC’s economy, and in 2016, employed an estimated 60,000 people.
