A Prince George single mom studying to become an electrician has become the 1000th apprentice trained with the help of a partnership between LNG Canada and the BC Construction Association.
Marissa McTavish is the milestone participant of the Trades Training Fund, the two companies announced Wednesday. Her employer, Primus Electric, is also the 500th business to sponsor an employee with help from the fund.
"As a single mom, this opportunity to develop my skills in the electrical trade means steady employment, good wages, and self-respect," McTavish said in a news release.
McTavish begins her Level 3 training at CNC this month, the 150th LNG Canada Trades Training Fund placement at that school.
The fund was launched in 2015 and has doled out $1.5 million to help train apprentices in high demand trades in B.C.'s construction sector.
LNG Canada says it's just one way it's working to address a skilled worker shortage in the province, and that funding for the program will continue.
"At LNG Canada we recognize the valuable role all British Columbians play in maintaining a vibrant skilled workforce, not only for the emerging LNG industry, but for the prosperity of industries across B.C.," said Tracey MacKinnon, workforce development manager.
"We're proud that our program is connecting people to successful employment in their local regions and acknowledge the leadership of the employers who are sponsoring apprentices."
In a 2018 industry survey, 68 per cent of employers said finding skilled workers was a challenge, according to the BCCA.
"LNG Canada is helping to address that gap and opening up rewarding career opportunities for British Columbians across the province," said president Chris Atchison.
For more info on the fund, check out www.bccassn.com.
