Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment and Training Services (KKETS) has partnered with Aecon Group Inc. to expand training and development programs for First Nations in the Ring of Fire area.
“In the past, First Nations did not have the same participation in the labour market, but through the process of developing and maintaining relationships with key employers, potential employment opportunities have been recognized,” said Morris Wapoose, KKETS’ program manager. “We want to thank Aecon for stepping forward and we look forward to building this positive relationship.”
Aecon and KKETS have agreed to work collaboratively to develop remote training centres, which will be operated by First Nations in a socially and culturally relevant environment to provide local access to community-based education, trades and apprenticeship training. The remote training centres will employ state of the art computerized technology systems and high-speed satellite broadband Internet to connect the communities.
“Our relationship with the Matawa First Nations and KKETS is an important component of Aecon’s strategic approach to community engagement and skilled labour development,” said Teri McKibbon, Aecon’s president and chief operating officer in a press release. “Education and training is a priority for Aecon. Programs such as the remote training centres are an innovative response to the future demand for labour in remote areas, and will make positive contributions to surrounding communities.”
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy Provider for Matawa First Nations, KKETS is committed to delivering programs that meet the needs of employers and trainees for all Matawa First Nations.
Aecon focuses on construction and infrastructure development, providing integrated services to private and public sector clients.