Awards recognize workforce training

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Three Saskatchewan employers were recognized for their efforts to provide workforce training to Aboriginal employees, as the Saskatchewan Labour Force Development Board (SLFDB) handed out this year?s Training for Excellence Awards in recognition of the best in workforce training within the province.

Among the recipients of the sixth annual awards were the Construction Career Development Project, SaskTel, and Marieval Enterprise Centre.

The Construction Career Development project received the award in the Promotion of Aboriginal Participation category. The project is a joint initiative between the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Post-Secondary Education Career and Employment Services, the Saskatchewan Construction Association, and Saskatchewan Apprenticeship. The project helps people wanting a career in construction to obtain both training and experience, and links employers with potential employees. The majority of those using the program to find employment are First Nations people.

SaskTel was recognized with a Training in Excellence award in the Education Partnerships category. Through its educational partnerships, SaskTel is attempting to develop a representative employee base, and deliver skills training to youth across the province. Among the partnerships offered by SaskTel are co-op and internship partnerships with the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, youth summer employment opportunities and training and employment partnerships with the Aboriginal community.

Marieval Enterprise Centre received its award in the Promotion of Equity Participation category. Marieval Enterprise Centre, located on the Cowessess Indian Reserve, was established in 1999 by the Yorkton Tribal Council and the Mainline Regional Economic Development Authority. The centre offers economic development assistance, entrepreneurial training, personal development training, employment readiness training, job enhancement training, business start-up and development of business partnerships.

The awards were handed out in Regina. Other recipients included The Canadian Mental Health Association Cross-Disability Teleservice Training Project in the Basic Skill Development category, Saskatchewan Government Insurance?s ?Navigating Careers Together? program in the Career Laddering category, the Saskatoon Industry-Education Council, also in the Educational Partnerships category, and Crew Call: Careers in Film & Television in the Human Resources Planning category.