Kamloops Daily News

Nine aboriginal women start class at Thompson Rivers University later this month to learn what careers they might have in mining.

They are the first students in the pilot Aboriginal Women Training program, a joint effort between the B.C. Aboriginal Mine Training Association and TRU.

Laurie Sterritt, executive director of the BCAMTA, said Thursday the program was getting off to a slow start, so a call was put out for women to apply. Of the 32 responses received, nine were chosen for the program, which lasts five to six weeks.

“We didn’t have any expectations going into this. I think nine is a fantastic number,” she said.

“If we can make a difference in the lives of a small number of people, we’re doing our jobs.”

Aboriginal women have a role in their culture to keep their families together; as a result, they are usually the caregivers for the children and the elders.

That, along with requirements like Grade 12 or even a driver’s licence, can make it difficult for them to enter into training programs, she said.

The training program is aimed at helping aboriginal women take training so they can return to their communities and find work in areas such as mining, Sterritt said.

“We hope to allow the flexibility of the training and cover things like transportation and child care,” she said. Apprenticeships close to home and other supports can also be arranged.

The program introduces the women to five types of trades that can lead to careers, particularly in mining. The idea is that they follow into trades programs after completing the orientation courses.

“It’s documented there’s a shortage of mine trades workers throughout the sector,” she said.

“As we as a society become more open for roles and responsibilities shifting among women and men, it becomes more acceptable and interesting for people to follow the path they are good at and interested in.”

Sterritt said a solid relationship has been established between her organization and TRU.

“We’ve had a tremendous experience working with them. They are courageous leaders when it comes to removing barriers.”