Archived News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

November 18, 2015

Province Announces Partnership to Help Northern Adult Learners Become Power Engineers



THE PAS—A new partnership will help more northern Manitobans become power engineers and help meet industry needs in northern communities, Jobs and the Economy Minister Kevin Chief announced here today.  

“Northerners want to be able to give back to their hometowns and together, we want to make sure they have the best opportunities to do that,” said Minister Chief.  “Local leaders and businesses are working hard so families and young people can succeed in one of Canada’s fastest-growing economies.  These new training opportunities are an important step in making that happen.”

The 12-week program prepares students who are 20 years old or older, to write the fifth class power engineer certification exam issued by the Manitoba Office of the Fire Commissioner.  The partnership is a joint initiative withthe Northern Manitoba Sector Council, the Kelsey School Division, the University College of the North, Tolko Manitoba Industries, the Town of The Pas and Workplace Education Manitoba.  The training program began last month at the University College of the North in The Pas and adult learners can write the exam February 2016.

“We are extremely pleased to see the power engineering program is off to a great start here in The Pas,” said Blair Rydberg, site manager, Manitoba Operations, Tolko Industries.  “The ability for northern community members to remain in their home town and work will be a great benefit to the individual, local employers and the community.”

Power engineers operate and maintain various types of stationary engines and other equipment to provide heat, light, power and other utility services for commercial, institutional and industrial buildings.  This includes work in industry and manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities and other commercial buildings.

“This is a great example of labour supply meeting labour demand,” said Doug Lauvsted, executive director, Northern Manitoba Sector Council.  “It also highlights the need for effective partnerships for northern people to get northern jobs.”

Minister Chief noted with the expected future demand for power engineers, it is especially important to help prepare the northern workforce while benefiting local residents through increased training and employment opportunities close to home.

- 30 -