Training program based in Prince Rupert and Terrace prepares students for operations positions in the energy sector

Calgary, Alberta (December 20, 2018)

AltaGas Ltd. (AltaGas) today announced the graduation of 11 students from the AltaGas Operator Training Program, the first Gas Process Operations program delivered by Coast Mountain College in Prince Rupert and Terrace, British Columbia.

AltaGas, in collaboration with Coast Tsimshian communities and Coast Mountain College, developed the AltaGas Operator Training Program curriculum to provide First Nations and local residents with the technical skills needed to apply for entry-level positions at AltaGas’ Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal once it becomes operational in early 2019.

“Very early in developing the project, we recognized that an entry-level training program like this was not available locally and made a commitment to develop one that would equip members of the communities and First Nations with the necessary technical skills to get involved with our operations,” said Dan Woznow, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Energy Exports with AltaGas. “The leadership and support of our community partners, paired with the dedication and hard work of the students, have combined to make the AltaGas Operator Training Program a great success.”

At the beginning of the year, AltaGas held recruitment sessions in the region, and attracted significant interest in the program from local community members. Successful applicants began the six-month training program in June, and today they received their Statement of Completion, Junior Gas Process Operator Certificate.

The program curriculum consisted of Gas Processing Operations levels A and B, an online program provided by the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, safety certificate courses provided by Metlakatla Coastal Training Centre, Essential Skills Training, and a visit to an AltaGas facility to see first-hand the work done in an operations facility. Coast Mountain Colleges’ mobile training aids, funded by Western Economic Diversification, provided an additional measure of hands-on technical training to students in the classroom.

“We are delighted to celebrate the hard work and success of the students who are graduating today,” said Brad Drott, Senior Director of Operations, Gas with AltaGas. “We are looking forward to the new year and the start of operations at Canada’s first propane export terminal on the West Coast.”

QUOTES 

“From the beginning, AltaGas demonstrated their commitment to ensuring members of our community would receive the opportunity for long-term employment at the Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal. This training program is an example of industry working collaboratively with First Nations to bring training into our community and providing long-term job opportunities.”

John Helin, Mayor, Lax Kw’alaams

“Over the past two years, Metlakatla and AltaGas have worked hand-in-hand to develop a program that worked for our community. Today, we are pleased and honoured to see our members graduate from the program and start their journey as operators at the Ridley Island Propane Export Facility.”

Chief Harold Leighton, Metlakatla First Nation

“We are pleased that we were able to recruit a local instructor with the skill-set to teach this course. We take very seriously our role in preparing our students for jobs in the workforce, while building capacity in our communities at the same time.”

Ken Burt, President & CEO, Coast Mountain College

“Congratulations to all of the students who graduated from the Operator Training Program. The skills you learn today will equip you for success with your new career in the trades and a new energy export industry. Delivering skills training in local communities ensures that everyone including Indigenous communities benefit from our province's prosperity as we all help to build the best B.C.”

Honourable Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, Government of British Columbia

“Congratulations to the graduating class of the AltaGas Operator Training Program. TRICORP is pleased to support this innovative program that has provided practical training opportunities right here in our local community.”

Jacquie-Ridley, Chief Operating Officer, Tribal Resources Investment Corporation

About AltaGas 

AltaGas is an energy infrastructure company with a focus on midstream, regulated utilities and power. AltaGas creates value by growing and optimizing its energy infrastructure, including a focus on clean energy sources. For more information visit: www.altagas.ca.

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