Thompson Rivers University provides retraining for South Cariboo forestry workers

Former forestry workers in the South Cariboo are undergoing career retraining through Thompson Rivers University’s (TRU) Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) program. The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, is designed to assist community members impacted by layoffs, specifically following the closure of West Fraser 100 Mile Lumber.

Participants receive free training that typically costs up to $40,000, covering the operation of machinery such as backhoes, excavators, and graders. Students also earn ten certifications, including first aid and firefighting. The program aims to facilitate transitions into growing sectors like mining and road maintenance. To qualify, applicants must have been affected by forestry sector instability or U.S. lumber tariffs and must currently be receiving employment insurance or experiencing significant income loss.