YELLOWKNIFE (February 6, 2012) – The Honourable Jackson Lafferty, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, has declared February 6th to 10th, 2012 as Apprenticeship Week in the Northwest Territories.
“Apprenticeships and occupational certifications have moved to the forefront of the economy in the Northwest Territories,” said Minister Lafferty. “The 2012 theme Get With Apprenticeships is especially appropriate this year as the government works with industry and educational institutions to ensure the territory develops a work force ready to take advantage of job opportunities that result from emerging industries.”
In the NWT there are 53 designated trades and 25 occupations that employ over 400 men and women. Aurora College offers technical training in Fort Smith and Inuvik for five trades, including plumber, carpenter, electrician, heavy equipment technician and housing maintainer.
“With the unique needs of our region, we rely heavily on trades,” said Minister Lafferty. “Our region requires that we have certified people available to help us with our frozen pipes and furnaces, constructing our buildings, and ensuring that we are able to function no matter where we are or the season we’re in. With our partners, Aurora College, Skills Canada, and the Mine Training Society, it is imperative that we provide education, certification and opportunity for those individuals wanting to explore a trade.”
The Apprenticeship Top Marks Awards are planned in selected communities during the week, as well as special events and activities. For more information, visit the Department of Education, Culture and Employment’s website.
For more information, contact:
Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Public Affairs
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
T: 867.920.6222
E: jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca