APPRENTICESHIP PARTNERSHIP SHOWS RESULTS

Saskatchewan's Northwest Industrial Training Program (NITP) has produced its first tradesperson, Kris Gladue of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council. Ten additional apprentices are moving toward their journeyperson status.

Gladue recently was awarded his Interprovincial Red Seal certificate in Welding, based on successful completion of work experience reinforced with technical training.

"Saskatchewan Learning's financial support for forestry-related training is resulting in residents achieving their career goals," Learning Minister Judy Junor said. "Mr. Gladue's success demonstrates that we are training people and they are remaining and working in Saskatchewan."

The NITP is a partnership of forestry related businesses, the Forestry Training Sub-Committee (FTSC), the Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission and other partners to train apprentices.

"Mr. Gladue's success is a strong indicator that the partnership approach by NITP is working to meet the needs of industry for qualified tradespeople," NITP Chair Roger Gingras said.

Through funds provided by Saskatchewan Learning over the past three years, the FTSC has supported NITP in the Meadow Lake region. Half of the apprentices are Aboriginal.

"The FTSC's financial support is helping to address the need for skilled tradespeople in the forest industry," Forestry Training Sub-Committee Chair Roman Orynik said. "We look forward to NITP producing additional tradespeople in the coming months."

NITP's industrial partners include Millar Western Pulp, Dave's Electric, RobWel Constructors Limited, Meadow Lake Truck and Trailer Repair, and Ron's Plumbing. These businesses are either engaged in forestry activities or provide support services to the forest industry. Other partners are the FTSC, Canada-Saskatchewan Career and Employment Services, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, and the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. Gladue is currently working with RobWel Constructors Limited Partnership in Meadow Lake.

The FTSC's membership consists of representatives of the forest industry, Metis organizations, post-secondary institutions, First Nations, and government.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jim Ludwig Learning Prince Albert Phone: (306)953-2744

Joy Stang Northwest Industrial Training Program Meadow Lake Phone: (306)236-2910