Better training to increase project participation at a local level
The infrastructures analyzed by the Grande Alliance’s feasibility studies could create interesting job opportunities in Eeyou Istchee. The objective is to offer jobs to people on the territory, and to train talent to fill jobs created on the territory.
Planning training needs through future job requirements
As it stands, local communities are not always involved in the employment landscape of actual projects in Eeyou Istchee. Worker training takes longer than the average project approval timeline, which means that when local workers are available, projects are typically in operation and have already hired. Capacity-building aims at ensuring that training programs are linked to present and future needs.
Planning beyond specific projects
Capacity-building goes beyond the direct needs of specific projects, which evolve depending on whether in planning, construction or operating phases. A long-term vision would ensure that workers have the opportunity to go from project to project and serve industries rather than specific employers. All projects require management, financing, legal support, human resources, accommodation, and food and energy supply. All requirements considered, this builds a perennial and predictable northern job market.
Developing Northern skills
Through La Grande Alliance, the notion of predictability will be applied to the employment strategy. Through Apatisiiwin Skills Development, we aim to empower the Cree of Eeyou Istchee in their search for employment (non-Cree can refer to Emploi-Québec for employment support) by enabling financial support to those interested in any form of training (continuing or vocational education, internship, upskilling) or connecting with employers. As much as possible, we want to ensure that job needs on the territory are covered by local people and that local peoples’ job desires are met on the territory.