OPG’s Indigenous Opportunities Network partners with UBC Millwrights
by CM Staff
ION has placed workers on some of OPG's most diverse and innovative projects, including the Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment Project
OPG’s Indigenous Opportunities Network Partners with UBC Millwrights to Power Bright Futures (CNW Group/UBC Millwright Local 2309)
TORONTO — The Indigenous Opportunities Network (ION) is OPG’s community-centred program that recruits job-ready Indigenous people and provides opportunities in skilled trades, project management, and administrative jobs, within the energy sector.
Working closely with Kagita Mikam Aboriginal Employment and Training and UBC Millwright Local 2309 of the Millwright Regional Council of Ontario, ION has placed workers on some of OPG’s most diverse and innovative projects, including the Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment Project.
Gary Paulin, OPG’s Senior Staffing Officer and ION Project Manager says the key is to engage early and often with Indigenous groups to identify opportunities. “By working together and ensuring open communication, we can promote and deliver work placement and training opportunities for qualified Indigenous applicants.”
Darlington’s refurbishment is the largest clean energy project in Canada, drawing on the skills and expertise of workers from across Ontario. With Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement (MCR) program underway, the demand for skilled trades in Ontario is at its peak.
“The OPG ION and UBC Millwright partnership ensures more Indigenous learners have access to the skills and knowledge required to secure a career in nuclear construction; providing participants with a blended learning environment of theory, safety certifications, and hands-on training,” said OPG Construction Manager Scott Cameron in a prepared statement. “Working in step with the UBC Millwrights, we assist by mentoring and guiding candidates through the steps to be a Journeyperson in the Millwright trade.”
Drew Chittenden, UBC Millwright Local 2309 Assistant Business Manager, points out UBC Millwrights are always in high demand for their flexibility of skill and broad knowledge of the mechanical field.
“The Millwright Regional Council of Ontario is pleased to partner with OPG’s Indigenous Opportunities Network providing apprenticeship, training development and work opportunities within the energy sector. By partnering with UBC Millwrights, our Partners get direct access to the most highly skilled millwrights in the industry,” states MRCO Assistant EST, Mark Beardsworth.
