Provincial and Federal Governments Fund Training

Dan Vandal, Federal Minister for PrairiesCan, and Athabasca MLA Jim Lemaigre announced a joint investment of $1,006,500 for the Ya’ thi Néné Land and Resource Office to begin providing commercial pilot training for Indigenous residents of Northern Saskatchewan.

The announcement was made on behalf of Jeremy Harrison, Saskatchewan Immigration and Career Training Minister. The goal is to support Saskatchewan’s aviation industry by assisting candidates from northern communities to pursue successful careers in aviation and benefit air service in the region.

The project is known as the Dziret’ái Pilot Training Program and will provide academic education and skills training to 15 student applicants, 10 of whom will make it to the professional pilot training program starting in January 2025. Those who complete the 2-year program are guaranteed jobs as First Officers with Rise Air.

Vandal said, "Our government is supporting the growth of the Indigenous workforce in the Athabasca Basin. This collaboration will result in new opportunities for local people to train as commercial pilots and help the industry grow, while at the same time, providing employers with a workforce from the region and supporting strong and resilient communities with more good jobs."

The financial funding from the governments will be supplemented by cash and in-kind contributions and funding from Prince Albert Grand Council, Cameco, Orano Canada, SSR Mining, Rise Air, and Ya’ thi Néné.

Minister Harrison said, "Air transportation is essential for connecting remote and northern communities and supporting our growing economy."

Mary Denechezhe, Ya' thi Néné Lands and Resources Board Chair said, "We are thrilled to launch the Dziret'ái Pilot Training Program, which reaffirms our commitment to partnerships and collaboration. This program not only empowers our community members but also echoes our mission to foster sustainable development and opportunities in the Athabasca Basin. Together with our partners, we are creating pathways to success for Indigenous residents and women, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive in the aviation industry."

FMI: www.saskatchewan.ca/government/