Williams Lake, BC - Taseko Mines has partnered with the British Columbia Aboriginal Mine Training Association (BC AMTA), with a number of initiatives to support educating First Nations on the mining industry in the Cariboo Region.
BC AMTA, a federally registered charity, prepares First Nations candidates for sustainable careers within the full cycle of mining including exploration, development, operations and reclamation. The charity is associated with six schools across BC, including Thompson Rivers University in Williams Lake. Taseko has donated office space to BC AMTA's Williams Lake Chapter, which will serve as the Chapter's office as well as an education center for mining associated training and courses. Located next door to Taseko, the space is conducive to training opportunities from Taseko and Gibraltar staff, allowing the students to learn firsthand about a career in Mining.
Sharon McLeod, BC AMTA Regional Manager, BC Northeast campus said: "BC AMTA provides more than training and jobs, it provides change. Change that drives optimism and hope, not only for the candidates that successfully earn jobs, but for the whole community. We are excited to partner with Taseko and to provide First Nations youth the opportunity to learn firsthand about the roles in mining in order to prepare them for a long and successful career."
The most recent Mining Skills for an Entry-level Workforce program had thirty seven graduates. Taseko-Gibraltar hired graduate Lance Williams from the Xatsull First Nation. Lance, who started with the Company in April hopes to further his career path in mining.
Brian Battison Taseko Vice President, Corporate Affairs stated, "Jobs for First Nations build stronger communities. At Taseko, we look forward to our partnership with BC AMTA and providing opportunities for long term, stable employment for local First Nations in the Cariboo Region. These opportunities will allow First Nations members, particularly youth, to train and work where they live and remain in their communities."
Today, mining is the largest private-sector employer of First Nations people in Canada.
Contact: Christy Smith Manager, Community and Aboriginal Affairs 250 392-3100 for information on Taseko's support for BC AMTA