Community Training Fund fosters skills for Ross River

FOR RELEASE #12-042
March 14, 2012

Whitehorse—The Yukon government is providing $43,384 for truck driver training in Ross River through the Community Training Fund (CTF). The Yukon College Dena Cho Kanadi campus will deliver the training.

“This driver training will provide the essential qualifications that can lead to mining-related jobs in the region,” Education Minister Scott Kent said. “Yukon’s economy continues to grow and this training will open up local job opportunities and help meet labour market demands in the mining and trucking industries.”“Our Ross River campus staff, as in most Yukon communities, continuously receives requests for driver training,” Yukon College Dean of Extension Division Dave McHardy said. “Our rural campuses work with communities to build their capacity, with employers to help them fill local jobs with local citizens, and with individuals to break down barriers and achieve worthwhile, sustainable employment.

“This funding is going to significantly help us fulfill all of these mandates for the community of Ross River,” McHardy added.

Eight participants are enrolled in the Class 1 and/or Class 3 driver education course and air brake endorsement training. They will undertake written examinations and driving tests. The training takes place over a three week period in March and April.

The CTF initiative is a successful and proven method to address the training needs of Yukoners. Funding for training is offered in three streams: community-based, industry/sector-based and project specific.

Please visit our website for more information about the CTF.

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