February 6, 2017 – The British Columbia government is ushering in new skills-training opportunities for up to 205 First Nations people from Prince George to Fort Nelson, designed to “spark” electrical careers and more.

Funding of more than $2.1 million is being provided for five projects through B.C.’s Aboriginal Skills Training Development Fund, the province announced recently.

One of these projects includes $248,000 for a 25-week Bridging to Trades training project in Fort St. John for members of the Blueberry River First Nations, delivered in the community by the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology. This program will provide up to 24 participants with the opportunity to be introduced to four trades: electrical, welding, carpentry and machining, as well as upgrade their literacy and numeracy skills, and receive personal growth training.

The Aboriginal Skills Training and Development Fund states it is investing up to $30 million over three years for new skills-training projects and partnerships to support First Nations communities.