Prince George - As workers in the forest sector continue to observe the instability within the industry they are seeking help from the Assessing Planning Training pilot program with increasing numbers throughout the northern region. The USW local 1-424 APT pilot received $2 million dollars from the Government of Canada and Province of BC and was launched in February 2009. This funding agreement provides skills assessments and access to courses and retaining programs for employed forest workers or those EI ineligible whether they are Union or non- Union.

Burns Lake is one of many areas that have experienced an increase with over 100 clients accessing the program to date. Employment Consultant Kelly Turford, who operates the Lakes District Employment & Career Services; “this is an exciting program to be part of” said Kelly Turford, “working with forest workers employed and increasing their skills and employment potential is truly rewarding and provides real benefits to workers for the present and future.” Frank Everitt, President USW local 1-424 agrees this is a very important and proactive step forest workers are taking given the economic climate we face today. They are preparing for the early challenges they may encounter and positioning themselves to take advantage of our economic recovery which will bring new technology to our Industry while also increasing their personal career opportunities.

“Working around a person’s scheduled shifts and personal responsibilities can be very challenging for the worker and to those delivering the service. It requires commitment and cooperation from everyone involved,” says Terry Tate Forest Worker Coordinator for the USW Local 1-424 APT project. Continued cooperation from educational facilities and others delivering training through the APT project is a critical component to ensure people succeed. We have over 200 forest workers directly utilizing services under APT, the program continues to accept clients including independent operators. Boundaries of the project cover Smithers, Houston, Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Vanderhoof, Fort St James, Prince George to the Robson Valley.

Source: Assessing-Planning-Training (APT) Media Release