NEWS RELEASE
KENJGEWIN TEG
**************************
WHITEFISH RIVER FIRST NATION—Kenjgewin Teg is breaking new ground with its Heavy Equipment Operator Training program, a collaborative initiative launched earlier this year in partnership with Whitefish River First Nation (WRFN), Cambrian College, and Transport Training Centres of Canada Inc. (TTCC). This program is designed to equip participants with in-demand skills while reinforcing the strong community ties that drive local economic growth.
“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. “We know that student transportation continues to remain a real challenge that needs to be addressed.”
The training, which ranges from two to nine weeks depending on the selected course, prioritizes workplace safety and hands-on experience. Students gain practical skills operating various heavy machinery, including backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, graders, and front-end loaders.
“As we witness significant growth in industry and construction in the north, First Nations communities step up and support educational institutions like Kenjgewin Teg as they successfully deliver training such as the Heavy Equipment Operator program,” said WRFN Chief Rodney Nahwegahbow.
Graduates of the program earn operator certification, opening doors to careers in road construction, mining, forestry, public utilities, and other industries where heavy equipment operation is in high demand.
“We are excited to partner with Kenjgewin Teg to offer the Heavy Equipment training program,” said Cheryl OsawabinePeltier, WRFN Education Manager. “This collaboration is a significant step in ensuring our community members gain valuable skills that will open up new career opportunities. We look forward to expanding our educational offerings and strengthening our relationship with Kenjgewin Teg for future programs that will empower our community.”
Stuart Wilson, WRFN Economic Development Officer, emphasized the program’s impact on the region’s workforce. “This partnership with Kenjgewin Teg is an important milestone in supporting the growth and development of our 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. 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.”
With six students currently enrolled, Kenjgewin Teg’s program is already making a difference. By investing in skill development, First Nations communities are building a stronger workforce, addressing labour shortages, and creating lasting economic opportunities.
“Careers in the skilled trades is where many opportunities for jobs exist, and this training will help meet the needs of the labour shortage in the construction industry,” concluded Ms. Roy.
Through partnerships like this, Kenjgewin Teg continues to play a vital role in fostering economic independence and selfsufficiency, ensuring that area communities are equipped for the future.
**************************