News Archives: Partnership provides Driver Training Specific to Forest Industry
Friday, July 19th, 2013
Grande Prairie Regional College is pleased to host Class 1 driver training course specific to the forest industry. The program, offered through the collaborative efforts of Alberta Human Services, Ainsworth Engineered Canada LP, Weyerhaeuser Canada, the GP Log Haul Trucking Driver Alliance, and Woodland Operations Learning Foundation (WOLF) offers a unique specialized opportunity industry-specific training. Applications are now being accepted for intakes scheduled to begin August 15 and August 29, 2013.
Successful participants in the training program will obtain their Class 1 driver’s license and take part in a work experience program with one of Grande Prairie’s local forest industry contractors.
The objective is to provide an integrated training program in Grande Prairie which will train truck drivers specifically for professional driving in the forest industry.
“This is a unique opportunity for unemployed and under-employed people,” says Karen Scribner of the Woodlands Operations Learning Foundation. “It will provide participants a combination of classroom training and practical experience that will result in the potential for direct and immediate employment.”
The program will involve delivery of both a classroom component and a work experience component. The five-week classroom component is offered through GPRC Continuing Education and will involve theory-based knowledge that will prepare the clients to obtain their Class 1 driver’s license. Additionally this component will include essential skills training in Fatigue Management, the Effects of Stress on Driving, and related safety topics. The three-week work experience component will provide specific hands on training involved in professional driving in the forest industry.
There is currently a shortage of log haul drivers in the region and the participants will find many employment opportunities upon successful completion of the course.
“GPRC is very pleased to work with our partners in industry to ensure timely and responsive training for the workforce of our region,” says Susan Bansgrove, Vice-President Academics and Research. “We are committed to finding new ways to achieve results that meet the needs of our learners and our communities.”
Applications are now being accepted.
Start Dates: Thursday August 15 or Thursday August 29.
For more information or to submit a resume, contact:
Karen Scribner
Woodland Operations Learning Foundation (WOLF)
Email: Karen.VistaHR@gmail.com
Phone: 780-512-0770