A dozen local First Nations people are training to be part of a large powerlines project in the area while setting themselves up for a well-paying career.
Program Manager with Walpole Island First Nation Employment and Training Leela Thomas said it's a "huge deal" for the First Nation students because it prepares them for the Chatham to Lakeshore Transmission line.
Thomas said the training also allows the project to have a diversified workforce.
"Being on our traditional territory they definitely want to see some Indigenous workforce with the project. So, we just want to make sure that we have a strong pool here that would be capable and willing to work," said Thomas.
Thomas said Voltage Power, Hydro One, and Relay Education are all partnering to bring this program to the community.
"Voltage Power donated over $30,000 in equipment for all the participants and Hydro One donated the materials for pole training," she said.
Thomas said plans are underway for a third training session late in the summer or early this fall.
"All the training is coming from IHSA (Infrastructure Health & Safety Association). They've been sending us instructors down daily to get all the certificates and everything," Thomas said.
Thomas noted it's the second year for the Powerline Training Program on the reserve. The course ends in June.
The project is expected to start sometime next year. For more information click here.
