Stories that Inspire

Vincent, Class 1 Driver

“Operating equipment was all I ever wanted to do,” says Vincent, who had worked at the Chetwynd sawmill since graduating high school. When the mill closed, Vincent struggled to find work.

“Being rejected made me realize that I needed some form of extra training or ticket,” he says. He decided to pursue a Class 1 driver’s licence but lacked the funds for the training. 

With training costs covered though the Community Workforce Response Grant, the BC Trucking Association connected Vincent with training. Although worried at first about his capabilities as a student, Vincent soon learned all the driving skills he needed, received his Class 1 driver certification and now works as a tow truck driver. 

Vincent is grateful to all those who helped him along his training journey: “You have changed my life and I will never forget it.”

Molly, Dental Assistant

At age 19, Molly was able to get her career as a dental assistant started thanks to Community Workforce Response Grant funding provided to the British Columbia Dental Association.

“By alleviating the financial pressure, the grant has afforded me the opportunity to dedicate more time and focus to my studies,” says Molly. 

“I’m immensely grateful for the support, as it has not only opened doors for me but has also empowered me as a very young adult to pursue my passions with determination and confidence. Now I’m ready to take it to the real world and make a difference.”

With dental assistants considered a high opportunity occupation in B.C.’s Labour Market Outlook — meaning that the job is expected to have higher demand and wages, compared to other occupations, over the next decade — Molly’s future is on sure footing. 

Colin, Heavy Equipment Operator

To support planned community building and infrastructure maintenance projects, the Xeni Gwet'in First Nation Government received Community Workforce Response Grant funding to train three community members as heavy equipment operators.

Colin was one of the community members to take part in the training. Having worked seasonally since his teen years, Colin was hoping that completing this training would provide him with steady, full-time work. 

“My experience with the program was great,” says Colin. “I learned a lot from the instructors, the other students and from myself. The achievement I’m most proud of is learning how to operate more than one machinery while at this training.”

Colin earned his Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate and secured a full-time job with Xeni Gwet’in Enterprise. As part of the program, Colin also gained a general knowledge of how to maintain the equipment — a crucial skill for the community as they are a three-hour drive from the closest maintenance shops.

“Participating in this training has shown me that I am capable of completing such an extensive program,” he says. “I’m happy I went through with the program and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”