Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc receives $290K for truck driver training program

Eight Indigenous residents of the Kamloops area will soon be professional truck drivers following an investment from the province to TkÌ“emlúps te Secwépemc.

Participants started their program on Monday, Dec. 12 and will receive 15 weeks of employability and soft-skills training, says a news release.

They will also receive seven weeks of on-the-job work experience with local companies and two weeks of follow up support to help them find permanent jobs.

"This program is designed to provide the participants a combination of both theoretical and applied knowledge and on-the-job experience to give them a clear pathway to careers in transportation,” said Rosanne Casimir, Kúkpi7 (Chief), TkÌ“emlúps te Secwépemc.

The training program was made possible through an investment of more than $290,000 from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

The funding is provided through WorkBC’s Community and Employment Partnerships (CEP) fund.

Andrew Mercier, minister of state for workforce development, says the CEP program is meant to help British Columbians gain the skills and training needed to enter into in-demand careers.

"BC's professional commercial truck operators keep our supply chain moving and are an important part of our economy," added Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and infrastructure.

"Including the MELT training ensures commercial drivers have the skills needed to be safe and responsible as they prepare to join an in-demand profession."