Lac La Biche, Alberta – The federal government is helping to strengthen Alberta’s workforce by enhancing training opportunities to develop and improve skills in heavy equipment operation.

Brian Jean, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray-Athabasca, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced a federal contribution of $195,000 towards Portage College to acquire eight PC-based heavy equipment simulators and a 53-foot trailer to house the simulators. 

“Our Government is ensuring Alberta businesses can continue to benefit from a skilled and highly trained workforce capable of helping companies to succeed in today’s economy,” said MP Jean. “Our investment will help attract and retain qualified industry workers, which will help lay the foundation for economic growth.”

The leading-edge Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO) simulators will provide students with the opportunity to gain familiarization and understanding of machine controls and proper operating procedures. In addition, the trailer containing the simulators will also travel to reserves, settlements, and high schools throughout the Alberta Energy Corridor to encourage interest in Portage College’s HEO Program and conduct pre-screening of potential applicants.

Training provided by the HEO simulators is expected to improve the competencies of operators in the industry, as well as the productivity and international competitiveness of companies who depend on a pool of heavy equipment operators.

Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and advances the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.