First Nations Training Institute

06/25/2008

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke today announced the signing of a First Nations Training Institute Program worth over $18 million dollars.

The program consists of apprenticeship training in 26 different construction trades and five skills, open to First Nations people. The program will satellite between First Nations communities, with a base in Kahnawà:ke.

The project has been over four years in planning and development and consists of a four-year program, with plans to make the project permanent. The deal was completed two weeks ago in Victoria, British Columbia. Chiefs Johnny Montour and Kenneth McComber were present.

“It’s a big change,” said Chief Kenneth McComber, “There will no longer be waiting lists for First Nations people to get training in a trade program. They will learn the A to Z’s as an apprentice and complete the program as a Journey-person.”

Linked to major construction sites, over 200 jobs have already been committed to. A consortium is currently in the process of being formed, composed of First Nations people, industry leaders, and the Human Resources Development Commission.

“With this confirmation, we now begin the task of searching for appropriate facilities,” said Chief McComber.