BCCA Secures Extended Funding from LNG Canada to Support Construction Workforce Development in Northwest BC
LNG Canada renews the Trades Training Fund and CONNECT programs administered by the BC Construction Association
May 6th, 2024, Victoria BC – The BC Construction Association (BCCA) announces a two-year extension to its current collaboration with LNG Canada to deliver the Trades Training Fund (TTF) and CONNECT programs. TTF provides training and support funds to apprentices in high-demand trades in Northwest BC, in addition to specifically targeted occupations needed to support the growing local population. CONNECT plays a specific role in connecting local job seekers with construction-related opportunities in BC’s Northwest region. Both programs have been renewed through March 31st, 2026.
Since 2016, LNG Canada has invested more than 3.3 million dollars in joint workforce development initiatives with BCCA, one of several partners with whom it engages to further the advancement of local, Indigenous, and equity-deserving groups seeking opportunities, both on its project and in the community.
“As 2024 Construction Month’s title sponsor, LNG Canada continues to demonstrate its commitment to building community throughout BC,” says Chris Atchison, President of the BC Construction Association. “Today’s announcement of the extension of the Trades Training Fund and CONNECT further cements that reality and paves the way for two more years of meaningful workforce development strategies through this partnership.”
LNG Canada and BCCA have continued to refine the TTF program, which covers communities in Northwest BC along the Highway 16 corridor between Prince Rupert and Houston, including Kitimat. Businesses with fewer than 150 employees are eligible for funding, and applicants with no employer attachment are now invited to apply. In addition to skilled construction trades, TTF is open to applicants from other local, in-demand occupations, including hairdressers, administrative assistants, drivers, cooks and more.
“LNG Canada is proud to continue its partnership with BCCA and extend our commitment to these exceptional workforce development initiatives,” says Jason Klein, Chief Executive Officer of LNG Canada. “The objective of our investment has always been to assist in building a skilled workforce for BC and to serve the labour market in the communities nearest our project.”
LNG Canada has also renewed the CONNECT program through March 31st, 2026, including the Gear Up fund which will assist job-ready candidates with the tools and supports necessary for success on the jobsite.
To consult the LNG Canada Trades Training Fund (TTF) website, visit bccassn.com/lng-canada-workforce-development-program.
To consult the CONNECT program website, visit bccassn.com/connect.
About the British Columbia Construction Association
The British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) is a non-partisan and non-profit organization, working with four Regional Construction Associations (NRCA, SICA, VICA and VRCA) to serve more than 10,000 employers in the province’s industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential multi-unit (ICIR) construction industry regardless of labour affiliation. BCCA advocates on behalf of all employers to ensure British Columbia’s construction sector remains productive and resilient.
For more information about BCCA, visit: bccassn.com
