The Mining, Trades & Technology Job Fair hosted by Canim Lake Band on July 5-6 went off with a bang.
Opening ceremonies included a welcoming by 100 Mile House Mayor Mitch Campsall, Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett and Canim Lake Band Councillor Jesse Archie.
Job Fair co-ordinator Atoine Archie says his objective at the job fair was to demonstrate the career opportunities available in the Mining, Trades, & Technology industries for everyone.
"[I wanted] to show people they can travel worldwide by mixing motivation, inspiration and dedication to build towards a fulfilling career through education and training. I want to inspire others, lead by example and prove to everybody it is possible to find a well-paying job that is enjoyable."
Campsall says the event was well attended, really good and the band did a good job putting it together.
“In the 15 years I’ve been here, I have notice the emphasis put on education at Canim Lake. The Elders really thought it was important years and years ago and they began pushing for it and it’s really starting to show now, and they have a lot of backing from the band members.”
July 5 was highlighted by special guest speakers Tully Journeay from the BC Construction Association, Skilled Trained Employment Program (BCCA/STEP) and Chief Shane Gottfriedson from T’kemlups Indian Band.
"The first day was well attended, with close to 100 people taking part in the event," says Atoine.
On July 6, Melanie Woods from BC Hydro, and Jim Morin from B.C. Institute of Technology (BCIT), who also represented Association of Mineral Exploration in B.C. (AME BC), were the special guest speakers.
Youth in attendance heard about the differences between trades and technology, Atoine explains, and how those can be related to mining.
He notes the numerous booth exhibitors included YellowHead Mining Inc., Happy Creek Minerals, Fjordland Exploration, Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School, Thompson Rivers University, Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training Employment Centre, First Nations Careers Council, Stantec, Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC, and the Industry Training Authority of BC, as well as the guest speakers' organizations.
"The opportunities are out there, but it is up to you to take advantage by not being afraid to leave the reserve and experience new things."