Blog

They say when it rains it pours and that certainly was the case for the SICA Education and Training Department in the early part of 2017. SICA had the opportunity to submit proposals to provide industry training programs and was fortunate to secure contracts to two communities with all the training to be completed prior to March 31, 2017. 

"We ran three separate comprehensive training programs for different groups between February 15th and March 24th to a total of 63 students. It was definitely a logistical challenge to get our instructors to Merritt and Chase during the five week period, especially in winter driving conditions, but we did it," says Leanne Hendrickson, SICA's Education Services Coordinator. 

NVIT - Tolko Transition Training Program

SICA started the training program with the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) in mid-February 2017; the goal was to deliver 13 certifications to 36 students who were affected by the closure of the Tolko Mill in Merritt.  Students took both classroom and online courses focusing on OSSA certifications as well as equipment & safety training.  The participants left the program trained, certified and prepared to start a new career in the construction industry.

The support of NVIT and local businesses was phenomenal which helped make this program a huge success.  We could not have done this without the support and dedication of our instructors who in some cases were allowed to take time away from their daily jobs to be a part of this program.  The program evaluations also confirmed the greatest strength of the program was our instructors.

The program wrapped up on March 17, 2017 and already SICA is hearing reports that participants have found employment. It has been said that five of the participants were hired based on their certification portfolio. Participant, Craig McPhail, stated that, “I would recommend the Southern Interior Construction Association because they care about your success!” SICA is very proud to have been a part of the Tolko Transition Program to help individuals enter the construction industry," says Hendrickson.

Industry Safety Training Program - ASETS

While the NVIT training was wrapping up, the SICA team started another training program for the Aboriginal Skills Employment & Training Services (ASETS). They wanted to provide industry safety training to 12 participants who were looking for employment in the Oil & Gas sector. Participants received 8 certifications during the 7 day program, including CSTS-09, WHMIS 2015, H2S Alive, and OSSA certified Fall Protection Confined Space Entry & Monitor, BSO and Elevated Work Platform.

"We did our best to ensure the students success by identifying the barriers and providing assistance throughout the entire length of the program” says Hendrickson.

Roadbuilder & Heavy Construction Foundation Course - ASETS

An hour and a half away from Merritt, SICA was also providing training to another group of 15 participants in Chase, BC. The program delivered the ITA Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Foundation Program which is a pre-employment program designed for individuals who want to enter the road building and heavy construction industry. In addition participants received certifications in CSTS-09, OFA Level 1, Traffic Control and WHMIS 2015.

"It has been an extremely busy start to 2017, we are continuing to provide weekly safety training at the SICA Construction Training Centre in Kelowna, as well as offering our professional development courses before the busy construction season starts," says Hendrickson. Always remember SICA is ready to provide scheduled training or customized training to meet your particular needs.  Checking the SICA Training Calendar is the best way to see the current course offerings.